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


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Part IV





Department of Commerce





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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 73034]]



DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                                           


  



_______________________________________________________________________

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Office of the Secretary

13 CFR Ch. III

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

19 CFR Ch. III

37 CFR Chs. I, IV, and V

48 CFR Ch. 13

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

Fall 2006 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Commerce.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: In compliance with Executive Order 12866 entitled ``Regulatory 
Planning and Review'' and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, as amended, 
the Department of Commerce (Department), in the spring and fall of each 
year, publishes in the Federal Register an agenda of regulations under 
development or review over the next 12 months. Rulemaking actions are 
grouped according to prerulemaking, proposed rules, final rules, long-
term actions, and rulemaking actions completed since the spring 2006 
agenda. The purpose of the agenda is to provide information to the 
public on regulations currently under review, being proposed, or issued 
by the Department. The agenda is intended to facilitate comments and 
views by interested members of the public.

     The Department's fall 2006 regulatory agenda includes 
regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the 
period October 1, 2006, through September 30, 2007.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:   

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

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

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Executive Order 12866 requires agencies to 
publish an agenda of those regulations that are under consideration 
pursuant to this order. By memorandum of June 22, 2006, the Office of 
Management and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the 
preparation and publication of the fall 2006 Unified Agenda of Federal 
Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions. The Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 
U.S.C. 601 et seq., requires agencies to publish, in the spring and 
fall of each year, a regulatory flexibility agenda which contains a 
brief description of the subject area of any rule which is likely to 
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities. The agenda also identifies those entries that have been 
selected for periodic review under section 610 of the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act.

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

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

Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries

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

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

     The Department's fall 2006 regulatory agenda follows.

 John J. Sullivan,

General Counsel.

                                Bureau of Economic Analysis--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
461         Quarterly Survey of Transactions in Selected Services and Intangible Assets With          0691-AA61
            Foreign Persons.......................................................................
462         Quarterly Survey of Financial Services Transactions Between U.S. Financial Services       0691-AA62
            Providers and Foreign Persons.........................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 73035]]


                                  Bureau of Economic Analysis--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
463         Benchmark Survey of Transactions Between U.S. and Foreign Persons in Selected Services    0691-AA60
            and in Intangible Assets..............................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Bureau of Economic Analysis--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
464         Change in Reporting Requirements for BE-577, Direct Transactions of U.S. Reporter With    0691-AA57
            Foreign Affiliate.....................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Bureau of the Census--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
465         Cutoff Dates for Recognition of Boundary Changes for Census 2000 and for the              0607-AA35
            Intercensal Period....................................................................
466         Mandatory Automated Export System (AES) Filing for Export Shipments Requiring             0607-AA38
            Shipper's Export Declaration Information..............................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Bureau of the Census--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
467         Establishment of the 2010 Census Redistricting Program................................    0607-AA42
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Economic Development Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
468         Economic Development Administration Regulations.......................................    0610-AA63
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   General Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
469         Nonprocurement Debarment and Suspension...............................................    0605-AA23
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    General Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
470         Disclosure of Government Information..................................................    0605-AA19
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[[Page 73036]]


                                    General Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
471         Disclosure of Government Information; Responsibility for Responding to Freedom of         0605-AA22
            Information Act Requests..............................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             International Trade Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
472         Procedures for Conducting Five-Year (Sunset) Reviews of Antidumping and Countervailing    0625-AA51
            Duty Orders...........................................................................
473         Changes in the Insular Possessions Watch, Watch Movement and Jewelry Programs.........    0625-AA72
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              International Trade Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
474         Proposed Amendment to Regulation Concerning Certification of Factual Information to       0625-AA66
            Import Administration During Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Proceedings..........
475         Mexican Cement Import Licensing System................................................    0625-AA70
476         Procedures for Importation of Supplies for Use in Emergency Relief Work...............    0625-AA71
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              International Trade Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
477         Commercial Availability of Fabric and Yarn............................................    0625-AA59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Bureau of Industry and Security--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
478         Removal of License Exception ``Additional Permissive Reexports'' (APR) Eligibility for    0694-AD70
            Reexports of Commodities Controlled for National Security Reasons to Country Group D:1
            Destinations..........................................................................
479         Automated Export System and Shippers Export Declaration--Requirement to Show              0694-AD89
            Paragraphs in Export Control Classification Numbers...................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Bureau of Industry and Security--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
480         Short Supply Controls: Crude Oil Exports..............................................    0694-AC25
481         Additional Protocol Regulations.......................................................    0694-AD26
482         Authorization to Impose License Requirements for Exports and Reexports to Entities        0694-AD82
            Acting Contrary to the United States' National Security or Foreign Policy Interests...
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Bureau of Industry and Security--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
483         License Exception AVS: Clarifications.................................................    0694-AC33

[[Page 73037]]

 
484         Clarifications to Part 752: Special Comprehensive License Requirements................    0694-AC34
485         Administrative Action Providing for Order to Stop Specific Exports or Reexports           0694-AC47
            Otherwise Eligible Under Designation NLR..............................................
486         Imposition of License Requirement for Exports and Reexports of Missile Technology (MT)-   0694-AC48
            Controlled Items to Canada............................................................
487         License Exception GOV Exports and Reexports for Official IAEA International Inspection    0694-AD27
            and Verification Use in Accordance With the U.S.-IAEA Safeguards Agreement, as Amended
            by the Additional Protocol............................................................
488         Revisions and Clarification of License Exception Availability for Certain Crime           0694-AD47
            Control Items and Removal of License Requirements on Other Crime Control Items........
489         Chemical Weapons Convention Regulations: UDOC ``Change in Inspection Status Form''....    0694-AD53
490         Technical Amendments to the Export Administration Regulations.........................    0694-AD54
491         Revisions and Clarifications to the Export Administration Regulations.................    0694-AD55
492         Establishment of New License Exception for the Export or Reexport to Libya of Certain     0694-AD57
            Items Controlled for Anti-Terrorism Reasons on the Commerce Control List..............
493         Implementation of the Understandings Reached at the 2004 Gotebarg and 2005 Oslo           0694-AD58
            Nuclear Supplier Group (NSG) Plenary Meetings.........................................
494         Conforming Changes to Certain End-User/End-Use Based Controls in the EAR;                 0694-AD59
            Clarification of Export Clearance Requirements Under the EAR..........................
495         Voluntary Disclosure Provisions and Administrative Case Settlement Guidance Related to    0694-AD63
            Restrictive Trade Practices or Boycotts...............................................
496         Clarification of Licensing Requirements for Certain Photovoltaic Arrays and Related       0694-AD64
            Software and Technology...............................................................
497         Revisions to License Requirements for Certain Thermal Imaging Cameras Incorporating       0694-AD71
            Focal Plane Arrays....................................................................
498         Revisions to License Exceptions TMP and BAG: Expansion of Eligible Items..............    0694-AD72
499         Revisions and Clarification of Export and Reexport Controls for the People's Republic     0694-AD75
            of China (PRC); New License Exception Certified End-User..............................
500         Revision to General Restriction on All License Exceptions: Availability of Certain        0694-AD80
            License Exceptions for Lightweight Aircraft Engines...................................
501         Implementation in the Export Administration Regulations of the United States'             0694-AD81
            Rescission of Libya's Designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism and Revisions
            Applicable to Iraq....................................................................
502         Addition of ``Serbia'' and ``Montenegro'' as Separate Destinations in the Export          0694-AD85
            Administration Regulations............................................................
503         Implementation of the Understandings Reached at the June 2006 Australia Group (AG)        0694-AD86
            Plenary Meeting; Clarifications and Corrections.......................................
504         Revised Export License Application Review Policy and End Use Verification Policy to       0694-AD87
            Implement the July 2006 Recommendations of the Commission for Assistance to a Free
            Cuba..................................................................................
505         Technical Corrections to the Export Administration Regulations........................    0694-AD88
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Bureau of Industry and Security--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
506         Export Administration Regulations: Support Documentation Consolidation and                0694-AC04
            Reorganization........................................................................
507         Exports and Reexports to Sudan........................................................    0694-AC05
508         Expansion of License Exception GOV; Exports and Reexports to International                0694-AC15
            Organizations.........................................................................
509         De Minimis Expansion of Eligibility: U.S.-Origin Software Incorporated Into Foreign-      0694-AC17
            Made Commodities......................................................................
510         Revision to the Export Administration Regulations: Replacement Licenses...............    0694-AC23
511         Chemical Weapons Convention: Revisions to the Export Administration Regulations.......    0694-AC35
512         Revisions of Aircraft Export Licensing Jurisdiction Based on Review of the U.S.           0694-AC74
            Munitions List........................................................................
513         Imposition of Foreign Policy Controls on Surreptitious Communications Intercepting        0694-AC82
            Devices...............................................................................
514         Export and Reexport Controls on Iraq..................................................    0694-AC84
515         Clarification of ``Space-Qualified'' Parts, Components, and Technology Subject to the     0694-AD07
            Export Administration Regulations.....................................................
516         Export Administration Regulations: Removal of Country Groups..........................    0694-AD09
517         Implementation of the Wassenaar Arrangement Statement of Understanding on the Control     0694-AD10
            of Non-Listed Dual-Use Items..........................................................
518         Removal of License Exception GBS and TSR Eligibility for Certain Microwave Monolithic     0694-AD36
            Integrated Circuit Power Amplifiers and Related Software and Technology...............

[[Page 73038]]

 
519         Revisions to the DPAS Regulation and Associated Notices...............................    0694-AD69
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Bureau of Industry and Security--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
520         Chemical Weapons Convention Regulations...............................................    0694-AB06
521         Mandatory Electronic Filing of License Applications, Classification Requests, and         0694-AC20
            License Exceptions Notifications Via BIS's Simplified Network Application Process
            (SNAP)................................................................................
522         Knowledge Definition, Safe Harbor, Red Flags..........................................    0694-AC94
523         Export Administration Regulations: Establish Special Intra-Company License (SIL)......    0694-AD22
524         Cuba: Clarification of Personal Baggage Rules.........................................    0694-AD23
525         Clarification of Deemed Export Related Regulatory Requirements........................    0694-AD29
526         Expansion of Requirement of People's Republic of China (PRC) End-User Certificates        0694-AD52
            Under the EAR; Elimination of Submission Requirement..................................
527         Revised Appeal Procedure for Persons Designated as Related Persons to Denial Orders       0694-AD60
            Issued Pursuant to Section 766.25 of the Export Administration Regulations............
528         Implementation of Unilateral Chemical/Biological Controls on Certain Biological Agents    0694-AD62
            and Toxins Selected for Domestic Control by CDC and APHIS; Clarification of Controls
            on Certain Medical Products...........................................................
529         Revisions to the Export Administration Regulations Based on the 2005 Missile              0694-AD65
            Technology Control Regime Plenary Agreements..........................................
530         Implementation of New Formula for Calculating Computer Performance: Adjusted Peak         0694-AD66
            Performance (APP) in Weighted TeraFLOPS; Bulgaria; XP and NP Controls.................
531         Clarification to the Export Administration Regulations; General Order To Implement the    0694-AD68
            Syria Accountability and Lebanese Sovereignty Act.....................................
532         December 2005 Wassenaar Arrangement Plenary Agreement Implementation: Categories 1, 2,    0694-AD73
            3, 5 Part I (telecommunications), 5 Part II (Information Security), 6, 8, and 9 of the
            Commerce Control List; W..............................................................
533         Revisions to Civil Penalty Provisions of the Export Administration Regulations........    0694-AD74
534         General Order Concerning Mayrow General Trading and Related Entities..................    0694-AD76
535         Authorization to Appoint Any Commerce Department Employee to be Appeals Coordinator in    0694-AD78
            Certain Administrative Appeals........................................................
536         Defense Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS): Administrative and Technical            0694-AD79
            Corrections...........................................................................
537         Amendment to General Order: Addition of Certain Entities..............................    0694-AD83
538         Technical Amendments to the National Security Industrial Base Regulations.............    0694-AD90
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                        National Institute of Standards and Technology--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
539         Changes to Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) Publication 201, Standard       0693-AB56
            for Personal Identity Verification of Federal Employees and Contractors...............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                         National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
540         Geographic Reorganization of Western Pacific Regulations..............................    0648-AU71
541         Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Naval Surf-      0648-AU53
            zone Explosive Ordnance Disposal School Training Operations at Eglin Air Force Base,
            Florida...............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 73039]]


                      National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
542         Measures to Prevent or Mitigate and Conserve, Manage, and Allow Full Utilization of       0648-AN76
            Sharks................................................................................
543         Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries; Amendment 9.......................    0648-AP60
544         Regulatory Amendment to Adjust Permit Renewal Requirements and Transferability            0648-AQ20
            Restrictions in NWHI's Hoomalu Zone and Mau Limited Access Programs...................
545         Fisheries of the United States; National Standard 1...................................    0648-AQ63
546         Amendment 62 to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Gulf of Alaska and Amendment    0648-AR06
            62 to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Isles
            (Islands).............................................................................
547         Maximize Retention and Monitoring Program in the Shore-Based Pacific Whiting Fishery..    0648-AR63
548         Amendment 72 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska..    0648-AR72
549         Revisions to the Definitions of Exempted Fishing and Scientific Research..............    0648-AR78
550         Individual Fishing Quota for Guided Recreational Charter Halibut Fishery..............    0648-AR96
551         Community Development Quota (CDQ) Regulatory Amendment to Modify Several Fishery          0648-AS13
            Management Elements of the CDQ Program................................................
552         Amendment 14 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery.................    0648-AS22
553         Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Tilefish Fishery...................    0648-AS25
554         Regulatory Amendment to Establish Measures Authorizing the Optional Use of Electronic     0648-AS29
            Logbook Forms in the Western Pacific Fisheries........................................
555         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Reducing Sea Turtle Takes....................    0648-AS49
556         Establish Management Measures for the Western Pacific Squid Fishery...................    0648-AS71
557         Individual Fishing Quota Program; Restructure Date-Specific Quota Share Regulations...    0648-AS77
558         Amendment 67 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska..    0648-AS84
559         Fisheries off West Coast States and in the Western Pacific; West Coast Salmon             0648-AS96
            Fisheries; Amendment 14; Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Descriptions for Pacific Salmon.
560         Transfer of Management Authority for the Atlantic Coast Red Drum Resource from the        0648-AT13
            South.................................................................................
561         American Lobster Fishery; Fishing Effort Control Measures to Complement Interstate        0648-AT31
            Lobster Management Recommendations by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.
562         West Coast Highly Migratory Species, Correcting Amendment.............................    0648-AT32
563         Management Measures for Pacific Bigeye Tuna...........................................    0648-AT55
564         Omnibus Amendments to Fishery Management Plans to Address Essential Fish Habitat......    0648-AT57
565         Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan..    0648-AT58
566         Specifications for the 2007 Fishing Year for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea     0648-AT60
            Bass Fisheries........................................................................
567         Specifications for the 2007 Fishing Year for the Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery....    0648-AT61
568         Framework 1 to the Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery Management Plan..................    0648-AT62
569         Specifications for the 2007 Fishing Year for the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and            0648-AT65
            Butterfish Fisheries..................................................................
570         Specifications for the 2007 Fishing Year for the Atlantic Herring Fishery.............    0648-AT66
571         Specifications for the 2007 Fishing Year for the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery............    0648-AT67
572         Joint Amendment to the Fishery Management Plans for the Shrimp (Amendment 14) and Reef    0648-AT87
            Fish Fisheries (Amendment 27) of the Gulf of Mexico...................................
573         Interagency Electronic Reporting System (IERS)........................................    0648-AT91
574         Western Pacific Precious Corals FMP: Amendment to Manage Hawaii Black Coral Fishery...    0648-AT93
575         Amendment 84-A to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian       0648-AU03
            Islands Management Area Implementing Salmon Bycatch Measures..........................
576         American Lobster Fishery: Egg Production Measures as Approved in Addenda II Through       0648-AU07
            VII to Amendment 3 of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's Interstate
            Fishery Management Plan...............................................................
577         Expansion of the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Vessel Monitoring System to the Open    0648-AU08
            Access Fishery........................................................................
578         Subsistence Halibut Program Amendments................................................    0648-AU14
579         Regulatory Amendment to Revise Certain Species Codes in Table 2a and Table 2d.........    0648-AU20
580         Amendment 10 to the Bottomfish and Seamount Groundfish FMP: Measures to End Bottomfish    0648-AU22
            Overfishing in the Hawaiian Archipelago...............................................
581         Authorize an Exempted Fishing Permit Under the Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Fishery     0648-AU25
            Management Plan (FMP).................................................................
582         Amendment 12 to the Coastal Pelagic Species (CPS) Fishery Management Plan (FMP).......    0648-AU26
583         Amendment 14 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the        0648-AU28
            South Atlantic Region.................................................................
584         Amendment 15 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the        0648-AU29
            South Atlantic Region.................................................................
585         Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan......................    0648-AU32
586         Framework 4 to the Fishery Management Plan for Monkfish...............................    0648-AU34
587         Amendment 15 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan.    0648-AU36
588         Observer Health and Safety............................................................    0648-AU46

[[Page 73040]]

 
589         Amendment 85 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish of the Bering Sea and      0648-AU48
            Aleutian Islands (BSAI) Management Area; Pacific Cod Allocations......................
590         Reconciliation of State and Federal Commercial Fishing Vessel Permit Programs.........    0648-AU51
591         Extend the North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program Beyond 2007......................    0648-AU58
592         Framework Adjustment to the Bycatch Reduction Criterion for the Fishery Management        0648-AU59
            Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico.....................................
593         Recreational Specifications for the 2007 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Seabass         0648-AU60
            Fisheries.............................................................................
594         Approval of Operations Plan for the Georges Bank Fixed Gear Sector for 2007-2008......    0648-AU61
595         Approval of Operations Plan for the Georges Bank Hook Sector for 2007-2008............    0648-AU62
596         Fishery Specifications for the 2007 Monkfish Fishery..................................    0648-AU65
597         Amendment 80 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and          0648-AU68
            Aleutian Islands......................................................................
598         Amendment 15 to the Pacific Coast Salmon Fishery Management Plan......................    0648-AU69
599         2007-2008 Management Measures for Commercial, Recreational, and Treaty Indian Salmon      0648-AU70
            Fisheries Off the Coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California........................
600         Reporting and Conservation Measures For Sea Otter Interactions With the Pacific           0648-AU72
            Sardine Fishery.......................................................................
601         Amend Vessel Marking Section 660.704 of the U.S. West Coast Highly Migratory Species      0648-AU73
            Fishery Management Plan...............................................................
602         Effort Limitation for United States Commercial Fishing Vessels Targeting North Pacific    0648-AU74
            Albacore Tuna.........................................................................
603         Amend Regulations Pertaining to Protected Resource Closures in the United States West     0648-AU75
            Coast Swordfish/Thresher Shark Drift Gillnet Fishery..................................
604         Vessel List to Establish Eligibility to Fish for Albacore Tuna in Canadian Waters         0648-AU78
            Under the U.S. Canada Albacore Tuna Treaty............................................
605         Restrictions for 2007 Purse Seine and Longline Fisheries in the Eastern Tropical          0648-AU79
            Pacific Ocean.........................................................................
606         Atlantic Hagfish Collection of Information Requirements...............................    0648-AU80
607         Individual Fishing Quota Processing Restriction Amendments............................    0648-AU85
608         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Swordfish Commercial Management Measures...........    0648-AU86
609         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; 2007 Bluefin Tuna Quota Specifications and Effort      0648-AU87
            Controls..............................................................................
610         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; International Trade Permit Regulatory Amendment....    0648-AU88
611         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Shark Management Measures.................    0648-AU89
612         Preventing Harassment from Human Activities Directed at Marine Mammals in the Wild....    0648-AN43
613         Taking and Importing Marine Mammals: Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Conducting       0648-AQ71
            Oil and Gas Exploration Activities in the Gulf of Mexico..............................
614         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental To Assessing     0648-AT77
            Naval Ship Survivability..............................................................
615         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Deployment    0648-AT78
            of a Naval At-Sea Gunnery Scoring System..............................................
616         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Testing       0648-AT80
            and Training of the Navy's Surveillance Towed Array Sensor System--Low Frequency
            Active Sonar..........................................................................
617         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Naval         0648-AT81
            Training Operations at the East Coast Shallow Water Training Range....................
618         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to U.S. Air      0648-AT82
            Force Air-to-Surface Gunnery Exercises in the Northern Gulf of Mexico.................
619         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Naval         0648-AT83
            Explosives Ordnance Testing and Training Exercises in the Northern Gulf of Mexico.....
620         Spinner Dolphins in the Main Hawaiian Islands.........................................    0648-AU02
621         Authorize Observer Coverage of Fisheries to Monitor Sea Turtle Interactions...........    0648-AU81
622         Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary Management Plan Review...............    0648-AT14
623         Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Management Plan Review.........................    0648-AT15
624         Bag Limits for Tuna Species Taken in the Recreational Charter Fishery for the United      0648-AU77
            States West Coast Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species..............................
625         Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary Management Plan Review.........................    0648-AT16
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                        National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
626         Require Mandatory Observer Coverage in the At-Sea Processing Sector of the Whiting        0648-AK26
            Fishery...............................................................................

[[Page 73041]]

 
627         Implementation of the Regulatory Changes Resulting from the Amendments and Extension      0648-AP61
            of the South Pacific Tuna Act.........................................................
628         Amendment 1 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan...........................    0648-AQ87
629         Fish and Seafood Promotion Act Provisions; Seafood Marketing Councils.................    0648-AS09
630         Amendment 26 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of    0648-AS67
            Mexico to Establish a Red Snapper Individual Fishing Quota Program....................
631         Amendment to Regulations Implementing the Antarctic Marine Living Resources Convention    0648-AS75
            Act of 1984...........................................................................
632         West Coast Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan, Correcting Amendment.....    0648-AS89
633         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Atlantic Shark Commercial Management Measures    0648-AT37
634         Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Provisions; Fisheries of the     0648-AT48
            Northeastern U.S.; Fishery Closure Due to the Presence of the Toxin that Causes
            Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning.........................................................
635         Specifications for the 2007 Fishing Year for the Tilefish Fishery.....................    0648-AT63
636         2006 Scallop Research Set-Aside Request for Proposals.................................    0648-AT68
637         Amendment 68; Central Gulf of Alaska Rockfish Pilot Program...........................    0648-AT71
638         Western Pacific Bottomfish FMP: Amendment 9 to Limit Large Vessel Fishing Effort          0648-AT94
            Around Guam...........................................................................
639         Western Pacific Omnibus: Bottomfish Amendment 8, Amendment 12 Crustaceans, and            0648-AT95
            Amendment 6 Precious Corals...........................................................
640         Resource Agency Procedures for Conditions and Prescriptions in Hydropower Licenses....    0648-AU01
641         Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic; Gulf of Mexico            0648-AU04
            Recreational Grouper Fishery Management Measures......................................
642         Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements;    0648-AU05
            Regulatory Amendment to Modify Seafood Dealer Reporting Requirements; Correction......
643         Amendment 18 (Bycatch Minimization) to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management    0648-AU12
            Plan..................................................................................
644         Announcement of the Optimum Yield and Harvest Quotas for Pacific Mackerel.............    0648-AU27
645         Modification to the ``Other Species'' Complex 2006 and 2007 Total Allowable Catch         0648-AU52
            (TAC) Amounts in the Gulf of Alaska (GOA).............................................
646         Correct and Clarify 2005 Atlantic Mackerel, Squid and Butterfish Fishery                  0648-AU54
            Specifications........................................................................
647         Amendment to Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan; Georges Bank Fixed Gear      0648-AU56
            Sector Operations Plan................................................................
648         Amendment 16-4 (Overfished Species Rebuilding) to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery    0648-AU57
            Management Plan and the 2007-2008 Groundfish Harvest Specifications and Management
            Measures..............................................................................
649         Establishment of Quotas for the 2006-2007 Cod, Haddock, and Yellowtail Flounder           0648-AU63
            Fishery...............................................................................
650         Solicitation of Proposals for Research Set-aside Quota for Mid-Atlantic Fisheries for     0648-AU64
            2008..................................................................................
651         Solicitation of Proposals for Research Set-aside Quota for Monkfish for 2008..........    0648-AU66
652         Solicitation of Proposals for Research Set-aside Quota for Atlantic Sea Scallop for       0648-AU67
            2008..................................................................................
653         Regulations for the Development of Biological Reference Points for the United States      0648-AU76
            West Coast Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species.....................................
654         Amendment to Net Mesh Size Measurement Regulations....................................    0648-AU83
655         Atlantic Shark Seasons and Quotas for First Trimester 2007............................    0648-AU84
656         Provide Regulations for Permits for Capture, Transport, Import, and Export of             0648-AH26
            Protected Species for Public Display, and for Maintaining a Captive Marine Mammal
            Inventory.............................................................................
657         Taking of the Cook Inlet, Alaska, Stock of Beluga Whales by Alaska Natives............    0648-AO16
658         Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Navy Operations...................................    0648-AR99
659         Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations; Atlantic Large      0648-AS01
            Whale Take Reduction Plan Regulations.................................................
660         Right Whale Ship Strike Reduction (Reg Plan Seq No. 23)...............................    0648-AS36
661         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to U.S. Air      0648-AT39
            Force Precision Strike Weapons Exercises in the Northern Gulf of Mexico...............
662         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to the           0648-AT79
            Explosive Removal of Offshore Structures in the Gulf of Mexico........................
663         List of Fisheries for 2006............................................................    0648-AU19
664         Designation of Critical Habitat for the Southern Resident Killer Whale (Orcinus orca).    0648-AU38
665         12-month Finding on Petition to List Puget Sound Steelhead as an Endangered or            0648-AU43
            Threatened Species Under the ESA......................................................
666         Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary.................................................    0648-AQ41
667         Certification Requirements for NOAA Electronic Navigational Chart Distribution........    0648-AR87
668         Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary Management Plan Review......................    0648-AT17

[[Page 73042]]

 
669         Consideration of Marine Reserves and Marine Conservation Areas Within the Channel         0648-AT18
            Islands National Marine Sanctuary.....................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
670         Generic Amendment to Provide for Regulations of Offshore Aquaculture of Selected Fish.    0648-AS65
671         Procedural Changes to the Federal Consistency Process.................................    0648-AP98
672         Coastal Zone Management Act Federal Consistency Regulations...........................    0648-AR16
673         Regional Marine Research Program......................................................    0648-AF20
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
674         Amendment 18A to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf      0648-AN09
            of Mexico.............................................................................
675         Amendment 71A to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering     0648-AP67
            Sea and Aleutian Islands Area.........................................................
676         Regulatory Amendment to Section 679 Permits or Permit-Related Issues..................    0648-AQ07
677         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Recreational Atlantic Blue and White Marlin      0648-AQ65
            Landings Limit; Amendments to the Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Tunas,
            Swordfish, and Sharks and the Fishery.................................................
678         Regulatory Rulemaking to Revise Accounting for Externally Tagged Halibut and Sablefish    0648-AR09
679         Catcher Vessel Electronic Report......................................................    0648-AR30
680         Atlantic Striped Bass Fisheries in the EEZ; Modification of Federal Regulations.......    0648-AR33
681         Amendment 13 to Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico,     0648-AS15
            U.S. Waters...........................................................................
682         Fee System for Repayment of the Loan to Harvestors of Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands King    0648-AS46
            and Tanner Crabs......................................................................
683         Amendments 18 and 19 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands       0648-AS47
            King and Tanner Crabs--Crab Rationalization Program...................................
684         Revise Precious Coral Measures to Increase the Protection of Black Coral Resources in     0648-AS64
            Hawaii................................................................................
685         Amendment 25 to the Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of      0648-AS68
            the Gulf of Mexico....................................................................
686         Amendment 17 to the Fishery Management Plan for Coastal Migratory Pelagic Resources of    0648-AS70
            the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic.................................................
687         Changes to Regulations Governing the Observer Communications System...................    0648-AS93
688         Amendment 79 to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian         0648-AT04
            Islands Management Area Establishing a Groundfish Retention Standard..................
689         Identify and Manage Alaska Fishery Management Plans for EFH and HAPC..................    0648-AT09
690         Amendment 11 to the Coastal Pelagic Species Fishery Management Plan...................    0648-AT11
691         Specifications for the 2006 Monkfish Fishery..........................................    0648-AT22
692         Framework 42 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery and Framework 3 to the Monkfish        0648-AT24
            Fishery...............................................................................
693         Framework 18 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery......................................    0648-AT25
694         Framework 6 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fisheries................    0648-AT26
695         Specifications for the 2006 Fishing Year for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea     0648-AT27
            Bass Fisheries........................................................................
696         Specifications for the 2006 Recreational Fisheries for Summer Flounder, Scup, and         0648-AT28
            Black Sea Bass........................................................................
697         2006-2007 Management Measures for Commercial, Recreational, and Treaty Salmon             0648-AT34
            Fisheries off the Coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California........................
698         Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) Cost Recovery Program Amendments.......................    0648-AT43
699         Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic; Reef Fish Fishery of      0648-AT45
            the Gulf of Mexico; Gulf Grouper Recreational Management Measures.....................
700         Specifications for the 2006/2007 Fishing Year for the Spiny Dogfish Fishery...........    0648-AT59
701         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); 2006 Bluefin Tuna Quota Specifications and       0648-AT72
            Effort Controls.......................................................................
702         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; North and South Atlantic Swordfish Commercial          0648-AT73
            Management Measures...................................................................
703         Amendment 13C to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the       0648-AT75
            South Atlantic........................................................................

[[Page 73043]]

 
704         Implement Specification Management Measures for the 2006 Pacific Sardine Fishery          0648-AT76
            Coastal Pelagic Species FMP...........................................................
705         Revision of Critical Habitat for the Northern Right Whale (Eubalaena glacialis).......    0648-AT84
706         Amendment 19 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan..................    0648-AT98
707         Amendment 20 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands       0648-AU06
            Crabs.................................................................................
708         2006 Secretarial Action for Northeast Multispecies....................................    0648-AU09
709         Sea Turtle Conservation: Additional Exception to Sea Turtle Take Prohibitions.........    0648-AU10
710         Specification of Total Allowable Catches (TACs) for the Northeast Multispecies Fishery    0648-AU13
            for Fishing Year 2006.................................................................
711         A Regulatory Amendment to Permit the Seasonal Closure of Chiniak Gully in the Gulf of     0648-AU15
            Alaska to Trawl Fishing...............................................................
712         BSAI Pacific Cod License Endorsement Requirements for the Trawl Catcher Vessel            0648-AU16
            Sectors; Notice of Control Date.......................................................
713         Reorganize Western and Central Pacific Regulations Into New CFR Part..................    0648-AU21
714         Regulatory Amendment Modifying Section 680.22 Sideboard Protections for the Gulf of       0648-AU24
            Alaska (GOA) Groundfish Fisheries.....................................................
715         Amendment 10 to the Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and             0648-AU31
            Butterfish............................................................................
716         Framework 43 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan....................    0648-AU33
717         Amendment 14 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan.    0648-AU35
718         Amendment 21 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands       0648-AU37
            Crabs.................................................................................
719         Implement the 2006 Acceptable Biological Catch and Optimum Yield for Pacific Whiting..    0648-AU39
720         Control Date for Northeast Multispecies Charter/Party Boat Fishery....................    0648-AU40
721         Fisheries off West Coast States and in the Western Pacific; Removal of Delayed            0648-AU41
            Effectiveness Closure for Shallow-set Longline Fishery................................
722         Establish Voluntary Fishing Capacity Reduction Program in the Longline Catcher            0648-AU42
            Processor Subsector of the BSAI Non-pollock Groundfish Fishery........................
723         Revision of Crab Economic Data Reports (EDRs).........................................    0648-AU44
724         Allocation of Trips into the Closed Area II Yellowtail Flounder Special Access Program    0648-AU45
725         Reinstate the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan's (Scallop FMP) Observer       0648-AU47
            Set-aside Program and Implement an Observer Provider Certification Program............
726         Amendment 14; Small-Mesh Multispecies Limited Access Program and Control Date.........    0648-AU49
727         Implement a Great South Channel Scallop Dredge Exemption for General Category Scallop     0648-AU50
            Vessels...............................................................................
728         Notice of Reaffirmation of a Control Date for the Hagfish Fishery.....................    0648-AU55
729         North Atlantic Whale Protection.......................................................    0648-AM85
730         Regulations Implementing the Bottlenose Dolphin Take Reduction Plan...................    0648-AR39
731         Sea Turtle Requirements for Commercial Scallop Fishing................................    0648-AS92
732         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Coastal       0648-AT46
            Commercial Fireworks Displays at Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, CA...........
733         Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations, Atlantic Large      0648-AU23
            Whale Take Reduction Plan (ALWTRP) and Endangered Species Conservation; Restrictions
            to Fishing Activities.................................................................
734         Northwestern Hawaiian Islands National Marine Sanctuary; Designation and                  0648-AS83
            Implementation of Regulations.........................................................
735         Licensing of Private Land Remote-Sensing Space Systems................................    0648-AT00
736         Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Marine National Monument Joint Codifying Regulations....    0648-AU82
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                  National Telecommunications and Information Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
737         Implement and Administer a Coupon Program for Digital-to-Analog Converter Boxes (Reg      0660-AA16
            Plan Seq No. 24)......................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                                   Patent and Trademark Office--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
738         The Duty of Candor and Inequitable Conduct in Prosecution of Patent Applications......    0651-AC04
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 73044]]


                                Patent and Trademark Office--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
739         Changes to Representation of Others Before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.......    0651-AB55
740         Amendment of Trademark Rules of Practice..............................................    0651-AB89
741         Amendment of Rules for Filing Intent to Use Documents in Section 1(b) Applications....    0651-AB90
742         Examination of Patent Applications That Include Claims Containing Markush or Other        0651-AC00
            Alternative Language..................................................................
743         Changes in the Requirements for Filing Requests for Reconsideration of Final Office       0651-AC05
            Actions in Trademark Cases............................................................
744         Revision of Patent and Trademark Fees for Fiscal Year 2008............................    0651-AC07
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Patent and Trademark Office--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
745         Changes in Trademark Rules of Practice in Inter Partes Proceedings Before the             0651-AB56
            Trademark Trial and Appeal Board......................................................
746         Revision of Ex Parte and Inter Partes Reexamination Practice..........................    0651-AB77
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Patent and Trademark Office--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
747         Changes to Implement Priority Application Exchange Between Intellectual Property          0651-AB75
            Offices...............................................................................
748         Revision of Patent Fees for Fiscal Year 2007..........................................    0651-AB81
749         Acceptance, Processing, Use and Dissemination of Chemical and Three-Dimensional           0651-AB91
            Biological Structural Data in Electronic Format.......................................
750         Revisions to Facilitate Web-Based Patent Correspondence and Amendment Requirements for    0651-AB92
            Reissue Applications and Reexamination Proceedings....................................
751         Changes to Practice for Continuing Applications, Requests for Continued Examination       0651-AB93
            Practice, and Applications Containing Patentably Indistinct Claims....................
752         Changes to Practice for the Examination of Claims in Patent Applications..............    0651-AB94
753         Changes to Information Disclosure Statement Requirements and Other Related Matters....    0651-AB95
754         Pre-Brief Appeal Conference for Patent Applications Under Appeal to the Board of          0651-AB96
            Patent Appeals and Interferences......................................................
755         Changes to Examination Practice for Means- (or Step-) Plus-Function Claim Elements in     0651-AB97
            Patent Applications...................................................................
756         Interim Guidelines for Examination of Patent Applications for Patent Subject Matter       0651-AB98
            Eligibility...........................................................................
757         Revision to the Time for Required Filing of a Biological Deposit and to the Date of       0651-AB99
            Availability of the Biological Deposit................................................
758         Changes to Eliminate the Disclosure Document Program..................................    0651-AC01
759         Changes to Implement Preexamination Search Reports....................................    0651-AC03
760         Revisions to the Procedures for Deferral of Examination of an Application for Patent..    0651-AC06
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Patent and Trademark Office--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
761         Changes to Implement the Refund Provisions of the United States Patent and Trademark      0651-AB79
            Fee Modernization Act of 2004.........................................................
762         Clarification of Filing Date Requirements for Ex Parte and Inter Partes Reexamination     0651-AC02
            Proceedings...........................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 73045]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)



_______________________________________________________________________




461. [bull] QUARTERLY SURVEY OF TRANSACTIONS IN SELECTED SERVICES AND 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS WITH FOREIGN PERSONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 801.9

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend 15 CFR 801.9 to provide for the 
conduct of the Quarterly Survey of Transactions in Selected Services 
and Intangible Assets With Foreign Persons (the BE-125). The existing 
regulations implement a similar but more limited survey (the BE-25), 
which the new survey will replace. In particular, the new survey would 
collect information on services transactions with affiliated as well as 
unaffiliated foreign parties, whereas the coverage of the existing 
survey is limited to transactions with unaffiliated foreigners. In 
addition, the new survey would provide for quarterly collection of data 
on some services transactions that previously had been collected 
annually.

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: Local, State, Tribal

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

RIN: 0691-AA61
_______________________________________________________________________




462. [bull] QUARTERLY SURVEY OF FINANCIAL SERVICES TRANSACTIONS BETWEEN 
U.S. FINANCIAL SERVICES PROVIDERS AND FOREIGN PERSONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 801.9

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend 15 CFR 801.9 to provide for the 
conduct of the Quarterly Survey of Financial Services Transactions 
Between U.S. Financial Services Providers and Foreign Persons (the BE-
185). The existing regulations implement a similar but more limited 
survey (the BE-85), which the new survey would replace. In particular, 
the new survey would collect information on services transactions with 
affiliated as well as unaffiliated foreign parties, whereas the 
coverage of the existing survey is limited to transactions with 
unaffiliated foreigners.

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: Local, State, Tribal

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

RIN: 0691-AA62
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)



_______________________________________________________________________




463. BENCHMARK SURVEY OF TRANSACTIONS BETWEEN U.S. AND FOREIGN PERSONS 
IN SELECTED SERVICES AND IN INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 801.10

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend 15 CFR 801.9 to provide for the 
conduct of the Benchmark Survey of Transactions in Selected Services 
and Intangible Assets With Foreign Persons (the BE-120). The existing 
regulations implement a similar but more limited survey (the BE-20), 
which the new survey would replace. In particular, the new survey would 
collect information on services transactions with affiliated as well as 
unaffiliated foreign parties, whereas the coverage of the existing 
survey is limited to transactions with unaffiliated foreigners.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/15/06                    71 FR 54448
NPRM Comment Period End         11/14/06
Final Action                    12/00/06
Final Action Effective          01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0691-AA60

[[Page 73046]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)



_______________________________________________________________________




464. CHANGE IN REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR BE-577, DIRECT TRANSACTIONS OF 
U.S. REPORTER WITH FOREIGN AFFILIATE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 806

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend 15 CFR 806.14 to change the reporting 
requirements for the BE-577, Direct Transactions of U.S. Reporter with 
Foreign Affiliate, and to bring the survey into conformity with the BE-
10, Benchmark Survey of U.S. Direct Investment Abroad-2004.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/01/06                    71 FR 10454
NPRM Comment Period End         04/01/06
Final Action                    06/20/06                    71 FR 35388
Final Action Effective          07/20/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0691-AA57
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 70

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/25/02                     67 FR 3631
NPRM Comment Period End         02/25/02
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Robert La Macchia, Chief, Geography Division, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Washington Plaza, Room 
651, 4700 Silver Hill Road, Washington, DC 20233
Phone: 301 763-1022

RIN: 0607-AA35
_______________________________________________________________________




466. MANDATORY AUTOMATED EXPORT SYSTEM (AES) FILING FOR EXPORT SHIPMENTS 
REQUIRING SHIPPER'S EXPORT DECLARATION INFORMATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 107-228, sec 1404

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 30

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           10/22/03                    68 FR 60301
ANPRM Comment Period End        11/21/03
NPRM                            02/17/05                     70 FR 8200
NPRM Comment Period End         04/18/05
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

Related RIN: Related to 0607-AA29, Related to 0607-AA31, Related to 
0607-AA30
RIN: 0607-AA38
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




467. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE 2010 CENSUS REDISTRICTING PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: None

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          05/13/04                    69 FR 26547
Notice                          02/15/05                     70 FR 7713
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 73047]]

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Catherine C. McCully
Phone: 301 763-4039

RIN: 0607-AA42
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Economic Development Administration (EDA)



_______________________________________________________________________




468. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 3121 et seq; 19 USC 2341 et seq; 42 USC 6701; 
42 USC 5184; 42 USC 5121 et seq; 42 USC 3123; 42 USC 6709; 42 USC 6101 
et seq; 29 USC 794; 42 USC 2000d-1

CFR Citation: 13 CFR 300 to 315

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Economic Development Administration will be considering 
and modifying its regulations to reflect the requirements of its 
reauthorizing legislation passed in 2004. The revisions will implement 
the changes made to the Public Works and Economic Development Act 
(PWEDA), as amended, by the reauthorizing legislation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/11/05                    70 FR 47002
Interim Final Rule Effective    10/01/05
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/14/05
Second Interim Final Rule       12/15/05                    70 FR 74193
Second Interim Final Rule 
Effective                       12/15/05
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal

URL For More Information:
www.eda.gov

Agency Contact: Otto B. Bird, Chief, Counsel, Department of Commerce, 
Economic Development Administration, Office of the Chief Counsel, 1401 
Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4687
Fax: 202 482-5671
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0610-AA63
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


General Administration (ADMIN)



_______________________________________________________________________




469. [bull] NONPROCUREMENT DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

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

CFR Citation: 2 CFR 1326; 15 CFR 26 (Removed)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce (Department) amends its 
regulations to remove its provisions implementing the Governmentwide 
common rule on nonprocurement debarment and suspension, currently 
codified at Title 15, and to adopt the Office of Management and 
Budget's (OMB) guidance at Title 2 of the code of Federal Regulations 
published in the Federal Register on August 31, 2005. This proposed 
regulatory action would implement the OMB's initiative to streamline 
and consolidate all federal regulations on nonprocurement debarment and 
suspension into one part of the CFR. The Department does not intend to 
modify any of its current policy.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
Final Action                    02/00/07
Final Action Effective          04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gary W. Johnson, Senior Policy Specialist, Department 
of Commerce, Department of Commerce, HCHB Room 6054, 14th and 
Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-1679
Fax: 202 482-1844
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0605-AA23
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


General Administration (ADMIN)



_______________________________________________________________________




470. DISCLOSURE OF GOVERNMENT INFORMATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 552; 5 USC 552a; 5 USC 301; 5 USC 553; 31 USC 
3717; 44 USC 3101

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 4

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Department of Commerce's (Department) 
Privacy Act (PA) regulations (15 CFR Part 4) by adding an additional 
method of authorization to determine the identification of individuals 
seeking access to records under the Privacy Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

[[Page 73048]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Brenda Dolan, Departmental Freedom of Information and 
Privacy Act Officer, Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3258
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0605-AA19
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


General Administration (ADMIN)



_______________________________________________________________________




471. [bull] DISCLOSURE OF GOVERNMENT INFORMATION; RESPONSIBILITY FOR 
RESPONDING TO FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT REQUESTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 5 USC 552; 5 USC 552A; 5 USC 553; 31 USC 
3717; 44 USC 3101; . . .

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 4

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce (Department) amends its 
regulations to establish the date that the Department uses in 
identifying those records that it may consider when responding to a 
Freedom of Information Act request. The Department takes this action 
pursuant to a court order that enjoins it from further use of its 
current regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/01/06                    71 FR 31073
Interim Final Rule Effective    06/01/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Brenda Dolan, Departmental Freedom of Information and 
Privacy Act Officer, Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3258
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0605-AA22
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


International Trade Administration (ITA)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 19 CFR 351

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              03/20/98                    63 FR 13516
Interim Final Rule Effective    03/20/98
NPRM                            12/00/06
Final Action                    12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Stacy Ettinger, Attorney, Department of Commerce, 
International Trade Administration, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4618

RIN: 0625-AA51
_______________________________________________________________________




473. [bull] CHANGES IN THE INSULAR POSSESSIONS WATCH, WATCH MOVEMENT AND 
JEWELRY PROGRAMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 19 USC 1202; 48 USC 1681; PL 103-465; PL 106-36; PL 
108-429

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 303

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action amends the International Trade Administration 
regulations governing the duty-exemption allocations for watch 
producers and duty-refund benefits for watch and jewelry producers in 
the United States insular possessions (the Virgin Islands, Guam, 
American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands).
This action would be amend the regulations by updating the maximum 
total value of watch components per watch that are eligible for duty-
free entry into the United States under the insular program, further 
clarifying the definition of creditable and non-creditable wages and 
fringe benefits, provide more details about the calculation of mid-year 
and annual duty-refund and the verification

[[Page 73049]]

process, and make minor editorial changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Faye Robinson, Acting Director, Statutory Import 
Programs Staff, Department of Commerce, International Trade 
Administration, 14th Street & Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 
20230
Phone: 202 482-3526

RIN: 0625-AA72
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


International Trade Administration (ITA)



_______________________________________________________________________




474. PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO REGULATION CONCERNING CERTIFICATION OF 
FACTUAL INFORMATION TO IMPORT ADMINISTRATION DURING ANTIDUMPING AND 
COUNTERVAILING DUTY PROCEEDINGS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 19 USC 1202 note; 19 USC 1303 note; 19 USC 
1671 et seq; 19 USC 3538; . . .

CFR Citation: 19 CFR 351

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce (Department) amends 19 CFR 
351.303(g), which governs the certification of factual information 
submitted to the Department by a person or their representative during 
antidumping and countervailing duty proceedings. The amendments are 
intended to strengthen the current imprecise certification requirements 
so that it is clear what has been certified, by whom, and when, and so 
that parties and their counsel are aware of the potential consequences 
of false certifications.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/22/04                    69 FR 56738
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert E. Nielsen, Senior Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, International Trade Administration, 14th Street and 
Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-5340
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0625-AA66
_______________________________________________________________________




475. [bull] MEXICAN CEMENT IMPORT LICENSING SYSTEM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 13 USC 5301(a); 13 USC 302

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 360

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce (Commerce) amends its regulations 
to establish a Mexican Cement Import Licensing System in accordance 
with the Agreement Between the Office of the United States Trade 
Representative and the United States Department of Commerce and 
Secretaria de Economia on Trade in Cement (Agreement) which was 
executed in March 2006. This cement licensing system is intended to 
enable Commerce to monitor compliance with the sub-regional export 
limits established by the Agreement for the three year duration of the 
Agreement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/31/06                    71 FR 30836
NPRM Comment Period End         06/30/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Scott McBride, Department of Commerce, International 
Trade Administration, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 
20230
Phone: 202 482-6292
Fax: 202 482-4912
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0625-AA70
_______________________________________________________________________




476. [bull] PROCEDURES FOR IMPORTATION OF SUPPLIES FOR USE IN EMERGENCY 
RELIEF WORK

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 19 USC 1318(a)

CFR Citation: 19 CFR 358

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce amends its regulations to 
establish procedures for importation of supplies free of antidumping or 
countervailing duties if those supplies are to be used in emergency 
relief work, as authorized under section 318(a) of the Tariff Act of 
1930, as amended (19 U.S.C. section 1318(a)).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/22/06                    71 FR 35846
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Stacy Ettinger, Attorney, Department of Commerce, 
International Trade Administration, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4618

RIN: 0625-AA71

[[Page 73050]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


International Trade Administration (ITA)



_______________________________________________________________________




477. COMMERCIAL AVAILABILITY OF FABRIC AND YARN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 345

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janet Heinzen
Phone: 202 482-4006

RIN: 0625-AA59
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                              Prerule Stage


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




478. REMOVAL OF LICENSE EXCEPTION ``ADDITIONAL PERMISSIVE REEXPORTS'' 
(APR) ELIGIBILITY FOR REEXPORTS OF COMMODITIES CONTROLLED FOR NATIONAL 
SECURITY REASONS TO COUNTRY GROUP D:1 DESTINATIONS

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

Legal Authority: 50 USC app. 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; PL 106-
387; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 740.16 Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
provides some exceptions to license requirements that apply to 
reexports (transmission or shipment from one foreign country to 
another) of an item that is subject to the EAR but not to exports from 
the United States. This rule addresses the reexport exception set forth 
in section 740.16(a)(3)(ii), which authorizes items controlled on the 
Commence Control List for national security reasons to be reexported 
from countries listed in Country Group A:1 and cooperating countries to 
destinations listed in Country Group D:1 other than Cambodia, Laos or 
North Korea. Country Groups A:1 and D:1 are listed in supplement No. 1 
to part 740 of the EAR. Country Group A:1 and Cooperating countries 
generally are countries that implement export controls for national 
security reasons consistent with U.S. controls. Country Group D:1 
countries are countries of concern for national security reasons.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD70
_______________________________________________________________________




479. [bull] AUTOMATED EXPORT SYSTEM AND SHIPPERS EXPORT DECLARATION--
REQUIREMENT TO SHOW PARAGRAPHS IN EXPORT CONTROL CLASSIFICATION NUMBERS

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

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 758

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Export Administration Regulations currently require that 
the Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) be entered for certain 
exports from the United States. The lists of items in some ECCNs is 
further broken down by paragraphs that describe the items covered by 
that ECCN with greater precision. In some instances, the export license 
requirements, availability of license exceptions and license 
application review policy are affected by that paragraph designation. 
BIS is considering requiring that paragraph designations be included in 
the ECCN field on Automated Export System entries and on paper 
Shipper's Export Declarations. Requiring that additional information 
would, in some transactions, allow BIS to determine more quickly the 
accuracy of a claimed use of authority to ship without a license or 
pursuant to an license exception. In addition, this information would 
enable BIS to target its end use checks of exports more effectively 
because it could select items of the greatest significance without 
extensive follow up information from the exporter. By taking advantage 
of the additional information, BIS could make more effective use of its 
limited enforcement resources.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD89

[[Page 73051]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




480. SHORT SUPPLY CONTROLS: CRUDE OIL EXPORTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 7420, 7430(e); 30 USC 185(s), 185(u); 42 USC 
6212; 43 USC 1354

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 750; 15 CFR 754

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security is amending the short 
supply provisions of the Export Administration Regulations to revise 
the restrictions on exports of crude oil.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC25
_______________________________________________________________________




481. ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 6701; 50 USC 1601; 50 USC 1701; EO 13128; EO 
12938; EO 13094; . . .

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 781; 15 CFR 782; 15 CFR 783; 15 CFR 784; 15 CFR 
785; 15 CFR 786; 15 CFR 787; 15 CFR 788

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Following ratification by the United States of the Protocol 
Additional to the Agreement Between the United States of America and 
the International Atomic Energy Agency for the Application of 
Safeguards in the United States of America (AP or Protocol), the Bureau 
of Industry and Security (BIS) proposes to establish the Additional 
Protocol Regulations (APR) to implement the provisions of the Protocol 
affecting U.S. industry and other U.S. persons.
In the aftermath of the 1991 Persian Gulf War, international inspectors 
determined that Iraq had been engaged in a clandestine nuclear weapons 
development program at locations not directly subject to International 
Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards. The international community 
determined that the safeguards system needed to be strengthened and 
negotiated a model Additional Protocol to amend existing bilateral 
safeguards agreements. The model Additional Protocol requires enhanced 
information collection and access to provide IAEA inspectors with 
greater ability to detect clandestine nuclear activities in non-nuclear 
weapons states (NNWS), and covers almost all of a state's nuclear fuel 
cycle. The United States, as a nuclear weapons state (NWS) party to the 
Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), is not 
obligated to accept IAEA safeguards on its nuclear activities. However, 
the United States voluntarily signed the U.S. Additional Protocol on 
June 12, 1998. In this U.S. Additional Protocol, the United States 
accepts all of the measures of the Model Protocol, except where their 
application would result in access by the IAEA to activities with 
direct national security significance to the United States or to 
locations or information associated with such activities. By submitting 
itself to the same safeguards on all of its civil nuclear activities 
that NNWS are subject to (except those of national security 
significance), the United States intends to demonstrate that adherence 
to the model Additional Protocol does not place other countries at a 
commercial disadvantage.
Declarations submitted under the U.S. Additional Protocol would provide 
the IAEA with information about additional aspects of the U.S. nuclear 
fuel cycle, including mining and milling of nuclear materials, nuclear-
related equipment manufacturing, nuclear-related imports and exports, 
research and development not involving nuclear material, and other 
nuclear material activities not currently subject to the U.S. 
Safeguards Agreement. There are no routine inspections under the U.S. 
Additional Protocol, but IAEA inspectors may be provided access 
(referred to as ``complementary access'') to the U.S. nuclear fuel 
cycle to assure the absence of undeclared nuclear material and 
activities or where there is a question or an inconsistency about the 
completeness or correctness of the U.S. declaration, which could relate 
to declared or undeclared industrial locations. Access to most 
industrial locations is predicated upon an IAEA request for 
clarification of a declaration. As with the U.S.-IAEA Safeguards 
Agreement, the IAEA would not be required to seek access to any U.S. 
locations. In carrying out the responsibilities delegated to it for 
implementation of the U.S. Additional Protocol, the Bureau of Industry 
and Security (BIS) will apply a philosophy of ensuring compliance while 
minimizing intrusion and the burden on commercial activities and 
emphasizing the protection of confidential business, national security, 
and other critical information to the maximum extent possible.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 0694-AD27
RIN: 0694-AD26
_______________________________________________________________________




482. [bull] AUTHORIZATION TO IMPOSE LICENSE REQUIREMENTS FOR EXPORTS AND 
REEXPORTS TO ENTITIES ACTING CONTRARY TO THE UNITED STATES' NATIONAL 
SECURITY OR FOREIGN POLICY INTERESTS

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

Legal Authority: 50 USC app. 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; EO 12058; EO 12851; 
EO 12938; EO 12947; EO 13026; EO 13099; EO 13222; EO 13224

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 756

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends its 
regulations to expand the scope of reasons for which BIS may add names 
to the Entity List and makes changes to the Entity List appealable to 
the Under Secretary for

[[Page 73052]]

Industry and Security pursuant to part 756 of the EAR. This rule 
revises section 744.20 to authorize BIS to add to the Entity List 
entities that BIS has reasonable cause to believe, based on specific 
and articulable facts, are or have been involved in activities that are 
contrary to the national security or foreign policy interests of the 
United States or to those acting on behalf of such entities.
With this rule, the United States government will be able to conduct 
prior review of proposed exports and reexports to such recipients to 
the degree necessary to protect its interests. BIS will be able to 
tailor license requirements and availability of license exceptions for 
exports and reexports to parties who have taken or who are taking 
actions that are contrary to United States national security or foreign 
policy interests without imposing additional license requirements that 
apply broadly to entire destinations or items. BIS believes that such 
selective application of license requirements and exceptions will 
provide the flexibility to deter use of items that are subject to the 
EAR in ways that are inimical to the interests of the United States 
with minimal costs to and disruption of legitimate trade.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD82
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




483. LICENSE EXCEPTION AVS: CLARIFICATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to clarify the scope of certain 
License Exception AVS provisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC33
_______________________________________________________________________




484. CLARIFICATIONS TO PART 752: SPECIAL COMPREHENSIVE LICENSE 
REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security administers the Special 
Comprehensive License (SCL) program to provide an effective export 
control mechanism for exporters who routinely ship to multiple end-
users. This rule amends the SCL provisions of the Export Administration 
Regulations (EAR) to conform with changes in the SCL licensing process 
and to provide SCL applicants and consignees with additional guidance 
on how to fill out the forms required to submit a license application 
or to request changes in their SCLs. This rule also creates two new 
elements for SCL internal control programs. These new elements require 
the establishment of procedures for screening customers and items to 
ensure that SCL transactions conform with the antiboycott provisions of 
the EAR and with EAR provisions concerning entities involved in weapons 
of mass destruction activities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC34
_______________________________________________________________________




485. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION PROVIDING FOR ORDER TO STOP SPECIFIC EXPORTS 
OR REEXPORTS OTHERWISE ELIGIBLE UNDER DESIGNATION NLR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401; 50 USC 1701; 22 USC 2151; PL 108-175; 
EO 12938 ; EO 13020; . . .

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 736; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 
758

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) by clarifying the authority of 
BIS to issue an order informing any person that a

[[Page 73053]]

license is required for the export, reexport, or transfer (in country) 
of a specific item or items subject to the EAR to a specific 
destination and/or consignee (ultimate or intermediate), that would 
otherwise be eligible for export, reexport or transfer (in country) 
under designation NLR, when BIS has reasonable grounds to believe a 
violation of the EAR has occurred, is about to occur, or is intended to 
occur in connection with the export, reexport or transfer (in country) 
in question. This rule also clarifies several provisions of the EAR to 
indicate that ``No License Required'' is not an authorization to 
export, but a designation that an export or reexport does not require a 
license from BIS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3371
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC47
_______________________________________________________________________




486. IMPOSITION OF LICENSE REQUIREMENT FOR EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS OF 
MISSILE TECHNOLOGY (MT)-CONTROLLED ITEMS TO CANADA

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 742

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/20/01                    66 FR 65666
NPRM                            05/24/05                    70 FR 29660
Comment Period End              06/23/05
Final Rule                      07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AC48
_______________________________________________________________________




487. LICENSE EXCEPTION GOV EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS FOR OFFICIAL IAEA 
INTERNATIONAL INSPECTION AND VERIFICATION USE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE 
U.S.-IAEA SAFEGUARDS AGREEMENT, AS AMENDED BY THE ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; EO 13026; EO 13222; PL 106-
387; . . .

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the License Exception GOV provisions in the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to authorize exports and 
reexports of certain items for official International Atomic Energy 
Agency (IAEA) inspection and verification use in accordance with the 
terms of the Agreement Between the United States of America and the 
International Atomic Energy Agency for the Application of Safeguards in 
the United States, and Protocol Thereto (U.S.-IAEA Safeguards 
Agreement), as amended by the U.S.-IAEA Additional Protocol (Additional 
Protocol). These new License Exception GOV provisions authorize exports 
and reexports of a broader range of items than those currently eligible 
under the IAEA-Euratom provisions of License Exception GOV, because 
exports and reexports under these new License Exception GOV provisions 
are authorized only in connection with official international 
inspection and verification activities by the IAEA under the terms of 
the U.S.-IAEA Safeguards Agreement, as amended by the Additional 
Protocol.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 0694-AD26
RIN: 0694-AD27
_______________________________________________________________________




488. REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATION OF LICENSE EXCEPTION AVAILABILITY FOR 
CERTAIN CRIME CONTROL ITEMS AND REMOVAL OF LICENSE REQUIREMENTS ON OTHER 
CRIME CONTROL ITEMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 18 USC 
2510 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; 
PL 108-11; EO 12058; EO 12851; EO 12938; EO 13026; EO 13222

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule expands and clarifies the availability of License 
Exceptions for items listed on the Commerce Control List (CCL) for 
Crime Control reasons. It also removes some such items from the CCL 
altogether by removing four Export Control Classification Numbers 
(ECCN) from that list. The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is 
making these changes because it has concluded that these License 
Exception exclusions and the license requirements that were imposed 
pursuant to the ECCNs are not necessary for the continued support of 
U.S. foreign policy to promote human rights throughout the world. Such 
support is the basis for crime control

[[Page 73054]]

export license requirements as stated in section 742.7 of the EAR. This 
rule also reiterates and emphasizes BIS policy of treating specially 
designed implements of torture and similar items differently than crime 
control items that have legitimate law enforcement uses by creating a 
separate paragraph in section 740.2 excluding the former from all 
license exceptions. Finally this rule makes technical corrections in 
several ECCNs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD47
_______________________________________________________________________




489. CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION REGULATIONS: UDOC ``CHANGE IN 
INSPECTION STATUS FORM''

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 6701; EO 13128

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 715; 15 CFR 716

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would amend the Chemical Weapons Convention 
Regulations (CWCR) to expedite the collection of information concerning 
the inspection status of plant sites that produce unscheduled discrete 
organic chemicals (UDOCs) subject to the declaration requirements of 
the CWCR. The CWCR include requirements to report certain activities, 
involving scheduled chemicals and unscheduled discrete organic 
chemicals (UDOCs), and to provide access for on-site verification by 
international inspectors of certain facilities and locations in the 
United States. Specifically, this rule would amend the CWCR by revising 
the annual declaration requirements for UDOCs to permit a ``declared'' 
plant site currently subject to inspection, which anticipates that its 
production of UDOCs during the current calendar year will be below the 
inspection threshold level indicated in the CWCR, to submit a ``Change 
in Inspection Status Form'' to BIS by December 15th of the current 
calendar year. The information provided to BIS by this new form would 
ensure that the plant site would not be subject to inspection during 
the first 90 days of the next calendar year, which is the period when 
the United States compiles its annual declaration on past activities 
for submission to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical 
Weapons (OPCW). Any such plant site containing at least one plant that 
anticipates producing an individual PSF chemical, in quantities that 
exceed the declaration threshold for such chemicals, will have the 
option of submitting its ``Annual Declaration on Past Activities,'' in 
lieu of a ``Change in Inspection Status Form,'' by December 15th of the 
current calendar year; otherwise, the CWCR require that the ``Annual 
Declaration on Past Activities'' be submitted by February 28th of the 
following year. This rule would create an expedited mechanism for 
determining which UDOC plant sites would be subject to inspection, 
thereby allowing the United States to notify the OPCW concerning the 
inspection status of UDOC plant sites prior to the submission of the 
U.S. declaration to the OPCW and enabling the OPCW to schedule 
inspections of UDOC facilities in the United States on a year-round 
basis.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/10/06                    71 FR 59032
NPRM Comment Period End         11/06/06
Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD53
_______________________________________________________________________




490. TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
2151 (note); PL 108-175; EO 12938; EO 13020; EO 13026; EO 13222; EO 
13338

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 736; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 746; 15 CFR 
748; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends its 
regulations to remove an obsolete in-transit license requirement, makes 
BIS policy regarding certain exceptions to export and reexport license 
requirements more explicit, corrects some omissions in two sections 
that summarize license requirements regarding Iran, clarifies support 
document requirements regarding the People's Republic of China, removes 
two instances of two ECCN's applying to a single commodity, conforms 
some software and technology Export Control Classification Numbers 
(ECCNs) more closely to their related commodity ECCNs and makes 
technical changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD54
_______________________________________________________________________




491. REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION 
REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 18 USC 
2510 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 50 USC app 5; PL 106-387, sec 901 to 
911 ; PL 107-56, sec 221; PL 108-11, sec 1503; EO 12058; EO 12851; EO 
12938; EO 13026; EO 13222; 50 USC app 2401

[[Page 73055]]

et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 10 USC 7420; 10 USC 7430(e); 22 USC 287c; 
22 USC 6004; 30 USC 185(s); 30 USC 185(u); 42 USC 2139a; 42 USC 6212; 
43 USC 1354; 46 USC app 466c; . . .

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule removes reference to ``Advisory Notes'' from the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR). This rule also removes the 
Advisory Note from the entry on the Commerce Control List (CCL) that 
controls specialized machinery, equipment, gear, and specially designed 
parts and for the examination, manufacture, testing, and checking of 
arms, appliances, machines, and implements of war. In addition, it 
revises License Exceptions GBS and CIV in that CCL entry to include 
certain equipment used to determine the safety data of explosives. 
Finally, it revises certain ECCN headings to reflect the current name 
of the Wassenaar Arrangement Munitions List.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD55
_______________________________________________________________________




492. ESTABLISHMENT OF NEW LICENSE EXCEPTION FOR THE EXPORT OR REEXPORT 
TO LIBYA OF CERTAIN ITEMS CONTROLLED FOR ANTI-TERRORISM REASONS ON THE 
COMMERCE CONTROL LIST

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 1701 et seq; 18 USC 2510 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et 
seq; 42 USC 2139; 50 USC App 2401 et seq; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; PL 
108-11,117; EO 12058; EO 12851; EO 12938; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 772; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In this rule, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) 
amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to implement changes 
to export and reexport controls with respect to Libya. Specifically, in 
this rule, BIS establishes a License Exception authorizing the export 
or reexport to U.S. persons in Libya of certain items listed on the 
Commerce Control List and controlled for anti-terrorism (AT) reasons. 
This rule is consistent with the President's decision to modify United 
States' sanctions against Libya, in response to Libya's continuing 
efforts to dismantle its weapons of mass destruction and missile 
programs and its renunciation of terrorism.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/16/05                    70 FR 69432
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., HCHB Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 0694-AD14
RIN: 0694-AD57
_______________________________________________________________________




493. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE UNDERSTANDINGS REACHED AT THE 2004 GOTEBARG 
AND 2005 OSLO NUCLEAR SUPPLIER GROUP (NSG) PLENARY MEETINGS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC. app. 2401 et seq.; 50 USC 1701 et seq.; 18 USC 
2510 et seq.; 22 USC 3201 et seq.; 42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; 
PL 108-11,117 Stat. 559; EO 12058; EO 12851; EO 1293 ; EO 13026; EO 
13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 742 ; 15 CFR 772 ; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is publishing this 
rule to amend the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to implement 
the understandings reached at the 2004 Gotebarg and 2005 Oslo Nuclear 
Supplier Group (NSG) Plenary Meetings.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Jeffery Lynch, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Room 2705, 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3451
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD58
_______________________________________________________________________




494. CONFORMING CHANGES TO CERTAIN END-USER/END-USE BASED CONTROLS IN 
THE EAR; CLARIFICATION OF EXPORT CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS UNDER THE EAR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; 22 USC 3201; 42 USC 2139a; 
EO 12058; . . .

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 758

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) by making conforming changes in 
certain end-user/end-use controls in the EAR to ensure that the 
terminology used to describe each type of end-user/end-use control is 
consistent, to the fullest extent possible, with the terminology in 
other such controls in the EAR. In addition, this rule amends the EAR 
to clarify that a party cannot proceed with an export, reexport, or 
transfer (in-country) that is in transit at the time the party is 
informed by BIS that a license is required (in accordance with certain 
end-user/end-use controls in the EAR), unless that party first obtains 
a license from BIS authorizing the completion of the transaction. This 
rule also amends the export clearance requirements in the EAR to 
clarify that BIS has the authority to order the return or unloading of 
U.S.-origin items that are being transshipped to another country, when 
there are reasonable grounds to believe a violation of the EAR may 
occur, and that this authority

[[Page 73056]]

extends to U.S.-origin items that may have briefly entered the 
territory of a foreign country, but that have yet to be considered in 
the official jurisdiction of that foreign country.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Mail Stop 2705, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD59
_______________________________________________________________________




495. VOLUNTARY DISCLOSURE PROVISIONS AND ADMINISTRATIVE CASE SETTLEMENT 
GUIDANCE RELATED TO RESTRICTIVE TRADE PRACTICES OR BOYCOTTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 764; 15 CFR 766

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends its 
regulations to set forth procedures for making voluntary self 
disclosures of violations of part 760 of the Export Administration 
Regulations (Restrictive Trade Practices or Boycotts) and related 
recordkeeping violations (collectively referred to as antiboycott 
violations). This rule also provides guidance about BIS typically 
exercises its discretion regarding whether to pursue an administrative 
case regarding antiboycott violations, and what administrative 
sanctions to seek in settling such a case.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/30/06                    71 FR 37517
Correction                      07/06/06                    71 FR 38321
NPRM Comment Period End         08/29/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD63
_______________________________________________________________________




496. CLARIFICATION OF LICENSING REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN PHOTOVOLTAIC 
ARRAYS AND RELATED SOFTWARE AND TECHNOLOGY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
to clarify that the term ``photovoltaic arrays,'' as used in three 
Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCNs) in the Commerce Control 
List, applies to any individual cell, array of cells or panel of arrays 
that otherwise meet the specifications of those ECCNs. This rule also 
clarifies that the word ``photovoltaic'' and ``solar'' have the same 
meaning in those ECCNs when describing a cell, array or panel. This 
clarification is needed to promote understanding that license 
requirements apply to a photovoltaic array that includes only one cell 
when it meets the relevant specification and that in the ECCNs modified 
by this rule, the word ``solar'' is synonymous with the word 
``photovoltaic.''

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD64
_______________________________________________________________________




497. REVISIONS TO LICENSE REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN THERMAL IMAGING 
CAMERAS INCORPORATING FOCAL PLANE ARRAYS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app. 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 18 USC 
2510 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; 
PL 108-11; EO 12058 ; EO 12851 ; EO 12938; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 744

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends its 
regulations to remove the regional stability reason for control from 
certain thermal imaging cameras that incorporate focal plane arrays and 
the regional stability reason for control for other such cameras. This 
rule describes the cameras affected by this change in terms of 
performance level measured by frame rate and pixel count. These 
reductions in unilateral U.S. license requirements for exports and 
reexports of certain thermal imaging cameras are warranted by increased 
foreign production of cameras with performance capabilities equal to or 
better than the cameras affected by this rule.
BIS has concluded that these circumstances warrant a limited revision, 
based on performance level, of regional stability controls on thermal 
imaging cameras that incorporate focal plane arrays. Accordingly, this 
rule removes regional stability as a reason for control from certain 
relatively lower performance level cameras and replaces the RS 1 reason 
for control with a RS 2 reason for control for certain higher 
performance level cameras. This rule retains the RS 1 reason for 
control for cameras with high levels of performance. These revised 
licensing requirements remove the license requirement for exports and 
reexports of certain thermal imaging cameras to regions that already 
produce thermal imaging cameras in significant volumes or can readily 
obtain such cameras

[[Page 73057]]

from other countries without an export license.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD71
_______________________________________________________________________




498. REVISIONS TO LICENSE EXCEPTIONS TMP AND BAG: EXPANSION OF ELIGIBLE 
ITEMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; PL 106-
387; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR), to clarify the scope of the 
tools of trade provisions of License Exceptions TMP and BAG.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Mail Stop 2705, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD72
_______________________________________________________________________




499. [bull] REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATION OF EXPORT AND REEXPORT CONTROLS 
FOR THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA (PRC); NEW LICENSE EXCEPTION 
CERTIFIED END-USER

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app. 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; EO 13026; EO 13099; 
EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 
772; . . .

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends the Export 
Administration Regulations (EAR) by revising and clarifying United 
States policy on exports and reexports of goods and technology to the 
People's Republic of China (PRC). The proposed amendments include a 
revision to the licensing review policy for items controlled on the 
Commerce Control List (CCL) for reasons of national security, including 
a new control based on positive knowledge of a military end-use on 
exports to the PRC of certain CCL items that otherwise do not require a 
license to the PRC. In addition, this rule would to require exporters 
to obtain an End-User Certificate, issued by the PRC Ministry of 
Commerce, for all items that require a license to the PRC for any 
reason and that exceed a total value of $5,000. This rule also would 
eliminate the requirement that exporters submit PRC End-User 
Certificates to BIS as required to support documentation provided with 
the license application; but would require exporters to include the 
serial number of the PRC End-User Certificate in an appropriate field 
of the license application, and to retain the PRC End-User Certificate 
in accordance with the recordkeeping provisions of the EAR. Finally, 
this rule would create a new procedure for validated end-users to whom 
eligible items may be exported or reexported to eligible destinations, 
including the PRC. These proposed amendments are consistent with the 
policy of the United States Government to prevent U.S. exports to the 
PRC that would make a material contribution to the PRC's military 
capability, while facilitating U.S. exports to legitimate civil end-
users.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/06/06                    71 FR 38313
NPRM Comment Period End         11/03/06
Interim Final Rule              03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., HCHB Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD75
_______________________________________________________________________




500. [bull] REVISION TO GENERAL RESTRICTION ON ALL LICENSE EXCEPTIONS: 
AVAILABILITY OF CERTAIN LICENSE EXCEPTIONS FOR LIGHTWEIGHT AIRCRAFT 
ENGINES

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

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq ; 50 USC 1701 et seq ; PL 106-
387; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security amends the general 
restriction on using license exceptions for MT controlled items, by 
adding one additional Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) 
9A101.a to the list of ECCNs for which certain license exceptions are 
available. Specifically, that the commodities described in ECCN 
9A101.a, may be exported as part of a manned aircraft, land vehicle or 
marine vehicle or in quantities appropriate for replacement parts for 
such applications under section 740.9(a)(2)(ii) (License Exception TMP 
for kits consisting of replacement parts), section740.10 (License 
Exception RPL),or section 740.15(c) (License Exception AVS for 
equipment and spare parts for permanent use on an aircraft).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 73058]]

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Mail Stop 2705, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD80
_______________________________________________________________________




501. [bull] IMPLEMENTATION IN THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS OF 
THE UNITED STATES' RESCISSION OF LIBYA'S DESIGNATION AS A STATE SPONSOR 
OF TERRORISM AND REVISIONS APPLICABLE TO IRAQ

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 734; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; . . .

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends the Export 
Administration Regulations (EAR) to implement the decision of the 
United States on June 29, 2006, to rescind Libya's designation as a 
state sponsor of terrorism. To implement that change, BIS amends the 
EAR by removing Libya from the list of terrorist supporting countries 
in Country Group E:1, and by making other conforming amendments and 
related revisions throughout the EAR. In particular, Libya is added to 
Country Group D:1 but remains in Country Groups D:2, D:3, and D:4. This 
rule is consistent with the President's May 12, 2006, report to 
Congress certifying that Libya did not provide any support for 
international terrorism during the preceding six months and that Libya 
has provided assurances that it will not support future acts of 
international terrorism.
This rule also revises the EAR to reflect the fact that, in October 
2004, the United States rescinded Iraq's designation as a state sponsor 
of terrorism. As a result of the rescission of this designation, BIS 
may no longer control for anti-terrorism (AT) reasons items for which 
BIS previously required a license for export or reexport to Iraq, or 
for transfer within Iraq. Note that BIS now controls these items for 
regional stability (RS) reasons and continues to require a license for 
their export or reexport to Iraq, or transfer within Iraq. This rule 
also amends the EAR to delete all references to Iraq's status as a 
Designated State Sponsor of Terrorism.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/31/06                    71 FR 51714
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      10/02/06
Final Rule                      12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., HCHB Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD81
_______________________________________________________________________




502. [bull] ADDITION OF ``SERBIA'' AND ``MONTENEGRO'' AS SEPARATE 
DESTINATIONS IN THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

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

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule deletes ``Serbia and Montenegro'' and adds 
``Montenegro'' and ``Serbia'' as separate entries on the Commerce 
Country Chart in supplement no. 1 to part 738 of the EAR for export 
licensing purposes. Montenegro attained independence from Serbia on 
June 3, 2006, based on a May 21, 2006, referendum. This rule also 
updates references to ``Serbia and Montenegro'' in part 740 of the EAR 
to reflect Montenegro's legal separation from Serbia.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jeffery Lynch, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Room 2705, 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3451
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD85
_______________________________________________________________________




503. [bull] IMPLEMENTATION OF THE UNDERSTANDINGS REACHED AT THE JUNE 
2006 AUSTRALIA GROUP (AG) PLENARY MEETING; CLARIFICATIONS AND 
CORRECTIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to implement the understandings 
reached at the June 2006 plenary meeting of the Australia Group (AG). 
Specifically, this rule amends the EAR by revising the List of Items 
Controlled in Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) 1C350, which 
controls human and zoonotic pathogens and toxins on the AG Common 
Control Lists, to add certain fungi (i.e., Coccidioides immitis and 
Coccidioides posadasii) and Shiga-like ribosome inactivating proteins 
other than verotoxin, consistent with the AG decision to add these 
items to the AG ``Control List of Biological Agents.'' These items are 
currently controlled under ECCN 1C360, which controls select agents and 
toxins not included on any of the AG Common Control Lists. This rule 
also amends the EAR to implement changes to the AG ``Control List of 
Dual-Use Chemical Manufacturing Facilities and Equipment and Related 
Technology'' by revising the List of Items Controlled in ECCN 2B351 to 
add certain chemical manufacturing equipment in which all surfaces that 
come in direct contact with the chemical(s) being processed or 
contained are made from niobium (colombium) or niobium alloys. In 
addition, this rule corrects errors contained in two ECCNs that were 
amended by a final rule that BIS published on December 29, 2004 (69

[[Page 73059]]

FR 77890). Specifically, this rule corrects a typographical error in 
the C.A.S. number for N,N-dimethylaminophosphoryl dichloride, which is 
listed in ECCN 1C350.b.23. This rule also corrects an error in ECCN 
1C355 by removing and reserving 1C355.b.2.a, which currently contains 
the precursor chemical ethyldiethanolamine (C.A.S. #139-87-7). This 
chemical was added to ECCN 1C350.c.12 by the December 29, 2004, final 
rule and should have been removed from ECCN 1C355 at that time.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD86
_______________________________________________________________________




504. [bull] REVISED EXPORT LICENSE APPLICATION REVIEW POLICY AND END USE 
VERIFICATION POLICY TO IMPLEMENT THE JULY 2006 RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE 
COMMISSION FOR ASSISTANCE TO A FREE CUBA

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
287c; PL 108-11; PL 106-387; EO 12854; EO 12918; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 746

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule revises export and reexport license application 
review policy toward Cuba with respect to vessels and aircraft on 
temporary sojourn, and medical devices and medical equipment. It also 
makes clear that licenses for export or reexport of medical devices, 
medical equipment, and certain aircraft on temporary sojourn to Cuba 
will be issued with conditions imposing verification and reporting 
requirements. This rule implements recommendations and policy 
objectives of section VI of the July 2006 report to the president of 
the Commission for Assistance to a Free Cuba.
Section VI of that report addressed the topic of denying revenue to the 
Castro regime and emphasized the need to maintain economic pressure on 
the regime. Generally, the changes made by this rule favor the use of 
regular commercial carriers to carry lawful exports and travelers to 
Cuba as opposed to non-commercial aircraft or boats in order to limit 
the landing, docking, or other fees that the Cuban government can 
collect. The verification and reporting requirements that will be 
imposed by licenses for medical devices and equipment are to make sure 
that such devices and equipment are used for the benefit of the Cuban 
people.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD87
_______________________________________________________________________




505. [bull] TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION 
REGULATIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

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

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to remove an outdated reference 
to another agency's form that is no longer used by that other agency; 
to correct two references in the EAR that inadvertently directed people 
to the wrong sections of the EAR; to correct two misspelled words; to 
correct a telephone number and address to conform with the current 
telephone number and address in use; and to correct an email address to 
conform with the current email address in use.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Mail Stop 2705, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD88
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




506. EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS: SUPPORT DOCUMENTATION 
CONSOLIDATION AND REORGANIZATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 748; . . .

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney
Phone: 202 482-2440

[[Page 73060]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________




507. EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS TO SUDAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 746; 15 CFR 
774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AC15
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AC17
_______________________________________________________________________




510. REVISION TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS: REPLACEMENT 
LICENSES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 748 to 750

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AC23
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700 to 799

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AC35
_______________________________________________________________________




512. REVISIONS OF AIRCRAFT EXPORT LICENSING JURISDICTION BASED ON REVIEW 
OF THE U.S. MUNITIONS LIST

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AC74
_______________________________________________________________________




513. IMPOSITION OF FOREIGN POLICY CONTROLS ON SURREPTITIOUS 
COMMUNICATIONS INTERCEPTING DEVICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

Related RIN: Related to 0694-AB41
RIN: 0694-AC82
_______________________________________________________________________




514. EXPORT AND REEXPORT CONTROLS ON IRAQ

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 
744; 15 CFR 746; 15 CFR 750; 15 CFR 752; 15 CFR 758; 15 CFR 762; 15 CFR 
774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/30/04                    69 FR 46060
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AC84

[[Page 73061]]

_______________________________________________________________________




515. CLARIFICATION OF ``SPACE-QUALIFIED'' PARTS, COMPONENTS, AND 
TECHNOLOGY SUBJECT TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 744

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: Jeffery Lynch
Phone: 202 482-3451
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD07
_______________________________________________________________________




516. EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS: REMOVAL OF COUNTRY GROUPS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 724; 15 CFR 736; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 
740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 750; 15 CFR 752; 15 CFR 
758; 15 CFR 770; 15 CFR 772; 15 CFR 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD09
_______________________________________________________________________




517. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WASSENAAR ARRANGEMENT STATEMENT OF 
UNDERSTANDING ON THE CONTROL OF NON-LISTED DUAL-USE ITEMS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 746; 15 CFR 748

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD10
_______________________________________________________________________




518. REMOVAL OF LICENSE EXCEPTION GBS AND TSR ELIGIBILITY FOR CERTAIN 
MICROWAVE MONOLITHIC INTEGRATED CIRCUIT POWER AMPLIFIERS AND RELATED 
SOFTWARE AND TECHNOLOGY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jeffery Lynch
Phone: 202 482-3451
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD36
_______________________________________________________________________




519. REVISIONS TO THE DPAS REGULATION AND ASSOCIATED NOTICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Michael J. Vacarro
Phone: 202 482-8232
Fax: 202 482-5650
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD69
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




520. CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 710 et seq

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Chemical Weapons Convention Implementation Act of 1998 
(the Act or CWCIA) (22 U.S.C. 6701 et seq.), enacted on October 21, 
1998, authorizes the United States to require the U.S. chemical 
industry and other private entities to submit declarations, 
notifications and other reports and also to provide access for on-site 
inspections conducted by inspectors sent by the Organization for the 
Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). Executive Order (EO) 13128 
delegates authority to the Department of Commerce to promulgate 
regulations, obtain and execute warrants, provide assistance to certain 
facilities, and carry out appropriate functions to implement the 
Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), consistent with the Act. The 
Department of Commerce implements CWC import restrictions under the 
authority of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, the 
National Emergencies Act, and EO 12938, as amended by EO 13128. The 
Departments of State and Commerce have implemented the CWC export 
restrictions under their respective export control authorities. EO 
13128 designates the Department of State as the United States National 
Authority (USNA) for purposes of the CWC and the Act.
On December 30, 1999, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), U.S. 
Department of Commerce, published an interim rule that established the 
Chemical Weapons Convention

[[Page 73062]]

Regulations (CWCR) (15 CFR parts 710 to 722). The CWCR implemented the 
provisions of the CWC, affecting U.S. industry and U.S. persons, in 
accordance with the provisions of the Act. This rule updates the CWCR 
to include additional requirements identified as necessary for the 
implementation of certain CWC provisions and amends the CWCR to clarify 
other CWC requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/21/99                    64 FR 39193
Interim Final Rule              12/30/99                    64 FR 73744
Second NPRM                     12/07/04                    69 FR 70754
Final Rule Effective            04/27/06                    71 FR 24918

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB06
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

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

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/12/03                    68 FR 64009
NPRM Comment Period End         01/12/04
Withdrawn                       07/13/06                    71 FR 39603

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AC20
_______________________________________________________________________




522. KNOWLEDGE DEFINITION, SAFE HARBOR, RED FLAGS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; EO 12938; 
EO 13020; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 736; 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 752; 15 CFR 
764; 15 CFR 772

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule revises the knowledge definition in the Export 
Administration Regulations to incorporate a ``reasonable person'' 
standard and replaces the phrase ``high probability'' with the phrase 
``more likely than not.'' It also updates the ``red flags'' guidance 
and would provide a safe harbor from liability arising from knowledge 
under that definition.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/13/04                    69 FR 60829
NPRM Comment Period Extended    11/15/04                    69 FR 65555
Withdrawn                       10/18/06                    71 FR 61435

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AC94
_______________________________________________________________________




523. EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS: ESTABLISH SPECIAL INTRA-COMPANY 
LICENSE (SIL)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730; 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 753; . . .

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
to establish a new license authorization entitled ``Special Intra-
company License (SIL).'' The SIL allows companies to export certain 
technology and source code to its approved controlled in fact 
subsidiaries overseas,

[[Page 73063]]

including deemed exports to authorized foreign nationals working in its 
facilities. In addition, it allows approved subsidiaries to reexport 
and transfer (within country) certain technology and source code to 
other authorized subsidiaries, including deemed reexports to authorized 
(third country) foreign nationals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/06/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD22
_______________________________________________________________________




524. CUBA: CLARIFICATION OF PERSONAL BAGGAGE RULES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; PL 106-
387; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule clarifies the policy implemented in a rule that the 
Bureau of Industry and Security published on June 22, 2004 (RIN 0694-
AD17, 69 FR 34565). That rule, inter alia, placed a limit of 44 pounds 
on the amount of baggage that most travelers to Cuba are allowed to 
take under License Exception BAG. This rule clarifies that restriction 
by excluding wearing apparel and articles of personal adornment worn by 
the traveler while traveling to Cuba, and personal safety and medical 
commodities for use by the traveler, including wheelchairs, walkers, 
canes, crutches, portable medical devices (e.g., oxygen tanks), and 
child safety seats and strollers for use by a child traveler from that 
44 pound limit.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      05/25/06                    71 FR 30283

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

Related RIN: Related to 0694-AD17
RIN: 0694-AD23
_______________________________________________________________________




525. CLARIFICATION OF DEEMED EXPORT RELATED REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 734; 15 CFR 772

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has reviewed the 
public comments received in response to the ``Advance Notice of 
Proposed Rulemaking: Revision and Clarification of Deemed Export 
Related Regulatory Requirements'' (ANPR) published in the Federal 
Register on March 28, 2005 (70 FR 15607; comment period extended, 70 FR 
30655).
The ANPR identified recommendations contained in the U.S. Department of 
Commerce Office of Inspector General (OIG) Report entitled ``Deemed 
Export Controls May Not Stop the Transfer of Sensitive Technology to 
Foreign Nationals in the U.S.`` (Final Inspection Report No. IPE-16176-
March 2004). This action states that the current BIS licensing 
requirement related to deemed exports is appropriate and confirms that 
the existing definition of ''use`` adequately reflects the underlying 
export controls policy rationale in the EAR. This action also clarifies 
the scope of the fundamental research provisions in the EAR. In 
addition, this action announces the proposed establishment of a Deemed 
Export Advisory Committee (DEAC).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           03/28/05                    70 FR 15607
Comment Period Extended         05/27/05                    70 FR 30655
Withdrawn                       05/31/06                    71 FR 30840

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD29
_______________________________________________________________________




526. EXPANSION OF REQUIREMENT OF PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA (PRC) END-
USER CERTIFICATES UNDER THE EAR; ELIMINATION OF SUBMISSION REQUIREMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 748

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to expand the requirement for 
obtaining People's Republic of China (PRC) End-User Certificates as 
support documents for license applications. This rule requires that 
exporters obtain an End-User Certificate, issued by the PRC Ministry of 
Commerce, for all items that require a license to the PRC for any 
reason on the Commerce Control List (CCL) and that exceed a total value 
of $5,000. This expansion is necessary to allow BIS to conduct end-use 
checks (pre-license checks or post-shipment verifications) on exports 
or reexports of such items, consistent with an agreement with the 
Government of the PRC. To minimize the impact that this expanded 
support document requirement will have on exporters, this rule 
eliminates the requirement that exporters submit the PRC End-User 
Certificate as a required support document to BIS with the license 
application. Instead, this rule requires exporters to include the 
serial number of the PRC End-User certificate in the appropriate field 
of the license application, and to retain the PRC End-User Certificate 
in accordance with the recordkeeping provisions of the EAR. This rule 
also updates the name and contact information of the government entity 
in the People's Republic of China

[[Page 73064]]

(PRC) that issues PRC End-User Certificates. This rule removes and 
reserves a paragraph that is obsolete since it was primarily used for 
the Import Certificate/Delivery Verification (IC/DV) system implemented 
during the Coordinating Committee for Multilateral Export Controls 
(COCOM), which is no longer in operation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With                     07/06/06                    71 FR 38313

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Mail Stop 2705, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Merged with 0694-AD75
RIN: 0694-AD52
_______________________________________________________________________




527. REVISED APPEAL PROCEDURE FOR PERSONS DESIGNATED AS RELATED PERSONS 
TO DENIAL ORDERS ISSUED PURSUANT TO SECTION 766.25 OF THE EXPORT 
ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 756; 15 CFR 766

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 766.23 of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
provides that ``[i]n order to prevent evasion'' orders denying export 
privileges may be made applicable to ``persons then or thereafter 
related to the respondent [in a denial order proceeding] by ownership, 
control, position of responsibility, affiliation, or other connection 
in the conduct of trade or business.'' Section 766.23 may be used to 
make applicable to a related person an order denying export privileges 
issued pursuant to any provision of part 766. Prior to publication of 
this rule, section 766.23(c) provided that any such related person 
``may file an appeal with the administrative law judge'' and that 
``[t]he recommended decision and order of the administrative law judge 
shall be reviewed by the Under Secretary in accordance with the 
procedures set forth in section 766.22 of this part.'' This rule 
revises section 766.23(c) to eliminate three procedural inconsistencies 
involving either appeal by a related person of an order imposed under 
section 766.25 for violation of a specified statute, a decision by the 
administrative law judge that makes an order issued for a violation of 
part 760 applicable to a related person, or an order issued pursuant to 
section 766.24 to prevent an imminent violation of the Export 
Administration Act, the Export Administration Regulations, or any 
order, license or authorization issued thereunder.
Prior to publication of this rule, a person named as a related person 
to an order issued pursuant to section 766.25 had a right of appeal to 
the administrative law judge. However, the respondent in an order 
issued pursuant to section 766.25 had a right of appeal to the Under 
Secretary under part 756 of the EAR. These separate and distinct 
appeals procedures could unnecessarily bifurcate administrative 
proceedings. Section 766.25 provides the procedure for imposing denials 
of export privileges for up to 10 years for persons convicted of 
statutes specified in section 11(h) for the Export Administration Act.
Prior to publication of this rule, section 766.23(c) provided that any 
decision of the administrative law judge making an order applicable to 
a related person ``shall be reviewed by the Under Secretary in 
accordance with the procedures set forth in section 766.22 . . . 
(emphasis added).'' Such procedure for related persons is consistent 
with the procedure for respondents in orders issued for violations of 
the EAR that are not related to part 760. However, the provision for 
the respondent to appeal the administrative law judge's order for a 
violation related to part 760 (restrictive trade practices and 
boycotts) is section 766.21, which provides that such decision may be 
appealed to the Under Secretary. This situation could also create 
unnecessarily inconsistent and bifurcated proceedings, as the 
administrative law judge decision making an order issued for a 
violation related to part 760 applicable to a related person would be 
subject to mandatory Under Secretary review whereas the decision of the 
administrative law judge with respect to the respondent in that same 
order would become the final agency action absent an appeal to the 
Under Secretary.
Prior to publication of this rule, section 766.24(d)(3)(ii) stated that 
a person designated as a related person to a denial order issued 
pursuant to section 766.24 might file an appeal in accordance with 
section 766.2(3)(c) (sic). Section 766.23(c) provided that recommended 
decisions of the administrative law judge be reviewed in accordance 
with the procedures set forth in section 766.22. Those procedures 
differ from the procedures for review of recommended decisions by the 
administrative law judge with respect to orders issued pursuant to 
section 766.24.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      05/13/06                    71 FR 27604

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD60
_______________________________________________________________________




528. IMPLEMENTATION OF UNILATERAL CHEMICAL/BIOLOGICAL CONTROLS ON 
CERTAIN BIOLOGICAL AGENTS AND TOXINS SELECTED FOR DOMESTIC CONTROL BY 
CDC AND APHIS; CLARIFICATION OF CONTROLS ON CERTAIN MEDICAL PRODUCTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
to establish export and reexport controls on certain biological agents 
and toxins (i.e., ``select agents and toxins'') that have been 
determined by the Centers

[[Page 73065]]

for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), U.S. Department of Health and 
Human Services, and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 
(APHIS), U.S. Department of Agriculture, to have the potential to pose 
a severe threat to human, animal, and plant life, as well as certain 
sectors of the U.S. economy (e.g., agriculture). Specifically, this 
rule adds a new entry to the Commerce Control List (CCL) to control 
those CDC and/or APHIS ``select agents and toxins'' (including 
associated genetic elements, recombinant nucleic acids, and recombinant 
organisms) not specified elsewhere on the CCL. The export/reexport 
controls imposed by this rule complement the controls that CDC and 
APHIS have imposed on the possession, use, and transfer of these items 
within the United States. This rule also amends the EAR to clarify 
controls on certain medical products containing Australia Group (AG) 
controlled toxins, other than ricin or saxitoxin, by defining them to 
include pharmaceutical formulations, prepackaged for distribution as 
clinical or medical products, that have been approved by the Food and 
Drug Administration (FDA) for use as an ``Investigational New Drug'' 
(IND). This clarification is consistent with the AG exemption for such 
clinical and medical products, which may be designed for testing, as 
well as human administration, in the treatment of medical conditions. 
In addition, this rule removes license requirements for exports and 
reexports to St. Kitts and Nevis of items that require a license for 
export or reexport only to countries of concern for chemical and 
biological weapons reasons, since St. Kitts and Nevis are not listed 
among the countries of concern in Country Group D:3. Finally, this rule 
updates the list of countries that currently are States Parties to the 
Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) by adding Antigua and Barbuda, 
Bhutan, Cambodia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Grenada, 
Honduras, and Vanuatu.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/12/06                    71 FR 33614

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD62
_______________________________________________________________________




529. REVISIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS BASED ON THE 
2005 MISSILE TECHNOLOGY CONTROL REGIME PLENARY AGREEMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app. 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; PL 106-
387; EO 13026; . . .

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 772; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to reflect changes to the 
Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) Annex that were agreed to by 
MTCR member countries at the September 2005 Plenary in Madrid, Spain. 
The amendments set forth in this rule also reflect a change to make one 
additional missile technology (MT) controlled item available for 
certain license exceptions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/31/06                    71 FR 43043
Final Action                    09/06/06                    71 FR 52428

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3371
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD65
_______________________________________________________________________




530. IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW FORMULA FOR CALCULATING COMPUTER PERFORMANCE: 
ADJUSTED PEAK PERFORMANCE (APP) IN WEIGHTED TERAFLOPS; BULGARIA; XP AND 
NP CONTROLS

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 734; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; . . .

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) maintains the 
Commerce Control List (CCL), which identifies items subject to 
Department of Commerce export controls. This final rule implements the 
Wassenaar Arrangement agreement to revise the formula for calculating 
computer performance from Composite Theoretical Performance (CTP) 
measured in Millions of Operations Per Second (MOPS) to Adjusted Peak 
Performance (APP) measured in Weighted TeraFLOPS (WT). In addition, the 
rule makes conforming changes to the EAR based on the new computer 
parameter, such as revising the name of License Exception CTP to 
License Exception APP, as well as, the parameters for eligibility.
This rule also moves Bulgaria from Computer Tier 3 to Computer Tier 1.
Additionally, this rule removes High Performance Computer (XP) and 
Nuclear Non-proliferation (NP) controls from certain Export Control 
Classification Numbers (ECCNs) in Category 4 of the Commerce Control 
List. This rule also removes and reserves section 742.12, which was 
dedicated to high performance computer controls.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/24/06                    71 FR 20876

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

[[Page 73066]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD66
_______________________________________________________________________




531. CLARIFICATION TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS; GENERAL 
ORDER TO IMPLEMENT THE SYRIA ACCOUNTABILITY AND LEBANESE SOVEREIGNTY ACT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC App 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; PL 108-11,117; EO 
12058; EO 13222; . . .

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 746

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
by adding two cross-references to the General Order Implementing the 
Syria Accountability and Lebanese Sovereignty Act (Syria General Order) 
to clarify that provisions of the Syria General Order set forth special 
controls on exports and reexports to Syria and supersede other 
provisions in the EAR specific to Syria.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/24/06                     71 FR 9441

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., HCHB Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 0694-AC99
RIN: 0694-AD68
_______________________________________________________________________




532. DECEMBER 2005 WASSENAAR ARRANGEMENT PLENARY AGREEMENT 
IMPLEMENTATION: CATEGORIES 1, 2, 3, 5 PART I (TELECOMMUNICATIONS), 5 
PART II (INFORMATION SECURITY), 6, 8, AND 9 OF THE COMMERCE CONTROL 
LIST; W

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 743; 15 CFR 772; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) maintains the 
Commerce Control List (CCL), which identifies items subject to 
Department of Commerce export controls. This rule revises certain 
entries controlled for national security reasons in categories 1, 2, 3, 
5 part I (telecommunications), 5 part II (Information Security), 6, 8, 
and 9, and Definitions to conform with changes in the Wassenaar 
Arrangement's List of Dual-Use Goods and Technologies and Statements of 
Understanding maintained and agreed to by governments participating in 
the Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls for Conventional Arms and 
Dual-Use Goods and Technologies (Wassenaar Arrangement). The Wassenaar 
Arrangement focuses on implementation of effective export controls on 
strategic items with the objective of improving regional and 
international security and stability.
The purpose of this rule is to make the necessary changes to the CCL, 
definitions of terms used in the Export Administration Regulations 
(EAR), and Wassenaar reporting requirements to implement Wassenaar List 
revisions that were agreed upon in the December 2005 Wassenaar 
Arrangement Plenary Meeting. In addition, this rule adds Croatia, 
Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, South Africa, and Malta to the list of 
Wassenaar participating states in the EAR, which brings the total 
number of participating states to 39.
This rule also adds or expands unilateral U.S. controls, nuclear 
nonproliferation controls, and national security controls on certain 
items consistent with the amendments made to implement the Wassenaar 
Arrangement's decisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/06/06                    71 FR 52956

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD73
_______________________________________________________________________




533. [bull] REVISIONS TO CIVIL PENALTY PROVISIONS OF THE EXPORT 
ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 764

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security amends its regulations to 
implement the increase in the maximum civil penalty as provided in the 
USA Patriot Act Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005. On March 
9, 2006, the USA Patriot Act Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 
2005, amended section 206 of the International Emergency Economic 
Powers Act to raise the maximum civil penalty to $50,000. This rule 
amends section 764.3(a)(1)(i) to state that the maximum civil penalty 
is that which is authorized by the applicable authority. In effect, 
this change will permit BIS to impose the a civil penalty in an amount 
up to the $50,000 now authorized under the USA Patriot Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      08/04/06                    71 FR 44189

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD74
_______________________________________________________________________




534. [bull] GENERAL ORDER CONCERNING MAYROW GENERAL TRADING AND RELATED 
ENTITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; 
22 USC 2151

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 736; 15 CFR 744

[[Page 73067]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security issues this General Order 
to impose a license requirement for exports and reexports of all items 
subject to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) where the 
transaction involves Mayrow General Trading or entities related, as 
follows: Micatic General Trading; Majidco Micro Electronics; Atlinx 
Electronics; Micro Middle East Electronics; Narinco; F.N. Yaghmaei; and 
H. Ghasir. Mayrow General Trading and all entities related are located 
in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This order also prohibits the use of 
License Exceptions for exports or reexports of any items subject to the 
EAR involving these entities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      06/05/06                    71 FR 32272

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hillary Hess, Director, Regulatory Policy Division, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD76
_______________________________________________________________________




535. [bull] AUTHORIZATION TO APPOINT ANY COMMERCE DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEE TO 
BE APPEALS COORDINATOR IN CERTAIN ADMINISTRATIVE APPEALS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app. 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 756

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) revises section 
756.2 of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to authorize the 
Under Secretary for Industry and Security to designate any employee of 
the Department of Commerce to be the coordinator for appeals of 
administrative actions taken under part 756 of the EAR. Such 
designation of employees from outside the Bureau of Industry and 
Security shall require the concurrence of the head of the operating 
unit in which tat employee is employed. Prior to publication of this 
rule, only a ``BIS official'' might have been designated as appeals 
coordinator.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      06/13/06                    71 FR 34008

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD78
_______________________________________________________________________




536. [bull] DEFENSE PRIORITIES AND ALLOCATIONS SYSTEM (DPAS): 
ADMINISTRATIVE AND TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 50 USC app. 2061, et seq; 42 USC 5195, et seq; EO 
12919; EO 13286; 50 USC app. 468; 10 USC 2538; 50 USC 82; EO 12742; EO 
12656

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: As part of its periodic review of the DPAS regulation, the 
Department of Commerce has identified several typographical errors and 
outdated provisions in the DPAS regulation. Accordingly, this rule 
amends the DPAS regulation to correct those errors and delete outdated 
or obsolete provisions and language. This rule also amends the list of 
approved programs in schedule I to the regulation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      07/13/06                    71 FR 39526

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AD79
_______________________________________________________________________




537. [bull] AMENDMENT TO GENERAL ORDER: ADDITION OF CERTAIN ENTITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq ; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
2151 (note); PL 108-175; EO 12938; EO 13020; EO 13026

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 736

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security is revising the Export 
Administration Regulations (EAR) by amending a general order published 
on June 5, 2006, in the Federal Register to add nine additional 
entities related to Mayrow General Trading. That general order imposed 
a license requirement for exports and reexports of all items subject to 
the EAR where the transaction involved Mayrow General Trading or 
entities related, as specified in that general order. The order also 
prohibited the use of License Exceptions for exports and reexports of 
any items subject to the EAR involving such entities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/06/06                    71 FR 52426
Final Action                    09/13/06                    71 FR 53964

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Mail Stop 2705, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD83
_______________________________________________________________________




538. [bull] TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS TO THE NATIONAL SECURITY INDUSTRIAL 
BASE REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2061, et seq; 42 USC 5195, et seq; 50 USC 
app 468; 10 USC 2538; 50 USC 82; EO 12919; EO 13286; EO 12742; EO 12656

[[Page 73068]]

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Technical amendments to the Defense Priorities and 
Allocations System regulation (15 CFR part 700) to provide additional 
guidance on how persons in Canada and other foreign nations may apply 
for priority rating authority and special priorities assistance to 
obtain items in the United States, and to provide information on how 
persons in the United States may obtain informal assistance in certain 
foreign countries to obtain items in support of approved programs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      09/20/06                    71 FR 54902

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Michael J. Vacarro, Senior Program Manager, Department 
of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 1401 Constitution Avenue 
NW., Mailstop 3876, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-8232
Fax: 202 482-5650
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AD90
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)



_______________________________________________________________________




539. CHANGES TO FEDERAL INFORMATION PROCESSING STANDARD (FIPS) 
PUBLICATION 201, STANDARD FOR PERSONAL IDENTITY VERIFICATION OF FEDERAL 
EMPLOYEES AND CONTRACTORS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 40 USC 11331(a); 15 USC 278g-3(a)(c); HSPD 12

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) 
announces proposed changes to Federal Information Processing Standard 
(FIPS) Publication 201, Standard for Personal Identity Verification of 
Federal Employees and Contractors. The changes to section 2.2, PIV 
Identify Proofing and Registration Requirements, and to section 5.3.1, 
PIV Card Issuance, will clarify the identity proofing and registration 
process that departments and agencies should follow when issuing 
identity credentials. These changes are required to make FIPS 201 
consistent with the Memorandum for All Departments and Agencies (M-05-
24), issued by the Office of Management and Budget on August 5, 2005, 
Implementation of Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD) 12 -- 
Policy for a Common Identification Standard for Federal Employees and 
Contractors. Before recommending these proposed changes to FIPS 201 to 
the Secretary of Commerce for review and approval, NIST invites 
comments from the public, users, the information technology industry, 
and Federal, State and local government organizations concerning the 
proposed changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          09/08/05                    70 FR 53346
Final Action                    03/31/06                    71 FR 16289

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Michael R. Rubin, Deputy Chief Counsel, Department of 
Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Admin 
Building, Gaithersburg, MD 20899
Phone: 301 975-2803

RIN: 0693-AB56
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                              Prerule Stage


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



540. [bull] GEOGRAPHIC REORGANIZATION OF WESTERN PACIFIC REGULATIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service amends its regulations 
concerning fisheries in the Western Pacific by reorganizing the 
provisions according to geography. This action will make the 
regulations better organized and easier to use for managers, the 
regulated community, and the general public.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AU71
_______________________________________________________________________




541. [bull] TAKING AND IMPORTING MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO NAVAL SURF-ZONE EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL SCHOOL 
TRAINING OPERATIONS AT EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, FLORIDA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from Eglin Air Force Base

[[Page 73069]]

(EAFB) to take marine mammals by Level B harassment incidental to Naval 
Explosive Ordnance Disposal School (NEODS) training operations, which 
include up to 30 detonations per year of small C-4 charges, off Santa 
Rosa Island (SRI) at EAFB. This action would implement regulations to 
govern that take. In order to issue a Letter of Authorization (LOA) and 
issue final regulations governing the take, NMFS must determine that 
the taking will have a negligible impact on the species or stocks and 
will not have an unmitigable adverse impact on the availability of such 
species or stock for taking for subsistence uses.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AU53
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



542. MEASURES TO PREVENT OR MITIGATE AND CONSERVE, MANAGE, AND ALLOW 
FULL UTILIZATION OF SHARKS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would implement amendment 9 to the western Pacific 
pelagics FMP, which would establish trip limit for non-blue sharks in 
the Hawaii-based longline fishery, establish a new definition for 
bottom longline, and prohibit its use in the Hawaiian Islands and other 
management measures to protect and conserve shark resources in the 
region.

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: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AN76
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 9 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Atlantic 
mackerel, squid, and butterfish fisheries would address essential fish 
habitat and revise the Illex quota procedures.

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

RIN: 0648-AP60
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment under the Bottomfish Fishery 
Management Plan would remove annual landings requirement for permit 
renewal, revise permit transferability restrictions, establish permit 
eligibility for the Mau Zone, and establish a mechanism to facilitate 
permits through a community development program in the Northwestern 
Hawaiian Islands bottomfish limited access programs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AK82
RIN: 0648-AQ20
_______________________________________________________________________




545. FISHERIES OF THE UNITED STATES; NATIONAL STANDARD 1

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is considering 
revisions to the national standard guidelines for National Standard 1

[[Page 73070]]

(NS1) that specify criteria for determining overfishing and 
establishing rebuilding schedules. There have been concerns expressed 
by the scientific community, fisheries managers, the fishing industry, 
and environmental groups regarding the appropriateness of some aspects 
of these guidelines.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           02/14/03                     68 FR 7492
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/17/03
Comment Period Extended         03/03/03                     68 FR 9967
NPRM                            06/22/05                    70 FR 36240
Comment Period Extended         08/15/05                    70 FR 47777
NPRM Comment Period End         08/22/05
Proposed Rule                   12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AQ63
_______________________________________________________________________




546. AMENDMENT 62 TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE GULF OF 
ALASKA AND AMENDMENT 62 TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE 
BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLES (ISLANDS)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would implement American Fisheries Act (AFA) single 
geographic location allowing AFA-qualified inshore floating processors 
the flexibility to relocate between reporting weeks rather than between 
fishing years for the purpose of processing targeted Bering Sea and 
Aleutian Islands pollock. In addition, this rule would address obsolete 
and inconsistent inshore/offshore language in both the BSAI and GOA 
groundfish fishery management plans and recommend removing the GOA 
inshore/offshore allocation sunset date.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AR06
_______________________________________________________________________




547. MAXIMIZE RETENTION AND MONITORING PROGRAM IN THE SHORE-BASED 
PACIFIC WHITING FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AR63
_______________________________________________________________________




548. AMENDMENT 72 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE GROUNDFISH OF 
THE GULF OF ALASKA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would eliminate an existing requirement under the 
Improved Retention/Improved Utilization (IR/IU) program that groundfish 
fisheries retain shallow water flatfish in the Gulf of Alaska (GOA). 
This action may relieve some harvesting and utilization restrictions on 
GOA groundfish harvesting and processing operations. It follows a 
parallel action taken in the BSAI to relieve those groundfish fisheries 
from requirements to retain all IR/IU flatfish species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 73071]]

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AR72
_______________________________________________________________________




549. REVISIONS TO THE DEFINITIONS OF EXEMPTED FISHING AND SCIENTIFIC 
RESEARCH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service amends the regulations 
at 50 CFR 600.745. The action is intended to provide clearer guidance 
to the public for obtaining appropriate acknowledgments and permits and 
to facilitate the timely conduct of research to address bycatch and 
habitat issues in the fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AR78
_______________________________________________________________________




550. INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA FOR GUIDED RECREATIONAL CHARTER HALIBUT 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 1540

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish a control date announcing that 
anyone entering the Charter Sport Fishery for Pacific Halibut in and 
off Alaska after December 9, 2005, (control date), will not be assured 
of future access to that fishery if a management regime that limits the 
number of participants is developed and implemented under the authority 
of the Northern Pacific Halibut Act of 1982 (Halibut Act).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           02/08/06                     71 FR 6442
NPRM                            05/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AR96
_______________________________________________________________________




551. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT QUOTA (CDQ) REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO MODIFY 
SEVERAL FISHERY MANAGEMENT ELEMENTS OF THE CDQ PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would modify several fishery 
management elements of the Community Development Quota (CDQ) Program, 
including: how to address which annual CDQ reserves should be allocated 
among CDQ groups; relaxing strict quota accountability standards; and 
determining a means to accommodate changes made in the annual 
specifications process to preexisting CDQ percentage allocations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AS13
_______________________________________________________________________




552. AMENDMENT 14 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 14 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass 
Fishery Management would establish a rebuilding plan for scup.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 0648-AS22
_______________________________________________________________________




553. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE TILEFISH FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Tilefish 
Fishery would implement Individual Transferable Quotas in the tilefish 
fishery.

[[Page 73072]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AS25
_______________________________________________________________________




554. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ESTABLISH MEASURES AUTHORIZING THE OPTIONAL 
USE OF ELECTRONIC LOGBOOK FORMS IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment, under the western Pacific Pelagics 
FMP, would allow fishermen the option of using logbook forms in 
substitution of paper logbook forms for Federal data recording and 
reporting requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AS29
_______________________________________________________________________




555. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); REDUCING SEA TURTLE TAKES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the regulations governing the 
Atlantic pelagic longline fishery based upon a June 1, 2004, Biological 
Opinion regarding Atlantic sea turtles. This amendment could include 
framework mechanisms that would allow the Agency to take action, such 
as partial or rolling closures or gear or effort restrictions, if the 
number of sea turtle interactions or mortalities exceed anticipated 
levels during a certain period of time. This action would not change 
established quotas for target species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           08/12/04                    69 FR 49858
ANPRM Comment Period End        10/12/04
NPRM                            01/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AS49
_______________________________________________________________________




556. ESTABLISH MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR THE WESTERN PACIFIC SQUID FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Under an amendment to the Western Pacific Pelagics FMP, 
pelagic squid would be designated as a management unit species, and 
measures would be established governing the pelagic squid fishery in 
the western Pacific region.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AS71
_______________________________________________________________________




557. INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA PROGRAM; RESTRUCTURE DATE-SPECIFIC QUOTA 
SHARE REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773k; 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 3631

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679; 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would restructure date-specific regulations 
governing the halibut U.S. Individual Fishing Quota fishery to 
reference a time, relative to the season opening and closing dates, 
when operational events should occur relative to certain fishing season 
milestones. This action is necessary to provide the International 
Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) with flexibility to adjust fishing 
season durations and time periods to meet fishery management needs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802

[[Page 73073]]

Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AS77
_______________________________________________________________________




558. AMENDMENT 67 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE GROUNDFISH OF 
THE GULF OF ALASKA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300; 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The action would amend regulations for the Halibut and 
Sablefish IFQ Program by: (1) Instituting an emergency medical transfer 
program; (2) tightening criteria for the use of hired masters; (3) 
adding vessel clearance requirements to the sablefish fisheries in the 
Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands; (4) changing product recovery rates 
for sablefish; (5) adjusting the halibut QS block program; and (6) 
amending vessel classification QS use allowances.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AR90
RIN: 0648-AS84
_______________________________________________________________________




559. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES AND IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; WEST 
COAST SALMON FISHERIES; AMENDMENT 14; ESSENTIAL FISH HABITAT (EFH) 
DESCRIPTIONS FOR PACIFIC SALMON

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement Amendment 14 to the Pacific 
Salmon Fishery Management Plan (Salmon FMP) to identify and describe 
Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) for Pacific salmon. The intent of this 
rule is to codify the EFH identifications and descriptions for 
freshwater and marine habitats of Pacific salmon managed under the 
Salmon FMP, including chinook, coho, and pink salmon in Washington, 
Oregon, and California. In addition, the intent of this rule is to 
comply with the October 1, 2003, court order of the U.S. District Court 
for the District of Idaho, and to promote the conservation and 
enhancement of Pacific salmon EFH.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AS96
_______________________________________________________________________




560. TRANSFER OF MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY FOR THE ATLANTIC COAST RED DRUM 
RESOURCE FROM THE SOUTH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this action is to repeal the South Atlantic 
Fishery Management Council's (Council's) Atlantic Coast Red Drum 
Fishery Management Plan (Red Drum FMP) and transfer the Secretary's 
authority to regulate harvest and possession of red drum in and from 
the Atlantic Coast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) from under the 
Magnuson-Stevens Act to under the Atlantic Coastal Fisheries 
Cooperative Management Act (ACA), as requested by the Council and the 
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. This action will maintain 
the prohibition on possession and harvest of red drum in the EEZ.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AT13
_______________________________________________________________________




561. AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY; FISHING EFFORT CONTROL MEASURES TO 
COMPLEMENT INTERSTATE LOBSTER MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE ATLANTIC 
STATES MARINE FISHERIES COMMISSION

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 697

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service announces that it is 
considering, and seeking public comment on, revisions to Federal 
American lobster regulations for the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) 
associated with effort control measures as recommended for Federal 
implementation by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission 
(ASFMC) as outlined in the Interstate Fishery Management Plan (ISFMP) 
for American Lobster. This action will evaluate effort control measures 
in certain Lobster Conservation Management Areas including: Limits on 
future access based on historic participation criteria; procedures to 
allow trap transfers among qualifiers and impose a trap reduction or 
conservation tax on any trap transfers; and a trap reduction schedule 
to meet the goals of the ISFMP.

[[Page 73074]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/10/05                    70 FR 24495
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/09/05
NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For More Information:
http://www.nero.noaa.gov/statefedoff

URL For Public Comments:
http://www.nero.noaa.gov/nero/comments/index.html

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

RIN: 0648-AT31
_______________________________________________________________________




562. WEST COAST HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES, CORRECTING AMENDMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will make clarifications and corrections to the 
final rules published to implement the Fishery Management Plan for U.S. 
West Coast Highly Migratory Species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AT32
_______________________________________________________________________




563. MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR PACIFIC BIGEYE TUNA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 14 to the Pelagics Fishery Management Plan (FMP) 
would implement management measures to address overfishing of bigeye 
tuna in the Pacific Ocean. The amendment would include non-regulatory 
procedures for the management of international fisheries that harvest 
bigeye tuna, and regulatory measures for fisheries managed under the 
FMP. These measures include a program of Federal permits and data 
collection for non-longline Hawaii-based commercial pelagic vessels 
(troll, handline, and pole and line). The amendment may include other 
regulatory measures, possibly including effort controls.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AT55
_______________________________________________________________________




564. OMNIBUS AMENDMENTS TO FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLANS TO ADDRESS ESSENTIAL 
FISH HABITAT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would refine essential fish habitat designations 
in New England based on the most recent scientific information.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AT57
_______________________________________________________________________




565. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement a rebuilding program for 
butterfish.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AT58
_______________________________________________________________________




566. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 FISHING YEAR FOR THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, 
SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the 2007 
fishing year

[[Page 73075]]

for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 0648-AT60
_______________________________________________________________________




567. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 FISHING YEAR FOR THE SURFCLAM AND OCEAN 
QUAHOG FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the 2007 
fishing year for the surfclam and ocean quahog fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 0648-AT61
_______________________________________________________________________




568. FRAMEWORK 1 TO THE SURFCLAM AND OCEAN QUAHOG FISHERY MANAGEMENT 
PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Framework 1 would require Vessel Monitoring Systems in the 
surfclam and ocean quahog fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AT62
_______________________________________________________________________




569. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 FISHING YEAR FOR THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, 
SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the Atlantic 
mackerel, squid, and butterfish fisheries for the 2007 fishing year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AT65
_______________________________________________________________________




570. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 FISHING YEAR FOR THE ATLANTIC HERRING 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the Atlantic 
herring fishery for the 2007 fishing year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AT66
_______________________________________________________________________




571. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 FISHING YEAR FOR THE ATLANTIC BLUEFISH 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the Atlantic 
bluefish fishery for the 2007 fishing year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 0648-AT67

[[Page 73076]]

_______________________________________________________________________




572. JOINT AMENDMENT TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR THE SHRIMP 
(AMENDMENT 14) AND REEF FISH FISHERIES (AMENDMENT 27) OF THE GULF OF 
MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Shrimp and reef fish in the Gulf of Mexico are managed under 
their respective FMPs. Both fisheries contribute to fishing mortality 
on reef fish, especially juvenile and undersized red snapper. Age 0 and 
Age 1 red snapper are taken by shrimp trawls, and Age 2 and older red 
snapper are caught in the directed commercial and recreational red 
snapper fishery. Red snapper is overfished and undergoing overfishing, 
and reducing fishing mortality on these younger age classes is needed 
to help rebuild the stock. Actions to reduce bycatch of red snapper are 
anticipated to reduce bycatch fishing mortality for other reef fish 
species as well. The joint amendment will consider a variety of 
harvesting and gear restrictions to further reduce fishing mortality 
and fishing effort in the shrimp and red snapper fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AT86
RIN: 0648-AT87
_______________________________________________________________________




573. INTERAGENCY ELECTRONIC REPORTING SYSTEM (IERS)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would revise 50 CFR part 679.4--Permits by making 
technical edits, clarifying, and simplifying existing requirements. In 
addition, this rule would revise several sections of 50 CFR part 679.5-
-Reformatting recordkeeping and reporting regulations to make room for 
new electronic reporting requirements; making technical edits; 
clarifying and simplifying existing requirements; removing obsolete 
text. A new section will be added to describe requirements for a 
catcher vessel electronic logbook. The Shoreside processor electronic 
logbook report (SPELR) for groundfish at 679.5(e) will be replaced by 
the Interagency electronic reporting system (IERS) eLandings data entry 
for groundfish; crab; IFQ halibut, IFQ sablefish, and CDQ halibut. The 
IFQ Internet system described at 679.5(l) will be revised with an 
option to use eLandings. The mothership weekly accumulative ADF&G fish 
tickets described at 679.5(m) will be removed; this information will be 
sent through IERS eLandings. The revision of this rule is necessary to 
meet the statutory deadline for eLandings to be in place for groundfish 
data entry by January 1, 2007.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AR30, Merged with 0648-AQ07
RIN: 0648-AT91
_______________________________________________________________________




574. WESTERN PACIFIC PRECIOUS CORALS FMP: AMENDMENT TO MANAGE HAWAII 
BLACK CORAL FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is taking action to 
reduce fishing impacts on black coral in the Auau Channel, Hawaii. The 
biomass of black coral there has declined from several factors, 
including fishing. This action would remove an exemption that allows 
the harvest of black corals with a minimum base diameter of 0.75 inch 
or minimum height of 36 inches by persons who reported harvest to the 
State of Hawaii within the five years prior to April 17, 2002. The 
current minimum base requirement of 1 inch and minimum height of 48 
inches would remain in effect.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AS64
RIN: 0648-AT93
_______________________________________________________________________




575. AMENDMENT 84-A TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE BERING 
SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS MANAGEMENT AREA IMPLEMENTING SALMON BYCATCH 
MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would exempt Pollock and CDQ vessels that 
participate in a voluntary rolling hotspot closure system (VRHS) from 
chum and Chinook salmon savings area closures. The VRHS utilizes 
inseason data and a private contractor to determine and avoid high 
salmon bycatch areas. The VRHS encourages salmon bycatch reduction 
through

[[Page 73077]]

internal enforcement of a civil agreement between cooperatives and 
third party groups. This rulemaking would also exempt vessels 
participating in the trawl cod and/or flatfish targets from closures of 
the chum salmon savings area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU03
_______________________________________________________________________




576. AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY: EGG PRODUCTION MEASURES AS APPROVED IN 
ADDENDA II THROUGH VII TO AMENDMENT 3 OF THE ATLANTIC STATES MARINE 
FISHERIES COMMISSION'S INTERSTATE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 697

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announces that 
it is considering, and seeking public comment on, the implementation of 
further minimum carapace length (gauge) increases and escape vent size 
increases in the Federal lobster fishery, consistent with 
recommendations for Federal action in Addenda II-VII of Amendment 3 to 
the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's (Commission) 
Interstate Fishery Management Plan (ISFMP) for American Lobster. (These 
include gauge increases scheduled annually from 2005 through 2008 in 
Lobster Conservation Management Areas (LCMA) 3 and the Outer Cape 
Lobster Conservation Management Area (OCLMA), as well as an escape vent 
size increase for LCMA 1 scheduled for 2007. These measures are in 
addition to those addressed by NMFS in a proposed rule, published in 
the Federal Register on September 2, 2005 (70 FR 52346), which proposes 
gauge increases and escape vent size increases as scheduled through 
2004 in Addenda II and III to Amendment 3 of the ISFMP.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/13/05                    70 FR 73717
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/12/06
NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For More Information:
http://www.nero.noaa.gov/statefedoff/

URL For Public Comments:
http://www.nero.noaa.gov/nero/comments/index.htm

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

RIN: 0648-AU07
_______________________________________________________________________




577. EXPANSION OF THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY VESSEL MONITORING 
SYSTEM TO THE OPEN ACCESS FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1851, sec 301

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action expands the current vessel monitoring system 
(VMS) program by requiring all vessels fishing pursuant to the harvest 
guidelines, quotas, and other management measures governing the open 
access groundfish fishery to provide declaration reports and to 
activate and use a VMS transceiver while fishing off the coasts of 
Washington, Oregon, and California. Any commercial fishing vessel that 
is not registered to a limited entry groundfish permit and that is used 
to take and retain groundfish in the Exclusive Economic Zone (3-200 nm 
from shore) that possess groundfish while transiting the EEZ, or that 
lands groundfish taken in the EEZ is considered to be participating in 
the open access groundfish fishery. Vessel using non-groundfish trawl 
gear to fish in the EEZ will be included, whether or not groundfish is 
retained, for the purpose of monitoring vessel activity in relation to 
essential fish habitat.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

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

RIN: 0648-AU08
_______________________________________________________________________




578. SUBSISTENCE HALIBUT PROGRAM AMENDMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679; 50 CFR 300; 50 CFR 902

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The action would amend regulations for the Subsistence 
Halibut Program by: (1) Revising the subsistence gear restrictions in 
Kodiak and adding seasonal gear and vessel limits in the Sitka Sound 
Local Area Management Plan (LAMP) area; (2) adding the village of 
Naukati to the list of eligible subsistence halibut communities; (3) 
implementing a possession limit equal to two daily bag limits to 
enhance enforcement; (4) revising the definition of charter vessel; (5) 
revising regulations allowing customary trade; and (6) allowing the use 
of special permits within non-subsistence use areas by tribes eligible 
for the permits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07

[[Page 73078]]

NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AK16, Related to 0648-AR88
RIN: 0648-AU14
_______________________________________________________________________




579. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REVISE CERTAIN SPECIES CODES IN TABLE 2A 
AND TABLE 2D

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would add and revise species codes 
to table 2 to part 679. Table 2a is revised to remove species code 154 
Dusky rockfish (S. ciliatus) and by adding in its place 154 Dark 
rockfish (S. ciliatus) and a new species code for Dusky rockfish (S. 
variabilis). This change will allow managers to account for catches of 
each of these species separately. Table 2d is revised to remove an 
unnecessary species code for Albacore tuna. These changes in the 
species codes are not controversial and are expected to be supported by 
all interested entities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU20
_______________________________________________________________________




580. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE BOTTOMFISH AND SEAMOUNT GROUNDFISH FMP: 
MEASURES TO END BOTTOMFISH OVERFISHING IN THE HAWAIIAN ARCHIPELAGO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Pacific Islands Regional Administrator notified the 
Western Pacific Council in May 2005 that the bottomfish species complex 
in the Hawaiian Archipelago is in a state of overfishing. This action 
would amend the fishery management plan to implement measures to end 
overfishing in the bottomfish complex.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AU22
_______________________________________________________________________




581. AUTHORIZE AN EXEMPTED FISHING PERMIT UNDER THE HIGHLY MIGRATORY 
SPECIES (HMS) FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would implement regulations authorizing an Exempted 
Fishing Permit, under the Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Fishery 
Management Plan, to allow a limited number of drift gillnet vessels to 
fish in a zone currently closed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) 
and Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act 
regulations. The action is pending review and approval by the Pacific 
Council and must undergo an ESA section 7 consultation prior to 
adoption.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU25
_______________________________________________________________________




582. AMENDMENT 12 TO THE COASTAL PELAGIC SPECIES (CPS) FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, July 1, 2006, Final, Statutory. 
Amendment 12 to the CPS FMP would implement measures to prohibit 
fishing for krill in the Exclusive Economic Zone off the West Coast.

Abstract: The Pacific Fishery Management Council amends its Coastal 
Pelagic Species (CPS) Fishery Management Plan (FMP) to ensure the 
protection of krill and the resources which depend on or are sensitive 
to the abundance and availability of krill off the West Coast. The 
Amendment would add krill to the management unit species of the CPS 
FMP, establish a ``prohibited harvest'' category of management unit 
species in the CPS FMP, place krill in the ``prohibited harvest'' 
category and thus prohibit the harvest and retention of krill in the 
EEZ, and deny the use of the exempted fishing permit process under the 
CPS FMP to allow krill fishing.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

[[Page 73079]]

NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU26
_______________________________________________________________________




583. AMENDMENT 14 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER-GROUPER 
FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 14 would establish marine protected areas (MPAs) in 
Federal waters of the South Atlantic.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          07/20/06                    71 FR 41207
NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AU28
_______________________________________________________________________




584. AMENDMENT 15 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER-GROUPER 
FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 15 would: Establish biological reference points and 
status determination criteria, where needed, for five snapper grouper 
species; establish rebuilding schedules and strategies, where needed, 
for five snapper grouper species; assess the practicability of 
prohibiting the sale of recreationally caught fish; ensure parity among 
users in different states by changing the golden tilefish fishing year 
and trip limit; eliminate the queen snapper size limit; assess the 
practicability of changes to the renewal period on commercial snapper 
grouper permits; and assess the practicability of allowing one-to-one 
transfer of commercial permits from an individual to a family-held 
corporation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AU29
_______________________________________________________________________




585. AMENDMENT 11 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 11 would limit access and control effort in the 
General Category sector of the scallop fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU32
_______________________________________________________________________




586. FRAMEWORK 4 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR MONKFISH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This framework would modify the annual adjustment process for 
the monkfish fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU34
_______________________________________________________________________




587. AMENDMENT 15 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 15 would address allocation and other issues in the 
summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

[[Page 73080]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 0648-AU36
_______________________________________________________________________




588. [bull] OBSERVER HEALTH AND SAFETY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 5 USC 561

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would enhance the safety of observers and the 
efficiency of their deployment. These amendments would clarify 
prohibited actions regarding observers, reinforce that an observer may 
not be deployed nor stay aboard an unsafe vessel, clarify when a 
fishing vessel is inadequate for observer deployment and how an owner 
or operator can resolve discrepancies, improve communications between 
observer programs and fishing vessel owners and operators, and provide 
for a National Marine Fisheries Service alternate safety equipment 
examination of certain small fishing vessels.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Bonnie Ponwith, Acting Director, Office of Science and 
Technology, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2367

RIN: 0648-AU46
_______________________________________________________________________




589. [bull] AMENDMENT 85 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE 
GROUNDFISH OF THE BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS (BSAI) MANAGEMENT 
AREA; PACIFIC COD ALLOCATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would modify the current Bering Sea and 
Aleutian Island (BSAI) Pacific cod allocations among the jig, trawl, 
hook-and-line, and pot gear sectors. The current harvest patterns vary 
significantly from sector allocations that have been in place since 
1997. This action is necessary to establish allocations that better 
reflect actual use by sector, while considering socio-economic and 
community factors.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU48
_______________________________________________________________________




590. [bull] RECONCILIATION OF STATE AND FEDERAL COMMERCIAL FISHING 
VESSEL PERMIT PROGRAMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648; 50 CFR 697

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement a limit the amount of days that a 
federally-permitted commercial fishing vessel can fish. Although, in 
the case of the Northeast (NE) multispecies fisheries, it is estimated 
that less that 5 percent of vessels are currently exploiting what 
amounts to a regulatory loophole, fishing part of the permit year 
exclusively under state regulations and then later renewing their 
Federal permit, their impact to fishing mortality objectives could 
potentially be significant especially as reductions in DAS continue in 
New England. This action is needed to address the afore mentioned 
situation, that is exploited by a small minority of people, before 
others begin to regard this as an advantage that should be utilized to 
stay competitive. The purpose of this action is to remove an unintended 
consequence of having a federal permit renewal system that effectively 
allows for a temporary relinquishment of a federal limited access 
permit. This action would reinforce commercial fishing vessel permit 
renewal procedures currently practiced by over 90 percent of all 
limited access permit holders. Furthermore, this action may facilitate 
the development of corresponding state permit regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU51
_______________________________________________________________________




591. [bull] EXTEND THE NORTH PACIFIC GROUNDFISH OBSERVER PROGRAM BEYOND 
2007

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773-773k; 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 3631

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is amending its 
regulations under the authority of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act, to extend the North Pacific Groundfish 
Observer Program (Observer Program) beyond 2007. Regulations governing 
the Observer Program currently are scheduled to expire on December 31, 
2007. This proposed rule would remove

[[Page 73081]]

the sunset date and ensure the continued, uninterrupted collection of 
observer information. This information is necessary for many current 
management and scientific programs for fisheries off the coast of 
Alaska.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU58
_______________________________________________________________________




592. [bull] FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT TO THE BYCATCH REDUCTION CRITERION FOR 
THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SHRIMP FISHERY OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) 
developed Amendment 9 to the Shrimp FMP, which established a 
requirement for the use of Bycatch Reduction Devices (BRDs) in the 
shrimp fishery of the western Gulf of Mexico. Amendment 9 also 
established criteria by which BRDs would be tested and certified for 
use in the shrimp fishery of the western Gulf of Mexico. Since that 
time, many changes have occurred in both the directed red snapper 
fishery and the shrimp fishery to affect the fishing mortality 
reduction requirements. Because of changes in the shrimp fishery, 
existing certified BRDs reduce fishing mortality by a lesser amount 
than originally documented, and no new BRDs have been developed for use 
in the shrimp fishery. NMFS is taking this action to modify the 
existing BRD certification criteria. The intent of this change is to 
better address reductions in bycatch of red snapper, and to better 
address National Standard 9 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AT86
RIN: 0648-AU59
_______________________________________________________________________




593. [bull] RECREATIONAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 SUMMER FLOUNDER, 
SCUP, AND BLACK SEABASS FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action implements recreational management measures for 
the summer flounder, scup, and black seabass fisheries for 2007.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 0648-AU60
_______________________________________________________________________




594. [bull] APPROVAL OF OPERATIONS PLAN FOR THE GEORGES BANK FIXED GEAR 
SECTOR FOR 2007-2008

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action requests comment on an Operations Plan for a 
Sector in the NE multispecies fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU61
_______________________________________________________________________




595. [bull] APPROVAL OF OPERATIONS PLAN FOR THE GEORGES BANK HOOK SECTOR 
FOR 2007-2008

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action requests comment on an Operations Plan for a 
Sector in the NE multispecies fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU62

[[Page 73082]]

_______________________________________________________________________




596. [bull] FISHERY SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 MONKFISH FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action implements management measures for the monkfish 
fishery for 2007, including trip limits and days-at-sea allocations. 
This is a routine annual adjustment as required by the Monkfish Fishery 
Management Plan and will affect holders of monkfish permits during the 
fishing year that extends from May 1, 2007, through April 30, 2008.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU65
_______________________________________________________________________




597. [bull] AMENDMENT 80 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR GROUNDFISH 
OF THE BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 80 would provide specific groundfish allocations to 
the non-AFA trawl cp sector and allow the formation of fishing 
cooperatives within the sector. Sector allocations and associated 
cooperatives would allow participants to focus less on harvest 
maximization and more on optimizing their harvest. This in turn could 
allow reduction of incidental catch, improve retention, and improve 
utilization, while still improving the economic health of the 
harvesting and processing, all of which address the problem statement 
for Amendment 80. Additional monitoring and enforcement provisions will 
ensure that the allocations are properly accounted. The costs of these 
monitoring provisions would be less than the benefits from improved 
economic efficiency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AT04
RIN: 0648-AU68
_______________________________________________________________________




598. [bull] AMENDMENT 15 TO THE PACIFIC COAST SALMON FISHERY MANAGEMENT 
PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 15 to the Pacific Coast Salmon Fishery Management 
Plan (FMP) would implement provisions that provide de minimis fishing 
opportunity during periods when the status of Klamath River fall 
Chinook is such that no fishing opportunities would be allowed under 
the current FMP without use of the emergency rule process, as was 
necessary for the 2006 salmon season. The conservation objective for 
Klamath River fall Chinook, which includes an annual natural spawning 
escapement floor of 35,000 adults, with respect to determining when 
stock status would trigger a Conservation Alert or an Overfishing 
Concern, will not change.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU69
_______________________________________________________________________




599. [bull] 2007-2008 MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR COMMERCIAL, RECREATIONAL, 
AND TREATY INDIAN SALMON FISHERIES OFF THE COASTS OF WASHINGTON, OREGON, 
AND CALIFORNIA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement annual management measures for 
the 2007-2008 fishing year. In particular, this action would specify 
allowable ocean harvest levels (including quotas) allocations, 
management boundaries and zones, minimum size limits, gear definitions, 
seasons, selective fisheries, and inseason notice procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU70
_______________________________________________________________________




600. [bull] REPORTING AND CONSERVATION MEASURES FOR SEA OTTER 
INTERACTIONS WITH THE PACIFIC SARDINE FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 73083]]

Abstract: This action would implement new reporting requirements and 
prohibitive measures under the Coastal Pelagic Species (CPS) Fishery 
Management Plan (FMP). The purpose of this action is to comply with the 
terms and conditions set forth in the incidental take statement section 
of a biological opinion issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 
(USFWS) regarding the implementation of Amendment 11 to the CPS FMP and 
its effects on the federally endangered southern sea otter. These 
reporting requirements and prohibitive measures would require Pacific 
sardine fishers/vessel operators to employ avoidance measures when sea 
otters are present in the fishing area and to report any interactions 
that may occur between their vessel and/or fishing gear and the otters.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU72
_______________________________________________________________________




601. [bull] AMEND VESSEL MARKING SECTION 660.704 OF THE U.S. WEST COAST 
HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Pacific Fisheries Management Council (Council) is 
considering alternatives for amending the vessel marking requirement 
embodied in Section 660.704 of the Highly Migratory Species Fishery 
Management Plan. Changes to letter height, color, and placement 
pertaining to the official vessel number will be amended. These changes 
are being considered to standardize the vessel marking requirements for 
recreational charter vessels operating in West Coast fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Craig Heberer, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 W. Ocean 
Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 760 431-9440
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AU73
_______________________________________________________________________




602. [bull] EFFORT LIMITATION FOR UNITED STATES COMMERCIAL FISHING 
VESSELS TARGETING NORTH PACIFIC ALBACORE TUNA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is considering 
regulations to fulfill the United States' obligation under IATTC 
Resolution to cap effort in the North Pacific albacore surface hook-
and-line fishery managed under the Highly Migratory Species Fishery 
Management Plan. The IATTC Resolution recommends that member nations 
and cooperating parties take this action to address potential 
overfishing concerns for North Pacific albacore.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Craig Heberer, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 W. Ocean 
Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 760 431-9440
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AU74
_______________________________________________________________________




603. [bull] AMEND REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO PROTECTED RESOURCE CLOSURES 
IN THE UNITED STATES WEST COAST SWORDFISH/THRESHER SHARK DRIFT GILLNET 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Pacific Fisheries Management Council (Council) is 
considering alternatives for amending the northern boundary of the 
protected resource closure area embodied in Section 660.713 of the 
Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan. This action is being 
taken to enhance enforcement capabilities and address protected species 
conservation efforts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Craig Heberer, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 W. Ocean 
Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 760 431-9440
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AU75
_______________________________________________________________________




604. [bull] VESSEL LIST TO ESTABLISH ELIGIBILITY TO FISH FOR ALBACORE 
TUNA IN CANADIAN WATERS UNDER THE U.S. CANADA ALBACORE TUNA TREATY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1821

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the National Marine Fisheries Service 
(NMFS) regulation on international fisheries to clarify: 1. a vessel 
list is effective only for one calendar year and will be recompiled 
beginning on

[[Page 73084]]

January 1 of each year, 2. a vessel owner seeking to be eligible to 
fish under the U.S. Canada Albacore Tuna Treaty must submit the 
required information to NMFS to be added to the vessel list for a 
specific year, and 3. how and where to obtain the current vessel.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU78
_______________________________________________________________________




605. [bull] RESTRICTIONS FOR 2007 PURSE SEINE AND LONGLINE FISHERIES IN 
THE EASTERN TROPICAL PACIFIC OCEAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 951-961; 16 USC 971

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service announces the 2007 
conservation and management measures for international tuna fisheries 
in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. The purse seine fishery will be 
closed for six-weeks and any national longline fishery which reaches a 
catch level for bigeye tuna equal to the 2001 catch levels will also be 
closed. The intended effect of this rule is to establish prohibition of 
U.S. vessels purse seine fishing for tuna in the Inter-American 
Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC) Convention Area from November 20 to 
December 31 period, and to announce the closure of the U.S. longline 
fishery. This will conform to the IATTC recommendation that was 
approved by the State Department.

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: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 W. Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AU79
_______________________________________________________________________




606. [bull] ATLANTIC HAGFISH COLLECTION OF INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will implement changes to the NE fishery 
regulations, at 50 CFR part 648, to require that any vessel owner/
operator who intends to fish for, catch, and/or land hagfish in or from 
the exclusive economic zone be required to take an observer on board 
their vessel when requested to do so, and requires dealers who purchase 
hagfish to obtain a permit and report on their hagfish purchases.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU80
_______________________________________________________________________




607. [bull] INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA PROCESSING RESTRICTION AMENDMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300; 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would modify the halibut and sablefish Individual 
Fishing Quota (IFQ) Program regulations to allow: (1) Processing of 
non-IFQ species on a vessel that is otherwise authorized to process 
non-IFQ species when any amount of IFQ halibut resulting from catcher 
vessel QS is held by fishermen on board a vessel in the BSAI and GOA; 
and (2) processing catcher/processor QS on board a vessel on which 
persons possess catcher vessel QS. catcher/processor QS is being 
fished.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU85
_______________________________________________________________________




608. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; SWORDFISH COMMERCIAL 
MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service proposes regulatory 
changes to the commercial management measures for the Atlantic 
swordfish fishery to support the fleet's ability to fully harvest the 
U.S. domestic quota. The proposed regulatory changes may

[[Page 73085]]

include adjustments to vessel upgrading restrictions and incidental 
trip limits consistent with other applicable requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AU86
_______________________________________________________________________




609. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; 2007 BLUEFIN TUNA QUOTA 
SPECIFICATIONS AND EFFORT CONTROLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) proposes 
specifications for the Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) fishery to set BFT 
quotas general category effort controls, and seasonal management 
measures for the 2007 fishing year (June 1, 2007--May 31, 2008). This 
action will implement the U.S. annual BFT quota as recommended by the 
International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas and 
allocate that quota among the domestic fishing categories. General 
category effort controls will allocate time-period subquotas and set 
certain restricted fishing days. The seasonal management measures would 
propose daily retention limits and their duration for both the General 
and Angling categories. The annual specification process is set forth 
in current regulations implemented under the Highly Migratory Species 
Fishery Management Plan. NMFS has also proposed to amend the Highly 
Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan to, in part, amend the 
fishing year and abbreviate the duration of the 2007 fishing year (June 
1, 2007--December 31, 2007) as a transition period. Overall impacts to 
BFT fisheries from an abbreviated 2007 fishing year are anticipated to 
be minimal since BFT fisheries are already strictly managed with 
seasons, size limits, and subquotas. This proposed action is not 
expected to change overall fishing effort.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AU87
_______________________________________________________________________




610. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; INTERNATIONAL TRADE 
PERMIT REGULATORY AMENDMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Species proposes regulatory 
changes to the highly migratory species (HMS) international trade 
program, which encompasses dealer permitting and reporting for 
international trade of swordfish, bluefin tuna, and bigeye tuna. The 
proposed regulatory changes will include adjustments to improve program 
efficacy and consistency with regulations of other U.S. agencies.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AU88
_______________________________________________________________________




611. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; ATLANTIC SHARK MANAGEMENT 
MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would reevaluate the management measures for large 
coastal sharks (LCS) and pelagic sharks based on the 2005/2006 LCS 
stock assessment, the 2006 dusky shark stock assessment, and the 
Canadian 2005 porbeagle shark stock assessment. This rulemaking could 
consider, among other things, changes to existing rebuilding plans for 
overfished species, commercial quotas and trip limits, recreational 
minimum size and bag limits, and the public display quota. In addition, 
this rule would likely reevaluate the Mid-Atlantic shark closure and 
its role in the rebuilding plan for LCS. This action is necessary in 
light of recent stock assessments, which have determined that dusky and 
sandbar sharks are overfished with overfishing occurring, the status is 
unknown for the Atlantic blacktip shark population, and porbeagle 
sharks are likely overfished. In addition, the 2005/2006 LCS stock 
assessment determined it is inappropriate to assess the LCS complex as 
a whole, which has been the basis of managing these species since 1993.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West

[[Page 73086]]

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

RIN: 0648-AU89
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           01/30/02                     67 FR 4379
ANPRM Comment Period End        04/01/02
NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AN43
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101 to 216.108

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

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

RIN: 0648-AQ71
_______________________________________________________________________




614. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO ASSESSING NAVAL SHIP SURVIVABILITY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) expects to 
receive a request from the U.S. Navy for an authorization under the 
Marine Mammal Protection Act to take marine mammals, by harassment, 
injury, and possible mortality, incidental to conducting a shock trial 
along the U.S. East Coast/Gulf of Mexico. Shock trials are required to 
test the survivability of naval ship assets in accordance with section 
2366, Title 10 United States Code. As a result of this request, NMFS 
will propose new regulations, that if implemented, would govern the 
incidental taking of marine mammals by the Navy for this activity. In 
order to promulgate regulations and issue an Letter of Authorization 
thereunder, NMFS must determine that the takings will have a negligible 
impact on the affected species and stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kenneth Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Room 13600, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2289
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AT77
_______________________________________________________________________




615. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO DEPLOYMENT OF A NAVAL AT-SEA GUNNERY SCORING SYSTEM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the U.S. Navy for an authorization under the Marine Mammal 
Protection Act to take marine mammals, by harassment, incidental to 
deployment of a Naval At-Sea Gunnery Scoring System for the purpose of 
proficiency certification of U.S. Atlantic Fleet ships for naval 
surface fire support both within and seaward of established military 
operating areas. As a result of this request, NMFS is proposing 
regulations, that if implemented, would govern the incidental taking of 
marine mammals by the Navy. In order to promulgate regulations and 
issue Letters of Authorization thereunder, NMFS must determine that 
these takings will have a negligible impact on the affected species and 
stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07

[[Page 73087]]

NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Southwest Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 W. Ocean Boulevard, No. 4200, Long 
Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 502 980-4015
Fax: 502 980-4027

RIN: 0648-AT78
_______________________________________________________________________




616. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO TESTING AND TRAINING OF THE NAVY'S SURVEILLANCE TOWED 
ARRAY SENSOR SYSTEM--LOW FREQUENCY ACTIVE SONAR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has to received 
a request from the U.S. Navy for an authorization under the Marine 
Mammal Protection Act to take marine mammals, by harassment, incidental 
to testing and training activities related to the Surveillance Towed 
Array Sensor System-Low Frequency Active Sonar. The Navy is currently 
issued Letters of Authorization (LOA) under rulemaking scheduled to end 
on August 15, 2007. As a result of this request, NMFS will propose new 
regulations that, if implemented, would govern the incidental taking of 
marine mammals by the Navy for this activity. In order to promulgate 
regulations and issue LOAs thereunder, NMFS must determine that these 
takings will have a negligible impact on the affected species and 
stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kenneth Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Room 13600, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2289
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AT80
_______________________________________________________________________




617. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO NAVAL TRAINING OPERATIONS AT THE EAST COAST SHALLOW WATER 
TRAINING RANGE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the U.S. Navy for an authorization under the Marine Mammal 
Protection Act to take marine mammals, by harassment, incidental to 
naval vessels conducting shallow water anti-submarine training 
exercises in a specified area along the U.S. East Coast. As a result of 
this request, NMFS is proposing regulations, that if implemented, would 
govern the incidental taking of marine mammals by harassment and non-
serious auditory impairment. In order to promulgate regulations and 
issue Letters of Authorization thereunder, NMFS must determine that 
these takings will have a negligible impact on the affected species and 
stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AT81
_______________________________________________________________________




618. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO U.S. AIR FORCE AIR-TO-SURFACE GUNNERY EXERCISES IN THE 
NORTHERN GULF OF MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the U.S. Air Force, Eglin Air Force Base (AFB), for an 
authorization under the Marine Mammal Protection Act to take marine 
mammals, by harassment, incidental to conducting air-to-surface gunnery 
testing and training exercises from an AC-130 gunship within the waters 
of the northern Gulf of Mexico adjacent to Eglin AFB. As a result of 
this request, NMFS will propose regulations, that if implemented, would 
govern the incidental taking of marine mammals by Eglin AFB for this 
activity. In order to promulgate regulations and issue a Letter of 
Authorization (LOA) thereunder, NMFS must determine that the takings 
will have a negligible impact on the affected species and stocks of 
marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Southwest Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 W. Ocean Boulevard, No. 4200, Long 
Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 502 980-4015
Fax: 502 980-4027

RIN: 0648-AT82

[[Page 73088]]

_______________________________________________________________________




619. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO NAVAL EXPLOSIVES ORDNANCE TESTING AND TRAINING EXERCISES 
IN THE NORTHERN GULF OF MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the U.S. Air Force, Eglin Air Force Base (AFB) for an 
authorization under the Marine Mammal Protection Act to take marine 
mammals, by harassment, incidental to conducting naval explosives 
ordnance disposal school exercises within the waters of the northern 
Gulf of Mexico adjacent to Eglin AFB. As a result of this request, NMFS 
will propose regulations, that if implemented, would govern the 
incidental taking of marine mammals by Eglin AFB for this activity. In 
order to promulgate regulations and issue a Letter of Authorization 
(LOA) thereunder, NMFS must determine that the takings will have a 
negligible impact on the affected species and stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/06
NPRM                            05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AT83
_______________________________________________________________________




620. SPINNER DOLPHINS IN THE MAIN HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is considering 
regulations to protect wild spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris) in 
the main Hawaiian Islands from human activities that have the potential 
to cause ``take,'' as defined in the Marine Mammal Protection Act and 
its implementing regulations, or to otherwise adversely affect the 
dolphins. The scope of this action encompasses the activities of any 
person or conveyance that may result in the unauthorized taking of 
spinner dolphins and/or that may diminish the value to the dolphins of 
habitat routinely used by them for resting and/or that may cause 
detrimental individual-level and population-level impacts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/12/05                    70 FR 73426
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/11/06
NPRM                            01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

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

RIN: 0648-AU02
_______________________________________________________________________




621. [bull] AUTHORIZE OBSERVER COVERAGE OF FISHERIES TO MONITOR SEA 
TURTLE INTERACTIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223.206

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) amends its 
regulations to establish a requirement for state and federal fisheries 
that operate in areas where sea turtles may be present and likely to 
interact with such fishing operations to take an observer on board when 
requested to do so by NMFS. All sea turtles that occur in U.S. waters 
are listed as either endangered or threatened under the Endangered 
Species Act. Therefore, measures are necessary both to monitor the 
level of takes occurring as well as to reduce takes to recover sea 
turtle species. This measure is necessary to adequately document sea 
turtle interactions with fishing operations, to evaluate existing 
measures to reduce sea turtle takes, and to determine whether 
additional measures to address sea turtle takes may be necessary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

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

RIN: 0648-AU81

[[Page 73089]]

_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE/OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________




622. GULF OF THE FARALLONES NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY MANAGEMENT PLAN 
REVIEW

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434; 16 USC 1439

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922.80 to 922.84

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the existing regulations and 
designation document, and add several new prohibitions to address 
specific resource management issues in the Gulf of the Farallones 
National Marine Sanctuary.

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: Maria Brown, Manager, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Gulf of the Farallones National 
Marine Sanctuary, Fort Mason, Building 201, San Francisco, CA 94123
Phone: 415 561-6622
Fax: 415 561-6616
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AT14
_______________________________________________________________________




623. MONTEREY BAY NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY MANAGEMENT PLAN REVIEW

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434; 16 USC 1439

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922.130 to 922.134

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the existing regulations and 
designation document, and add several new prohibitions to address 
specific resource management issues in the Monterey Bay National Marine 
Sanctuary.

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: William J. Douros, Superintendent, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Monterey Bay 
National Marine Sanctuary, 299 Foam Street, Monterey, CA 93940
Phone: 831 647-4201
Fax: 831 647-4250
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AT15
_______________________________________________________________________




624. [bull] BAG LIMITS FOR TUNA SPECIES TAKEN IN THE RECREATIONAL 
CHARTER FISHERY FOR THE UNITED STATES WEST COAST FISHERIES FOR HIGHLY 
MIGRATORY SPECIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement bag limits for tuna species taken 
by West Coast recreational fisheries. This regulation would institute a 
daily bag limit for albacore and bluefin tuna harvested in State and 
Federal waters off California, Oregon and Washington. The bag limited 
is needed to address resource conservation efforts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Craig Heberer, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 W. Ocean 
Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 760 431-9440
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AU77



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE ADMINISTRATOR


                    ________________________________



625. CORDELL BANK NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY MANAGEMENT PLAN REVIEW

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434; 16 USC 1439

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922.110 to 922.112

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the existing regulations and 
designation document to address specific resource management issues in 
the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary.

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: Dan Howard, Manager, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Cordell Bank National Marine 
Sanctuary, P. O. Box 159, Olema, CA 94950
Phone: 415 663-0314
Fax: 415 663-0315
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AT16

[[Page 73090]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



626. REQUIRE MANDATORY OBSERVER COVERAGE IN THE AT-SEA PROCESSING SECTOR 
OF THE WHITING FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, May 2006, Final regulations to be 
published within 30 days of end of NPRM comment period.

Abstract: This action amends the regulations implementing the Pacific 
Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan to provide for a mandatory, 
vessel-financed observer program on at-sea processing vessels.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/10/03                    68 FR 53334
NPRM Comment Period End         10/10/03
Interim Final Rule              06/07/04                    69 FR 31751
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/07/04
Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

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

RIN: 0648-AK26
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/10/06                    71 FR 45752
NPRM Comment Period End         10/10/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AP61
_______________________________________________________________________




628. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement a limited access program, 
implement management measures to management area 1A, and make other 
adjustments to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          09/06/06                    71 FR 52521
NPRM                            09/27/06                    71 FR 56446
Comment Period End              11/06/06
NPRM Comment Period End         11/13/06
Final Rule                      01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AQ87
_______________________________________________________________________




629. FISH AND SEAFOOD PROMOTION ACT PROVISIONS; SEAFOOD MARKETING 
COUNCILS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 4001 to 4017

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 270

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In 1989, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 
(NOAA) issued a final rule implementing the Fish and Seafood Promotion 
Act of 1986 (Act), as it pertains to seafood marketing councils for one 
or more species of fish or fish products. The rule was stricken from 
the Code of Federal Regulations as part of a Presidential regulatory 
reform effort along with a large number of other rules and regulations 
unused or little used. In light of evidence that seafood marketing 
councils may be a valuable tool in the near future, NOAA now plans to 
reissue this rule which governs the establishment and operations of 
such councils. This rule is intended to implement the Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/24/06                     71 FR 3797
NPRM Comment Period End         02/23/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 73091]]

Agency Contact: Gordon Helm, Deputy Director, Office of Constituent 
Affairs, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2379

RIN: 0648-AS09
_______________________________________________________________________




630. AMENDMENT 26 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH 
RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO TO ESTABLISH A RED SNAPPER INDIVIDUAL 
FISHING QUOTA PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of the IFQ program proposed in Amendment 26 is to 
reduce overcapacity in the commercial red snapper fishery and to 
eliminate, to the extent possible, the problems associated with derby 
fishing, in order to assist the Council in achieving optimum yield from 
the fishery. Additionally, an IFQ program could also help reduce 
discard mortality. The main action in this amendment (Action 1) would 
establish an IFQ program. The following actions (Actions 2-11) would 
determine the structure of the program. These actions are: IFQ program 
duration; ownership caps and restrictions on IFQ share certificates; 
eligibility for initial IFQ allocation; initial apportionment of IFQ 
shares; establishment and structure of an appeals process; transfer 
eligibility requirements; use it or lose it clause for IFQ shares or 
allocations; adjustments in commercial quota; use of a vessel 
monitoring system; and a cost recovery plan. Initial eligibility into 
the IFQ program would be restricted to United States citizens and 
permanent resident aliens who own a Class 1 or Class 2 red snapper 
license. Initial IFQ shares would be allotted proportionately among 
eligible participants based on the average annual landings associated 
with their current license(s).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          08/02/06
NPRM                            08/24/06                    71 FR 50012
NPRM Comment Period End         09/28/06
Comment Period End              10/02/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AS67
_______________________________________________________________________




631. AMENDMENT TO REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING THE ANTARCTIC MARINE LIVING 
RESOURCES CONVENTION ACT OF 1984

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 2431 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300 subpart G

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment to regulations for Antarctic Marine Living 
Resources (AMLR) implements measures agreed to by the parties to the 
Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources 
(CCAMLR). More specifically, it would require the use of the 
Centralized satellite-linked vessel monitoring system (VMS) by all U.S. 
vessels harvesting AMLR and would be a condition of export for all 
dealers seeking to import shipments of toothfish. It would also exempt 
all shipments of fresh toothfish from the National Marine Fisheries 
Service preapproval process and allow importers of frozen toothfish to 
submit the U.S. Customs 7501 entry number subsequent to their initial 
application for preapproval. The proposed rule would require the use of 
Electronic Catch Documents, after a 60-day transition period, for all 
U.S. dealers seeking to import shipments of toothfish into the United 
States. The proposed rule would also amend certain definitions 
including ``import'' and ``export.'' Use of a seal excluder device 
would be required on krill vessels using trawl gear in CCAMLR waters. 
Regulations governing scientific observers and vessel information would 
be modified.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/13/06                    71 FR 39642
NPRM Comment Period End         08/14/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AS75
_______________________________________________________________________




632. WEST COAST HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN, 
CORRECTING AMENDMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service publishes a correction 
to the final rule published in the Federal Register on April 7, 2004 
(69 FR 18444) to implement the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for U.S. 
West Coast Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species. The final rule 
should have contained the language defining a loggerhead conservation 
area in which drift gillnet fishing would be prohibited during a 
declared El Nino year, as published in the Federal Register on December 
16, 2003 (68 FR 69962). The intended effect of this action is to ensure 
that loggerhead sea turtles will receive the necessary protection from 
excessive takes in El Nino years.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of

[[Page 73092]]

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 W. Ocean 
Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AP42
RIN: 0648-AS89
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would require vessels fishing for sharks with 
bottom longline gear to have the National Marine Fisheries Service's 
approved dehooking devices and materials on board during fishing 
activities. These devices are intended to reduce post-hooking mortality 
of sea turtles that may interact with this fishing gear and are already 
required on vessels using pelagic longline gear fishing for Highly 
Migratory Species, including sharks. In addition, these measures may 
reduce the post-release mortality of marine mammals, sharks, and other 
fishes. This rule would also implement measures complementary to the 
closures that were required by the Caribbean Sustainable Fisheries Act 
Amendment and that were implemented to minimize adverse impacts to 
Essential Fish Habitat mutton snapper, red hind, and other reef-
dwelling species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/29/06                    71 FR 15680
NPRM Comment Period End         06/27/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AT37
_______________________________________________________________________




634. MAGNUSON-STEVENS FISHERY CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT ACT 
PROVISIONS; FISHERIES OF THE NORTHEASTERN U.S.; FISHERY CLOSURE DUE TO 
THE PRESENCE OF THE TOXIN THAT CAUSES PARALYTIC SHELLFISH POISONING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1855(c)

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is promulgating 
this rule to close portions of Federal waters of the Gulf of Maine, 
Georges Bank, and southern New England to the harvest of shellfish 
(bivalves), with the exception of sea scallop adductor muscles 
harvested and shucked at sea, due to the presence of the toxin that 
causes paralytic shellfish poisoning. The concentrations of the toxins 
in state and adjacent Federal waters is great enough to warrant a 
public health emergency. The closure will remain in effect until the 
circumstances that created the emergency no longer exist.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/16/05                    70 FR 35047
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/18/05
Final Rule                      09/09/05                    70 FR 53580
Correction                      10/03/05
Final Rule                      10/18/05                    70 FR 60450
Final Rule                      12/28/05                    70 FR 76713
Final Rule                      06/30/06                    71 FR 37505
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AT48
_______________________________________________________________________




635. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 FISHING YEAR FOR THE TILEFISH FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the 2007 
fishing year for the tilefish fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/06/06                    71 FR 52519
NPRM Comment Period End         09/21/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AT63
_______________________________________________________________________




636. 2006 SCALLOP RESEARCH SET-ASIDE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action is a solicitation for research projects to be 
conducted in accordance with requirements of Amendment 10 to the 
Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan, Framework 16 to the 
Atlantic Sea Scallop FMP and Framework 39 to the Northeast Multispecies 
FMP (Joint Framework); and with NOAA grant-review and award procedures. 
Amendment 10 established a procedure through which 2 percent of the 
overall Days-At-Sea (DAS) for use in open areas and 2 percent of the 
overall Total Available Catch (TAC) in Sea Scallop Access Areas for a 
given fishing year are set-aside by the New England Fishery Management 
Council as a mechanism to fund sea scallop research. Each year, NOAA 
Fisheries Service and the Councils issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) 
that identifies priorities for sea scallop research projects to be 
conducted under a RSA Program. The total value of the set-asides 
available for scallop-related research in fishing year 2006 is

[[Page 73093]]

approximately $4.46 million dollars (79 percent from the open area DAS 
set-aside, 6 percent from the Closed Area I Access Area and 15 percent 
from the Nantucket Lightship Access Area). NOAA Fisheries anticipates 
issuing Letters of Authorization to allow participating vessels to 
harvest scallops used as compensation to fund the research project, as 
well as Letters of Acknowledgment for research trips where appropriate.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

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

RIN: 0648-AT68
_______________________________________________________________________




637. AMENDMENT 68; CENTRAL GULF OF ALASKA ROCKFISH PILOT PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement a pilot program that would 
recognize the historic participation of fishing vessels (1996 to 2002, 
best 5 of 7 years) and historic participation of fish processors (1996 
to 2000, best 4 of 5 years) for Pacific ocean perch, northern rockfish, 
and pelagic shelf rockfish harvested in Central Gulf of Alaska. This 
pilot program would: (1) Provide for a set-aside of up to 5 percent for 
the total allowable catch of such fisheries for catcher vessels not 
eligible to participate in the pilot program, which shall be delivered 
to shore-based fish processors not eligible to participate in the pilot 
program; (2) establish catch limits for non-rockfish species and non-
target rockfish species currently harvested with Pacific ocean perch, 
northern rockfish, and pelagic shelf rockfish, which shall be based on 
historical harvesting of such bycatch species. The pilot program would 
sunset when a Gulf of Alaska groundfish comprehensive rationalization 
plan is authorized by the Council and implemented by the Secretary, or 
2 years from date of implementation, whichever is earlier.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          05/15/06                    71 FR 27984
NPRM                            06/07/06                    71 FR 33040
Comment Period End              07/14/06
NPRM Comment Period End         07/24/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AT71
_______________________________________________________________________




638. WESTERN PACIFIC BOTTOMFISH FMP: AMENDMENT 9 TO LIMIT LARGE VESSEL 
FISHING EFFORT AROUND GUAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is taking action to 
close Federal waters within 50 nautical miles around Guam to bottomfish 
fishing by vessels longer than 50 feet, and to require these vessels 
that land bottomfish management unit species in Guam to comply with 
Federal permitting and logbook reporting requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/14/06                    71 FR 46441
NPRM Comment Period End         09/22/06
Notice                          07/24/06                    71 FR 41770
Comment Period End              09/23/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AT94
_______________________________________________________________________




639. WESTERN PACIFIC OMNIBUS: BOTTOMFISH AMENDMENT 8, AMENDMENT 12 
CRUSTACEANS, AND AMENDMENT 6 PRECIOUS CORALS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council (WPFMC) is 
establishing new permitting and reporting requirements for the 
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and the Pacific 
Remote Island Areas (PRIAs). They do this by including domestic 
fisheries that offload or operate in Federal waters around the CNMI and 
PRIAs under the WPFMC's fishery management plans for crustaceans, 
precious corals, and bottomfish.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          06/07/06                    71 FR 32911
NPRM                            06/23/06                    71 FR 36049
Comment Period End              08/07/06
NPRM Comment Period End         08/07/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AL67, Merged with 0648-AR65, Merged with 
0648-AS31, Merged with 0648-AS63
RIN: 0648-AT95

[[Page 73094]]

_______________________________________________________________________




640. RESOURCE AGENCY PROCEDURES FOR CONDITIONS AND PRESCRIPTIONS IN 
HYDROPOWER LICENSES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 797(e)

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 221

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Pursuant to the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct), the 
Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, and Interior are establishing 
joint procedures for a new category of expedited trial-type hearings. 
The hearings will resolve disputed issues of material fact with respect 
to conditions or prescriptions that one or more of the Departments 
develop for inclusion in a hydropower license issued by the Federal 
Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) under the Federal Power Act. The 
three Departments are also establishing procedures for the 
consideration of alternative conditions and prescriptions submitted by 
any party to a license proceeding, as provide in the EPAct.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/17/05                    70 FR 69803
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Melanie Harris, Marine Habitat Resource Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, Office of Habitat Conservation, 1315 East-West 
Hgwy., Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-4300
Fax: 301-713-4305
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AC42, Related to 0648-AS55
RIN: 0648-AU01
_______________________________________________________________________




641. FISHERIES OF THE CARIBBEAN, GULF OF MEXICO, AND SOUTH ATLANTIC; 
GULF OF MEXICO RECREATIONAL GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Secretarial Amendment 1 to the Reef Fish Fishery Management 
Plan was implemented by NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) 
on July 15, 2004, and established a rebuilding plan, a 5.31 MP GW 
commercial quota, and a 1.25 MP GW recreational target catch level for 
red grouper. NMFS implemented interim regulations to reduce 
recreational grouper landings in August 2005. These regulations were 
extended in January 2006 for an additional 180 days. NMFS implements 
this action to establish more permanent management measures for the 
recreational grouper fishery. These management measures are needed to 
return recreational red grouper landings to levels specified in the 
rebuilding plan and prevent or minimize impacts on gag and other 
grouper resulting from more restrictive recreational red grouper 
regulations. This rule would reduce the bag limit for red grouper and 
prohibit captain and crew from retaining bag limits of grouper while 
under charger, implement size limits and vessel limits. This rule would 
also establish a 1-month spawning season closure for red, gag, and 
black grouper.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/31/06                    71 FR 16275
NPRM Comment Period End         05/01/06
Final Action                    06/15/06                    71 FR 34534
Final Rule                      02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

Related RIN: Split from 0648-AT12
RIN: 0648-AU04
_______________________________________________________________________




642. FISHERIES OF THE NORTHEASTERN UNITED STATES; RECORDKEEPING AND 
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS; REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO MODIFY SEAFOOD DEALER 
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS; CORRECTION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 18 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) published a 
document in the Federal Register on April 28, 2005, revising 
regulations for seafood dealer reporting requirements. That rule also 
contained a measure authorizing vessel operator permits issued by the 
NMFS Southeast (SE) Region under regulations governing the Fisheries of 
the Caribbean, Gulf, and South Atlantic to satisfy NMFS Northeast (NE) 
Region vessel operator permitting requirements. However, when amending 
the operator permit section of the regulations to reflect the 
reciprocal arrangement, NMFS inadvertently removed the summer flounder 
fishery from the list of fisheries requiring a NE operator permit. This 
document corrects the April 28, 2005, regulations by adding the summer 
flounder fishery to the list of fisheries requiring a NE operator 
permit.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AS87
RIN: 0648-AU05
_______________________________________________________________________




643. AMENDMENT 18 (BYCATCH MINIMIZATION) TO THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

[[Page 73095]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 18 modifies the Pacific Coast groundfish FMP to 
implement a bycatch minimization program. Over the past several years, 
the Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) has used a broad suite 
of informal bycatch minimization policies that have been formally 
organized and brought into the FMP through Amendment 18. This FMP 
amendment also sets the Council's future plans for bycatch minimization 
programs into the FMP to provide comprehensive direction for its 
current and future bycatch minimization efforts in Pacific Coast 
groundfish fishery management. Amendment 18 is intended to respond to 
court orders in Pacific Marine Conservation Council v. Evans, 200 
F.Supp.2d 1194 (N.D. Calif. 2002) to establish a bycatch minimization 
program in the FMP. NMFS has previously complied with the court's 
orders from this same case under Amendment 16-1 to the FMP, in which it 
established a standardized bycatch reporting methodology as a required 
element of the FMP. Regulations to implement Amendment 18 would: 
Establish that species co-occurrence ratios will be used in setting 
trip limits and other management measures; revise routine management 
measures authority to allow the use of area closures to protect all 
species, not just overfished species, and; revise observer regulations 
to clarify NMFS' authority to place observers on board vessels that 
participate in non-target fisheries that take groundfish incidentally 
to their target fishing operations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          06/09/06                    71 FR 33432
NPRM                            06/27/06                    71 FR 36506
Comment Period End              08/08/06
NPRM Comment Period End         08/08/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU12
_______________________________________________________________________




644. ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE OPTIMUM YIELD AND HARVEST QUOTAS FOR PACIFIC 
MACKEREL

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, July 1, 2006, The CPS fisheries 
regulations require that the annual specifications for Pacific mackerel 
be published before July 1, the start of the fishing year.

Abstract: This rule announces the annual harvest guideline for Pacific 
mackerel in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) off the Pacific coast. 
The Coastal Pelagic Species Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and its 
implementing regulations require NMFS to set an annual harvest 
guideline for Pacific mackerel based on a formula in the FMP. The 
intended effect of this action is to establish allowable harvest levels 
for Pacific mackerel off the Pacific coast and to minimize the impact 
on other coastal pelagic fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/20/06                    71 FR 61944
NPRM Comment Period End         11/20/06
Final Rule                      12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU27
_______________________________________________________________________




645. [bull] MODIFICATION TO THE ``OTHER SPECIES'' COMPLEX 2006 AND 2007 
TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCH (TAC) AMOUNTS IN THE GULF OF ALASKA (GOA)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service revises the final 2006 
and 2007 harvest specifications for the ``other species'' complex in 
the Gulf of Alaska (GOA) by reducing the total allowable catch (TAC) 
for the complex to 4,500 metric tons (mt) annually. The intended effect 
of this action is to conserve and manage the groundfish resources in 
the GOA in accordance with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation 
and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/11/06                    71 FR 39046
NPRM Comment Period End         08/10/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AT92
RIN: 0648-AU52
_______________________________________________________________________




646. [bull] CORRECT AND CLARIFY 2005 ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID AND 
BUTTERFISH FISHERY SPECIFICATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) amends its 
regulations to restore certain measures that were taken out of effect 
on January 1, 2006. A final rule implementing the specifications for 
the 2005 fishing year

[[Page 73096]]

for Atlantic mackerel, squid, and butterfish (MSB) clarified the 
expiration date of the limited entry program for Illex squid, 
established a minimum mesh requirement for the butterfish fishery, and 
removed a regulatory requirement for annual specifications to be 
published by a specific date. Those regulatory measures were intended 
to be permanent, unlike the specifications themselves, which expired 
January 1, 2006. Due to an error in the final rule, these three 
measures expired on January 1, 2006. This action would restore those 
regulatory requirements. This action is being taken by NMFS under the 
authority of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management 
Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/02/06                    71 FR 43707
NPRM Comment Period End         08/17/06
Final Action                    10/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AR56
RIN: 0648-AU54
_______________________________________________________________________




647. [bull] AMENDMENT TO NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN; 
GEORGES BANK FIXED GEAR SECTOR OPERATIONS PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 13 to the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) established 
a process for the formation of sectors (modification of the FMP), and 
established a process for annual approval of proposed sector operations 
(Regional Administrator approval of Operations Plan). Framework 
Adjustment (FW) 42 to the FMP, if approved, would create the Georges 
Bank (GB) Cod Fixed Gear Sector (Fixed Gear Sector), the second 
approved sector of the FMP. Creation of the Fixed Gear Sector would 
authorize the Regional Administrator to allocate a hard Total Allowable 
Catch (TAC) to the Fixed Gear Sector and exempt members from FMP 
restrictions on an annual basis. In order for the Sector to be 
allocated GB cod, the Sector must submit an Operations Plan to the 
Regional Administrator for approval annually. The Operations Plan and 
Sector Contract must contain certain elements, including a contract 
signed by all Sector participants and a plan containing the management 
rules that the Sector participants agree to abide by, in order to avoid 
exceeding the allocated TAC. This action announces and requests comment 
on the Operations Plan and allocation of a GB cod to the Fixed Gear 
Sector for fishing year 2006.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/22/06                    71 FR 48903
NPRM Comment Period End         09/21/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU56
_______________________________________________________________________




648. [bull] AMENDMENT 16-4 (OVERFISHED SPECIES REBUILDING) TO THE 
PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN AND THE 2007-2008 
GROUNDFISH HARVEST SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, August 24, 2006, Notice of 
Availability.
NPRM, Statutory, September 22, 2006.
Final, Statutory, December 31, 2006.

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service amends its regulations 
to implement Amendment 16-4 to the Pacific Coast groundfish FMP. This 
action implements new rebuilding goals for seven overfished species 
managed under the FMP. Amendment 16-4 responds to a recent ruling in 
the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals to develop overfished species 
rebuilding plans that rebuild the stocks within a time period that is 
``as short as possible, taking into account the status and biology of 
any overfished stocks, the needs of fishing communities. . .and the 
interactions of the overfished stock of fish within the marine 
ecosystem.`` Commercial management measures include landings limits, 
size limits, gear restrictions, and time/area closures. Recreational 
management measures include bag limits, size limits, gear restrictions, 
and time/area closures. The specifications and management measures that 
would be implemented by this action would be in effect from January 1, 
2007, through December 31, 2008.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          09/01/06                    71 FR 52051
Comment Period End              10/31/06
NPRM                            09/29/06                    71 FR 57764
NPRM Comment Period End         10/31/06
Final Rule                      12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU57
_______________________________________________________________________




649. [bull] ESTABLISHMENT OF QUOTAS FOR THE 2006-2007 COD, HADDOCK, AND 
YELLOWTAIL FLOUNDER FISHERY

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action implements fishing quotas (TACs) for cod, 
haddock, and yellowtail flounder on Georges Bank for 2007.

[[Page 73097]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU63
_______________________________________________________________________




650. [bull] SOLICITATION OF PROPOSALS FOR RESEARCH SET-ASIDE QUOTA FOR 
MID-ATLANTIC FISHERIES FOR 2008

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action implements management measures for the monkfish 
fishery for 2007.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU64
_______________________________________________________________________




651. [bull] SOLICITATION OF PROPOSALS FOR RESEARCH SET-ASIDE QUOTA FOR 
MONKFISH FOR 2008

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action solicits proposals for research set-aside quota 
in the monkfish fishery for 2008, as authorized by the Monkfish Fishery 
Management Plan. This is a competitive process by which researchers may 
apply for and be granted days-at-sea in the monkfish fishery to fund 
research on monkfish.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU66
_______________________________________________________________________




652. [bull] SOLICITATION OF PROPOSALS FOR RESEARCH SET-ASIDE QUOTA FOR 
ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FOR 2008

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action solicits proposals for research set-aside quota 
in the Atlantic sea scallop fishery for 2008, as authorized by the 
Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan. This is a competitive 
process by which researchers may apply for and be granted days-at-sea 
and/or access area trips in the scallop fishery to fund research on 
Atlantic sea scallops.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU67
_______________________________________________________________________




653. [bull] REGULATIONS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF BIOLOGICAL REFERENCE 
POINTS FOR THE UNITED STATES WEST COAST FISHERIES FOR HIGHLY MIGRATORY 
SPECIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would incorporate biological reference points 
into the Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Fishery Management Plan. The 
biological reference points are required under the Magnuson-Stevens 
Fishery Conservation and Management Act and will allow NMFS to address 
potential overfishing concerns in the HMS fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Craig Heberer, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 W. Ocean 
Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 760 431-9440
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AU76
_______________________________________________________________________




654. [bull] AMENDMENT TO NET MESH SIZE MEASUREMENT REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will revise the methodology for measuring fishing 
net mesh size in the Northeast Region. Fishing net mesh size is 
measured by inserting a wedge-shaped gauge into the mesh opening with a 
force of a specified weight. This regulatory change will increase the 
weight used to measure mesh size from 5 kg to 8 kg for mesh 5 inches 
and larger, to be consistent with international practices. This is a 
minor change that will likely result in fewer fishermen being cited for 
net size violations as a result of their nets shrinking as they are 
used.

[[Page 73098]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/26/06                    71 FR 56098
NPRM Comment Period End         10/26/06
Final Rule                      12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU83
_______________________________________________________________________




655. [bull] ATLANTIC SHARK SEASONS AND QUOTAS FOR FIRST TRIMESTER 2007

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would adjust regional quotas and announce season 
lengths for large and small coastal sharks, and pelagic sharks managed 
under the Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Tunas, Swordfish, and 
Sharks. This rule would also consider additional measures to address a 
large overharvest of large coastal sharks that occurred in the South 
Atlantic region in the first trimester of 2006. This rule is necessary 
to ensure that quotas are based upon the most recent landings 
information and account for any over- or underharvests from the 2006 
first trimester season.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/05/06                    71 FR 58778
NPRM Comment Period End         11/01/06
Final Rule                      02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AU84
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1372 (c)

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/03/01                    66 FR 35209
NPRM Comment Period Extended    08/22/01                    66 FR 44109
NPRM Comment Period End         09/04/01
Comment Period Extended         11/02/01
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AH26
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1371

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/04/00                    65 FR 59164
NPRM Comment Period End         11/27/00
Final Rule                      04/06/04                    69 FR 17973
Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Tribal

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AO16
_______________________________________________________________________




658. TAKING MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO NAVY OPERATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1371 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is amending its 
regulations governing the taking of marine mammals incidental to 
operations of the U.S. Navy's SURTASS LFA sonar to implement provisions 
of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2004 (NDAA). The President 
signed into law the NDAA (P.L. 108-136) on November 24, 2003. Included 
in this law were amendments to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) 
that apply where a ``military readiness activity'' is concerned. NMFS 
and the Navy have determined that the Navy's SURTASS LFA sonar testing 
and training operations that are the subject of NMFS' July 16, 2002 (67 
FR 46712) final rule constitute a military readiness activity because 
those activities constitute ``training and operations of the Armed 
Forces that relate to

[[Page 73099]]

combat'' and constitute ``adequate and realistic testing of military 
equipment, vehicles, weapons and sensors for proper operation and 
suitability for combat use.''

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/29/04                    69 FR 38873
NPRM Comment Period End         07/29/04
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

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

RIN: 0648-AR99
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 224

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement modifications of the Atlantic 
Large Whale Take Reduction Plan (ALWTRP). The ALWTRP was developed 
pursuant to section 118 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The 
commercial fishery requirements provided in this rule are intended to 
implement the additional requirements recommended by the Atlantic Large 
Whale Take Reduction Team and NMFS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/21/05                    70 FR 35894
Comment Period Extended         07/13/05                    70 FR 40301
NPRM Comment Period End         07/21/05
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

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

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

RIN: 0648-AS01
_______________________________________________________________________




660. RIGHT WHALE SHIP STRIKE REDUCTION

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 23 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0648-AS36
_______________________________________________________________________




661. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO U.S. AIR FORCE PRECISION STRIKE WEAPONS EXERCISES IN THE 
NORTHERN GULF OF MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the U.S. Air Force, Eglin Air Force Base for an 
authorization under the Marine Mammal Protection Act to take marine 
mammals, by harassment, incidental to conducting precision strike 
weapons testing and training exercises within the waters of the 
northern Gulf of Mexico adjacent to Eglin AFB. As a result of this 
request, NMFS proposes regulations, that if implemented, would govern 
the incidental taking of marine mammals by Eglin AFB for this activity. 
In order to promulgate regulations and issue an LOA thereunder, NMFS 
must determine that the takings will have a negligible impact on the 
affected species and stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/03/06                    71 FR 44001
NPRM Comment Period End         09/05/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Southwest Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 W. Ocean Boulevard, No. 4200, Long 
Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 502 980-4015
Fax: 502 980-4027

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AK76
RIN: 0648-AT39
_______________________________________________________________________




662. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO THE EXPLOSIVE REMOVAL OF OFFSHORE STRUCTURES IN THE GULF 
OF MEXICO

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the Minerals Management Service (MMS), U.S. Department of 
the Interior, on behalf of offshore operators, for authorization to 
harass marine mammals incidental to explosive severance activities at 
offshore oil and gas structures in the Gulf of Mexico outer continental 
shelf. In compliance with Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act regulations 
and MMS guidelines, operators are required to remove sea-floor 
obstructions from their leases within one year of lease termination or 
after a structure has been deemed obsolete or unusable. As a result of 
this request, NMFS is proposing regulations, that if implemented, would 
govern the incidental taking of marine mammals under individual Letters 
of Authorization (LOAs) issued to participants in this industry to take 
marine mammals by harassment and non-serious auditory impairment. In 
order to promulgate regulations and issue LOAs thereunder, NMFS must 
determine that these takings will have a negligible impact on the 
affected species and stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/07/06                    71 FR 17790
NPRM Comment Period End         05/22/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

[[Page 73100]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kenneth Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Room 13600, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2289
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AT79
_______________________________________________________________________




663. LIST OF FISHERIES FOR 2006

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The List of Fisheries (LOF) for 2006 reflects new information 
on interactions between commercial fisheries and marine mammals. NMFS 
must categorize each commercial fishery on the LOF into one of three 
categories under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) based upon the 
levels of mortality and serious injury of marine mammals that occurs 
within each fishery. The categorization of a fishery in the LOF 
determines whether participants in that fishery are subject to certain 
provisions of the MMPA, such as registration, observer coverage, and 
take reduction plan requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/24/06                    71 FR 20941
NPRM Comment Period End         05/24/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Kristy Long, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East 
West Highway, Rm 13738, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301-427-2522
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AU19
_______________________________________________________________________




664. DESIGNATION OF CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE SOUTHERN RESIDENT KILLER 
WHALE (ORCINUS ORCA)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1533

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, July 18, 2006, Early enough to allow 
for a 60-day comment period and revisions.
Final, Statutory, November 18, 2006, Statutory under ESA.

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is proposing to 
designate critical habitat for the endangered Southern Resident killer 
whale (Orcinus orca), as required under the Endangered Species Act. 
Three specific areas proposed for designation comprise about 2,567 
square miles of marine habitat in Puget Sound, Strait of Juan de Fuca, 
and San Juan Islands areas. We are soliciting public comment on this 
proposal. The final determination is due November 18, 2006.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/15/06                    71 FR 34571
NPRM Comment Period End         08/14/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

Energy Effects:  Statement of Energy Effects planned as required by 
Executive Order 13211.

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Office of Protected Resources, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Fax: 301-427-2523
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AU38
_______________________________________________________________________




665. [bull] 12-MONTH FINDING ON PETITION TO LIST PUGET SOUND STEELHEAD 
AS AN ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES UNDER THE ESA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531-1543

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, September 13, 2006.

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service has determined that 
naturally spawned winter- and summer-run steelhead populations and two 
hatchery steelhead stocks, below natural and manmade impassable 
barriers, in the river basins of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Puget 
Sound, and Hood Canal (Washington) constitute a Distinct Population 
Segment (DPS) and hence a ``species'' for listing consideration under 
the Endangered Species Act (ESA). After reviewing the best available 
scientific and commercial information, evaluating threats facing the 
species, and taking into account those efforts being made to protect 
the species, we conclude that the Puget Sound steelhead DPS is likely 
to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future 
throughout all or a significant portion of its range. This action would 
list the Puget Sound steelhead DPS as a threatened species under the 
ESA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/29/06                    71 FR 15666
NPRM Comment Period End         06/27/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Office of Protected Resources, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Fax: 301-427-2523
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AU43

[[Page 73101]]




_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE/OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



666. GRAY'S REEF NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434; 16 USC 1439

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922.90 to 922.92

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/31/03                    68 FR 62033
NPRM Comment Period End         12/31/03
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AQ41
_______________________________________________________________________




667. CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR NOAA ELECTRONIC NAVIGATIONAL CHART 
DISTRIBUTION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 33 USC 892(a) to 892(b); HSIA 2002, sec 303; HSIA 
2002, sec 304

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 995

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, December 19, 2004, By not later than 2 
years after the date of enactment of the HSIA Amendments of 2002.
Mandate to certify hydrographic products that satisfy the standards 
promulgated by the Administrator no later than 2 years after the date 
of enactment of the Hydrographic Services Improvement Act Amendments of 
2002.

Abstract: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 
amends its regulations to add certification requirements with standards 
for applicants who want to distribute NOAA Electronic Navigational 
Charts (NOAA ENCs) as official data. NOAA intends to offer two types of 
certification. The first type, ``Certified NOAA ENC Distributor,'' is 
for NOAA ENCs downloading, exact copying, and redistribution of those 
copies of NOAA ENCs data. The second type, ``Certified NOAA ENC Value 
Added Distributor,'' permits reformatting official NOAA ENCs into a 
System Electronic Navigational Chart (SENC) using type-approved 
software, and distribution of that SENC. Both types of certification 
result in products that meet Federal chart carriage regulations. Both 
types of certification permit, but do not require, compression, 
encryption, and packaging with other data. NOAA intends by this action 
to assure that quality official NOAA ENC data is offered to the public 
in support of safe navigation on U.S. waters.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/15/04                    69 FR 61165
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For More Information:
nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/mcd/enc/indes.htm

URL For Public Comments:
nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/mcd/enc/indes.htm

Agency Contact: Michael Brown, Electronic Chart Products Manager, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, N/CS, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2645
Fax: 301 713-4501
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AR87
_______________________________________________________________________




668. CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY MANAGEMENT PLAN REVIEW

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434; 16 USC 1439

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922.70 to 922.72

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the existing regulations and 
designation document to address specific resource management issues in 
the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/19/06                    71 FR 29096
NPRM Comment Period End         07/21/06
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Christopher Mobley, Superintendent, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Channel 
Islands National Marine Sanctuary, 113 Harbor Way, Suite 150, Santa 
Barbara, CA 93109
Phone: 805 966-7107
Fax: 805 568-1582
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AT17
_______________________________________________________________________




669. CONSIDERATION OF MARINE RESERVES AND MARINE CONSERVATION AREAS 
WITHIN THE CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434; 16 USC 1439

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922.70 to 922.72

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the existing regulations and 
designation document for the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. 
This action, which would complement existing marine protected areas 
designated by the State of California, seeks to further protect 
sanctuary resources by regulating certain extractive activities within 
the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary.

[[Page 73102]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/11/06                    71 FR 46134
NPRM Comment Period End         10/10/06
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Christopher Mobley, Superintendent, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Channel 
Islands National Marine Sanctuary, 113 Harbor Way, Suite 150, Santa 
Barbara, CA 93109
Phone: 805 966-7107
Fax: 805 568-1582
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AT18
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



670. GENERIC AMENDMENT TO PROVIDE FOR REGULATIONS OF OFFSHORE 
AQUACULTURE OF SELECTED FISH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AS65



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE/OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



671. PROCEDURAL CHANGES TO THE FEDERAL CONSISTENCY PROCESS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 930

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/02/02                    67 FR 44407
ANPRM Comment Period End        09/03/02


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: David W. Kaiser
Phone: 301 713-3155
Fax: 301 713-4367
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AP98



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE/OFFICE OF MINERAL ENERGY


                    ________________________________



672. COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT FEDERAL CONSISTENCY REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 930

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/11/03                    68 FR 34851
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David W. Kaiser
Phone: 301 713-3155
Fax: 301 713-4367
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AR16



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE ADMINISTRATOR


                    ________________________________



673. REGIONAL MARINE RESEARCH PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Don Scavia
Phone: 301 713-3060

RIN: 0648-AF20

[[Page 73103]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, February 2006, Final regulations to 
be published within 30 days of end of NPRM comment period.

Abstract: Amendment 18A would address several administrative, 
enforcement, and monitoring issues in the Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish 
Fishery including: (1) The use of VMS, (2) the use of reef fish as 
bait, (3) the simultaneous possession of commercial and charter vessel 
permits on a vessel, and (4) maximum crew size on a charter vessel when 
fishing commercially. Additionally, the amendment would address release 
gear and protocols for releasing sea turtles and update the framework 
procedure for setting total allowable catch.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          04/26/06                    71 FR 24635
NPRM                            05/18/06                    71 FR 28842
Comment Period End              06/26/06
NPRM Comment Period End         07/03/06
Final Action                    08/09/06                    71 FR 45428
Correction                      08/21/06                    71 FR 48483

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AN09
_______________________________________________________________________




675. AMENDMENT 71A TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE GROUNDFISH 
FISHERY OF THE BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS AREA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/11/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AP67
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0648-AT91           06/28/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AQ07
_______________________________________________________________________




677. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); RECREATIONAL ATLANTIC BLUE 
AND WHITE MARLIN LANDINGS LIMIT; AMENDMENTS TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT 
PLAN FOR ATLANTIC TUNAS, SWORDFISH, AND SHARKS AND THE FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would withdraw the proposed rule published on 
September 17, 2003 (68 FR 54410), and proposes new management measures 
to implement domestic management measures based upon recommendations of 
the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas 
(ICCAT) regarding recreational landings of Atlantic blue and white 
marlin to 250 fish. This rule also addresses numerous issues for the 
Atlantic tunas, swordfish, shark, and billfish fisheries. These issues 
include reviewing data for updates as part of a 5-year review of 
essential fish habitat; considering workshops to reduce bycatch and 
bycatch mortality, increase regulatory compliance, and increase 
communication with fishermen; reviewing current time/area closures and 
the need for modifications; addressing overfishing of finetooth sharks, 
northern albacore tuna, and Atlantic billfish; adjusting bluefin tuna 
effort controls and quota allocations to improve management; 
considering changes to the fishing year definition and currently 
authorized gear types; and correcting incorrect or outdated sections of 
the regulations. This rule

[[Page 73104]]

also combines the two fishery management plans into one document.
This action would affect fishermen fishing for highly migratory species 
in the Atlantic Ocean, including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea. 
Many of the actions in this rule will simplify or improve the 
management of the fisheries to help fishermen understand the 
regulations and the management process. Other actions in this rule 
could change quota allocations, but would not likely change overall 
quotas. Additionally, while the actions may establish new requirements, 
such as workshops, or modify existing requirements, such as the time/
area closures, the actions are not expected to reduce the number of 
people fishing for highly migratory species. Some actions, for example, 
modifications to time/area closures, could have negative or positive 
economic impacts, depending on the extent of the changes needed.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/17/03                    68 FR 54410
NPRM Comment Period End         10/24/03
NPRM                            08/19/05                    70 FR 48804
Hearing                         09/07/05                    70 FR 53146
Correction                      09/23/05                    70 FR 55618
Correction                      10/05/05                    70 FR 58177
NPRM Comment Period End         10/18/05
Hearing                         12/27/05                    70 FR 76441
Comment Period End              03/01/06
Final Action                    10/02/06                    71 FR 58058

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AQ65
_______________________________________________________________________




678. REGULATORY RULEMAKING TO REVISE ACCOUNTING FOR EXTERNALLY TAGGED 
HALIBUT AND SABLEFISH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/29/06                    71 FR 15687
NPRM Comment Period End         04/28/06
Final Action                    06/27/06                    71 FR 36489

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AR09
_______________________________________________________________________




679. CATCHER VESSEL ELECTRONIC REPORT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS revises it regulations to allow the operator of a 
catcher vessel the option of using an NMFS-approved electronic version 
of the logbook in place of the paper logbook. Currently, paper daily 
fishing logbooks are required from catcher vessels greater than 60 feet 
in length overall. Requirements for completion and submittal of the 
logbooks exist in the regulations at 50 CFR part 679. Recent advances 
in technology have allowed catcher vessels to use an electronic version 
of the logbook to record the required information. The current 
regulations would be changed to reflect the different options available 
to catcher vessels when submitting data. The use of the electronic 
logbooks would not be required by NMFS at this time.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0648-AT91           06/28/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AR30
_______________________________________________________________________




680. ATLANTIC STRIPED BASS FISHERIES IN THE EEZ; MODIFICATION OF FEDERAL 
REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1851

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 697

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announces that 
it is considering, and seeking public comment on, revisions to Federal 
Atlantic striped bass regulations for the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone 
(EEZ) in response to recommendations from the Atlantic States Marine 
Fisheries Commission (Commission) to the Secretary of Commerce 
(Secretary). The Commission recommended that the Secretary remove the 
moratorium on the harvest of Atlantic striped bass in the EEZ after a 
13-year closure; implement a 28-inch minimum size limit for the 
recreational and commercial Atlantic striped bass fisheries in the EEZ; 
and allow States the ability to adopt more restrictive rules for 
fishermen and vessels licensed in their jurisdiction. NMFS is 
soliciting comments with this notice regarding possible management 
measures and issues that NMFS should consider relative to these 
recommendations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/21/03                    68 FR 43074
ANPRM Comment Period End        08/20/03
Comment Period Extended         08/26/03                    68 FR 51232
Notice of Intent                10/20/03                    68 FR 59906
Withdrawn                       09/08/06

[[Page 73105]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

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

RIN: 0648-AR33
_______________________________________________________________________




681. AMENDMENT 13 TO FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SHRIMP FISHERY OF 
THE GULF OF MEXICO, U.S. WATERS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council is developing 
Amendment 13 to establish a permitting system for the royal red shrimp 
fishery that is complementary to the existing permit system for the 
penaeid shrimp fishery. In accordance with requirements of the 
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the Amendment 
also will establish or revise stock status thresholds and targets 
including MSY, OY, as well as the ``overfished'' and ``overfishing'' 
definitions for the shrimp species in the management unit, and a 
bycatch reporting methodology.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          11/23/05                    70 FR 70780
Comment Period End              01/23/06
NPRM                            04/05/06                    71 FR 17062
NPRM Comment Period End         05/22/06
Final Action                    09/26/06                    71 FR 56039

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AS15
_______________________________________________________________________




682. FEE SYSTEM FOR REPAYMENT OF THE LOAN TO HARVESTORS OF BERING SEA/
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRABS

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement a fee system for repayment of the 
fishing capacity reduction loans in the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands 
king and tanner crab fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/28/05                    70 FR 43673
NPRM Comment Period End         08/29/05
Final Rule                      09/16/05                    70 FR 54656
Second NPRM                     03/01/06                    71 FR 10451
Second NPRM Comment Period End  03/31/06
Final Action                    05/10/06                    71 FR 27209

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AS46
_______________________________________________________________________




683. AMENDMENTS 18 AND 19 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA/
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRABS--CRAB RATIONALIZATION PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679; 50 CFR 680

Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, January 1, 2005, Secretary approval 
of statutorily mandated FMP Amendment.

Abstract: NMFS proposes to amend its regulations to include a new 
subsection that would apply sideboard restrictions to the state waters 
parallel fishery. If adopted, any vessel owner or LLP holder subject to 
the sideboard restrictions who holds a Federal Fisheries Permit and/or 
LLP license would be subject to the sideboard regulations while 
participating in any groundfish fishery in state waters adjacent to the 
Gulf of Alaska.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          09/01/04                    69 FR 53359
NPRM                            10/29/04                    69 FR 63200
NPRM Comment Period End         12/13/04
Final Action                    03/02/05                    70 FR 10174
Correction                      03/18/05                    70 FR 13097
Correction                      06/08/05                    70 FR 33390
Correction                      12/20/05                    70 FR 75419

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AS47
_______________________________________________________________________




684. REVISE PRECIOUS CORAL MEASURES TO INCREASE THE PROTECTION OF BLACK 
CORAL RESOURCES IN HAWAII

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, February 2005.
Final, Statutory, May 2005.
Final, Statutory, Final regulations to be published within 30 days of 
end of NPRM comment period.

Abstract: This regulatory amendment under the western Pacific Precious 
Corals FMP would revise the minimum harvest size for black corals and 
other measures to protect and conserve Hawaii black corals.

[[Page 73106]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0648-AT93           06/09/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AS64
_______________________________________________________________________




685. AMENDMENT 25 TO THE REEF FISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF 
FISH RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 25 replaces the current moratorium (which expires 
June 16, 2006) on the issuance of reef fish charter vessel/headboat 
(recreational for-hire) permits with a limited access system.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0648-AS70           05/17/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AS68
_______________________________________________________________________




686. AMENDMENT 17 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR COASTAL MIGRATORY 
PELAGIC RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO AND SOUTH ATLANTIC

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 17 replaces the current moratorium (which expires 
on June 16, 2006) on the issuance of coastal migratory pelagic charter 
vessel/headboat (recreational for-hire) permits with a limited access 
system.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          02/21/06                     71 FR 8831
NPRM                            03/13/06                    71 FR 12662
NPRM Comment Period End         04/27/06
Final Action                    05/16/06                    71 FR 28282

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AS68
RIN: 0648-AS70
_______________________________________________________________________




687. CHANGES TO REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE OBSERVER COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773k; 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 3631

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679; 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would revise minimum operating system 
requirements for the Observer Communications System (OCS). The OCS 
consists of custom software and communications equipment that 
groundfish observers use to enter data collected in the course of their 
duties and communicate this data by satellite link to observer program 
staff. This action is intended to update requirements in support of the 
observer program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/08/05                    70 FR 45638
NPRM Comment Period End         09/07/05
Final Action                    04/20/06                    71 FR 20346

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AS93
_______________________________________________________________________




688. AMENDMENT 79 TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE BERING 
SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS MANAGEMENT AREA ESTABLISHING A GROUNDFISH 
RETENTION STANDARD

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The rule implementing Amendment 79 to the Bering Sea and 
Aleutian Islands Groundfish FMP would establish a groundfish retention 
standard (GRS) for non-AFA catcher/processors that are 125 ft or 
greater in length overall (LOA). This rule would establish a year-round 
GRS of 75 percent in 2006 (that is, vessels would be required to retain 
at least 75 percent of their groundfish catch in the initial year of 
the program); 80 percent in 2007; and 85 percent in 2008. This action 
is intended to further minimize discards in the BSAI.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          06/02/05                    70 FR 32287
NPRM                            06/16/05                    70 FR 35054
NPRM Comment Period End         08/01/05
Final Action                    04/06/06                    71 FR 17362

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221

[[Page 73107]]

Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AT04
_______________________________________________________________________




689. IDENTIFY AND MANAGE ALASKA FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR EFH AND 
HAPC

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: Final, Judicial, August 13, 2006, Court settlement 
deadline.

Abstract: This rulemaking would implement Amendments 65 and 78 to the 
FMP for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands management 
area; Amendments 65 and 73 to the FMP for Groundfish of the Gulf of 
Alaska; Amendments 12 and 16 to the FMP for BSAI King and Tanner Crabs; 
Amendments 7 and 8 to the FMP for the Scallop Fishery of Alaska; and 
Amendments 7 and 8 to the FMP for the Salmon Fisheries in the EEZ off 
the Coast of Alaska. This rulemaking would identify essential fish 
habitat (EFH).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          02/06/06                     71 FR 6031
Notice Comment Period End       04/07/06
NPRM                            03/22/06                    71 FR 14470
NPRM Comment Period End         05/08/06
Final Action                    06/28/06                    71 FR 36694

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AT09
_______________________________________________________________________




690. AMENDMENT 11 TO THE COASTAL PELAGIC SPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, September 2005.
Final, Statutory, December 2005.

Abstract: Amendment 11 would implement a comprehensive, long-term 
allocation framework for annual apportionment of the Pacific sardine 
harvest guideline. Objectives of the action would include ensuring 
optimal utilization of the resource and equitably allocating harvest 
opportunity.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          10/28/05                    70 FR 62087
NPRM                            11/16/05                    70 FR 69502
NPRM Comment Period End         12/16/05
Comment Period End              12/27/05
Final Action                    06/29/06                    71 FR 36999

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AT11
_______________________________________________________________________




691. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2006 MONKFISH FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the 2006 
fishing year for the Monkfish fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/21/06                    71 FR 14467
NPRM Comment Period End         04/03/06
Final Action                    04/25/06                    71 FR 23871

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 0648-AT22
_______________________________________________________________________




692. FRAMEWORK 42 TO THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY AND FRAMEWORK 3 
TO THE MONKFISH FISHERY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action makes biennial adjustments to the management 
measures for the Northeast multispecies fishery and provides for 
fishing for monkfish using Days-at-Sea.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/27/06                    71 FR 42522
NPRM Comment Period End         08/25/06
Final Action                    10/23/06                    71 FR 62156

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AT24
_______________________________________________________________________




693. FRAMEWORK 18 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would make biennial adjustments to the Atlantic 
sea scallop fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/30/06                    71 FR 16091
NPRM Comment Period End         04/14/06
Final Action                    06/08/06                    71 FR 33211

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 73108]]

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

RIN: 0648-AT25
_______________________________________________________________________




694. FRAMEWORK 6 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Framework 6 would provide alternatives for use of 
recreational data in setting specifications and to allow regional 
conservation equivalency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/15/06                    71 FR 27981
NPRM Comment Period End         05/30/06
Final Action                    07/26/06                    71 FR 42315

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

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

RIN: 0648-AT26
_______________________________________________________________________




695. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2006 FISHING YEAR FOR THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, 
SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will establish specifications for the 2006 
fishing year for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass 
fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/17/05                    70 FR 69722
NPRM Comment Period End         12/02/05
Final Rule                      12/29/05                    70 FR 77060

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 0648-AT27
_______________________________________________________________________




696. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2006 RECREATIONAL FISHERIES FOR SUMMER 
FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement the specifications for the 2006 
fishing year for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass 
recreational fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/27/06                    71 FR 15147
NPRM Comment Period End         04/11/06
Final Action                    05/22/06                    71 FR 29254

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 0648-AT28
_______________________________________________________________________




697. 2006-2007 MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR COMMERCIAL, RECREATIONAL, AND 
TREATY SALMON FISHERIES OFF THE COASTS OF WASHINGTON, OREGON, AND 
CALIFORNIA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, May 2006, The fishery must open on 
May 1.

Abstract: This action establishes annual management measures for the 
2006-2007 fishing year for commercial, recreational and treaty salmon 
fisheries off the coast of Washington, Oregon and California. In 
particular, this action specifies allowable ocean harvest levels 
(including quotas), allocations, management boundaries and zones, 
minimum size limits, gear definitions, seasons, selective fisheries, 
and in-season notice procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/06/06                    71 FR 26254

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AT34
_______________________________________________________________________




698. INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA (IFQ) COST RECOVERY PROGRAM AMENDMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The action would amend regulations for the Individual Fishing 
Quota (IFQ) Cost Recovery Fee Program under the Halibut and Sablefish 
IFQ Program and the Crab Rationalization Program. The action would 
provide a revised structure for determining the

[[Page 73109]]

fee percentage applicable to a given fishery. The revised structure 
would remove any discretionary authority for determining fees from the 
Regional Administrator, making fee administration purely ministerial.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/08/06                    71 FR 26728
NPRM Comment Period End         06/07/06
Final Action                    08/04/06                    71 FR 44231

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AT43
_______________________________________________________________________




699. FISHERIES OF THE CARIBBEAN, GULF OF MEXICO, AND SOUTH ATLANTIC; 
REEF FISH FISHERY OF THE GULF OF MEXICO; GULF GROUPER RECREATIONAL 
MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These rules implement management measures for the 
recreational grouper fishery in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of 
the Gulf of Mexico, as requested by the Gulf of Mexico Fishery 
Management Council (Council), to reduce overfishing of red grouper. 
This rule establishes a seasonal closure of the recreational fishery 
for all Gulf grouper species and reduces both the recreational bag 
limit for red grouper and the aggregate grouper bag limit. The intended 
effects are to reduce overfishing of red grouper in the Gulf of Mexico 
and to minimize potential adverse impacts on other grouper stocks that 
could result from a shift in fishing effort from red grouper to other 
grouper species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/25/05                    70 FR 42510
Interim Final Rule              01/19/06                     71 FR 3018

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AT45
_______________________________________________________________________




700. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2006/2007 FISHING YEAR FOR THE SPINY DOGFISH 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the spiny 
dogfish fishery for the 2006/2007 fishing year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/08/06                    71 FR 26726
NPRM Comment Period End         05/23/06
Final Action                    07/17/06                    71 FR 40436

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 0648-AT59
_______________________________________________________________________




701. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); 2006 BLUEFIN TUNA QUOTA 
SPECIFICATIONS AND EFFORT CONTROLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS proposes specifications for the Atlantic bluefin tuna 
(BFT) fishery to set BFT quotas General category effort controls, and 
seasonal management measures for the 2006 fishing year (June 1, 2006--
May 31, 2007). This action will implement the U.S. annual BFT quota as 
recommended by the International Commission for the Conservation of 
Atlantic tunas and allocate that quota among the domestic fishing 
categories. General category effort controls will allocate time-period 
subquotas and set certain restricted fishing days. The seasonal 
management measures would propose daily retention limits and their 
duration for both the General and Angling categories.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/24/06                     71 FR 9507
NPRM Comment Period End         04/11/06
Final Action                    05/30/06                    71 FR 30619

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AT72
_______________________________________________________________________




702. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; NORTH AND SOUTH ATLANTIC 
SWORDFISH COMMERCIAL MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would adjust the 2005 North and South Atlantic 
swordfish quotas to account for the underharvest from the 2004 fishing 
year. Based on the most recent landings data, 3,955.7 mt dw and 334.3 
mt dw of the 2004 North and South Atlantic swordfish quotas remain 
unharvested, respectively. The underharvests would be added to the 2005 
North and South Atlantic swordfish quotas. This action is necessary to 
ensure that current quotas are based on the most recent landings 
information and account for any underharvests from the 2004

[[Page 73110]]

fishing year, consistent with the regulations at 50 CFR part 635.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/13/06                     71 FR 7499
NPRM Comment Period End         03/30/06
Final Action                    05/22/06                    71 FR 29087

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AT73
_______________________________________________________________________




703. AMENDMENT 13C TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER-
GROUPER FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment would: (1) Establish management measures to 
end overfishing of vermillion snapper, black sea bass, snowy grouper, 
and golden tilefish, and (2) establish management measures to allow 
increased harvest of red porgy.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          05/18/06                    71 FR 28841
NPRM                            06/09/06                    71 FR 33423
Comment Period End              07/17/06
NPRM Comment Period End         07/24/06
Final Action                    09/21/06                    71 FR 55096

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AT75
_______________________________________________________________________




704. IMPLEMENT SPECIFICATION MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR THE 2006 PACIFIC 
SARDINE FISHERY COASTAL PELAGIC SPECIES FMP

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule announces the annual harvest guideline for Pacific 
sardine in the exclusive economic zone off the Pacific coast. The 
Coastal Pelagic Species Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and its 
implementing regulations require NMFS to set an annual harvest 
guideline for Pacific sardine based on a formula in the FMP. The 
intended effect of this rule is to establish allowable harvest levels 
for Pacific sardine off the Pacific coast and to minimize the impact on 
other coastal pelagic fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/17/06                     71 FR 2510
NPRM Comment Period End         02/01/06
Final Action                    07/05/06                    71 FR 38112

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AT76
_______________________________________________________________________




705. REVISION OF CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE NORTHERN RIGHT WHALE 
(EUBALAENA GLACIALIS)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1533

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would revise the current designation of critical 
habitat for the Northern right whale (Eubalaena glacialis), listed 
under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA). The 
National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is currently analyzing the 
physical and biological features essential to the conservation of the 
Northern right whale, and outlined steps it will take to propose any 
revisions to designated critical habitat that might be supported by new 
information and analysis. In October 2000, NMFS was petitioned by the 
Center for Biological Diversity to designate critical habitat for right 
whales in the North Pacific. In February 2002, NMFS announced its 
decision that critical habitat could not be designated at that time 
because the essential biological requirements of the population were 
not sufficiently understood. However, in June 2005, a Federal judge 
found this reasoning invalid and ordered the Agency to publish a 
proposed rule designating critical habitat for the Northern right whale 
in the North Pacific Ocean by 28th of October 2005. In compliance with 
that order, NMFS is proposing to revise the current critical habitat 
for this species by designating areas within the Gulf of Alaska and 
Bering Sea as critical habitat under the Endangered Species Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/02/05                    70 FR 66332
NPRM Comment Period End         12/19/05
Final Action                    07/06/06                    71 FR 38277

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AT84
_______________________________________________________________________




706. AMENDMENT 19 TO THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT 
PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq.

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 19 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery 
Management Plan (FMP) would implement a comprehensive strategy to 
conserve

[[Page 73111]]

essential fish habitat (EFH) through a fishery management plan 
amendment and Federal regulations. Amendment 19 is intended to (1) 
describe and identify essential fish habitat (EFH) for the fishery, (2) 
designate Habitat Areas of Particular Concern, (3) minimize to the 
extent practicable the adverse effects of fishing on EFH, and (4) 
identify other actions to encourage the conservation and enhancement of 
EFH, while ensuring compliance with section 303(a)(7) of the Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Of these actions, only 
measures to minimize adverse effects of fishing would require 
regulation. Amendment 19 is also intended to partially respond to a 
court order in American Oceans Campaign et al. v. Daley et al., Civil 
Action No. 99-982 (GK)(D.D.C. September 14, 2000).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Comment Period End              02/06/05
Notice                          12/07/05                    70 FR 72777
NPRM                            01/12/06                     71 FR 1998
Correction                      01/30/06                     71 FR 4886
NPRM Comment Period End         02/27/06
Final Action                    05/11/06                    71 FR 27408

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AT98
_______________________________________________________________________




707. AMENDMENT 20 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE BERING SEA AND 
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS CRABS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: It has been determined that the Bering Sea District Tanner 
crab (Chionoecetes bairdi) are in two geographically separate stocks, 
which should be managed as two separate fisheries. This rule would 
determine the allocations of quota share, processor quota share, 
individual fishing quotas, and individual processing quotas under the 
Crab Rationalization Program for these two fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          02/27/06                     71 FR 9770
Notice Comment Period End       04/28/06
NPRM                            03/21/06                    71 FR 14153
NPRM Comment Period End         05/05/06
Final Action                    06/07/06                    71 FR 32862

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU06
_______________________________________________________________________




708. 2006 SECRETARIAL ACTION FOR NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The New England Fishery Management Council (Council) is 
currently developing Framework 42 (FW 42) to the Northeast Multispecies 
FMP, to implement measures that would reduce the fishing mortality rate 
of several groundfish stocks to maintain the Amendment 13 rebuilding 
program for several stocks. This action is very complex and 
controversial in its development, as it has numerous and far-reaching 
measures. Council completion of FW 42 has been delayed beyond its 
scheduled May 1, 2006 implementation deadline. As a result, NOAA 
Fisheries Service is considering Secretarial action to implement the 
most critical measures to reduce fishing mortality on key stocks by the 
beginning of the 2006 fishing year on May 1, 2006. Failure to do so 
would jeopardize the rebuilding programs for several stocks and allow 
certain programs (e.g. DAS Leasing Program) to expire. The major 
measures being considered for Secretarial action include charging days 
fished at a higher rate (differential DAS), trip limits, and 
commensurate recreational measures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/03/06                    71 FR 11060
NPRM Comment Period End         03/06/06
Correction                      03/13/06                    71 FR 12669
Correction Comment Period End   03/09/06
Final Action                    04/13/06                    71 FR 19348

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU09
_______________________________________________________________________




709. SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION: ADDITIONAL EXCEPTION TO SEA TURTLE TAKE 
PROHIBITIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 222 ; 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS proposes to open an area currently closed to offshore 
pound nets and require these nets within this area to use a modified 
leader. This area includes the Virginia waters of the mainstem 
Chesapeake Bay, to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel at the mouth of the 
Chesapeake Bay, and the portion of the James River downstream of the 
Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel and the York River downstream of the 
Coleman Memorial Bridge. Within this area, pound net leaders would be 
comprised of mesh and vertical lines. The leader mesh would be 
restricted to a height of one third the depth of the water at the 
average mean low tide. The allowable leader mesh size would be 
restricted to less than 8 inches stretched mesh. The panel of the mesh 
would be held in place with vertical lines greater than or equal to 5/
16`` in diameter strung vertically a minimum of every two feet and 
attached to a top

[[Page 73112]]

line. The vertical lines would be ''hard lay`` lines which are 
purposefully stiff. Additionally, the proposed rule includes 
maintaining a restriction on mesh size and prohibition of stringers on 
all nearshore leaders in the area described above and all offshore 
leaders in the Virginia waters of the Chesapeake Bay outside the 
aforementioned closed area, extending to the Maryland-Virginia State 
line and the Rappahannock River downstream of the first bridge. These 
measures would be in effect from May 6 to July 15 each year. The 
purpose of this action is to respond to new information generated by 
research on modified pound net gear while continuing to protect 
threatened and endangered sea turtles.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/17/06                    71 FR 19675
NPRM Comment Period End         05/02/06
Final Action                    06/23/06                    71 FR 36024

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU10
_______________________________________________________________________




710. SPECIFICATION OF TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCHES (TACS) FOR THE NORTHEAST 
MULTISPECIES FISHERY FOR FISHING YEAR 2006

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, May 1, 2006, TACs specified for each 
fishing year; fishing year begins May 1, 2006.

Abstract: This action would implement three types of total allowable 
catches (TACs) for the Northeast Multispecies Fishery for the 2006 
fishing year: (1) Hard TACs for three Georges Bank stocks, which are 
shared with Canada, and managed in coordination with Canada cod, 
haddock, and yellowtail flounder); (2) Target TACs for 18 stocks of 
groundfish; and (3) Incidental Catch TACs for 10 groundfish stocks of 
concern.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/13/06                    71 FR 12665
NPRM Comment Period End         04/12/06
Final Action                    04/28/06                    71 FR 25095

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU13
_______________________________________________________________________




711. A REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO PERMIT THE SEASONAL CLOSURE OF CHINIAK 
GULLY IN THE GULF OF ALASKA TO TRAWL FISHING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The amendment would impose a seasonal ban on all commercial 
trawl fishing in the Chiniak Gully region on the east side of Kodiak 
Island. The closure would be in effect from August 1 to a date no later 
than September 20 in 3 of the 5 years from 2006 through 2010. The 
regulatory changes are needed to permit the National Marine Fisheries 
Service to conduct controlled experiments on the effects of fishing on 
pollock distribution and abundance as part of a comprehensive research 
program on sea lion/fishery interactions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/27/06                    71 FR 15152
NPRM Comment Period End         04/26/06
Final Action                    06/01/06                    71 FR 31105

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU15
_______________________________________________________________________




712. BSAI PACIFIC COD LICENSE ENDORSEMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE TRAWL 
CATCHER VESSEL SECTORS; NOTICE OF CONTROL DATE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would set a control date to limit access to the 
Pacific cod resource if a management regime is developed and 
implemented that limits the number of participants, licenses, or 
vessels in the fishery. To reduce uncertainty and provide stability for 
these participants, allocations would be adjusted to better reflect 
historic use by sector. The basis for determining sector allocations 
will be catch history as well as consideration of socio-economic and 
community factors. As other fisheries in the BSAI and GOA are 
incrementally rationalized, historical participants in the BSAI Pacific 
cod fishery may be put at a disadvantage. Each sector in the BSAI 
Pacific cod fishery currently has different degrees of license 
requirements and levels of participation. Allocations to the sector 
level are a necessary step on the path toward comprehensive 
rationalization.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/16/06                     71 FR 8268

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU16

[[Page 73113]]

_______________________________________________________________________




713. REORGANIZE WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC REGULATIONS INTO NEW CFR 
PART

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would move regulations governing the Central and 
Western Pacific, currently in 50 CFR 660, into a new part located at 50 
CFR 665, leaving current 50 CFR 660 to comprise West Coast fisheries. 
This action would make the regulations more concise, better organized, 
and easier to use for managers, the regulated community, and the 
general public.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/10/06                    71 FR 17985

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AU21
_______________________________________________________________________




714. REGULATORY AMENDMENT MODIFYING SECTION 680.22 SIDEBOARD PROTECTIONS 
FOR THE GULF OF ALASKA (GOA) GROUNDFISH FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment modifies the crab sideboards 
provisions of section 680.22 to conform with the statutory requirements 
of the crab rationalization program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/24/06                    71 FR 20966
NPRM Comment Period End         05/09/06
Final Action                    07/06/06                    71 FR 38298

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AS47
RIN: 0648-AU24
_______________________________________________________________________




715. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR ATLANTIC MACKEREL, 
SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Duplicate of 0648-AT58          07/12/06

RIN: 0648-AU31
_______________________________________________________________________




716. FRAMEWORK 43 TO THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This framework action would implement a haddock bycatch 
provision in the Atlantic herring fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/21/06                    71 FR 35600
NPRM Comment Period End         07/06/06
Final Action                    08/15/06                    71 FR 46871

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU33
_______________________________________________________________________




717. AMENDMENT 14 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Duplicate of 0648-AS22          07/12/06

RIN: 0648-AU35
_______________________________________________________________________




718. AMENDMENT 21 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE BERING SEA AND 
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS CRABS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 680

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 21 to the king and Tanner crab Fishery Management 
Plan in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (FMP) would make minor 
changes to the FMP necessary for the management of the arbitration 
system under the crab rationalization program. If approved, Amendment 
21 to the FMP would modify the timing for initiating an arbitration 
proceeding to the issuance of individual fishing quota (IFQ ) and 
individual processor quota (IPQ), providing participants with a 
reasonable and reliable opportunity to fully utilize the arbitration 
system.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/20/06                    71 FR 20378
Notice                          05/30/06                    71 FR 16278
NPRM Comment Period End         06/05/06
Final Action                    07/14/06                    71 FR 40030

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU37

[[Page 73114]]

_______________________________________________________________________




719. IMPLEMENT THE 2006 ACCEPTABLE BIOLOGICAL CATCH AND OPTIMUM YIELD 
FOR PACIFIC WHITING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will implement the 2006 ABC and OY for Pacific 
whiting.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/22/06                    71 FR 29257

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Tribal

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

RIN: 0648-AU39
_______________________________________________________________________




720. [bull] CONTROL DATE FOR NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES CHARTER/PARTY BOAT 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service establishes a ``control 
date'' to establish eligibility criteria for determining levels of 
future access to the Northeast (NE) multispecies charter/party fishery 
subject to Federal authority. This ``control date'' determines future 
access to the open access charter and party recreational (charter/
party) Northeast multispecies fishery if a management regime is 
developed and implemented under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act) to limit the 
number of participants in this sector of the NE multispecies fishery. 
The rulemaking is intended, in part, to promote awareness of potential 
eligibility criteria for future access so as to discourage speculative 
entry into the fishery while the New England Fishery Management Council 
considers whether and how access to the NE multispecies charter/party 
fishery should be controlled.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/30/06                    71 FR 16111

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU40
_______________________________________________________________________




721. [bull] FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES AND IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; 
REMOVAL OF DELAYED EFFECTIVENESS CLOSURE FOR SHALLOW-SET LONGLINE 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would remove the seven-day delayed effectiveness 
of a closure of the shallow-set component of the longline fishery due 
to interaction limits for sea turtles. The intended effect of this 
action is to afford enhanced protection to loggerhead and leatherback 
sea turtles.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/22/06                    71 FR 14416

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AU41
_______________________________________________________________________




722. [bull] ESTABLISH VOLUNTARY FISHING CAPACITY REDUCTION PROGRAM IN 
THE LONGLINE CATCHER PROCESSOR SUBSECTOR OF THE BSAI NON-POLLOCK 
GROUNDFISH FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1861 a(b)

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 600.1105

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action removes the delay in effectiveness for closing 
the Hawaii-based shallow-set longline fishery as a result of 
interaction limits for sea turtles. The intended effect of this action 
is to afford enhanced protection for sea turtles via timely closure of 
the fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/11/06                    71 FR 46364
NPRM Comment Period End         09/11/06
Final Action                    09/29/06                    71 FR 57696

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU42
_______________________________________________________________________




723. [bull] REVISION OF CRAB ECONOMIC DATA REPORTS (EDRS)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the submittal date of crab Economic 
Data Report (EDR) requirements from May 1st to June 8th of each year. 
This action is necessary to correct existing reporting requirements 
previously provided under another rulemaking that affects collecting 
information on Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area (BSAI) 
crab operations, including Western Alaska Community Development Quota 
Program crab fisheries. These fisheries

[[Page 73115]]

are referred to as crab rationalization fisheries (CR fisheries). An 
EDR collects information from any owner or leaseholder of a vessel or a 
processing plant that harvested or processed crab from the CR fisheries 
by May 1st, 2006.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/02/06                    71 FR 25808
NPRM Comment Period End         05/17/06
Final Action                    07/05/06                    71 FR 38112

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AS47
RIN: 0648-AU44
_______________________________________________________________________




724. [bull] ALLOCATION OF TRIPS INTO THE CLOSED AREA II YELLOWTAIL 
FLOUNDER SPECIAL ACCESS PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The action would announce that zero trips would be allocated 
to the CA II Yellowtail Flounder SAP for the 2006 fishing year. Based 
on the proposed U.S./Canada Georges Bank (GB) yellowtail flounder total 
allowable catch (TAC) (71 FR 12665; March 13, 2006), which was 
recommended by the Transboundary Management Guidance Committee and the 
New England Fishery Management Council (Council), for the 2006 fishing 
year (2,070 mt), and using the approved formula to determine the 
appropriate number of trips for fishing year 2006, there would be 
insufficient GB yellowtail flounder TAC to support the CA II Yellowtail 
Flounder SAP for the 2006 fishing year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/22/06                    71 FR 29256
Final Action Effective          07/01/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU45
_______________________________________________________________________




725. [bull] REINSTATE THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN'S 
(SCALLOP FMP) OBSERVER SET-ASIDE PROGRAM AND IMPLEMENT AN OBSERVER 
PROVIDER CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The rule would reinstate the observer set-aside program 
implemented under the Scallop FMP by establishing observer provider 
certification criteria, decertification criteria, and observer 
deployment logistics. The rule will reiterate that scallop vessel 
owners are required to pay for observers. The set-aside will provide 
scallop vessel owners with compensation for observer coverage up to a 
specified limit, as currently specified in the regulations for the 
scallop fishery. Once the set-aside is exhausted, vessel owners would 
no longer be compensated for coverage but would still have to pay for 
the cost of observers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      06/16/06                    71 FR 34842
Comment Period End              07/17/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

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

RIN: 0648-AU47
_______________________________________________________________________




726. [bull] AMENDMENT 14; SMALL-MESH MULTISPECIES LIMITED ACCESS PROGRAM 
AND CONTROL DATE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action announces that the National Marine Fisheries 
Service is considering, and is seeking public comment on, anticipated 
proposed rulemaking to limit future access to the Northeast small-mesh 
multispecies (whiting) fishery if a management regime is developed and 
implemented under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and 
Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act). A control date for this fishery 
was established on March 25, 2003, to promote awareness of potential 
eligibility criteria for future access and to discourage speculative 
entry into the fishery while the New England Fishery Management Council 
(Council) considers whether and how access to the Northeast small-mesh 
multispecies fishery should be controlled. This action reaffirms the 
March 25, 2003, control date; notifies the public that the Council is 
now considering a limited access program for the Northeast small-mesh 
multispecies fishery through Amendment 14 to the Northeast Multispecies 
Fishery Management Plan. The development of the amendment, including 
identification limited entry criteria and alternatives, is expected to 
begin in May 2006, with a series of public scoping meetings held by the 
Council. The intent of this action is to further discourage speculative 
entry or investment in this fishery while the Council completes 
development of its proposed limited access program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/12/06                    71 FR 33721

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AQ48
RIN: 0648-AU49

[[Page 73116]]

_______________________________________________________________________




727. [bull] IMPLEMENT A GREAT SOUTH CHANNEL SCALLOP DREDGE EXEMPTION FOR 
GENERAL CATEGORY SCALLOP VESSELS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The rule responds to a request from the fishing industry to 
create a new exemption area for General Category scallop dredge vessels 
in the Great South Channel southeast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The 
Regional Administrator, Northeast Region, has the authority to grant 
such exemption requests if the available data show that the bycatch 
rate of regulated species is, or can be reduced to, less than 5-percent 
of the total catch in the area proposed to be exempt, and that the 
exemption will not jeopardize any of the mortality objectives of the 
Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (see 50 CFR 648.80). 
Analysis of the relevant data show that a scallop dredge exemption area 
in a discrete portion of the Great South Channel meets the requirements 
of the regulations. Therefore, this proposed rule intends to implement 
a Great South Channel Scallop Dredge Exemption Area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/06/06                       71 38352
NPRM Comment Period End         07/21/06
Final Action                    08/31/06                    71 FR 51779

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AU50
_______________________________________________________________________




728. [bull] NOTICE OF REAFFIRMATION OF A CONTROL DATE FOR THE HAGFISH 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: A control date for the hagfish fishery was established on 
August 28, 2002, to promote awareness of potential eligibility criteria 
for future access to this fishery, and also to discourage speculative 
entry into the fishery while the New England Fishery Management Council 
(Council) and National Marine Fisheries Service considered whether and 
what methods to use to control access to the hagfish fishery. This 
action reaffirms the August 28, 2002, control date. The intent of this 
action is to further discourage speculative entry or investment in this 
fishery while the Council prepares to develop a management plan for 
Atlantic hagfish.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/28/06                    71 FR 42794

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AQ12
RIN: 0648-AU55
_______________________________________________________________________




729. NORTH ATLANTIC WHALE PROTECTION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216; 50 CFR 222

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           01/04/00                      65 FR 270
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/06/00
Withdrawn                       07/24/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0648-AM85
_______________________________________________________________________




730. REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING THE BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN TAKE REDUCTION PLAN

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

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

Abstract: This action would implement management measures to (1) reduce 
the incidental mortality and serious injury (bycatch) of the western 
North Atlantic coastal bottlenose dolphin stock (dolphins) (Tursiops 
truncatus) in the mid-Atlantic coastal gillnet fishery and eight other 
coastal fisheries operating within the dolphin's distributional range; 
and (2) amend current, seasonal restrictions on large mesh gillnet 
fisheries operating in the mid-Atlantic region to reduce the incidental 
take of sea turtles in North Carolina and Virginia State waters. This 
action would use effort reduction measures, gear proximity rules, gear 
or gear deployment modifications, fishermen training, and outreach and 
education measures to reduce dolphin bycatch below the marine mammal 
stock's potential biological removal level (PBR); and time/area 
closures and size restrictions on large mesh fisheries to reduce 
incidental takes of endangered and threatened sea turtles as well as to 
reduce dolphin bycatch below the stock's PBR.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/10/04                    69 FR 65127
NPRM Comment Period End         02/08/05
Final Action                    04/26/06                    71 FR 24776

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

[[Page 73117]]

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AR39
_______________________________________________________________________




731. SEA TURTLE REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMERCIAL SCALLOP FISHING

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Service is preparing a rule to require 
sea turtle conservation measures for all scallop vessels fishing in the 
mid-Atlantic from May 1 through November 30 each year. Implemented 
under the Endangered Species Act, the purpose of this rulemaking is to 
minimize the take of sea turtles in scallop gear. This rule would 
require all scallop vessels, regardless of size or permit category, to 
modify their dredge(s) when fishing south of 41 deg.9.0' N. latitude, 
from the shoreline to the Exclusive Economic Zone. All dredges used for 
fishing must be modified with evenly spaced ``tickler'' chains and 
``vertical'' (up-and-down) chains with the configuration dependent on 
the size of the dredge frame width.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/27/05                    70 FR 30660
Hearing                         06/08/05                    70 FR 33440
NPRM Comment Period End         06/27/05
Final Action                    08/25/06                    71 FR 50361

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AS92
_______________________________________________________________________




732. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO COASTAL COMMERCIAL FIREWORKS DISPLAYS AT MONTEREY BAY 
NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY, CA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.01

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary for an 
authorization under the MMPA to take marine mammals, by harassment, 
incidental to permitting professional fireworks displays within 
Sanctuary waters. As a result of this request, NMFS will propose 
regulations, that if implemented, would govern the incidental taking of 
marine mammals by Eglin Air Force Base for this activity. In order to 
promulgate regulations and issue an LOA thereunder, NMFS must determine 
that the takings will have a negligible impact on the affected species 
and stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/01/06                    71 FR 25544
NPRM Comment Period End         05/31/06
Final Action                    07/19/06                    71 FR 40928

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Southwest Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 W. Ocean Boulevard, No. 4200, Long 
Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 502 980-4015
Fax: 502 980-4027

RIN: 0648-AT46
_______________________________________________________________________




733. TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO COMMERCIAL FISHING 
OPERATIONS, ATLANTIC LARGE WHALE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN (ALWTRP) AND 
ENDANGERED SPECIES CONSERVATION; RESTRICTIONS TO FISHING ACTIVITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq; 16 USC 1351 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: With this action, NMFS issues a temporary rule to restrict 
gillnet fishing activity in the Southeast U.S. Restricted Area through 
March 31, 2006 under the authority of the Marine Mammal Protection Act 
(MMPA). NMFS is taking this action because the Agency has determined 
that a right whale mortality, documented on January 22, 2006, was the 
result of an entanglement by gillnet gear within the Southeast U.S. 
Restricted Area. This action is necessary to protect North Atlantic 
right whales from further serious injury or mortality due to 
entanglement in gillnet gear in the Southeast U.S. Restricted Area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      02/16/06                     71 FR 8223

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kristy Long, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East 
West Highway, Rm 13738, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301-427-2522
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AU23
_______________________________________________________________________




734. NORTHWESTERN HAWAIIAN ISLANDS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY; 
DESIGNATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-513; 16 USC 1431 et seq

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Sanctuaries Program, together with

[[Page 73118]]

State and Federal partners and other stakeholders, designates the 
Northwestern Hawaiian Islands as a national marine sanctuary and 
implements regulations that best reflect the goals and objectives of 
the proposed sanctuary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/29/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State

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

Agency Contact: T. Aulani Wilhelm, Acting Superintendent, NMFS, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 6700 Kalaniana' Ole Highway 300, Honolulu, HI 
96825
Phone: 808 397-2657
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AS83
_______________________________________________________________________




735. LICENSING OF PRIVATE LAND REMOTE-SENSING SPACE SYSTEMS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 5621

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 960

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 
amends its regulations governing the licensing of private Earth remote-
sensing space systems under title II of the Land Remote-Sensing Policy 
Act of 1992 (the Act). The amendments update the regulations to 
reflect: (1) New U.S. policy on commercial remote-sensing issued in 
April 2003, (2) experience gained since August 2000 with respect to the 
licensing of commercial remote-sensing space systems, and (3) 
improvements that take into account public comments received on the 
regulations. This rule will allow NOAA to more effectively license 
Earth remote-sensing space systems and help to ensure their compliance 
with the requirements of the Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/20/05                    70 FR 29380
NPRM Comment Period End         06/20/05
Final Rule                      04/26/06                    71 FR 24474

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Glenn E. Tallia, Senior Counselor for Atmospheric and 
Space Services and Research, NOAA, GC, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 
15861, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-9681
Fax: 301 713-1494
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AT00
_______________________________________________________________________




736. [bull] NORTHWESTERN HAWAIIAN ISLANDS MARINE NATIONAL MONUMENT JOINT 
CODIFYING REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 431 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq.; 16 USC 460k et 
seq.; 16 USC 742f; 16 USC 742l; 16 USC 668dd-668ee; . . .

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 404

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the 
Department of Commerce and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service 
of the Department of the Interior issue joint regulations to codify the 
prohibitions and management measures set forth in Presidential 
Proclamation 8031 (June 15, 2006) establishing the Northwestern 
Hawaiian Islands Marine National Monument.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      08/29/06                    71 FR 51134

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State

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

Agency Contact: T. Aulani Wilhelm, Acting Superintendent, NMFS, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 6700 Kalaniana' Ole Highway 300, Honolulu, HI 
96825
Phone: 808 397-2657
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AU82
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)



_______________________________________________________________________




737. [bull] IMPLEMENT AND ADMINISTER A COUPON PROGRAM FOR DIGITAL-TO-
ANALOG CONVERTER BOXES

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 24 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0660-AA16

[[Page 73119]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                              Prerule Stage


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




738. THE DUTY OF CANDOR AND INEQUITABLE CONDUCT IN PROSECUTION OF PATENT 
APPLICATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1.56

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), under its 35 
USC Section 2 authority to prescribe procedural rules, is seeking 
comment on alternatives to provisions of its current Rule 1.56, 
establishing obligations to disclose information to the Office in 
patent application prosecution. The notice will also articulate how the 
USPTO interprets the implementation of its ethics rules concerning 
registered patent practitioners for information disclosure. Finally, 
the notice recognizes the influence of the judicial doctrine of 
inequitable conduct on submission to the USPTO and seeks public comment 
on the extent of that influence and possible alternatives.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Inquiry               12/00/06
Notice of Inquiry Comment Period 
End                             01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kyu S. Lee, Associate Counsel, Department of Commerce, 
Patent and Trademark Office, Office of the General Counsel, P.O. Box 
15667, Arlington, VA 22215
Phone: 571 272-6421
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




739. CHANGES TO REPRESENTATION OF OTHERS BEFORE THE U.S. PATENT AND 
TRADEMARK OFFICE

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 500(a); 35 USC 2(b) 2(D)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1; 37 CFR 2; 37 CFR 10; 37 CFR 11

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) amends its 
regulations to update the procedures regarding enrollment and 
discipline. The office also replaces the current USPTO Code of 
Professional Responsibility, which is based on the Model Code of 
Professional Responsibility of the American Bar Association, with USPTO 
Rules of Professional Conduct, which are based largely on the Model 
Rules of Professional Conduct of the American Bar Association.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/12/03                    68 FR 66648
NPRM Comment Period End         02/12/04
Notice                          03/03/04                     69 FR 9986
Comment Period End              06/11/04
Final Action - Part I           06/24/04                    69 FR 35428
Supplemental NPRM               02/00/07
NPRM                            04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: See 69 FR 9986-9987.

Agency Contact: Harry I. Moatz, Director of Enrollment and Discipline, 
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Office of 
Enrollment and Discipline, P. O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-4097

Related RIN: Related to 0651-AB38
RIN: 0651-AB55
_______________________________________________________________________




740. AMENDMENT OF TRADEMARK RULES OF PRACTICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2.6, 2.21, 2.26, 2.32, 2.33, 2.34; 37 CFR 2.44, 
2.45, 2.47, 2.52, 2.53, 2.56, 2.; 37 CFR 2.65, 2.67, 2.74, 2.76, 2.77, 
2.85; 37 CFR 2.86, 2.87, 2.88, 2.89, 2.99, 2.145; 37 CFR 2.146, 2.153, 
2.161, 2.171, 2.172; 37 CFR 2.173, 2.175, 2.184, 2.198, 3.31; 37 CFR 
3.85, 7.14, 7.25

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is amending its 
rules to simplify and clarify procedures for (1) registering 
trademarks, (2) maintaining trademark registrations, (3) processing 
petitions to the Director in trademark cases, and (4) filing 
applications for international trademark registration and other 
documents pertaining to international registrations under the Madrid 
Agreement Concerning the International Registration of Marks (Madrid 
Protocol) through the USPTO.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/07
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mary E. Hannon, Attorney Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P. O. Box 1451, Alexandria, VA 
22313-1451
Phone: 571 272-9569
Fax: 571 273-9569
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB89
_______________________________________________________________________




741. AMENDMENT OF RULES FOR FILING INTENT TO USE DOCUMENTS IN SECTION 
1(B) APPLICATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2.76; 37 CFR 2.87 to 2.89

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Office amends the rules to (1) change the deadline for 
filing second and subsequent requests for extensions of time to file a 
statement

[[Page 73120]]

of use under section 1(d)(2) of the Trademark Act, 15 USC 1051(d)(2), 
from six months to one year; and (2) simplify and clarify procedures 
pertaining to the filing of intent-to-use documents in applications 
under section 1(b) of the Act, 15 USC 1051(b).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/07
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mary E. Hannon, Attorney Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P. O. Box 1451, Alexandria, VA 
22313-1451
Phone: 571 272-9569
Fax: 571 273-9569
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB90
_______________________________________________________________________




742. EXAMINATION OF PATENT APPLICATIONS THAT INCLUDE CLAIMS CONTAINING 
MARKUSH OR OTHER ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 37 CFR Part 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Office) is considering 
revising the rules of practice to address Markush-type and other claims 
written so as to claim an invention in the alternative. The search and 
examination of Markush-type and other claims written in the alternative 
generally consume a disproportionate amount of Office resources as 
compared to other types of claims, because these claims can encompass 
multiple independent and distinct inventions and determining the 
patentability of such a claim may require a separate examination of 
each of the alternatives within the claim. The Office anticipates that 
requiring applicants who choose this claim-drafting format to ensure a 
certain degree of relatedness among the members of a Markush group or 
the alternatives presented in the claims will allow the Office to do a 
better, more thorough and reliable examination of Markush-type and 
other claims written in the alternative.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 
22313
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC00
_______________________________________________________________________




743. CHANGES IN THE REQUIREMENTS FOR FILING REQUESTS FOR RECONSIDERATION 
OF FINAL OFFICE ACTIONS IN TRADEMARK CASES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2.64

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Office amends 37 CFR part 2.64 to require that a request 
for reconsideration of an examining attorney's final refusal or 
requirement be filed through TEAS within 3 months of the mailing date 
of the final action. The purpose of the proposed rule is to streamline 
the processing of applications in which a final refusal has been 
issued, and to reduce pendency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/07
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mary E. Hannon, Attorney Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P. O. Box 1451, Alexandria, VA 
22313-1451
Phone: 571 272-9569
Fax: 571 273-9569
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




744. [bull] REVISION OF PATENT AND TRADEMARK FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008

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

Legal Authority: 35 UC 41; 35 USC 376; 35 USC 2(b)(2)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1.16 to 1.21; 37 CFR 1.26; 37 CFR 1.445, 1.482, 
1.492; 37 CFR 41.20 and 2.6

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 1, 2007, Final Action 
Effective Date.

Abstract: This rulemaking revises certain patent and trademark fees to 
reflect fluctuations in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) consistent with 
PL 105-358, as amended by PL 108-447.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: C/OF Tamara McClure, Department of Commerce, Patent and 
Trademark Office, 2051 Jamieson Ave., Suite 300, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 571 272-6345
Fax: 571 273-6345
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC07

[[Page 73121]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




745. CHANGES IN TRADEMARK RULES OF PRACTICE IN INTER PARTES PROCEEDINGS 
BEFORE THE TRADEMARK TRIAL AND APPEAL BOARD

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1067; 35 USC 2(8)(2)(A)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2.99(b) to (d); 37 CFR 2.101(a), (b) and (d); 37 
CFR 2.105(a) and (c); 37 CFR 2.111(a) to (c); 37 CFR 2.113(a), (c) and 
(e); 37 CFR 2.116; 37 CFR 2.118; 37 CFR 2.119(a) and (b); 37 CFR 
2.120(a), (d) through (j); 37 CFR 2.121(a), (d) and (e); 37 CFR 
2.123(e); 37 CFR 2.126 (a) and (b); 37 CFR 2.127(a), (c) and (e); 37 
CFR 2.129(a); 37 CFR 2.133 (a) and (b); 37 CFR 2.142(e); 37 CFR 
2.173(a); 37 CFR 2.176

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office amends its rules of 
practice in connection with inter partes proceedings before the 
Trademark Trial and Appeal Board to require that plaintiffs serve 
notice of their claims directly on defendants, to follow the Federal 
Rules of Civil Procedure insofar as they require disclosure by parties 
of certain types of discoverable information and pre-trial disclosures, 
and to permit service of documents by e-mail.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/17/06                     71 FR 2498
NPRM Comment Period End         03/20/06
NPRM Comment Period Reopened    03/27/06                    71 FR 15097
NPRM Reopened Comment Period End05/04/06
Final Action                    12/00/06
Final Action Effective          02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mr, Gerard F. Rogers, Administrative Judge, Department 
of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Trademark Trial and Appeal 
Board, 600 Dulany Street, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-4299
Fax: 571-273-0059
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB56
_______________________________________________________________________




746. REVISION OF EX PARTE AND INTER PARTES REEXAMINATION PRACTICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2); 35 USC 301 to 318

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Office) amends its 
rules of practice relating to ex parte and inter partes reexamination. 
The Office revises the rules of practice to clarify the substantial new 
question of patentability standard for a second or subsequent request 
for ex parte reexamination or inter partes reexamination, and to 
provide for a request for continued reexamination practice to permit 
entry of a limited number of submissions after a final rejection or 
action in an ex parte reexamination or inter partes reexamination. The 
Office also revises the rules of practice to require compliance with 
all the requirements of filing an inter partes reexamination before a 
filing date will be assigned to an inter partes reexamination, and to 
prohibit supplemental patent owner responses to an Office action in an 
inter partes reexamination without a showing of cause.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/30/06                    71 FR 16072
NPRM Comment Period End         05/30/06
Final Action                    12/00/06
Final Action Effective          01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Mail Stop Comments--Patents, 
Commissioner for Patents, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313-1450
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB77
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




747. CHANGES TO IMPLEMENT PRIORITY APPLICATION EXCHANGE BETWEEN 
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY OFFICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

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: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB75
_______________________________________________________________________




748. REVISION OF PATENT FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1.16 to 1.21; 37 CFR 1.26; 37 CFR 1.445; 37 CFR 
1.482; 37 CFR 1.492; 37 CFR 41.20; 37 CFR 2.6

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/05/06                    71 FR 32285
NPRM Comment Period End         07/05/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tamara McClure
Phone: 571 272-6345
Fax: 571 273-6345

[[Page 73122]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB81
_______________________________________________________________________




749. ACCEPTANCE, PROCESSING, USE AND DISSEMINATION OF CHEMICAL AND 
THREE-DIMENSIONAL BIOLOGICAL STRUCTURAL DATA IN ELECTRONIC FORMAT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/21/05                    70 FR 35573
ANPRM Comment Period End        08/22/05
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB91
_______________________________________________________________________




750. REVISIONS TO FACILITATE WEB-BASED PATENT CORRESPONDENCE AND 
AMENDMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR REISSUE APPLICATIONS AND REEXAMINATION 
PROCEEDINGS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB92
_______________________________________________________________________




751. CHANGES TO PRACTICE FOR CONTINUING APPLICATIONS, REQUESTS FOR 
CONTINUED EXAMINATION PRACTICE, AND APPLICATIONS CONTAINING PATENTABLY 
INDISTINCT CLAIMS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR Part 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/03/06                       71 FR 48
NPRM Comment Period End         05/03/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB93
_______________________________________________________________________




752. CHANGES TO PRACTICE FOR THE EXAMINATION OF CLAIMS IN PATENT 
APPLICATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR Part 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/03/06                       71 FR 61
NPRM Comment Period End         05/03/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB94
_______________________________________________________________________




753. CHANGES TO INFORMATION DISCLOSURE STATEMENT REQUIREMENTS AND OTHER 
RELATED MATTERS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR Part 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/10/06                    71 FR 38808
NPRM Comment Period End         09/08/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB95
_______________________________________________________________________




754. PRE-BRIEF APPEAL CONFERENCE FOR PATENT APPLICATIONS UNDER APPEAL TO 
THE BOARD OF PATENT APPEALS AND INTERFERENCES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 41

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB96
_______________________________________________________________________




755. CHANGES TO EXAMINATION PRACTICE FOR MEANS- (OR STEP-) PLUS-FUNCTION 
CLAIM ELEMENTS IN PATENT APPLICATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB97
_______________________________________________________________________




756. INTERIM GUIDELINES FOR EXAMINATION OF PATENT APPLICATIONS FOR 
PATENT SUBJECT MATTER ELIGIBILITY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: None

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          12/20/05                    70 FR 75451
Comment Period End              06/30/06
Comment Period Extended         06/14/06                    71 FR 34307
NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

[[Page 73123]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________




757. REVISION TO THE TIME FOR REQUIRED FILING OF A BIOLOGICAL DEPOSIT 
AND TO THE DATE OF AVAILABILITY OF THE BIOLOGICAL DEPOSIT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR Part 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB99
_______________________________________________________________________




758. CHANGES TO ELIMINATE THE DISCLOSURE DOCUMENT PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/06/06                    71 FR 17399
NPRM Comment Period End         05/08/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC01
_______________________________________________________________________




759. CHANGES TO IMPLEMENT PREEXAMINATION SEARCH REPORTS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC03
_______________________________________________________________________




760. [bull] REVISIONS TO THE PROCEDURES FOR DEFERRAL OF EXAMINATION OF 
AN APPLICATION FOR PATENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2) and 131 et seq.

CFR Citation: 37 CFR Part 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (Office) rules 
of practice for the examination of patent applications currently have a 
procedure under which an applicant may request deferral of examination 
of a patent application. This deferral of examination procedure, 
however, was used in fewer than 200 patent applications in fiscal year 
2005. Therefore, the Office is proposing to revise the deferral of 
examination procedure for patent applications to increase the 
attractiveness and usage of that procedure.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 
22313
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC06
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




761. CHANGES TO IMPLEMENT THE REFUND PROVISIONS OF THE UNITED STATES 
PATENT AND TRADEMARK FEE MODERNIZATION ACT OF 2004

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Among other changes to patent and trademark fees, the 
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2005 (Consolidated Appropriations 
Act), splits the patent application filing fee into separate filing 
fee, search fee and examination fee, and also provides that the U.S. 
Patent and Trademark Office (Office) may refund part or all of the 
excess claim fee and the search fee in certain situations. This action 
amends the rules of practice to implement the provisions for refunding 
part or all of the excess claim fee and for refunding part or all of 
the search fee in certain situations. The Office has implemented the 
changes to the patent fees provided in the Consolidated Appropriations 
Act in a separate rule making.

Timetable:
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Action                            Date                      FR Cite

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NPRM                            06/21/05                    70 FR 35571
NPRM Comment Period End         08/22/05
Final Action                    03/10/06                    71 FR 12281
Final Action Effective          03/10/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

[[Page 73124]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Mail Stop Comments--Patents, 
Commissioner for Patents, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313-1450
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 0651-AB54, Related to 0651-AB69
RIN: 0651-AB79
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762. CLARIFICATION OF FILING DATE REQUIREMENTS FOR EX PARTE AND INTER 
PARTES REEXAMINATION PROCEEDINGS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2) and 302 et seq.

CFR Citation: 37 CFR Part 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Office) is revising the 
rules of practice relating to the filing date requirements for ex parte 
and inter partes reexamination proceedings for consistency with the 
provisions of the patent statute governing ex parte and inter partes 
reexamination proceedings. The Office is specifically revising the 
rules to require that a request for ex parte reexamination or for inter 
partes reexamination meets the applicable statutory requirements before 
a filing date is accorded to the request for ex parte reexamination or 
for inter partes reexamination.

Timetable:
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Action                            Date                      FR Cite

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Interim Final Rule              02/23/06                     71 FR 9260
Interim Final Rule Effective    03/27/06
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      04/24/06
Final Action                    08/04/06                    71 FR 44219
Final Action Effective          08/04/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 
22313
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC02
[FR Doc. 06-7549 Filed 12-08-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-BW-S