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


-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Part III





Department of Agriculture





-----------------------------------------------------------------------



Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 70000]]



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)






_______________________________________________________________________

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Office of the Secretary

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

9 CFR Chs. I-IV

36 CFR Ch. II

41 CFR Ch. 4

Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, Fall 2007

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, USDA.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

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

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

    Beginning with the fall 2007 edition, USDA's complete 
regulatory agenda will be available online at www.reginfo.gov. 
Because publication in the Federal Register is mandated for the 
regulatory flexibility agendas required by the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 602), USDA's printed agenda entries 
include only:

(1) rules that are likely to have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities; and

(2) rules identified for periodic review under section 610 of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act.

    For this edition of the USDA regulatory agenda, the most 
important significant regulatory actions and a Statement of 
Regulatory Priorities are included in the Regulatory Plan, which 
appears in both the online regulatory agenda and in part II of the 
Federal Register that includes the abbreviated regulatory agenda.

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

Dated: September 6, 2007.

 Michael Poe,

Chief, Legislative and Regulatory Staff.

                                  Agricultural Marketing Service--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
188         National Organic Program: Add Standards for the Organic Certification of Wild Captured    0581-AB97
            Aquatic Animals (TM-01-08) (Reg Plan Seq No. 1).......................................
189         National Organic Program: Dairy Replacement Animals (Livestock) (TM-07-03)............    0581-AC69
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                               Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
190         National Organic Program: Access to Pasture (TM-05-14)................................    0581-AC57
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
191         Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling of Beef, Pork, Lamb, Fish, Perishable                0581-AC26
            Agricultural Commodities, and Peanuts (LS-03-04) (Reg Plan Seq No. 2).................
192         Mandatory Reporting for Dairy Programs (DA-06-07) (Reg Plan Seq No. 3)................    0581-AC66
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


[[Page 70001]]


                                Agricultural Marketing Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
193         Changes in Fees and Hourly Fee Rates for Science and Technology Laboratory Services       0581-AC48
            (ST-05-01)............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                         Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
194         Tuberculosis in Cattle; Import Requirements (Section 610 Review)......................    0579-AB44
195         Animal Welfare; Regulations and Standards for Birds (Reg Plan Seq No. 6)..............    0579-AC02
196         Importation of Plants for Planting; Establishing a New Category of Plants for Planting    0579-AC03
            Not Authorized for Importation Pending Risk Assessment (Rulemaking Resulting From a
            Section 610 Review) (Reg Plan Seq No. 7)..............................................
197         Minimum Age Requirements for the Transport of Animals.................................    0579-AC14
198         Animal Welfare; Climatic and Environmental Conditions for Transportation of               0579-AC41
            Warmblooded Animals Other Than Marine Mammals.........................................
199         Tuberculosis in Cattle; Import Requirements for Roping Steers.........................    0579-AC50
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
200         Phytosanitary Certificates for Imported Fruits and Vegetables.........................    0579-AB18
201         Phytophthora Ramorum; Quarantine and Regulations......................................    0579-AB82
202         Interstate Movement of Sheep and Goats; Approved Livestock Facilities, Identification,    0579-AB84
            and Recordkeeping Requirements........................................................
203         Trichinae Certification Program.......................................................    0579-AB92
204         Special Need Requests Under the Plant Protection Act..................................    0579-AB98
205         Standards for Permanent, Privately Owned Horse Quarantine Facilities (Section 610         0579-AC00
            Review)...............................................................................
206         National Veterinary Accreditation Program (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610        0579-AC04
            Review)...............................................................................
207         Agricultural Inspection and AQI User Fees Along the U.S./Canada Border................    0579-AC06
208         Interstate Movement of Citrus Fruit...................................................    0579-AC34
209         Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy; Minimal-Risk Regions; Identification of Ruminants       0579-AC45
            and Processing and Importation of Commodities.........................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
210         Plant Pest Regulations; Update of Current Provisions (Section 610 Review).............    0579-AA80
211         Animal Welfare: Marine Mammals; Nonconsensus Language and Interactive Programs            0579-AB24
            (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610 Review)......................................
212         Foot-and-Mouth Disease; Payment of Indemnity..........................................    0579-AB34
213         Citrus Canker; Compensation for Certified Citrus Nursery Stock........................    0579-AC05
214         Citrus Canker; Quarantine of the State of Florida.....................................    0579-AC07
215         User Fees; Export Certification for Plants and Plant Products.........................    0579-AC22
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
216         Revision of Fruits and Vegetables Import Regulations..................................    0579-AB80

[[Page 70002]]

 
217         Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy; Minimal-Risk Regions and Importation of Commodities.    0579-AC01
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Rural Housing Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
218         Guaranteed Single-Family Housing......................................................    0575-AC18
219         Thermal Requirements (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610 Review).................    0575-AC65
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Food and Nutrition Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
220         Administrative Error Reduction in the School Meals Programs...........................    0584-AD52
221         Special Nutrition Programs: Fluid Milk Substitutions (Reg Plan Seq No. 13)............    0584-AD58
222         Direct Certification of Children in Food Stamp Households and Certification of            0584-AD60
            Homeless, Migrant, and Runaway Children for Free Meals in the NSLP, SBP, and SMP (Reg
            Plan Seq No. 14)......................................................................
223         School Food Safety: Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point System.................    0584-AD65
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                              Food Safety and Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
224         Performance Standards for the Production of Processed Meat and Poultry Products;          0583-AC46
            Control of Listeria Monocytogenes in Ready-To-Eat Meat and Poultry Products (Reg Plan
            Seq No. 20)...........................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                              Food Safety and Inspection Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
225         Prohibition of the Use of Specified Risk Materials for Human Food and Requirements for    0583-AC88
            the Disposition of Non-Ambulatory Disabled Cattle.....................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BILLING CODE 3410-90-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                          Prerule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

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

RIN: 0581-AB97
_______________________________________________________________________




189.  NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: DAIRY REPLACEMENT 
ANIMALS (LIVESTOCK) (TM-07-03)

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is amending the 
National Organic Program regulations to clarify the regulations. This 
rule is seeking input on the following issues: (1) Are the current 
origin of livestock requirements in the NOP regulations adequate for 
dairy livestock under principles of organic livestock management and 
production? (2) If the current origin of livestock requirements as 
described in the NOP regulations are

[[Page 70003]]

not adequate, how should they be changed? (3) If the regulations should 
be changed, how much time should be allow for the industry to implement 
the regulation change? This action is being taken to ensure that NOP 
regulations are clear and consistent, stimulate growth of the organic 
sector, satisfy consumer expectations, and allow organic producers and 
handlers flexibility in making site-specific, real-time management 
decisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0581-AC69
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




190. NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: ACCESS TO PASTURE (TM-05-14)

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 et seq

Abstract: The National Organic Program (NOP) is administered by the 
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). Under the NOP, AMS established 
national standards for the production and handling of organically 
produced agricultural products. Since implementation of the NOP, some 
members of the public have advocated for a more explicit regulatory 
standard on the relationship between livestock, particularly dairy 
animals, and grazing land. They have asserted the current regulatory 
language on access to pasture for ruminants and temporary confinement 
based on an animal's stage of production, when applied together, do not 
provide a uniform requirement for the pasturing of ruminant animals 
that meet the principles underlying an organic management system for 
livestock and livestock products that consumers expect. Comments 
received as a result of the proposed rule will assist in determining 
the Agency's next steps in rulemaking on this issue.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           04/13/06                    71 FR 19131
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/12/06
NPRM                            12/00/07
Final Action                    05/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0581-AC57
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

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

RIN: 0581-AC26
_______________________________________________________________________




192. MANDATORY REPORTING FOR DAIRY PROGRAMS (DA-06-07)

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

RIN: 0581-AC66
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is changing the hourly fee 
rates for Science and Technology (S&T) Laboratory Services. The Agency 
is raising these rates to reflect, among other factors, national and 
locality pay increases for Federal employees and inflation, operating 
costs, instrumentation and training, and program and Agency 
administrative overhead costs. In the past, AMS has amended its 
regulations on an as needed basis in order to recover laboratory 
program costs. With this regulation, AMS is providing for three annual 
standard hourly fee rate increases for fiscal years 2007-2009. This 
will provide the agricultural

[[Page 70004]]

commodity industries and other stakeholders with more timely and 
relevant information regarding user fees for voluntary laboratory 
testing services. The Agency is also removing tables and schedules with 
listings of individual tests and services. Three annual hourly fee rate 
adjustments are established by this action for appeals, holiday, and 
overtime services to reflect the anticipated increase cost of providing 
these laboratory services each fiscal year. The regulations also are 
updated to identify current facility addresses. Part 92 is obsolete and 
therefore has been removed.

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/30/07                    72 FR 15011
Final Action Effective          03/31/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: James V. Falk
Phone: 202 690-4089
Fax: 202 720-4631
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC48
BILLING CODE 3410--02--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

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

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

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

RIN: 0579-AB44
_______________________________________________________________________




195. ANIMAL WELFARE; REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS FOR BIRDS

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

RIN: 0579-AC02
_______________________________________________________________________




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

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

RIN: 0579-AC03
_______________________________________________________________________




197. MINIMUM AGE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE TRANSPORT OF ANIMALS

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 2159

Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the Animal Welfare Act 
regulations by adding minimum age and weaning requirements for the 
transport in commerce of exotic and wild animals. The regulations 
currently contain such requirements for dogs and cats, but no 
corresponding ones for exotic and wild animals, despite the risks 
associated with the early transport of these species. The rule would 
also provide an exemption to allow animals to be transported without 
their mothers for medical treatment and for scientific research before 
reaching the minimum age and weaning requirement, provided certain 
conditions are met. Establishing minimum age requirements for the 
transport of exotic and wild animals and providing for the transport of 
animals that have not met the minimum age requirements are necessary to 
help ensure the humane treatment of these animals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0579-AC14
_______________________________________________________________________




198.  ANIMAL WELFARE; CLIMATIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL 
CONDITIONS FOR TRANSPORTATION OF WARMBLOODED ANIMALS OTHER THAN MARINE 
MAMMALS

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 2159

Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the Animal Welfare Act 
regulations regarding transportation of live animals other than marine 
mammals by removing the current ambient temperature requirements for 
various stages in the transportation of those animals. The action would 
replace those requirements with a single performance standard under 
which the animals would be transported under climatic and environmental 
conditions that are appropriate for their welfare. The regulations 
currently require that ambient temperatures be maintained within 
certain ranges during transportation, but animals may be transported at 
ambient temperatures below the minimum temperatures if their consignor 
provides a certificate signed by a veterinarian certifying that the 
animals are acclimated to temperatures lower than the minimum 
temperature. This proposal would make acclimation certificates for live 
animals other than marine mammals unnecessary. This proposal replaces a 
previously published proposed rule,

[[Page 70005]]

which we are withdrawing as part of this document, that would have 
required that the acclimation certificate for a dog or cat be signed by 
the owner of the dog or cat being transported rather than by a 
veterinarian. This proposal does not address marine mammals due to 
their unique requirements for care and handling. We believe that 
establishing a single performance standard would ensure that 
warmblooded animals other than marine mammals are transported in 
climatic and environmental conditions that are not detrimental to their 
welfare while allowing for variations in climatic and environmental 
conditions that are suitable for individual animals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Jerry D. DePoyster, Veterinary Medical Officer, Animal 
Care, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection 
Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234
Phone: 301 734-7586

RIN: 0579-AC41
_______________________________________________________________________




199.  TUBERCULOSIS IN CATTLE; IMPORT REQUIREMENTS FOR 
ROPING STEERS

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

Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the animal importation 
regulations to require that steers and spayed heifers with more than 3 
inches of horn growth that are entering the United States from Mexico 
meet more stringent tuberculosis testing requirements than those with 3 
inches or less. In their current form, the regulations do not 
distinguish between steers and spayed heifers imported strictly as 
feeders and those with sufficient horn growth to enable them to be used 
as rodeo cattle. Steers and spayed heifers used as rodeo cattle are 
often maintained longer than feeder cattle and generally come into 
contact with other cattle in more locations than do steers and spayed 
heifers imported for feeding purposes. The longer the lifespan of an 
animal, the greater the chances are that, if exposed to tuberculosis, 
it will contract the disease, develop generalized disease, and spread 
it to other animals. The risk of tuberculosis spread is also increased 
by the number of animals that are exposed to a tuberculosis-infected 
animal. We believe the risks of tuberculosis transmission associated 
with rodeo cattle justify requiring more rigorous tuberculosis testing 
for such animals than for those imported as feeders. This rulemaking is 
intended to reduce the risk of imported cattle transmitting 
tuberculosis to domestic livestock in the United States. This 
rulemaking replaces a previously published proposed rule, which we are 
withdrawing as part of this document, that would have required that 
steers and spayed heifers with any evidence of horn growth that are 
entering the United States meet the same tuberculosis testing 
requirements as sexually intact animals entering the United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Francisco Collazo-Mattei, Acting Director, Ruminant 
Health Programs, National Center for Animal Health Programs, VS, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
4700 River Road, Unit 43, Riverdale, MD 20737
Phone: 301 734-6954

RIN: 0579-AC50
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




200. PHYTOSANITARY CERTIFICATES FOR IMPORTED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

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

Abstract: Currently APHIS does not require a phytosanitary certificate 
to accompany fruits and vegetables imported into the United States 
except for certain fruits and vegetables grown in designated foreign 
regions. This rule will extend the requirements for a phytosanitary 
certificate to additional fruits and vegetables.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/29/01                    66 FR 45637
NPRM Comment Period End         10/29/01
NPRM; Availability of Risk 
Assessment                      05/24/06                    71 FR 29846
NPRM; Availability of Risk 
Assessment Comment Period End   07/24/06
Final Rule                      03/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0579-AB18
_______________________________________________________________________




201. PHYTOPHTHORA RAMORUM; QUARANTINE AND REGULATIONS

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

Abstract: This action will amend the Phytophthora ramorum regulations 
to make the regulations consistent with a Federal Order issued by APHIS 
in December 2004 that established restrictions on the interstate 
movement of nursery stock from nurseries in nonquarantined counties in 
California, Oregon, and Washington. This action will also update 
conditions for the movement of regulated articles of nursery stock from 
quarantined areas, as well as restrict the interstate movement of all 
other nursery stock from nurseries in quarantined areas. We are also 
updating the list of plants regulated because of P. ramorum and

[[Page 70006]]

the list of areas that are quarantined for P. ramorum and making other 
miscellaneous revisions to the regulations. These actions are necessary 
to prevent the spread of P. ramorum to noninfested areas of the United 
States. We will continue to update the regulations through additional 
rulemakings as new scientific information on this pathogen becomes 
available.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              02/27/07                     72 FR 8585
Interim Final Rule Effective    02/27/07
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      04/30/07
Final Rule                      01/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Jonathan Jones, National Phytophthora Ramorum Program 
Manager, Pest Detection and Management Programs, PPQ, Department of 
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River 
Road, Unit 160, Riverdale, MD 20737
Phone: 301 734-8247

RIN: 0579-AB82
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8317

Abstract: This rulemaking will amend the regulations regarding the 
interstate movement of animals to require livestock facilities that 
handle sheep or goats in interstate commerce to be approved by APHIS. 
These will include stockyards, livestock markets, buying stations, 
concentration points, or any other premises where sheep or goats in 
interstate commerce are assembled. APHIS' approval will be contingent 
on the facility operator meeting certain minimum standards and other 
conditions relating to the receipt, handling, and release of sheep and 
goats at the facility, as well as complying with certain animal 
identification and recordkeeping requirements. The standards and other 
conditions will be based, in part, on recently implemented regulations 
relating to the interstate movement of sheep and goats in order to 
control the spread of scrapie, a serious disease of sheep and goats. 
This rule will provide for the establishment of standards for the 
approval of livestock facilities that handle sheep or goats in 
interstate commerce.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0579-AB84
_______________________________________________________________________




203. TRICHINAE CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8317; 7 USC 1622; 21 USC 601

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/16/07                    72 FR 27656
NPRM Comment Period End         07/16/07
Final Rule                      03/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0579-AB92
_______________________________________________________________________




204. SPECIAL NEED REQUESTS UNDER THE PLANT PROTECTION ACT

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

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/04/06                    71 FR 16711
NPRM Comment Period End         06/05/06
Final Rule                      03/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Valerie DeFeo, Staff Officer, Emergency and Domestic 
Programs, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 134, Riverdale, MD 20737-1237
Phone: 301 734-8247

RIN: 0579-AB98

[[Page 70007]]

_______________________________________________________________________




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

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

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/13/06                    71 FR 74827
NPRM Comment Period End         02/12/07
Final Rule                      03/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

Ellen Buck, Staff Veterinary Medical Officer, Equine Import, National 
Center for Import and Export, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 39, Riverdale, 
MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-8364

RIN: 0579-AC00
_______________________________________________________________________




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

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

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/01/06                    71 FR 31109
NPRM Comment Period End         07/31/06
Supplemental NPRM               02/27/07                     72 FR 8634
Supplemental NPRM Comment Period 
End                             04/30/07
Final Rule                      12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

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

RIN: 0579-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________




207. AGRICULTURAL INSPECTION AND AQI USER FEES ALONG THE U.S./CANADA 
BORDER

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

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/25/06                    71 FR 50320
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/24/06
Interim Final Rule Effective    11/24/06
Delay of Effective Date         11/22/06                    71 FR 67436
Delay of Effective Date         02/26/07                     72 FR 8261
Affirmation of Interim Final 
Rule                            12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0579-AC06
_______________________________________________________________________




208. INTERSTATE MOVEMENT OF CITRUS FRUIT

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

Abstract: This rulemaking amends the regulations to relieve 
restrictions that currently require citrus producers to ensure that 
citrus groves in the State of Florida are certified to be free of 
citrus canker prior to interstate movement of citrus fruit. This action 
also requires that all inspection of fruit for symptoms of citrus 
canker as well as treatments and packaging of citrus fruit to be moved 
interstate occur in packinghouses that operate under a compliance 
agreement with APHIS. This action allows the interstate movement of 
fresh citrus fruit from Florida, provided the fruit does not

[[Page 70008]]

exhibit symptoms of citrus canker and is handled in accordance with the 
regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/21/07                    72 FR 34180
NPRM Comment Period End         07/23/07
Information Collection 
Requirements; Comment Period End08/20/07
NPRM Comment Period Reopened    07/27/07                    72 FR 41239
NPRM Comment Period End         08/07/07
Final Rule                      11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0579-AC34
_______________________________________________________________________




209.  BOVINE SPONGIFORM ENCEPHALOPATHY; MINIMAL-RISK 
REGIONS; IDENTIFICATION OF RUMINANTS AND PROCESSING AND IMPORTATION OF 
COMMODITIES

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

Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the regulations regarding the 
importation of animals and animal products to remove several 
restrictions regarding the identification of animals and the processing 
of ruminant materials from regions that present a minimal risk of 
introducing bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) into the United 
States. We have determined that these restrictions are not necessary to 
prevent the introduction of BSE into the United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/09/06                    71 FR 45439
NPRM Comment Period Extended    11/09/06                    71 FR 65758
NPRM Comment Period End         11/24/06
Final Action                    11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Karen A. James-Preston, Director, Technical Trade 
Services Team, NCIE, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 38, Riverdale, MD 
20737
Phone: 301 734-4356

Lee Ann Thomas, Director, Animals, Organisms and Vectors, and Select 
Agents, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 39, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-5960

RIN: 0579-AC45
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7711 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786; 7 
USC 8301 to 8317; 21 USC 136 and 136a; 31 USC 9701

Abstract: APHIS is undertaking rulemaking to amend its plant pest 
regulations by: (1) Setting out the criteria that will be used by APHIS 
when considering whether an organism is a plant pest; (2) adding a 
permit category for organisms that would be released into the 
environment for purposes such as the biological control of weeds; (3) 
establishing a notification system that could be used in place of 
permits for the importation and interstate movement of regulated 
organisms; and (4) revising or amending existing portions of the 
regulations to clarify or update requirements, eliminate redundancy, 
and make the regulations easier for the public to use. This action will 
serve as a follow-up to the advance notice of proposed rulemaking that 
APHIS published in the Federal Register on September 27, 1996, to 
solicit input on the need for regulatory changes and alternative 
methods of addressing plant pest risk.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/27/96                    61 FR 50767
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/26/96
NPRM                            10/09/01                    66 FR 51340
NPRM Comment Period End         02/06/02
Withdrawal and Reproposal        To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Robert Flanders
Phone: 301 734-5930

RIN: 0579-AA80
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 2159

Abstract: The U.S. Department of Agriculture regulates the humane 
handling, care, treatment, and transportation of certain marine mammals 
under the Animal Welfare Act. The present standards for these animals 
have been in effect since 1979, and amended in 1984. During this time, 
advances have been made and new information has been developed with 
regard to the housing and care of marine mammals. This rulemaking 
addresses marine mammal standards on which consensus was not reached 
during negotiated rulemaking conducted between September 1995 and July 
1996. These include standards affecting variances, indoor facilities, 
outdoor facilities, space requirements, and water quality, as well as 
swim-with-the-dolphin programs. These actions appear necessary to 
ensure that the minimum standards for the humane handling, care, 
treatment, and transportation of marine mammals in captivity are based 
on current general, industry, and scientific knowledge and experience.

[[Page 70009]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/30/02                    67 FR 37731
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/29/02
NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Barbara Kohn
Phone: 301 734-8271

RIN: 0579-AB24
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8317

Abstract: This rule would amend the regulations for the cooperative 
control and eradication of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and other 
serious diseases, including both cooperative programs and extraordinary 
emergencies. The purpose of this rule is to remove possible sources of 
delay in eradicating foot-and-mouth disease, should an occurrence of 
that disease occur in this country, so that eligible claimants will be 
fully compensated while at the same time protecting the U.S. livestock 
population from the further spread of this highly contagious disease.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Mark Teachman
Phone: 301 734-8073

RIN: 0579-AB34
_______________________________________________________________________




213. CITRUS CANKER; COMPENSATION FOR CERTIFIED CITRUS NURSERY STOCK

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

Abstract: This rulemaking will amend the citrus canker regulations to 
establish provisions under which eligible commercial citrus nurseries 
may, subject to the availability of appropriated funds, receive 
payments for certified citrus nursery stock destroyed to eradicate or 
control citrus canker. The payment of these funds is necessary in order 
to reduce the economic effects on affected commercial citrus nurseries 
that have had certified citrus nursery stock destroyed to control 
citrus canker.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/08/06                    71 FR 33168
Interim Final Rule Effective    06/08/06
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      08/07/06


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0579-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




214. CITRUS CANKER; QUARANTINE OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA

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

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/01/06                    71 FR 43345
Interim Final Rule Effective    08/01/06
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      10/02/06
Technical Amendment             01/12/07                     72 FR 1415


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0579-AC07
_______________________________________________________________________




215. USER FEES; EXPORT CERTIFICATION FOR PLANTS AND PLANT PRODUCTS

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

Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the user fee regulations by 
adjusting the fees charged for export certification of plants and plant 
products. The rule would increase these user fees to reflect the 
anticipated costs associated with providing these services. It would 
also add a new user fee for Federal export certificates for plants and 
plant products that an exporter obtains from a State or county 
cooperator in order to recover administrative costs associated with 
that service. Finally, it would make several nonsubstantive changes to 
the regulations for clarity. These changes would enable us to properly 
recover the costs of providing export certification services for plants 
and plant products.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/12/07                    72 FR 32223
NPRM Comment Period End         08/13/07


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Karen Bedigian
Phone: 301 734-4382

Kris Caraher
Phone: 301 734-5901

RIN: 0579-AC22

[[Page 70010]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




216. REVISION OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES IMPORT REGULATIONS

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786; 7 
USC 8311; 21 USC 136 and 136a; 31 USC 9701

Abstract: This rule will revise and reorganize the regulations 
pertaining to the importation of fruits and vegetables to consolidate 
requirements of general applicability and eliminate redundant 
requirements, update terms and remove outdated requirements and 
references, update the regulations that apply to importations into 
territories under U.S. administration, and make various editorial and 
nonsubstantive changes to regulations to make them easier to use. The 
rule will also make substantive changes to the regulations, including: 
Establishing criteria that, if met, will allow us to approve certain 
new fruits and vegetables for importation into the United States and to 
acknowledge pest-free areas in foreign countries more effectively and 
expeditiously and doing away with the practice of listing in the 
regulations specific commodities that may be imported subject to 
certain types of phytosanitary measures. These changes are intended to 
simplify and expedite our processes for approving certain new imports 
and pest-free areas while continuing to allow for full public 
participation in the processes. This rule revises the structure of the 
fruits and vegetables import regulations and establishes a new process 
for approving certain new commodities for importation into the United 
States. It does not, however, allow the importation of any specific new 
fruits or vegetables, nor does it alter the conditions for importing 
currently approved fruits or vegetables except as specifically 
described in this document. To the extent that our trading partners 
consider the length of time it takes to conduct the rulemaking process 
a trade barrier, these changes may facilitate the export of U.S. 
agricultural commodities by reducing that time for fruits and 
vegetables that meet this rule's criteria. The changes do not alter the 
manner in which the risk associated with a commodity import request is 
evaluated, nor do they alter the manner in which those risks are 
ultimately mitigated.

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/18/07                    72 FR 39482
Final Action Effective          08/17/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Donna L. West
Phone: 301 734-8758

RIN: 0579-AB80
_______________________________________________________________________




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

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

Abstract: This action amends the requirements for the importation of 
certain live ruminants and ruminant products to establish conditions 
for the importation of additional commodities. The commodities 
addressed by the rulemaking include live bovines born after the date of 
effective enforcement of a ruminant-to-ruminant feed ban in the region 
of export, blood and blood products derived from bovines, and casings 
and part of the small intestine of bovines from regions that present a 
minimal risk of introducing bovine spongiform encephalopathy into the 
United States.

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/09/07                     72 FR 1102
Final Rule                      09/18/07                    72 FR 53314
Final Rule Effective            11/19/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

Lee Ann Thomas
Phone: 301 734-5960

Lisa Ferguson
Phone: 301 734-6954

RIN: 0579-AC01
BILLING CODE 3410--34--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Housing Service (RHS)



_______________________________________________________________________




218. GUARANTEED SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSING

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

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/15/99                    64 FR 70124
NPRM Comment Period End         02/14/00
Final Action                    01/00/08
Final Action Effective          02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0575-AC18
_______________________________________________________________________




219. THERMAL REQUIREMENTS (RULEMAKING RESULTING FROM A SECTION 610 
REVIEW)

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

Abstract: The current Agency procedure, section 1924.6 (a)(3)(i)(A), 
requires that surety be provided when the construction contract exceeds 
$100,000. This Procedure Notice changes the surety requirements in 
1924-A [section 1924.6 (a)(3)(i)(A)] from a $100,000 contract amount to 
the Rural Development Single-Family Housing area lending limits, which 
will vary with the locality. This will liberalize the requirement for 
surety and take into account the increase in

[[Page 70011]]

construction cost of single-family homes in the Rural Development's 
Single-Family Housing Program since the last revision (1980) to this 
section of the regulation. This should ease the burden on small 
contractors for whom obtaining surety is difficult and expensive, 
additionally reducing costs to our single-family housing borrowers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/16/07                    72 FR 27470
NPRM Comment Period End         07/16/07
Final Action                    12/00/07
Final Action                    01/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michel Mitias, Architect-Program Support Staff, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, STOP 0761, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9653
Fax: 202 690-4335
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC65
BILLING CODE 3410--XV--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)



_______________________________________________________________________




220. ADMINISTRATIVE ERROR REDUCTION IN THE SCHOOL MEALS PROGRAMS

Legal Authority: PL 108-265

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              02/00/08
Interim Final Rule Effective    03/00/08
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      04/00/08
Final Action                    09/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0584-AD52
_______________________________________________________________________




221. SPECIAL NUTRITION PROGRAMS: FLUID MILK SUBSTITUTIONS

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

RIN: 0584-AD58
_______________________________________________________________________




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

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

RIN: 0584-AD60
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Legal Authority: PL 108-265

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/00/07
Interim Final Rule Effective    12/00/07
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      02/00/08
Final Action                    05/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0584-AD65
BILLING CODE 3410--30--S

[[Page 70012]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 20 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0583-AC46
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




225. PROHIBITION OF THE USE OF SPECIFIED RISK MATERIALS FOR HUMAN FOOD 
AND REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DISPOSITION OF NON-AMBULATORY DISABLED CATTLE

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq

Abstract: On January 12, 2004, the Food Safety and Inspection Service 
(FSIS) issued an interim final rule to amend the Federal meat 
inspection regulations to designate the brain, skull, eyes, trigeminal 
ganglia, spinal cord, vertebral column (excluding the vertebrae of the 
tail, the transverse processes of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae, 
and the wings of the sacrum), and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of cattle 
30 months of age and older, and the tonsils and distal ileum of the 
small intestine of all cattle, as ``specified risk materials'' (SRMs). 
The Agency declared that SRMs are inedible and prohibited their use for 
human food. In addition, as a result of the interim final rule, FSIS 
now requires that all non-ambulatory disabled cattle presented for 
slaughter be condemned. The Agency also requires that federally 
inspected establishments that slaughter cattle and federally inspected 
establishments that process the carcasses or parts of cattle develop, 
implement, and maintain written procedures for the removal, 
segregation, and disposition of SRMs. Establishments must incorporate 
these procedures into their HACCP plans or in their Sanitation SOPs or 
other prerequisite program. FSIS took this action in response to the 
diagnosis on December 23, 2003, by the U.S. Department of Agriculture 
of a positive case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in an 
adult Holstein cow in the State of Washington. This action is intended 
to minimize human exposure to materials that scientific studies have 
demonstrated as containing the BSE agent in cattle infected with the 
disease. Infectivity has never been demonstrated in the muscle tissue 
of cattle experimentally or naturally infected with BSE at any stage of 
the disease.

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/13/07                    72 FR 38700

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 205-0495
Fax: 202 401-1760
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC88
[FR Doc. 07-04634 Filed 12-07-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-DM-S