[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 24636]]



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, Spring 2008

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.''

     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.

     USDA's complete regulatory agenda is 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 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: March 7, 2008.

 Michael Poe,

Chief, Legislative and Regulatory Staff.

                                  Agricultural Marketing Service--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1           National Organic Program: Add Standards for the Organic Certification of Wild Captured    0581-AB97
            Aquatic Animals (TM-01-08)............................................................
2           National Organic Program: Dairy Replacement Animals (Livestock) (TM-07-03)............    0581-AC69
3           National Organic Program, 2011 Sunset (Expiration) Review (Crops and Processing) (TM-     0581-AC77
            07-14)................................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4           National Organic Program: Access to Pasture (TM-05-14)................................    0581-AC57
5           National Organic Program, Sunset (2008) (TM-07-12)....................................    0581-AC76
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6           Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling of Beef, Pork, Lamb, Fish, Perishable                0581-AC26
            Agricultural Commodities, and Peanuts (LS-03-04)......................................
7           Mandatory Reporting for Dairy Programs (DA-06-07).....................................    0581-AC66
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                         Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8           Tuberculosis in Cattle; Import Requirements (Section 610 Review)......................    0579-AB44
9           Animal Welfare; Regulations and Standards for Birds...................................    0579-AC02
10          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)...................................................................

[[Page 24637]]

 
11          Minimum Age Requirements for the Transport of Animals.................................    0579-AC14
12          Tuberculosis in Cattle; Import Requirements for Roping Steers.........................    0579-AC50
13          Handling of Animals; Contingency Plans................................................    0579-AC69
14          Bovine Tuberculosis...................................................................    0579-AC73
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15          Phytosanitary Certificates for Imported Fruits and Vegetables.........................    0579-AB18
16          Phytophthora Ramorum; Quarantine and Regulations......................................    0579-AB82
17          Interstate Movement of Sheep and Goats; Approved Livestock Facilities, Identification,    0579-AB84
            and Recordkeeping Requirements........................................................
18          Boll Weevil; Quarantine and Regulations...............................................    0579-AB91
19          Trichinae Certification Program.......................................................    0579-AB92
20          Special Need Requests Under the Plant Protection Act..................................    0579-AB98
21          Standards for Permanent, Privately Owned Horse Quarantine Facilities (Section 610         0579-AC00
            Review)...............................................................................
22          National Veterinary Accreditation Program (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610        0579-AC04
            Review)...............................................................................
23          Citrus Canker; Compensation for Certified Citrus Nursery Stock........................    0579-AC05
24          Agricultural Inspection and AQI User Fees Along the U.S./Canada Border................    0579-AC06
25          Citrus Canker; Quarantine of the State of Florida.....................................    0579-AC07
26          User Fees; Export Certification for Plants and Plant Products.........................    0579-AC22
27          Importation of Poultry and Poultry Products From Regions Affected With Highly             0579-AC36
            Pathogenic Avian Influenza............................................................
28          Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia; Interstate Movement and Import Restrictions on Certain      0579-AC74
            Live Fish.............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
29          Plant Pest Regulations; Update of Current Provisions (Section 610 Review).............    0579-AA80
30          Animal Welfare: Marine Mammals; Nonconsensus Language and Interactive Programs            0579-AB24
            (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610 Review)......................................
31          Foot-and-Mouth Disease; Payment of Indemnity..........................................    0579-AB34
32          Animal Welfare; Climatic and Environmental Conditions for Transportation of               0579-AC41
            Warmblooded Animals Other Than Marine Mammals.........................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
33          Interstate Movement of Citrus Fruit...................................................    0579-AC34
34          Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy; Minimal-Risk Regions; Identification of Ruminants       0579-AC45
            and Processing and Importation of Commodities.........................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Rural Housing Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
35          Guaranteed Single-Family Housing......................................................    0575-AC18
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 24638]]


                                    Rural Housing Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
36          Thermal Requirements..................................................................    0575-AC65
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Food Safety and Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
37          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...........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Office of the Secretary--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
38          Voluntary Labeling Program for Designated Biobased Products...........................    0503-AA35
39          Designation of Biobased Items for Federal Procurement, Round 7........................    0503-AA36
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BILLING CODE 3410--90--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                          Prerule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 through 6522

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is revising 
regulations pertaining to labeling of agricultural products as 
organically produced and handled (7 CFR part 205). The term ``aquatic 
animal'' will be incorporated in the definition of livestock to 
establish production and handling standards for operations that capture 
aquatic animals from the wild. Production standards for operations 
producing aquatic animals will incorporate requirements for livestock 
origin, feed ration, health care, living conditions, and recordkeeping. 
Handling standards for such operations will address prevention of 
commingling of organically produced commodities and prevention of 
contact between organically produced and prohibited substances.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Richard H. Mathews, Chief of Standards Development and 
Review Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB97
_______________________________________________________________________




2. 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 not adequate, how should they be 
changed? (3) If the regulations should be changed, how much time should 
be allowed 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                           12/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Richard H. Mathews, Chief of Standards Development and 
Review Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC69

[[Page 24639]]

_______________________________________________________________________




3. [bull] NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM, 2011 SUNSET (EXPIRATION) REVIEW 
(CROPS AND PROCESSING) (TM-07-14)

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is amending 
regulations pertaining to the National List of Allowed and Prohibited 
Substances. As required by the National Organic Foods Production Act of 
1990, the allowed use of the 12 synthetic and non-synthetic substances 
in organic production and handling will expire on September 12, 2001. 
The AMS is publishing an advance notice of proposed rulemaking to make 
the public aware of this requirement. AMS believes that public comment 
is essential in the review process to determine whether these 
substances should continue to be allowed or prohibited in the 
production and handling of organic agricultural products.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           03/14/08                    73 FR 13795
ANPRM Comment Period End        05/13/08
NPRM                            12/00/08
Final Action                    10/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Richard H. Mathews, Chief of Standards Development and 
Review Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC77
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




4. 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                            07/00/08

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
_______________________________________________________________________




5. [bull] NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM, SUNSET (2008) (TM-07-12)

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501

Abstract: This rule pertains to The Agricultural Marketing Services' 
National Organic Program. This amendment announces the sunset of 11 
exempted substance and 1 prohibited substance added to the National 
List. This rule also begins the public comment process on whether the 
identified existing exemptions or prohibitions should be continued. 
Finally, this rule discusses how the NOP will manage the sunset review 
and renewal process.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/28/07                    72 FR 73667
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/28/08
NPRM                            06/00/08
Final Action                    10/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Richard H. Mathews, Chief of Standards Development and 
Review Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC76

[[Page 24640]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627, Agricultural Marketing Act of 
1946

Abstract: The Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (Farm 
Bill) (Pub. L. 107-171) and the 2002 Supplemental Appropriations Act 
(2002 Appropriations) (Pub. L. 107-206) amended the Agricultural 
Marketing Act of 1946 (Act) (7 U.S.C. 1621 et seq.) to require 
retailers to notify their customers of the country of origin of covered 
commodities beginning September 30, 2004. Covered commodities include 
muscle cuts of beef (including veal), lamb, and pork; ground beef, 
ground lamb, and ground pork; farm-raised fish and shellfish; wild fish 
and shellfish; perishable agricultural commodities; and peanuts. The FY 
2004 Consolidated Appropriations bill (2004 Appropriations) (Pub. L. 
108-199) delayed implementation of mandatory Country of Origin Labeling 
(COOL) for all covered commodities except wild and farm-raised fish and 
shellfish until September 30, 2006. The FY 2006 Agriculture 
Appropriations Bill further delayed the implementation date for other 
covered commodities until September 30, 2008.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/30/03                    68 FR 61944
NPRM Comment Period End         12/29/03
Interim Final Rule              10/05/04                    69 FR 59708
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      01/03/05
Interim Final Rule Effective    04/04/05
Comment Period Extended         11/27/06                    71 FR 68431
Comment Period End              02/26/07
Comment Period Extended         06/20/07                    72 FR 33851
Comment Period End              08/20/07
Final Action                    09/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Martin O'Connor, Chief, Department of Agriculture, 
Agricultural Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-6456
Phone: 202 720-4486
Fax: 202 690-4119
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC26
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Legal Authority: PL 106-532

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is proposing to establish 
a Dairy Product Mandatory Reporting Program. The program would: (1) 
Require persons engaged in manufacturing dairy products to provide the 
Department of Agriculture certain information including price, 
quantity, and moisture content of dairy products sold by the 
manufacturer and (2) require manufacturers and other persons storing 
dairy products to report to USDA information on the quantity of dairy 
products stored.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/03/07                    72 FR 36341
Interim Final Rule Effective    08/02/07
Comment Period Extended         11/02/07                    72 FR 62105
Final Action                    06/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0581-AC66
BILLING CODE 3410--02--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




8. 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 and captive bison based on each risk 
classification. These changes are necessary to help ensure that cattle 
and captive bison infected with tuberculosis are not imported into the 
United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Kelly Rhodes, Senior Staff Veterinarian, 
Regionalization and Evaluation Services, ISTIT, 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
_______________________________________________________________________




9. ANIMAL WELFARE; REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS FOR BIRDS

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 2159

Abstract: APHIS intends to establish standards for the humane handling, 
care, treatment, and transportation of birds other than birds bred for 
use in research.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Darrel Styles, Veterinary Medical Officer, Animal Care, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection

[[Page 24641]]

Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234
Phone: 301 734-0658

RIN: 0579-AC02
_______________________________________________________________________




10. 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)

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

Abstract: This action would establish a new category in the regulations 
governing the importation of nursery stock, also known as plants for 
planting. This category would list taxa of plants for planting whose 
importation is not authorized pending risk assessment. We would allow 
foreign governments to request that a pest risk assessment be conducted 
for a taxon whose importation is not authorized pending risk 
evaluation. After the pest risk assessment was completed, we would 
conduct rulemaking to remove the taxon from the proposed category if 
determined appropriate by the risk assessment. We are also proposing to 
expand the scope of the plants regulated in the plants for planting 
regulations to include non-vascular plants. These changes would allow 
us to react more quickly to evidence that a taxon of plants for 
planting may pose a pest risk while ensuring that our actions are based 
on scientific evidence.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Arnold T. Tschanz, Senior Import Specialist, Commodity 
Import Analysis & Operations, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal 
and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 141, 
Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-5306

RIN: 0579-AC03
_______________________________________________________________________




11. 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 animals. The regulations currently contain 
such requirements for dogs and cats, but no corresponding ones for 
other regulated 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 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                            05/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/08

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: 301 734-7833

RIN: 0579-AC14
_______________________________________________________________________




12. 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                            12/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Francisco Collazo-Mattei, Assistant 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
_______________________________________________________________________




13. [bull] HANDLING OF ANIMALS; CONTINGENCY PLANS

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 2159

Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the Animal Welfare Act 
regulations to add requirements for contingency planning and training 
of personnel by research facilities and by

[[Page 24642]]

dealers, exhibitors, intermediate handlers, and carriers. We are 
proposing these requirements because we believe all licensees and 
registrants should develop a contingency plan for all animals regulated 
under the Animal Welfare Act in an effort to better prepare for 
potential disasters. This action would heighten the awareness of 
licensees and registrants regarding their responsibilities and help 
ensure a timely and appropriate response should an emergency or 
disaster occur.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Jodie Kulpa-Eddy, Staff Veterinarian, Animal Care, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
4700 River Road, Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737
Phone: 301 734-7833

RIN: 0579-AC69
_______________________________________________________________________




14. [bull] BOVINE TUBERCULOSIS

Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8317

Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the bovine tuberculosis 
regulations by removing from incorporation by reference the Bovine 
Tuberculosis Eradication Uniform Methods and Rules, 1999, and including 
in 9 CFR part 77 all Federal requirements. We are also proposing a 
number of substantive changes to the requirements in order to enhance 
our bovine tuberculosis eradication efforts. The proposed changes 
include, but are not limited to, tightening certain tuberculosis 
surveillance and reporting requirements; strengthening the quarantine 
and quarantine-release requirements; setting minimum testing ages, 
depending upon the status of the State or zone of origin and/or the 
purpose of movement, when testing is required for interstate movement 
of cattle and bison; adding new requirements to prevent the spread of 
tuberculosis from wildlife to cattle and bison; adding new requirements 
for interstate movement of dairy cattle; strengthening the requirements 
for individual cattle and bison that are to be added to accredited 
herds; and providing for the interstate movement of commuter herds. 
Finally, we would reorganize 9 CFR part 77 to make the regulations 
clearer and easier to use.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Charles W. Hench, Senior Staff Veterinarian, National 
Tuberculosis Eradication Program, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal 
and Plant Health Inspection Service, 2150 Centre Avenue, Building B, 
MSC 3E20, Ft. Collins, CO 80526
Phone: 970 494-7378

RIN: 0579-AC73
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




15. 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 would require a phytosanitary certificate to 
accompany all noncommercial shipments of fruits and vegetables imported 
into the United States by air passengers.

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 Action                    10/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Evelia Sosa, Senior Staff Officer, Quarantine Policy 
Analysis and Support, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 140, Riverdale, MD 
20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-8295

RIN: 0579-AB18
_______________________________________________________________________




16. 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 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

[[Page 24643]]

Interim Final Rule Effective    02/27/07
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      04/30/07
Final Rule                      12/00/08

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
_______________________________________________________________________




17. 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                      05/00/08

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
_______________________________________________________________________




18. BOLL WEEVIL; QUARANTINE AND REGULATIONS

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

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/31/06                    71 FR 63707
NPRM Comment Period End         01/02/07
NPRM Comment Period Extended    12/20/06                    71 FR 76224
NPRM Comment Period End         02/01/07
Final Rule                      09/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0579-AB91
_______________________________________________________________________




19. TRICHINAE CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8317; 7 USC 1622; 15 USC 1828; 21 USC 
136a

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 zoonotic 
parasites of the species Trichinella, a disease of swine. Such a 
program should enhance the ability of producers to export pork and pork 
products to overseas markets. This program 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 Action                    05/00/08
Final Rule Effective            06/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0579-AB92
_______________________________________________________________________




20. 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,

[[Page 24644]]

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                      10/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Osama El-Lissy, Director, Emergency and Domestic 
Programs, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 134, Riverdale, MD 20737-1237
Phone: 301 734-5459

RIN: 0579-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________




21. 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                      12/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Freeda Isaac, Assistant Director for Animal 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: 301 734-6479

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
_______________________________________________________________________




22. 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 Action                    05/00/08
Final Rule Effective            06/00/08

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
_______________________________________________________________________




23. CITRUS CANKER; COMPENSATION FOR CERTIFIED CITRUS NURSERY STOCK

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

Abstract: This rulemaking establishes 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
Affirmation of Interim Final 
Rule                            06/00/08

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-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




24. 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 amends 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

[[Page 24645]]

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                            06/00/08

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
_______________________________________________________________________




25. 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
Final Rule                      09/00/08

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-AC07
_______________________________________________________________________




26. 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
Final Rule                      09/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Marcus McElvaine, Senior Import Specialist, PIM, PPQ, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
4700 River Road, Unit 140, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-4382

Kris Caraher, User Fee Section Head, Financial Management Division, 
MRPBS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection 
Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 54, Riverdale, MD 20737-1232
Phone: 301 734-5901

RIN: 0579-AC22
_______________________________________________________________________




27. IMPORTATION OF POULTRY AND POULTRY PRODUCTS FROM REGIONS AFFECTED 
WITH HIGHLY PATHOGENIC AVIAN INFLUENZA

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

Abstract: This rulemaking will amend the regulations concerning the 
importation of animals and animal products to prohibit or restrict the 
importation of birds, poultry, and bird and poultry products from 
regions that have reported the presence in commercial birds or poultry 
of highly pathogenic avian influenza other than subtype H5N1. This 
action will supplement existing prohibitions and restrictions on 
articles from regions that have reported the presence of exotic 
Newcastle disease or highly pathogenic avian influenza subtype H5N1. 
The new restrictions will be almost identical to those imposed on 
articles from regions with exotic Newcastle disease.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/00/08
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Julia Punderson, Senior Staff Veterinarian, NCIE, 
Animal

[[Page 24646]]

Health Policy and Programs, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 38, Riverdale, 
MD 20737
Phone: 301 734-4356

RIN: 0579-AC36
_______________________________________________________________________




28. [bull] VIRAL HEMORRHAGIC SEPTICEMIA; INTERSTATE MOVEMENT AND IMPORT 
RESTRICTIONS ON CERTAIN LIVE FISH

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

Abstract: This rulemaking will establish regulations to restrict the 
interstate movement and importation into the United States of live fish 
that are susceptible to viral hemorrhagic septicemia, a highly 
contagious disease of certain fresh and saltwater fish. In 2005 and 
2006, viral hemorrhagic septicemia was detected in freshwater fish in 
several of the Great Lakes and related tributaries. The disease has 
been responsible for several large-scale die-offs of wild fish in the 
Great Lakes region. This action is necessary to prevent further 
introductions into, and dissemination within, the United States of 
viral hemorrhagic septicemia.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/00/08
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: P. Gary Egrie, Senior Staff Veterinary Medical Officer, 
National Center for Animal Health Programs, VS, Department of 
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River 
Road, Unit 46, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-6188

Peter Merrill, Senior Staff Veterinarian, 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-AC74
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




29. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




30. 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.

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: 301 734-7833

RIN: 0579-AB24
_______________________________________________________________________




31. 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

[[Page 24647]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




32. 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 rule would replace 
a previously published proposed rule, 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 rulemaking 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                            01/03/08                      73 FR 413
NPRM Comment Period End         03/03/08
NPRM Comment Period Reopened    03/18/08                    73 FR 14403
NPRM Comment Period End         04/17/08


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Jerry D. DePoyster
Phone: 301 734-7586

RIN: 0579-AC41
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




33. INTERSTATE MOVEMENT OF CITRUS FRUIT

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

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/19/07                    72 FR 65172
Final Action Effective          11/19/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

RIN: 0579-AC34
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450 ; 7 USC 1622; 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 
to 7786; 7 USC 8301 to 8317; 21 USC 136 and 136a; 31 USC 9701

Abstract: This rulemaking will 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 into the United States. 
This action will remove these restrictions because they are not 
necessary to prevent the introduction of bovine spongiform 
encephalopathy into the United States.

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/18/08                     73 FR 3379
Final Action Effective          02/19/08

[[Page 24648]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

Freeda Isaac
Phone: 301 734-6479

RIN: 0579-AC45
BILLING CODE 3410--34--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Housing Service (RHS)



_______________________________________________________________________




35. 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                    01/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Joaquin Tremols, Acting Director, Single-Family Housing 
Guaranteed Loan Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1465
Fax: 202 205-2476
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC18
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Rural Housing Service (RHS)



_______________________________________________________________________




36. THERMAL REQUIREMENTS

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 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.

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/11/07                    72 FR 70220

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michel Mitias
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 Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

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

Abstract: FSIS has proposed to establish pathogen reduction performance 
standards for all ready-to-eat (RTE) and partially heat-treated meat 
and poultry products, and measures, including testing, to control 
Listeria monocytogenes in RTE products. The performance standards spell 
out the objective level of pathogen reduction that establishments must 
meet during their operations in order to produce safe products but 
allow the use of customized, plant-specific processing procedures other 
than those prescribed in the earlier regulations. With HACCP, food 
safety performance standards give establishments the incentive and 
flexibility to adopt innovative, science-based food safety processing 
procedures and controls, while providing objective, measurable 
standards that can be verified by Agency inspectional oversight. This 
set of performance standards will include and be consistent with 
standards already in place for certain ready-to-eat meat and poultry 
products.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/27/01                    66 FR 12590
NPRM Comment Period End         05/29/01
NPRM Comment Period Extended    07/03/01                    66 FR 35112
NPRM Comment Period End         09/10/01
Interim Final Rule              06/06/03                    68 FR 34208
Interim Final Rule Effective    10/06/03
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      01/31/05
NPRM Comment Period Reopened    03/24/05                    70 FR 15017

[[Page 24649]]

NPRM Comment Period End         05/09/05
Affirmation of Interim Final 
Rule                            12/00/08
Final Action                    04/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Deputy Assistant 
Administrator, Office of Policy and Program Development, Department of 
Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0495
Fax: 202 401-1760
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC46
BILLING CODE 3410--DM--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Office of the Secretary (AgSEC)



_______________________________________________________________________




38. [bull] VOLUNTARY LABELING PROGRAM FOR DESIGNATED BIOBASED PRODUCTS

Legal Authority: PL 107-171

Abstract: The purpose of the program is to provide a ``U.S.D.A. 
Certified Biobased Product'' label for use on biobased products meeting 
certain criteria to be established in the proposed rule, to specify 
those criteria for gaining use of the label, establish a system to make 
the label available to manufacturers and vendors of biobased products, 
and to establish the labeling program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Marvin Duncan, Senior Agricultural Economist, 
Department of Agriculture, Office of the Secretary, Office of Energy 
Policy and New Uses, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 4059, South 
Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 401-0461
Fax: 202 401-0535
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0503-AA35
_______________________________________________________________________




39. [bull] DESIGNATION OF BIOBASED ITEMS FOR FEDERAL PROCUREMENT, ROUND 
7

Legal Authority: PL 107-171, sec 9002

Abstract: Designates bath products; concrete and asphalt cleaners, 
including microbial and non-microbial concrete and asphalt cleaners as 
subcategories; corrosion removers; dishwashing detergents; floor 
cleaners and protectors; hair cleaning products, including shampoos and 
conditioners as subcategories; microbial cleaners; oven and grill 
cleaners; slide way lubricants; and thermal shipping containers, 
including durable and non-durable thermal shipping containers as 
subcategories.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Marvin Duncan, Senior Agricultural Economist, 
Department of Agriculture, Office of the Secretary, Office of Energy 
Policy and New Uses, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 4059, South 
Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 401-0461
Fax: 202 401-0535
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0503-AA36
[FR Doc. E8-7340 Filed 05-02-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-90-S