Oct. 1, 2006 CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS 46 Part 500 to End Revised as of October 1, 2007 Shipping Containing a codification of documents of general applicability and future effect As of October 1, 2007 With Ancillaries

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 Table of Contents Page Explanation v Title 46: Chapter IV—Federal Maritime Commission 3 Finding Aids: Table of CFR Titles and Chapters 279 Alphabetical List of Agencies Appearing in the CFR 297 List of CFR Sections Affected 307

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 Raymond A. Mosley, Director, Office of the Federal Register. October 1, 2007. THIS TITLE

Title 46—Shipping is composed of nine volumes. The parts in these volumes are arranged in the following order: Parts 1-40, 41-69, 70-89, 90-139, 140-155, 156-165, 166-199, 200-499 and 500 to End. The first seven volumes containing parts 1-199 comprise chapter I—Coast Guard, DHS. The eighth volume, containing parts 200 to 499, includes chapter II—Maritime Administration, DOT and chapter III—Coast Guard (Great Lakes Pilotage), DHS. The ninth volume, containing part 500 to End, includes chapter IV—Federal Maritime Commission. The contents of these volumes represent all current regulations codified under this title of the CFR as of October 1, 2007.

Subject indexes appear in chapter I, subchapters A—I, I-A, J, K, L, and Q—W following the subchapters.

For this volume, Bonnie Fritts and Robert Sheehan were Chief Editors. The Code of Federal Regulations publication program is under the direction of Michael L. White, assisted by Ann Worley.

 <LRH>46 CFR Ch. IV (10-1-07 Edition)</LRH> <RRH>Federal Maritime Commission</RRH> <CFRTITLE> <TITLEHD> <PRTPAGE P="1"/> <HD SOURCE="HED">Title 46—Shipping</HD> <P>(This book contains part 500 to End)</P> </TITLEHD> <CFRTOC> <PTHD>Part</PTHD> <CHAPTI> <SUBJECT> <E T="04">chapter iv</E>—Federal Maritime Commission</SUBJECT> <PG>500</PG> </CHAPTI> </CFRTOC> </CFRTITLE> <CHAPTER> <TOC> <TOCHD> <PRTPAGE P="3"/> <HD SOURCE="HED">CHAPTER IV—FEDERAL MARITIME COMMISSION</HD> </TOCHD> <SUBCHAP> <HD SOURCE="HED">SUBCHAPTER A—GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS</HD> </SUBCHAP> <PTHD>Part</PTHD> <PGHD>Page</PGHD> <CHAPTI> <PT>500</PT> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> <PT>501</PT> <SUBJECT>The Federal Maritime Commission—General</SUBJECT> <PG>5</PG> <PT>502</PT> <SUBJECT>Rules of practice and procedure</SUBJECT> <PG>19</PG> <PT>503</PT> <SUBJECT>Public information</SUBJECT> <PG>91</PG> <PT>504</PT> <SUBJECT>Procedures for environmental policy analysis</SUBJECT> <PG>121</PG> <PT>505</PT> <SUBJECT>Administrative offset</SUBJECT> <PG>126</PG> <PT>506</PT> <SUBJECT>Civil monetary penalty inflation adjustment</SUBJECT> <PG>128</PG> <PT>507</PT> <SUBJECT>Enforcement of nondiscrimination on the basis of handicap in programs or activities conducted by the Federal Maritime Commission</SUBJECT> <PG>130</PG> <PT>508</PT> <SUBJECT>Employee ethical conduct standards and financial disclosure regulations</SUBJECT> <PG>136</PG> </CHAPTI> <SUBCHAP> <HD SOURCE="HED">SUBCHAPTER B—REGULATIONS AFFECTING OCEAN SHIPPING IN FOREIGN COMMERCE</HD> </SUBCHAP> <CHAPTI> <PT>515</PT> <SUBJECT>Licensing, financial responsibility requirements, and general duties for ocean transportation intermediaries</SUBJECT> <PG>137</PG> <PT>520</PT> <SUBJECT>Carrier automated tariffs</SUBJECT> <PG>161</PG> <PT>525</PT> <SUBJECT>Marine terminal operator schedules</SUBJECT> <PG>176</PG> <PT>530</PT> <SUBJECT>Service contracts</SUBJECT> <PG>180</PG> <PT>531</PT> <SUBJECT>NVOCC Service arrangements</SUBJECT> <PG>191</PG> <PT>535</PT> <SUBJECT>Ocean common carrier and marine terminal operator agreements subject to the Shipping Act of 1984</SUBJECT> <PG>202</PG> <PT>540</PT> <SUBJECT>Passenger vessel financial responsibility</SUBJECT> <PG>239</PG> <PT>545</PT> <SUBJECT>Interpretations and statements of policy</SUBJECT> <PG>256</PG> </CHAPTI> <SUBCHAP> <HD SOURCE="HED">SUBCHAPTER C—REGULATIONS AND ACTIONS TO ADDRESS RESTRICTIVE FOREIGN MARITIME PRACTICES</HD> </SUBCHAP> <CHAPTI> <PT>550</PT> <SUBJECT>Regulations to adjust or meet conditions unfavorable to shipping in the foreign trade of the United States</SUBJECT> <PG>258<PRTPAGE P="4"/> </PG> <PT>551</PT> <SUBJECT>Actions to adjust or meet conditions unfavorable to shipping in the U.S. foreign trade</SUBJECT> <PG>263</PG> <PT>555</PT> <SUBJECT>Actions to address adverse conditions affecting U.S.-flag carriers that do not exist for foreign carriers in the United States</SUBJECT> <PG>263</PG> <PT>560</PT> <SUBJECT>Actions to address conditions unduly impairing access of U.S.-flag vessels to ocean trade between foreign ports</SUBJECT> <PG>267</PG> <PT>565</PT> <SUBJECT>Controlled carriers</SUBJECT> <PG>272</PG> </CHAPTI> <SUBCHAP> <RESERVED>SUBCHAPTER D—REGULATIONS AFFECTING MARITIME CARRIERS AND RELATED ACTIVITIES IN FOREIGN COMMERCE [RESERVED]</RESERVED> </SUBCHAP> </TOC> <SUBCHAP TYPE="N"> <PRTPAGE P="5"/> <HD SOURCE="HED">SUBCHAPTER A—GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS</HD> <PART> <RESERVED>PART 500 [RESERVED]</RESERVED> </PART> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 501</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 501—THE FEDERAL MARITIME COMMISSION—GENERAL</HD> <CONTENTS> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—Organization and Functions</HD> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>501.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>501.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>501.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Organizational components of the Federal Maritime Commission.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>501.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Lines of responsibility.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>501.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Functions of the organizational components of the Federal Maritime Commission.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Official Seal</HD> <SECTNO>501.11</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Official seal.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Delegation and Redelegation of Authorities</HD> <SECTNO>501.21</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation of authorities.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>501.22</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>501.23</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to the General Counsel.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>501.24</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to the Secretary.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>501.25</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to the Director, Office of Operations.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>501.26</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to and redelegation by the Director, Bureau of Certification and Licensing.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>501.27</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to and redelegation by the Director, Bureau of Trade Analysis.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>501.28</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to the Director, Bureau of Enforcement.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>501.29</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to and redelegation by the Director, Office of Administration.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Public Requests for Information</HD> <SECTNO>501.41</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Public requests for information and decisions.</SUBJECT> <APP>Appendix A to Part 501—Organization Chart</APP> </SUBPART> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>5 U.S.C. 551-557, 701-706, 2903, and 6304; 31 U.S.C. 3721; 41 U.S.C. 414 and 418; 44 U.S.C. 501-520 and 3501-3520; 46 U.S.C. app. 876, 1111, and 1701-1720; Reorganization Plan No. 7 of 1961, 26 FR 7315, August 12, 1961; Pub. L. 89-56, 70 Stat. 195; 5 CFR Part 2638; Pub. L. 89-777, 80 Stat. 1356; Pub. L. 104-320, 110 Stat. 3870.</P> </AUTH> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>70 FR 7659, Feb. 15, 2005, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—Organization and Functions</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose.</SUBJECT> <P>This part describes the organization, functions and Official Seal of, and the delegation of authority within, the Federal Maritime Commission (“Commission”).</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Statutory functions.</E> The Commission regulates common carriers by water and other persons involved in the oceanborne foreign commerce of the United States under provisions of the Shipping Act of 1984, as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 (46 U.S.C. app. sections 1701-1720); section 19 of the Merchant Marine Act, 1920 (46 U.S.C. app. section 876); the Foreign Shipping Practices Act of 1988 (46 U.S.C. app. section 1710a); sections 2 and 3, Public Law 89-777, Financial Responsibility for Death or Injury to Passengers and for Non-Performance of Voyages (46 U.S.C. app. sections 817d and 817e); and other applicable statutes.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Establishment and composition of the Commission.</E> The Commission was established as an independent agency by Reorganization Plan No. 7 of 1961, effective August 12, 1961, and is composed of five Commissioners (“Commissioners” or “members”), appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Not more than three Commissioners may be appointed from the same political party. The President designates one of the Commissioners to serve as the Chairman of the Commission (“Chairman”).</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Terms and vacancies.</E> The term of each member of the Commission is five years and begins when the term of the predecessor of that member ends (<E T="03">i.e.,</E> on June 30 of each successive year), except that, when the term of office of a member ends, the member may continue to serve until a successor is appointed and qualified. A vacancy in the office of any Commissioner shall be <PRTPAGE P="6"/>filled in the same manner as the original appointment, except that any person chosen to fill a vacancy shall be appointed only for the unexpired term of the Commissioner whom he or she succeeds. Each Commissioner shall be removable by the President for inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Quorum.</E> A vacancy or vacancies in the Commission shall not impair the power of the Commission to execute its functions. The affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the Commission is required to dispose of any matter before the Commission. For purposes of holding a formal meeting for the transaction of the business of the Commission, the actual presence of two Commissioners shall be sufficient. Proxy votes of absent members shall be permitted.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Meetings; records; rules and regulations.</E> The Commission shall, through its Secretary, keep a true record of all its meetings and the yea-and-nay votes taken therein on every action and order approved or disapproved by the Commission. In addition to or in aid of its functions, the Commission adopts rules and regulations in regard to its powers, duties and functions under the shipping statutes it administers.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Organizational components of the Federal Maritime Commission.</SUBJECT> <P>The major organizational components of the Commission are set forth in the Organization Chart attached as Appendix A to this part. An outline table of the components/functions follows:</P> <P>(a) Office of the Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission. (<E T="03">Chief Executive and Administrative Officer, FOIA and Privacy Act Appeals Officer.</E>)</P> <P>(1) Information Security Officer.</P> <P>(2) Designated Agency Ethics Official.</P> <P>(b) Offices of the Members of the Federal Maritime Commission.</P> <P>(c) Office of the Secretary. (<E T="03">FOIA and Privacy Act Officer, Federal Register Liaison.</E>)</P> <P>(1) Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services.</P> <P>(2) [Reserved]</P> <P>(d) Office of the General Counsel. (<E T="03">Ethics Official; Chair, Permanent Task Force on International Affairs; Legislative Counsel.</E>)</P> <P>(e) Office of Administrative Law Judges.</P> <P>(f) Office of Equal Employment Opportunity.</P> <P>(g) Office of the Inspector General.</P> <P>(h) Office of Operations.</P> <P>(1) Bureau of Certification and Licensing.</P> <P>(i) Office of Passenger Vessels & Information Processing.</P> <P>(ii) Office of Ocean Transportation Intermediaries.</P> <P>(2) Bureau of Trade Analysis.</P> <P>(i) Office of Agreements.</P> <P>(ii) Office of Economics & Competition Analysis.</P> <P>(iii) Office of Service Contracts & Tariffs.</P> <P>(3) Bureau of Enforcement.</P> <P>(4) Area Representatives.</P> <P>(i) Office of Administration. (<E T="03">Chief Acquisition Officer, Audit Followup and Management Controls Official, Chief Information Officer, Chief Financial Officer.</E>)</P> <P>(1) Office of Budget and Financial Management.</P> <P>(2) Office of Human Resources.</P> <P>(3) Office of Information Technology. (<E T="03">Senior IT Officer, Forms Control Officer, Network Security Officer, Records Management Officer.</E>)</P> <P>(4) Office of Management Services. (<E T="03">Physical Security, FMC Contracting Officer.</E>)</P> <P>(j) Boards and Committees.</P> <P>(1) Executive Resources Board.</P> <P>(2) Performance Review Board.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Lines of responsibility.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Chairman.</E> The Office of the Secretary, the Office of the General Counsel, the Office of Administrative Law Judges, the Office of Equal Employment Opportunity, the Office of the Inspector General, the Office of Operations, the Office of Administration, and officials performing the functions of Information Security Officer and Designated Agency Ethics Official, report to the Chairman of the Commission.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Office of Operations.</E> The Bureau of Certification and Licensing, Bureau of Enforcement, Bureau of Trade Analysis, and Area Representatives report to the Office of Operations.<PRTPAGE P="7"/> </P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Office of Administration.</E> The Office of Budget and Financial Management, Office of Human Resources, Office of Information Technology, and Office of Management Services report to the Office of Administration. The Office of Equal Employment Opportunity and the Office of the Inspector General receive administrative assistance from the Director of Administration. All other units of the Commission receive administrative guidance from the Director of Administration.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Office of the Secretary.</E> The Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services reports to the Office of the Secretary.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Functions of the organizational components of the Federal Maritime Commission.</SUBJECT> <P>As further provided in subpart C of this part, the functions, including the delegated authority of the Commission's organizational components and/or officials to exercise their functions and to take all actions necessary to direct and carry out their assigned duties and responsibilities under the lines of responsibility set forth in § 501.4, are briefly set forth as follows:</P> <P>(a) <E T="03">Chairman.</E> As the chief executive and administrative officer of the Commission, the Chairman presides at meetings of the Commission, administers the policies of the Commission to its responsible officials, and ensures the efficient discharge of their responsibilities. The Chairman provides management direction to the Offices of Equal Employment Opportunity, Inspector General, Secretary, General Counsel, Administrative Law Judges, Operations, and Administration with respect to all matters concerning overall Commission workflow, resource allocation (both staff and budgetary), work priorities and similar managerial matters; and establishes, as necessary, various committees and boards to address overall operations of the agency. The Chairman serves as appeals officer under the Freedom of Information Act, the Privacy Act, and the Federal Activities Inventory Reform Act of 1998. The Chairman appoints the heads of major administrative units after consultation with the other Commissioners. In addition, the Chairman, as “head of the agency,” has certain responsibilities under Federal laws and directives not specifically related to shipping. For example, the special offices or officers within the Commission, listed under paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(4) of this section, are appointed or designated by the Chairman, are under his or her direct supervision and report directly to the Chairman:</P> <P>(1) Under the direction and management of the Office Director, the <E T="03">Office of Equal Employment Opportunity</E> (“EEO”) ensures that statutory and regulatory prohibitions against discrimination in employment and the requirements for related programs are fully implemented. As such, the Office administers and implements comprehensive programs on discrimination complaints processing, affirmative action and special emphasis. The Director, EEO, advises the Chairman regarding EEO's plans, procedures, regulations, reports and other matters pertaining to policy and the agency's programs. Additionally, the Director provides leadership and advice to managers and supervisors in carrying out their respective responsibilities in equal employment opportunity. The EEO Office administers and implements these program responsibilities in accordance with Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) Regulations at 29 CFR Part 1614 and other relevant EEOC Directives and Bulletins.</P> <P>(2) Under the direction and management of the Inspector General, the <E T="03">Office of Inspector General</E> conducts, supervises and coordinates audits and investigations relating to the programs and operations of the Commission; reviews existing and proposed legislation and regulations pertaining to such programs and operations; provides leadership and coordination and recommends policies for activities designed to promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness in the administration of, and to prevent and detect waste, fraud and abuse in, such programs and operations; and advises the Chairman and the Congress fully and currently about problems and deficiencies relating to the administration of such programs and operations and the necessity for and progress of corrective action.<PRTPAGE P="8"/> </P> <P>(3) The <E T="03">Information Security Officer</E> is a senior agency official designated under § 503.52 of this chapter to direct and administer the Commission's information security program, which includes an active oversight and security education program to ensure effective implementation of Executive Orders 12958 and 12968.</P> <P>(4) The <E T="03">Designated Agency Ethics Official</E> and <E T="03">Alternate</E> are appropriate agency employees formally designated under 5 CFR 2638.202 and § 508.101 of this chapter to coordinate and manage the ethics program as set forth in 5 CFR 2638.203, which includes the functions of advising on matters of employee responsibilities and conduct, and serving as the Commission's designee(s) to the Office of Government Ethics on such matters. They provide counseling and guidance to employees on conflicts of interest and other ethical matters.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Commissioners.</E> The members of the Commission, including the Chairman, implement various shipping statutes and related directives by rendering decisions, issuing orders, and adopting and enforcing rules and regulations governing persons subject to the shipping statutes; and perform other duties and functions as may be appropriate under reorganization plans, statutes, executive orders, and regulations.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Secretary.</E> Under the direction and management of the Secretary, the Office of the Secretary:</P> <P>(1) Is responsible for the preparation, maintenance and disposition of the official files and records documenting the business of the Commission. In this regard, the Office:</P> <P>(i) Prepares and, as appropriate, publishes agenda of matters for action by the Commission; prepares and maintains the minutes with respect to such actions; signs, serves and issues, on behalf of the Commission, documents implementing such actions, and coordinates follow-up thereon.</P> <P>(ii) Receives and processes formal and informal complaints involving alleged statutory violations, petitions for relief, special dockets applications, applications to correct clerical or administrative errors in service contracts, requests for conciliation service, staff recommendations for investigation and rulemaking proceedings, and motions and filings relating thereto.</P> <P>(iii) Disseminates information regarding the proceedings, activities, functions, and responsibilities of the Commission to the maritime industry, news media, general public, and other government agencies. In this capacity the Office also:</P> <P>(A) Administers the Commission's Freedom of Information Act, Privacy Act and Government in the Sunshine Act responsibilities; the Secretary serves as the Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act Officer.</P> <P>(B) Authenticates records of the Commission.</P> <P>(C) Receives and responds to subpoenas directed to Commission personnel and/or records.</P> <P>(D) Compiles and publishes the bound volumes of Commission decisions.</P> <P>(E) Coordinates publication of documents, including rules and modifications thereto with the Office of the Federal Register; the Secretary serves as the Federal Register Liaison Officer and Certifying Officer.</P> <P>(F) Oversees the content and organization of the Commission's Web site and authorizes the publication of documents thereon.</P> <P>(2) Through the Secretary and, in the absence or preoccupation of the Secretary, through the Assistant Secretary, administers oaths pursuant to 5 U.S.C. § 2903(b).</P> <P>(3) Manages the Commission's library and related services.</P> <P>(4) Through the Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services, has responsibility for developing and implementing the Alternative Dispute Resolution Program, responds to consumer inquiries and complaints, and coordinates the Commission's efforts to resolve disputes within the shipping industry. The Director of the Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services is designated as the agency Dispute Resolution Specialist pursuant to section 3 of the Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996, Public Law 104-320.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">General Counsel.</E> Under the direction and management of the General Counsel, the Office of the General Counsel:<PRTPAGE P="9"/> </P> <P>(1) Reviews for legal sufficiency all staff memoranda and recommendations that are presented for Commission action and staff actions acted upon pursuant to delegated authority under §§ 501.27(e) and 501.27(g).</P> <P>(2) Provides written or oral legal opinions to the Commission, to the staff, and to the general public in appropriate cases.</P> <P>(3) Prepares and/or reviews for legal sufficiency, before service, all final Commission decisions, orders, and regulations.</P> <P>(4) Monitors, reviews and, as requested by the Committees of the Congress, the Office of Management and Budget, or the Chairman, prepares comments on all legislation introduced in the Congress affecting the Commission's programs or activities, and prepares draft legislation or amendments to legislation; coordinates such matters with the appropriate Bureau, Office or official and advises appropriate Commission officials of legislation that may impact the programs and activities of the Commission; prepares testimony for congressional hearings and responses to requests from congressional offices.</P> <P>(5) Serves as the legal representative of the Commission in courts and in administrative proceedings before other government agencies.</P> <P>(6) Monitors and reports on international maritime developments, including laws and practices of foreign governments which affect ocean shipping; and identifies potential state-controlled carriers within the meaning of section 3(8) of the Shipping Act of 1984, researches their status, and makes recommendations to the Commission concerning their classification.</P> <P>(7) Represents the Commission in U.S. Government interagency groups dealing with international maritime issues; serves as a technical advisor on regulatory matters in bilateral and multilateral maritime discussions; and coordinates Commission activities through liaison with other government agencies and programs and international organizations.</P> <P>(8) Screens, routes, and maintains custody of U.S. Government and international organization documents, subject to the classification and safekeeping controls administered by the Commission's Information Security Officer.</P> <P>(9) Reviews for legal sufficiency all adverse personnel actions, procurement activities, Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act matters and other administrative actions.</P> <P>(10) Serves as the Chair of the Permanent Task Force on International Affairs or designates a person to serve as the Chair.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Administrative Law Judges.</E> Under the direction and management of the Chief Administrative Law Judge, the Office of Administrative Law Judges holds hearings and renders initial or recommended decisions in formal rulemaking and adjudicatory proceedings as provided in the Shipping Act of 1984, and other applicable laws and other matters assigned by the Commission, in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act and the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Office of Operations.</E> (1) The Director of Operations:</P> <P>(i) As senior staff official, is responsible to the Chairman for the management and coordination of the Commission's Bureaus of Certification and Licensing; Trade Analysis; Enforcement; and the Commission's Area Representatives, as more fully described below, and thereby implements the regulatory policies of the Commission and directives of the Chairman;</P> <P>(ii) The Office initiates recommendations, collaborating with other elements of the Commission as warranted, for long-range plans, new or revised policies and standards, and rules and regulations, with respect to its program activities.</P> <P>(2) [Reserved]</P> <P>(g) Under the direction and management of the Bureau Director, the <E T="03">Bureau of Certification and Licensing:</E> </P> <P>(1) Through the Office of Transportation Intermediaries, has responsibility for reviewing applications for Ocean Transportation Intermediary (“OTI”) licenses, and maintaining records about licensees.</P> <P>(2) Through the Office of Passenger Vessels and Information Processing, has responsibility for reviewing applications for certificates of financial responsibility with respect to passenger <PRTPAGE P="10"/>vessels, managing all activities with respect to evidence of financial responsibility for OTIs and passenger vessel owner/operators, and for developing and maintaining all Bureau databases and records of OTI applicants and licensees.</P> <P>(h) Under the direction and management of the Bureau Director, the <E T="03">Bureau of Trade Analysis,</E> through its Office of Agreements; Office of Economics and Competition Analysis; and Office of Service Contracts and Tariffs, reviews agreements and monitors the concerted activities of common carriers by water, reviews and analyzes service contracts, monitors rates of government controlled carriers, reviews carrier published tariff systems under the accessibility and accuracy standards of the Shipping Act of 1984, responds to inquiries or issues that arise concerning service contracts or tariffs, and is responsible for competition oversight and market analysis.</P> <P>(i) Under the direction and management of the Bureau Director, the <E T="03">Bureau of Enforcement:</E> </P> <P>(1) Participates as trial counsel in formal Commission proceedings when designated by Commission order, or when intervention is granted;</P> <P>(2) Initiates, processes and negotiates the informal compromise of civil penalties under § 501.28 and § 502.604 of this chapter, and represents the Commission in proceedings and circumstances as designated;</P> <P>(3) Acts as staff counsel to the Director of Operations and other bureaus and offices;</P> <P>(4) Coordinates with other bureaus and offices to provide legal advice, attorney liaison, and prosecution, as warranted, in connection with enforcement matters;</P> <P>(5) Conducts investigations leading to enforcement action, advises the Commission of evolving competitive practices in international oceanborne commerce, and assesses the practical repercussions of Commission regulations.</P> <P>(j) <E T="03">Area Representatives.</E> Maintain a presence in locations other than Washington, DC, with activities including the following:</P> <P>(1) Representing the Commission within their respective geographic areas;</P> <P>(2) Providing liaison between the Commission and the shipping industry and interested public; conveying pertinent information regarding regulatory activities and problems; and recommending courses of action and solutions to problems as they relate to the shipping public, the affected industry, and the Commission;</P> <P>(3) Furnishing to interested persons information, advice, and access to Commission public documents;</P> <P>(4) Receiving and resolving informal complaints, in coordination with the Director, Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services;</P> <P>(5) Investigating potential violations of the shipping statutes and the Commission's regulations;</P> <P>(6) Conducting shipping industry surveillance programs to ensure compliance with the shipping statutes and the Commission's regulations. Such programs include common carrier audits, service contract audits and compliance checks of OTIs;</P> <P>(7) Upon request of the Bureau of Certification and Licensing, auditing passenger vessel operators to determine the adequacy of performance bonds and the availability of funds to pay liability claims for death or injury, and assisting in the background surveys of OTI applicants;</P> <P>(8) Conducting special surveys and studies, and recommending policies to strengthen enforcement of the shipping laws;</P> <P>(9) Maintaining liaison with Federal and State agencies with respect to areas of mutual concern; and</P> <P>(10) Providing assistance to the various bureaus and offices of the Commission, as appropriate and when requested.</P> <P>(k) <E T="03">Office of Administration.</E> (1) The Director of Administration:</P> <P>(i) Provides administrative guidance to all units of the Commission, except the Offices of Equal Employment Opportunity and the Inspector General, which are provided administrative assistance;</P> <P>(ii) Is the agency's Chief Acquisition Officer under the Services Acquisition Reform Act of 2003, Public Law 108-136, 117 Stat. 1663 and Commission Order No. 112;<PRTPAGE P="11"/> </P> <P>(iii) Is the Audit Follow-up and Management (Internal) Controls Official for the Commission under Commission Orders 103 and 106;</P> <P>(iv) Is the agency's Chief Financial Officer;</P> <P>(v) Serves as the agency's lead executive for strategic planning, implementation and compliance with the Government Performance and Results Act of 1993, Public Law 103-62, 107 Stat. 285;</P> <P>(2) The Deputy Director of Administration is the Commission's Chief Information Officer.</P> <P>(3) The Office of Administration ensures the periodic review and updating of Commission orders. Under the direction and management of the Director of Administration, the Office of Administration is responsible for the management and coordination of the Offices of: Budget and Financial Management, Human Resources, Information Technology, and Management Services. The Office of Administration provides administrative support to the program operations of the Commission. The Director of Administration interprets governmental policies and programs and administers these in a manner consistent with Federal guidelines, including those involving financial management, human resources, information technology, and procurement. The Office initiates recommendations, collaborating with other elements of the Commission as warranted, for long-range plans, new or revised policies and standards, and rules and regulations, with respect to its activities. The Director of Administration is responsible for directing and administering the Commission's training and development function. The Director of Administration also acts as the Commission's representative to the Small Agency Council. Other programs are carried out by its Offices, as follows:</P> <P>(i) Office of Budget and Financial Management, under the direction and management of the Office Director, administers the Commission's financial management program, including fiscal accounting activities, fee and forfeiture collections, and payments, and ensures that Commission obligations and expenditures of appropriated funds are proper; develops annual budget justifications for submission to the Congress and the Office of Management and Budget; develops and administers internal controls systems that provide accountability for agency funds; administers the Commission's travel and cash management programs, ensures accountability for official passports; and assists in the development of proper levels of user fees.</P> <P>(ii) The Office of Human Resources, under the direction and management of the Office Director, plans and administers a complete personnel management program including: Recruitment and placement; position classification and pay administration; occupational safety and health; employee counseling services; employee relations; workforce discipline; performance appraisal; incentive awards; retirement; and personnel security.</P> <P>(iii) Office of Information Technology, under the direction and management of the Office Director, administers the Commission's information technology (“IT”) program under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, as amended, as well as other applicable laws that prescribe responsibility for operating the IT program. The Office provides administrative support with respect to information technology to the program operations of the Commission. The Office interprets governmental policies and programs for information technology and administers these policies and programs in a manner consistent with federal guidelines. The Office initiates recommendations, collaborating with other elements of the Commission as warranted, for long range plans, new or revised policies and standards, and rules and regulations with respect to its program activities. The Office's functions include: conducting IT management studies and surveys; managing data telecommunications; developing and managing databases and applications; coordinating records management activities; administering IT contracts; and developing Paperwork Reduction Act clearances for submission to the Office of Management and Budget. The Office is also responsible for managing the computer security and the records and forms programs. The Director of the Office serves as Senior IT Officer, <PRTPAGE P="12"/>Forms Control Officer, Computer Security Officer, and Records Management Officer.</P> <P>(iv) Office of Management Services, under the direction and management of the Office Director, directs and administers a variety of management support service functions of the Commission. The Director of the Office is the Commission's principal Contracting Officer under Commission Order No. 112. Programs include voice telecommunications; acquisition of all goods and services used by the Commission; building security and emergency preparedness; real and personal property management; printing and copying; mail services; graphic design; equipment maintenance; and transportation. The Office Director is the agency's liaison with the Small Agency Council's Procurement and Administrative Services Committees and with the General Services Administration (“GSA”) and the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) on building security Committee.</P> <P>(l) <E T="03">Boards and Committees.</E> The following boards and committees are established by separate Commission orders to address matters relating to the overall operations of the Commission:</P> <P>(1) The <E T="03">Executive Resources Board</E> (“ERB”) is composed of all Senior Executive Service members. The Chairman shall designate an ERB chair on a rotational basis beginning October 1 of each year. The Board meets on an <E T="03">ad hoc</E> basis to discuss, develop and submit recommendations to the Chairman on matters related to the merit staffing process for career appointments in the Senior Executive Service, including the executive qualifications of candidates for career appointment. The Board also plans and manages the Commission's executive development programs. Serving the Board in a non-voting advisory capacity are the Director, Office of Equal Employment Opportunity, the Training Officer, and the Director, Office of Human Resources, who also serves as the Board's secretary. [Commission Order No. 95.]</P> <P>(2) The <E T="03">Performance Review Board</E> (“PRB”) is chaired by a Commissioner designated by the Chairman, and is composed of a standing register of members which is published in the <E T="04">Federal Register.</E> Once a year, the PRB Chairman appoints performance review panels from the membership to review individual performance appraisals and other relevant information pertaining to Senior Executives at the Commission, and to recommend final performance ratings to the Chairman. [Commission Order No. 115.] Every three years, the PRB considers supervisors' recommendations as to whether Senior Executives of the Commission should be recertified under the Ethics Reform Act of 1989, and makes appropriate recommendations to the Commission's Chairman. [Commission Order No. 118.]</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Official Seal</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.11</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Official seal.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Description.</E> Pursuant to section 201(c) of the Merchant Marine Act, 1936, as amended (46 U.S.C. app. 1111(c)), the Commission prescribes its official seal, as adopted by the Commission on August 14, 1961, which shall be judicially noticed. The design of the official seal is described as follows:</P> <P>(1) A shield argent paly of six gules, a chief azure charged with a fouled anchor or; shield and anchor outlined of the third; on a wreath argent and gules, an eagle displayed proper; all on a gold disc within a blue border, encircled by a gold rope outlined in blue, and bearing in white letters the inscription “Federal Maritime Commission” in upper portion and “1961” in lower portion.</P> <P>(2) The shield and eagle above it are associated with the United States of America and denote the national scope of maritime affairs. The outer rope and fouled anchor are symbolic of seamen and waterborne transportation. The date “1961” has historical significance, indicating the year in which the Commission was created.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Design.</E> </P> <GPH DEEP="124" SPAN="1"> <PRTPAGE P="13"/> <GID>ER15FE05.000</GID> </GPH> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Delegation and Redelegation of Authorities</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.21</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation of authorities.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Authority and delegation.</E> Section 105 of Reorganization Plan No. 7 of 1961, August 12, 1961, authorizes the Commission to delegate, by published order or rule, any of its functions to a division of the Commission, an individual Commissioner, an administrative law judge, or an employee or employee board, including functions with respect to hearing, determining, ordering, certifying, reporting or otherwise acting as to any work, business or matter. In subpart A of this part, the Commission has delegated general functions, and in this subpart C it is delegating miscellaneous, specific authorities set forth in §§ 501.23, <E T="03">et seq.</E>, to the delegatees designated therein, subject to the limitations prescribed in subsequent subsections of this section.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Deputies.</E> Where bureau or office deputies are officially appointed, they are hereby delegated all necessary authority to act in the absence or incapacity of the director or chief.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Redelegation.</E> Subject to the limitations in this section, the delegatees may redelegate their authorities to subordinate personnel under their supervision and direction; but only if this subpart is amended to reflect such redelegation and notice thereof is published in the <E T="04">Federal Register.</E> Under any redelegated authority, the redelegator assumes full responsibility for actions taken by subordinate redelegatees.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Exercise of authority; policy and procedure.</E> The delegatees and redelegatees shall exercise the authorities delegated or redelegated in a manner consistent with applicable laws and the established policies of the Commission, and shall consult with the General Counsel where appropriate.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Exercise of delegated authority by delegator.</E> Under any authority delegated or redelegated, the delegator (Commission), or the redelegator, respectively, shall retain full rights to exercise the authority in the first instance.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Review of delegatee's action.</E> The delegator (Commission) or redelegator of authority shall retain a discretionary right to review an action taken under delegated authority by a subordinate delegatee, either upon the filing of a written petition of a party to, or an intervenor in, such action; or upon the delegator's or redelegator's own initiative.</P> <P>(1) Petitions for review of actions taken under delegated authority shall be filed within ten (10) calendar days of the action taken:</P> <P>(i) If the action for which review is sought is taken by a delegatee, the petition shall be addressed to the Commission pursuant to § 502.69 of this chapter.</P> <P>(ii) If the action for which review is sought is taken by a redelegatee, the petition shall be addressed to the redelegator whose decision can be further reviewed by the Commission under paragraph (f)(1)(i) of this section, unless the Commission decides to review the matter directly, such as, for example, in the incapacity of the redelegator.</P> <P>(2) The vote of a majority of the Commission less one member thereof shall be sufficient to bring any delegated action before the Commission for review under this paragraph.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Action—when final.</E> Should the right to exercise discretionary review be declined or should no such review be sought under paragraph (f) of this section, then the action taken under delegated authority shall, for all purposes, including appeal or review thereof, be deemed to be the action of the Commission.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Conflicts.</E> Where the procedures set forth in this section conflict with law or any regulation of this chapter, <PRTPAGE P="14"/>the conflict shall be resolved in favor of the law or other regulation.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.22</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.23</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to the General Counsel.</SUBJECT> <P>The authority listed in this section is delegated to the General Counsel: authority to classify carriers within the meaning of section 3(8) of the Shipping Act of 1984, except where a carrier submits a rebuttal statement pursuant to § 565.3(b) of this chapter.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.24</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to the Secretary.</SUBJECT> <P>The authorities listed in this section are delegated to the Secretary and, in the absence or preoccupation of the Secretary, to the Assistant Secretary.</P> <P>(a) Authority to approve applications for permission to practice before the Commission and to issue admission certificates to approved applicants.</P> <P>(b) Authority to extend the time to file exceptions or replies to exceptions, and the time for Commission review, relative to initial decisions of administrative law judges and decisions of Special Dockets Officers.</P> <P>(c) Authority to extend the time to file appeals or replies to appeals, and the time for Commission review, relative to dismissals of proceedings, in whole or in part, issued by administrative law judges.</P> <P>(d) Authority to establish and extend or reduce the time:</P> <P>(1) To file documents either in docketed proceedings or relative to petitions filed under Part 502 of this chapter, which are pending before the Commission itself; and</P> <P>(2) To issue initial and final decisions under § 502.61 of this chapter.</P> <P>(e) Authority to prescribe a time limit for the submission of written comments with reference to agreements filed pursuant to section 5 of the Shipping Act of 1984.</P> <P>(f) Authority, in appropriate cases, to publish in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> notices of intent to prepare an environmental assessment and notices of finding of no significant impact.</P> <P>(g) Authority to prescribe a time limit less than ten days from date published in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> for filing comments on notices of intent to prepare an environmental assessment and notice of finding of no significant impact and authority to prepare environmental assessments of no significant impact.</P> <P>(h) Authority, in the absence or preoccupation of the Director of Administration, to sign travel orders, nondocketed recommendations to the Commission, and other routine documents for the Director of Administration, consistent with the programs, policies, and precedents established by the Commission or the Director of Administration.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.25</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to the Director, Office of Operations.</SUBJECT> <P>The authorities listed in this section are delegated to the Director of Operations.</P> <P>(a) Authority to adjudicate, with the concurrence of the General Counsel, and authorize payment of, employee claims for not more than $1,000.00, arising under the Military and Civilian Personnel Property Act of 1964, 31 U.S.C. § 3721.</P> <P>(b) Authority to approve administrative leave for Area Representatives.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.26</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to and redelegation by the Director, Bureau of Certification and Licensing.</SUBJECT> <P>Except where specifically redelgated in this section, the authorities listed in this section are delegated to the Director, Bureau of Certification and Licensing.</P> <P>(a) Authority to:</P> <P>(1) Approve or disapprove applications for OTI licenses; issue or reissue or transfer such licenses; and approve extensions of time in which to furnish the name(s) and ocean transportation intermediary experience of the managing partner(s) or officer(s) who will replace the qualifying partner or officer upon whose qualifications the original licensing was approved;</P> <P>(2) Issue a letter stating that the Commission intends to deny an OTI application, unless within 20 days applicant requests a hearing to show that denial of the application is unwarranted; deny applications where an applicant has received such a letter and has not requested a hearing within the <PRTPAGE P="15"/>notice period; and rescind, or grant extensions of, the time specified in such letters;</P> <P>(3) Revoke the license of an OTI upon the request of the licensee;</P> <P>(4) Upon receipt of notice of cancellation of any instrument evidencing financial responsibility, notify the licensee in writing that its license will automatically be suspended or revoked, effective on the cancellation date of such instrument, unless new or reinstated evidence of financial responsibility is submitted and approved prior to such date, and subsequently order such suspension or revocation for failure to maintain proof of financial responsibility;</P> <P>(5) Revoke the ocean transportation intermediary license of a non-vessel-operating common carrier not in the United States for failure to designate and maintain a person in the United States as legal agent for the receipt of judicial and administrative process;</P> <P>(6) Approve changes in an existing licensee's organization; and</P> <P>(7) Return any application which on its face fails to meet the requirements of the Commission's regulations, accompanied by an explanation of the reasons for rejection.</P> <P>(8) The authorities contained in paragraphs (a)(3) and (a)(4) of this section are redelegated to the Director, Office of Transportation Intermediaries, in the Bureau of Certification and Licensing.</P> <P>(b) Authority to:</P> <P>(1) Approve applications for Certificates (Performance) and Certificates (Casualty) for passenger vessels, evidenced by a surety bond, guaranty or insurance policy, or combination thereof; and issue, reissue, or amend such Certificates;</P> <P>(2) Issue a written notice to an applicant stating intent to deny an application for a Certificate (Performance) and/or (Casualty), indicating the reason therefor, and advising applicant of the time for requesting a hearing as provided for under § 540.26(c) of this chapter; deny any application where the applicant has not submitted a timely request for a hearing; and rescind such notices and grant extensions of the time within which a request for hearing may be filed;</P> <P>(3) Issue a written notice to a certificant stating that the Commission intends to revoke, suspend, or modify a Certificate (Performance) and/or (Casualty), indicating the reason therefor, and advising of the time for requesting a hearing as provided for under § 540.26(c) of this chapter; revoke, suspend or modify a Certificate (Performance) and/or (Casualty) where the certificant has not submitted a timely request for hearing; and rescind such notices and grant extensions of time within which a request for hearing may be filed;</P> <P>(4) Revoke a Certificate (Performance) and/or (Casualty) which has expired, and/or upon request of, or acquiescence by, the certificant; and</P> <P>(5) Notify a certificant when a Certificate (Performance) and/or (Casualty) has become null and void in accordance with §§ 540.8(a) and 540.26(a) of this chapter.</P> <P>(c) Authority to approve amendments to escrow agreements filed under § 540.5(b) of this Chapter when such amendments are for the purpose of changing names of principals, changing the vessels covered by the escrow agreement, changing the escrow agent, and changing the amount of funds held in escrow, provided that the changes in amount of funds result in an amount of coverage that complies with the requirements in the introductory text of § 540.5 of this Chapter.</P> <CITA>[70 FR 7659, Feb. 15, 2005, as amended at 70 FR 44866, Aug. 4, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.27</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to and redelegation by the Director, Bureau of Trade Analysis.</SUBJECT> <P>Except where specifically redelegated in this section, the authorities listed in this section are delegated to the Director, Bureau of Trade Analysis.</P> <P>(a) Authority to determine that no action should be taken to prevent an agreement or modification to an agreement from becoming effective under section 6(c)(1), and to shorten the review period under section 6(e), of the Shipping Act of 1984, when the agreement or modification involves solely a restatement, clarification or change in an agreement which adds no new substantive authority beyond that already contained in an effective agreement. <PRTPAGE P="16"/>This category of agreement or modification includes, for example, the following: a restatement filed to conform an agreement to the format and organization requirements of Part 535 of this chapter; a clarification to reflect a change in the name of a country or port or a change in the name of a party to the agreement; a correction of typographical or grammatical errors in the text of an agreement; a change in the title of persons or committees designated in an agreement; or a transfer of functions from one person or committee to another.</P> <P>(b) Authority to grant or deny applications filed under § 535.406 of this chapter for waiver of the form, organization and content requirements of §§ 535.401, 535.402, 535.403, 535.404 and 535.405 of this chapter.</P> <P>(c) Authority to grant or deny applications filed under § 535.504 of this chapter for waiver of the Information Form requirements in subpart E of part 535.</P> <P>(d) Authority to grant or deny applications filed under § 535.705 of this chapter for waiver of the reporting requirements in subpart G of part 535 of this chapter.</P> <P>(e) Authority to determine that no action should be taken to prevent an agreement or modification of an agreement from becoming effective under section 6(c)(1) of the Shipping Act of 1984 for all unopposed agreements and modifications to agreements which will not result in a significant reduction in competition. Agreements which are deemed to have the potential to result in a significant reduction in competition and which, therefore, are not covered by this delegation include but are not limited to:</P> <P>(1) New agreements authorizing the parties to collectively discuss or fix rates (including terminal rates).</P> <P>(2) New agreements authorizing the parties to pool cargoes or revenues.</P> <P>(3) New agreements authorizing the parties to establish a joint service or consortium.</P> <P>(4) New equal access agreements.</P> <P>(f) Authority to grant or deny shortened review pursuant to § 535.605 of this chapter for agreements for which authority is delegated in paragraph (e) of this section.</P> <P>(g) Subject to review by the General Counsel, authority to deny, but not approve, requests filed pursuant to § 535.605 of this chapter for a shortened review period for agreements for which authority is not delegated under paragraph (e) of this section.</P> <P>(h) Authority to issue notices of termination of agreements which are otherwise effective under the Shipping Act of 1984, after publication of notice of intent to terminate in the <E T="04">Federal Register,</E> when such terminations are:</P> <P>(1) Requested by the parties to the agreement;</P> <P>(2) Deemed to have occurred when it is determined that the parties are no longer engaged in activity under the agreement and official inquiries and correspondence cannot be delivered to the parties; or</P> <P>(3) Deemed to have occurred by notification of the withdrawal of the next to last party to an agreement without notification of the addition of another party prior to the effective date of the next to last party's withdrawal.</P> <P>(i) Authority to determine whether agreements for the use or operation of terminal property or facilities, or the furnishing of terminal services, are within the purview of section 5 of the Shipping Act of 1984.</P> <P>(j) Authority to request controlled carriers to file justifications for existing or proposed rates, charges, classifications, rules or regulations, and to review responses to such requests for the purpose of recommending to the Commission that a rate, charge, classification, rule or regulation be found unlawful and, therefore, requires Commission action under section 9(d) of the Shipping Act of 1984.</P> <P>(k) Authority to recommend to the Commission the initiation of formal proceedings or other actions with respect to suspected violations of the shipping statutes and rules and regulations of the Commission.</P> <P>(l)(1) Authority to approve for good cause or disapprove special permission applications submitted by common carriers, or conferences of such carriers, subject to the provisions of section 8 of the Shipping Act of 1984, for relief from statutory and/or Commission tariff requirements.<PRTPAGE P="17"/> </P> <P>(2) The authority under this paragraph is redelegated to the Director, Office of Service Contracts and Tariffs, in the Bureau of Trade Analysis.</P> <P>(m)(1) Authority to approve or disapprove special permission applications submitted by a controlled carrier subject to the provisions of section 9 of the Shipping Act of 1984 for relief from statutory and/or Commission tariff requirements.</P> <P>(2) The authority under this paragraph is redelegated to the Director, Office of Service Contracts and Tariffs, in the Bureau of Trade Analysis.</P> <P>(n) Authority contained in Part 530 of this chapter to approve, but not deny, requests for permission to correct clerical or administrative errors in the essential terms of filed service contracts.</P> <P>(o) Authority to require Monitoring Reports from, or prescribe alternative periodic reporting requirements for, parties to agreements under §§ 535.702(c) and (d) of this chapter.</P> <P>(p) Authority to require parties to agreements subject to the Monitoring Report requirements in § 535.702(a)(2) of this chapter to report their agreement commodity data on a sub-trade basis pursuant to § 535.703(d) of this chapter.</P> <CITA>[70 FR 7659, Feb. 15, 2005; 72 FR 15613, Apr. 2, 2007]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.28</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to the Director, Bureau of Enforcement.</SUBJECT> <P>The authorities listed in this section are delegated to the Director, Bureau of Enforcement.</P> <P>(a) Authority to compromise civil penalty claims has been delegated to the Director, Bureau of Enforcement, by § 502.604(g) of this chapter. This delegation shall include the authority to compromise issues relating to the retention, suspension or revocation of ocean transportation intermediary licenses.</P> <P>(b) [Reserved]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.29</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Delegation to and redelegation by the Director, Office of Administration.</SUBJECT> <P>Except where specifically redelegated in this section, the authorities listed in this section are delegated to the Director of Administration.</P> <P>(a) Authority to determine that an exigency of the public business is of such importance that annual leave may not be used by employees to avoid forfeiture before annual leave may be restored under 5 U.S.C. 6304.</P> <P>(b)(1) Authority to approve, certify, or otherwise authorize those actions dealing with appropriations of funds made available to the Commission including allotments, fiscal matters, and contracts relating to the operation of the Commission within the laws, rules, and regulations set forth by the Federal Government.</P> <P>(2) The authority under paragraph (b) of this section is redelegated to the Director, Office of Budget and Financial Management.</P> <P>(c)(1) Authority to classify all positions GS-1 through GS-15 and wage grade positions.</P> <P>(2) The authority under paragraph (c) of this section is redelegated to the Director, Office of Human Resources.</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Public Requests for Information</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 501.41</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Public requests for information and decisions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> Pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(1)(A), there is hereby stated and published for the guidance of the public the established places at which, the officers from whom, and the methods whereby, the public may secure information, make submittals or requests, or obtain decisions, principally by contacting by telephone, in writing, or in person, either the Secretary of the Commission at the Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Washington, DC 20573, or the Area Representatives listed in paragraph (d) of this section. See also Part 503 of this chapter.</P> <P>(b) The Secretary will provide information and decisions, and will accept and respond to requests, relating to the program activities of the Office of the Secretary and of the Commission generally. Unless otherwise provided in this chapter, any document, report, or other submission required to be filed with the Commission by statute or the Commission's rules and regulations relating to the functions of the Commission or of the Office of the Secretary shall be filed with or submitted to the Secretary.<PRTPAGE P="18"/> </P> <P>(c) The Directors of the following bureaus and offices will provide information and decisions, and will accept and respond to requests, relating to the specific functions or program activities of their respective bureaus and offices as set forth in this chapter; but only if the dissemination of such information or decisions is not prohibited by statute or the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure:</P> <P>(1) Office of the Secretary;</P> <P>(i) Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services;</P> <P>(ii) [Reserved]</P> <P>(2) Office of the General Counsel;</P> <P>(3) Office of Administrative Law Judges;</P> <P>(4) Office of Equal Employment Opportunity;</P> <P>(5) Office of the Inspector General;</P> <P>(6) Office of Operations;</P> <P>(i) Bureau of Certification and Licensing;</P> <P>(ii) Bureau of Trade Analysis;</P> <P>(iii) Bureau of Enforcement;</P> <P>(iv) Area Representatives will provide information and decisions to the public within their geographic areas, or will expedite the obtaining of information and decisions from headquarters. The addresses of these Area Representatives are as follows. Further information on Area Representatives, including Internet e-mail addresses, can be obtained on the Commission's home page at <E T="03">http://www.fmc.gov.</E> </P> <EXTRACT> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Los Angeles</HD> <FP SOURCE="FP-1">Los Angeles Area Representative, P.O. Box 230, 839 South Beacon Street, Room 320, San Pedro, CA 90733-0230.</FP> <HD SOURCE="HD3">South Florida</HD> <FP SOURCE="FP-1">South Florida Area Representative, P.O. Box 813609, Hollywood, FL 33081-3609.</FP> <HD SOURCE="HD3">New Orleans</HD> <FP SOURCE="FP-1">New Orleans Area Representative, U.S. Customs House, 423 Canal Street, Room 309B, New Orleans, LA 70130.</FP> <HD SOURCE="HD3">New York</HD> <FP SOURCE="FP-1">New York Area Representative, Building No. 75, Room 205B, JFK International Airport, Jamaica, NY 11430.</FP> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Seattle</HD> <FP SOURCE="FP-1">Seattle Area Representative, c/o U.S. Customs, 7 South Nevada Street, Suite 100, Seattle, WA 98134.</FP> </EXTRACT> <P>(7) Office of Administration;</P> <P>(i) Office of Budget and Financial Management;</P> <P>(ii) Office of Human Resources;</P> <P>(iii) Office of Information Technology; and</P> <P>(iv) Office of Management Services.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Submissions to bureaus and offices.</E> Any document, report or other submission required to be filed with the Commission by statute or the Commission's rules and regulations relating to the specific functions of the bureaus and offices shall be filed with or submitted to the Director of such Bureau or Office.</P> </SECTION> <APPENDIX> <PRTPAGE P="19"/> <EAR>Pt. 501, App. A</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Appendix A to Part 501—Federal Maritime Commission Organization Chart</HD> <GPH DEEP="243" SPAN="2"> <GID>ER15FE05.001</GID> </GPH> </APPENDIX> </SUBPART> </PART> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 502</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 502—RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE</HD> <CONTENTS> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—General Information</HD> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>502.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope of rules in this part.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Filing of documents; hours; mailing address.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Compliance with rules or orders of Commission.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Authentication of rules or orders of Commission.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.5-502.6</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.7</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Documents in foreign languages.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.8</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Denial of applications and notice thereof.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.9</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Suspension, amendment, etc., of rules in this part.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.10</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Waiver of rules in this part.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.11</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Ex parte communications.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.12</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Applicability of Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Appearance and Practice Before the Commission</HD> <SECTNO>502.21</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Appearance.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.22</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Authority for representation.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.23</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notice of appearance; substitution and withdrawal of representative.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.24</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Practice before the Commission defined.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.25</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Presiding officer defined.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.26</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Attorneys at law.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.27</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Persons not attorneys at law.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.29</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Hearings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.30</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Suspension or disbarment.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.31</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Statement of interest.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.32</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Former employees.</SUBJECT> <APP>Exhibit No. 1 to Subpart B [§§ 502.23, 502.26, 502.27]—Notice of Appearance</APP> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Parties</HD> <SECTNO>502.41</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Parties; how designated.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.42</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Bureau of Enforcement.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.43</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Substitution of parties.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.44</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Necessary and proper parties in certain complaint proceedings.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Rulemaking</HD> <SECTNO>502.51</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Initiation of procedure to issue, amend, or repeal a rule.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.52</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notice of proposed rulemaking.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.53</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Participation in rulemaking.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.54</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Contents of rules.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.55</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Effective date of rules.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.56</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Negotiated rulemaking.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <PRTPAGE P="20"/> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart E—Proceedings; Pleadings; Motions; Replies</HD> <SECTNO>502.61</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Proceedings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.62</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Complaints and fee.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.63</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Statute of limitations for reparations.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.64</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Answer to complaint; counter-complaint.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.65</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Replies to answers not permitted.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.66</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Order to show cause.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.67</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exemption procedures—General.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.68</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Declaratory orders and fee.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.69</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Petitions—General and fee.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.70</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Amendments or supplements to pleadings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.71</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Motions for more definite statement.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.72</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Petition for leave to intervene.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.73</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Motions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.74</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Replies to pleadings, motions, applications, etc.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.75</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Proceedings involving assessment agreements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.76</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Brief of an amicus curiae.</SUBJECT> <APP>Exhibit No. 1 to Subpart E [§ 502.62]—Complaint Form and Information Checklist</APP> <APP>Exhibit No. 2 to Subpart E [§ 502.64]—Answer to Complaint</APP> <APP>Exhibit No. 3 to Subpart E [§ 502.72]—Petition for Leave To Intervene</APP> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart F—Settlement; Prehearing Procedure</HD> <SECTNO>502.91</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Opportunity for informal settlement.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.92</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.94</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Prehearing conference.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.95</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Prehearing statements.</SUBJECT> <APP>Exhibit No. 1 to Subpart F [§ 502.92] [Reserved]</APP> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart G—Time</HD> <SECTNO>502.101</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Computation.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.102</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Enlargement of time to file documents.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.103</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Reduction of time to file documents.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.104</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Postponement of hearing.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.105</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Waiver of rules governing enlargements of time and postponements of hearings.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart H—Form, Execution, and Service of Documents</HD> <SECTNO>502.111</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Form and appearance of documents filed with Commission.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.112</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Verification of documents.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.113</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service by the Commission.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.114</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service by parties of pleadings and other documents.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.115</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service on attorney or other representative.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.116</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Date of service.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.117</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Certificate of service.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.118</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Copies of documents for use of the Commission.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.119</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Documents containing confidential materials.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart I—Subpenas</HD> <SECTNO>502.131</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Requests; issuance.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.132</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Motions to quash or modify.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.133</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Attendance and mileage fees.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.134</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service of subpenas.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.135</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Subpena of Commission staff personnel, documents or things.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.136</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Enforcement.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart J—Hearings; Presiding Officers; Evidence</HD> <SECTNO>502.141</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Hearings not required by statute.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.142</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Hearings required by statute.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.143</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notice of nature of hearing, jurisdiction and issues.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.144</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notice of time and place of hearing; postponement of hearing.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.145</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Presiding officer.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.146</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Commencement of functions of Office of Administrative Law Judges.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.147</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Functions and powers.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.148</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Consolidation of proceedings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.149</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Disqualification of presiding or participating officer.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.150</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Further evidence required by presiding officer during hearing.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.151</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exceptions to rulings of presiding officer unnecessary.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.152</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Offer of proof.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.153</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Appeal from ruling of presiding officer other than orders of dismissal in whole or in part.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.154</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Rights of parties as to presentation of evidence.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.155</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Burden of proof.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.156</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Evidence admissible.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.157</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Written evidence.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.158</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Documents containing matter not material.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.159</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.160</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Records in other proceedings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.161</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Commission's files.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.162</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Stipulations.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.163</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Receipt of documents after hearing.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.164</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Oral argument at hearings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.165</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Official transcript.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.166</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Corrections of transcript.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.167</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Objection to public disclosure of information.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.168</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Copies of data or evidence.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.169</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Record of decision.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart K—Shortened Procedure</HD> <SECTNO>502.181</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Selection of cases for shortened procedure; consent required.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.182</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Complaint and memorandum of facts and arguments and filing fee.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.183</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Respondent's answering memorandum.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.184</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Complainant's memorandum in reply.<PRTPAGE P="21"/> </SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.185</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service of memoranda upon and by interveners.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.186</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Contents of memoranda.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.187</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedure after filing of memoranda.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart L—Depositions, Written Interrogatories, and Discovery</HD> <SECTNO>502.201</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General provisions governing discovery.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.202</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Persons before whom depositions may be taken.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.203</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Depositions upon oral examination.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.204</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Depositions upon written interrogatories.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.205</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Interrogatories to parties.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.206</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Production of documents and things and entry upon land for inspection and other purposes.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.207</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Requests for admission.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.208</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Use of discovery procedures directed to Commission staff personnel.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.209</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Use of depositions at hearings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.210</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Refusal to comply with orders to answer or produce documents; sanctions; enforcement.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart M—Briefs; Requests for Findings; Decisions; Exceptions</HD> <SECTNO>502.221</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Briefs; requests for findings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.222</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Requests for enlargement of time for filing briefs.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.223</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Decisions—Administrative law judges.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.224</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Separation of functions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.225</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Decisions—Commission.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.226</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Decision based on official notice; public documents.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.227</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exceptions to decisions or orders of dismissal of administrative law judges; replies thereto; and review of decisions or orders of dismissal by Commission.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.228</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Request for enlargement of time for filing exceptions and replies thereto.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.229</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Certification of record by presiding or other officer.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.230</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Reopening by presiding officer or Commission.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart N—Oral Argument; Submission for Final Decision</HD> <SECTNO>502.241</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Oral argument.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.242</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Submission to Commission for final decision.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.243</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Participation of absent Commissioner.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart O—Reparation</HD> <SECTNO>502.251</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Proof on award of reparation.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.252</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Reparation statements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.253</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Interest in reparation proceedings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.254</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Attorney's fees in reparation proceedings.</SUBJECT> <APP>Exhibit No. 1 to Subpart O [§ 502.252]—Reparation Statement To Be Filed Pursuant to Rule 252</APP> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart P—Reconsideration of Proceedings</HD> <SECTNO>502.261</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Petitions for reconsideration and stay.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.262</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Reply to petition for reconsideration or stay.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart Q—Refund or Waiver of Freight Charges</HD> <SECTNO>502.271</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Special docket application for permission to refund or waive freight charges.</SUBJECT> <APP>Exhibit No. 1 to Subpart Q [§ <E T="01">502.271(d)</E>—Application for Refund or Waiver of Freight Charges Due to Tariff on Quoting Error</APP> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart R—Nonadjudicatory Investigations</HD> <SECTNO>502.281</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Investigational policy.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.282</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Initiation of investigations.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.283</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Order of investigation.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.284</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>By whom conducted.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.285</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Investigational hearings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.286</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Compulsory process.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.287</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Depositions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.288</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Reports.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.289</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Noncompliance with investigational process.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.290</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Rights of witness.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.291</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Nonpublic proceedings.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart S—Informal Procedure for Adjudication of Small Claims</HD> <SECTNO>502.301</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Statement of policy.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.302</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Limitations of actions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.303</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.304</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedure and filing fee.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.305</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Applicability of other rules of this part.</SUBJECT> <APP>Exhibit No. 1 to Subpart S [§ <E T="01">502.304(a)</E>]—Small Claim Form for Informal Adjudication and Information Checklist</APP> <APP>Exhibit No. 2 to Subpart S [§ <E T="01">502.304(e)</E>]—Respondent's Consent Form for Informal Adjudication</APP> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart T—Formal Procedure for Adjudication of Small Claims</HD> <SECTNO>502.311</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Applicability.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.312</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Answer to complaint.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.313</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Reply of complainant.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.314</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Additional information.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.315</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Request for oral hearing.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.316</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Intervention.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.317</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Oral argument.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.318</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Decision.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.319</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Date of service and computation of time.<PRTPAGE P="22"/> </SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.320</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.321</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Applicability of other rules of this part.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart U—Alternative Dispute Resolution</HD> <SECTNO>502.401</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Policy.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.402</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.403</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General authority.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.404</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Neutrals.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.405</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Confidentiality.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.406</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Arbitration.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.407</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Authority of the arbitrator.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.408</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Conduct of arbitration proceedings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.409</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Arbitration awards.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.410</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Representation of parties.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.411</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Mediation and other alternative means of dispute resolution.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart V—Implementation of the Equal Access to Justice Act in Commission Proceedings</HD> <SECTNO>502.501</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General provisions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.502</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Information required from applicants.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.503</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedures for considering petitions.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart W—Compromise, Assessment, Mitigation, Settlement, and Collection of Civil Penalties</HD> <SECTNO>502.601</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose and scope.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.602</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.603</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Assessment of civil penalties: Procedure; criteria for determining amount; limitations; relation to compromise.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.604</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Compromise of penalties: Relation to assessment proceedings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>502.605</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Payment of penalty: Method; default.</SUBJECT> <APP>Appendix A to Subpart W—Example of Compromise Agreement To Be Used Under 46 CFR 502.604</APP> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart X—Paperwork Reduction Act</HD> <SECTNO>502.991</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>5 U.S.C. 504, 551, 552, 553, 556(c), 559, 561-569, 571-596; 5 U.S.C. 571-584; 12 U.S.C. 1141j(a); 18 U.S.C. 207; 26 U.S.C. 501(c)(3); 28 U.S.C. 2112(a); 31 U.S.C. 9701; 46 U.S.C. app. 817d, 817e, 1114(b), 1705, 1707-1711, 1713-1716; E.O. 11222 of May 8, 1965, 30 FR 6469, 3 CFR, 1964-1965 Comp. P. 306; 21 U.S.C. 853a; Pub. L. 105-258, 112 Stat. 1902.</P> </AUTH> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—General Information</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope of rules in this part.</SUBJECT> <P>The rules in this part govern procedure before the Federal Maritime Commission, hereinafter referred to as the “Commission,” under the Merchant Marine Act, 1920, Merchant Marine Act, 1936, Shipping Act of 1984, as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998, Administrative Procedure Act, and related acts, except that subpart R of this part does not apply to proceedings subject to sections 7 and 8 of the Administrative Procedure Act, which are to be governed only by subparts A to Q inclusive, of this part. They shall be construed to secure the just, speedy, and inexpensive determination of every proceeding. To this end, all persons involved in proceedings conducted under the rules of this part shall be required to consider at an early stage of the proceeding whether resort to alternative dispute resolution techniques would be appropriate or useful. [Rule 1.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 58 FR 38649, July 19, 1993; 64 FR 7807, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Filing of documents; hours; mailing address.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) For purposes of filing of documents with the Commission, the hours of the Commission are from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, inclusive.</P> <P>(b) Except for exhibits filed pursuant to § 502.118(b)(4) and petitions for review of final agency orders served on the Commission pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 2112(a), all documents required to be filed in, and correspondence relating to proceedings governed by this part should be addressed to <E T="03">Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573-0001.</E> Petitions for review of final agency orders served on the Commission pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 2112(a) shall be addressed to <E T="03">General Counsel, Office of the General Counsel, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573-0001.</E> </P> <P>(c) Documents relating to any matter pending before the Commissioners for decision or to any matter pending before the Commission which is likely to come before the Commissioners for decision, whether or not relating to proceedings governed by this part, shall similarly be filed with the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission. Such documents should not be filed with or separately submitted to the offices of <PRTPAGE P="23"/>individual Commissioners. Distribution to Commissioners and other agency personnel is handled by the Office of the Secretary, to ensure that persons in decision-making and advisory positions receive in a uniform and impersonal manner identical copies of submissions, and to avoid the possibility of ex parte communications within the meaning of § 502.11. These considerations apply to informal and oral communications as well, such as requests for expedited consideration.</P> <P>(d) No filings relating to matters scheduled for a Commission meeting will be accepted by the Secretary if submitted subsequent to public announcement of the particular meeting, except that the Commission, on its own initiative, or pursuant to a written request, may in its discretion, permit a departure from this limitation for exceptional circumstances. (See § 503.82(e) of this chapter.)</P> <P>(e) Any pleading, document, writing or other paper submitted for filing which is rejected because it does not conform to the rules in this part shall be returned to the sender. [Rule 2.]</P> <CITA>[52 FR 27002, July 17, 1987, as amended at 53 FR 13270, Apr. 22, 1988; 64 FR 7807, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Compliance with rules or orders of Commission.</SUBJECT> <P>Persons named in a rule or order shall notify the Commission during business hours on or before the day on which such rule or order becomes effective whether they have complied therewith, and if so, the manner in which compliance has been made. If a change in rates is required, the notification shall specify the tariffs which effect the changes. [Rule 3.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Authentication of rules or orders of Commission.</SUBJECT> <P>All rules or orders issued by the Commission in any proceeding covered by this part shall, unless otherwise specifically provided, be signed and authenticated by seal by the Secretary of the Commission in the name of the Commission. [Rule 4.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§§ 502.5-502.6</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.7</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Documents in foreign languages.</SUBJECT> <P>Every document, exhibit, or other paper written in a language other than English and filed with the Commission or offered in evidence in any proceeding before the Commission under this part or in response to any rule or order of the Commission pursuant to this part, shall be filed or offered in the language in which it is written and shall be accompanied by an English translation thereof duly verified under oath to be an accurate translation. [Rule 7.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.8</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Denial of applications and notice thereof.</SUBJECT> <P>Except in affirming a prior denial or where the denial is self-explanatory, prompt written notice will be given of the denial in whole or in part of any written application, petition, or other request made in connection with any proceeding under this part, such notice to be accompanied by a simple statement of procedural or other grounds for the denial, and of any other or further administrative remedies or recourse applicant may have where the denial is based on procedural grounds. [Rule 8.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.9</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Suspension, amendment, etc., of rules in this part.</SUBJECT> <P>The rules in this part may, from time to time, be suspended, amended, or revoked, in whole or in part. Notice of any such action will be published in the <E T="04">Federal Register.</E> [Rule 9.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.10</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Waiver of rules in this part.</SUBJECT> <P>Except to the extent that such waiver would be inconsistent with any statute, any of the rules in this part, except §§ 502.11 and 502.153, may be waived by the Commission or the presiding officer in any particular case to prevent undue hardship, manifest injustice, or if the expeditious conduct of business so requires. [Rule 10.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.11</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Ex parte communications.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) No person who is a party to or an agent of a party to any proceeding as defined in § 502.61 or who directly participates in any such proceeding and no <PRTPAGE P="24"/>interested person outside the Commission shall make or knowingly cause to be made to any Commission member, administrative law judge, or Commission employee who is or may reasonably be expected to be involved in the decisional process of any such proceeding, an ex parte communication relevant to the merits of the proceeding;</P> <P>(b) No Commission member, administrative law judge, or Commission employee who is or may reasonably be expected to be involved in the decisional process of any agency proceeding, shall make or knowingly cause to be made to any interested persons outside the Commission or to any party to the proceeding or its agent or to any direct participant in a proceeding, an ex parte communication relevant to the merits of the proceeding. This prohibition shall not be construed to prevent any action authorized by paragraphs (e), (f) and (g) of this section;</P> <P>(c) “Ex parte communication” means an oral or written communication not on the public record with respect to which reasonable prior notice to all parties is not given, but it shall not include requests for status reports or communications regarding purely procedural matters or matters which the Commission or member thereof, administrative law judge, or Commission employee is authorized by law or these rules to dispose of on an ex parte basis;</P> <P>(d) Any Commission member, administrative law judge, or Commission employee who is or may reasonably be expected to be involved in the decisional process of any proceeding who receives, or who makes or knowingly causes to be made, an ex parte communication shall promptly transmit to the Secretary of the Commission:</P> <P>(1) All such written communications;</P> <P>(2) Memoranda stating the substance of all such oral communications; and</P> <P>(3) All written responses and memoranda stating the substance of all oral responses to the materials described in paragraphs (d)(1) and (d)(2) of this section;</P> <P>(e) The Secretary shall place the materials described in paragraph (d) of this section in the correspondence part of the public docket of the proceeding and may take such other action as may be appropriate under the circumstances;</P> <P>(f) Upon receipt of an ex parte communication knowingly made or knowingly caused to be made by a party to a proceeding, the Commission or the presiding officer may, to the extent consistent with the interests of justice and the policy of the statutes administered by the Commission, require the party to show cause why his or her claim or interest in the proceeding should not be dismissed, denied, disregarded, or otherwise adversely affected on account of the making of such communication;</P> <P>(g) An ex parte communication shall not constitute a part of the record for decision. The Commission or the presiding officer may, to the extent consistent with the interests of justice and the policy of the statutes administered by the Commission, consider a violation of paragraph (b) of this section sufficient grounds for a decision adverse to a party who has knowingly caused such violation to occur and may take such other action as may be appropriate under the circumstances. [Rule 11.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 7807, Feb. 17, 1999; 64 FR 23551, May 3, 1999; 64 FR 33762, June 24, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.12</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Applicability of Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.</SUBJECT> <P>In proceedings under this part, for situations which are not covered by a specific Commission rule, the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure will be followed to the extent that they are consistent with sound administrative practice. [Rule 12.]</P> <CITA>[58 FR 27210, May 7, 1993, as amended at 64 FR 7807, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Appearance and Practice Before the Commission</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.21</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Appearance.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Parties.</E> A party may appear in person or by an officer, partner, or regular employee of the party, or by or with counsel or other duly qualified representative, in any proceeding under the rules in this part. Any party <PRTPAGE P="25"/>or his or her representative may testify, produce and examine witnesses, and be heard upon brief and at oral argument if oral argument is granted.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Persons not parties.</E> One who appears in person before the Commission or a representative thereof, either by compulsion from, or request or permission of the Commission, shall be accorded the right to be accompanied, represented, and advised by counsel.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Special appearance.</E> An appearance may be either general, that is, without reservation, or it may be special, that is, confined to a particular issue or question. If a person desires to appear specially, he or she must expressly so state when entering the appearance and, at that time, shall also state the questions or issues to which he or she is confining the appearance; otherwise his or her appearance will be considered as general. [Rule 21.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 7807, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.22</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Authority for representation.</SUBJECT> <P>Any individual acting in a representative capacity in any proceeding before the Commission may be required to show his or her authority to act in such capacity. [Rule 22.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.23</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notice of appearance; substitution and withdrawal of representative.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Upon filing of a complaint instituting proceedings or filing of an answer to an order or complaint, the party filing shall notify the Commission of the name(s) and address(es) of the person or persons who will represent them in the pending proceeding. Each person who appears at a hearing shall deliver a written notice of appearance to the reporter, stating for whom the appearance is made. Such notice shall indicate whether the representative wishes to be notified of decisions by telephone, facsimile transmission, or electronic mail. All appearances shall be noted in the record. Petitions for leave to intervene shall indicate the name(s) and address(es) of the person or persons who will represent the intervenor in the pending proceeding if the petition is granted.</P> <P>(b) A Notice of Appearance should follow the form set forth in Exhibit No. 1 to this subpart.</P> <P>(c) If an attorney or other representative of record is superseded, there shall be filed a stipulation of substitution signed both by the attorney(s) or representative(s) and by the party, or a written notice from the party to the Commission.</P> <P>(d) If an attorney wishes to withdraw from representing a party, such attorney shall file an appropriate motion seeking permission to withdraw and provide appropriate reasons for making the motion. Such motion will be decided in consideration of the factors and standards set forth in Rule 1.16 of the American Bar Association's Model Rules of Professional Conduct and by the courts.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7807, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.24</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Practice before the Commission defined.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Practice before the Commission shall be deemed to comprehend all matters connected with the presentation of any matter to the Commission, including the preparation and filing of necessary documents, and correspondence with and communications to the Commission, on one's own behalf or representing another. (See § 502.32).</P> <P>(b) The term “Commission” as used in this subpart includes any bureau, division, office, branch, section, or unit of the Federal Maritime Commission and any officer or employee of such bureau, division, office, branch, section, or unit. [Rule 24.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 7807, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.25</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Presiding officer defined.</SUBJECT> <P>“Presiding officer” means and shall include (a) any one or more of the members of the Commission (not including the Commission when sitting as such), (b) one or more administrative law judges or (c) one or more officers authorized by the Commission to conduct nonadjudicatory proceedings when duly designated to preside at such proceedings. (See subpart J of this part.) [Rule 25.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <PRTPAGE P="26"/> <SECTNO>§ 502.26</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Attorneys at law.</SUBJECT> <P>Attorneys at law who are admitted to practice before the Federal courts or before the courts of any State or Territory of the United States may practice before the Commission. An attorney must represent in writing, filed with the Secretary, that he is admitted to practice and in good standing. An attorney practicing before the Commission is expected to conform to the standards of conduct set forth in the American Bar Association's Model Rules of Professional Conduct in addition to the specific requirements of this chapter. [Rule 26.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7807, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.27</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Persons not attorneys at law.</SUBJECT> <P>(a)(1) Any person who is not an attorney at law may be admitted to practice before the Commission if he or she is a citizen of the United States and files proof to the satisfaction of the Commission that he or she possesses the necessary legal, technical, or other qualifications to render valuable service before the Commission and is otherwise competent to advise and assist in the presentation of matters before the Commission. Applications by persons not attorneys at law for admission to practice before the Commission shall be made on the forms prescribed therefor, which may be obtained from the Secretary of the Commission, and shall be addressed to the Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC, 20573, and shall be accompanied by a fee as required by § 503.43(g) of this chapter.</P> <P>(2) All applicants must complete the following certification: </P> <EXTRACT> <P>I. ___ (Name ___, certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States, that I have not been convicted, after September 1, 1989, of any Federal or State offense involving the distribution or possession of a controlled substance, or that if I have been so convicted, I am not ineligible to receive Federal benefits, either by court order or operation of law, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 862.</P> </EXTRACT> <P>(b) No person who is not an attorney at law and whose application has not been approved shall be permitted to practice before the Commission.</P> <P>(c) Paragraph (b) of this section and the provisions of §§ 502.29 and 502.30 shall not apply, however, to any person who appears before the Commission on his or her own behalf or on behalf of any corporation, partnership, or association of which he or she is a partner, officer, or regular employee. [Rule 27.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 55 FR 42194, Oct. 18, 1990; 58 FR 58976, Nov. 5, 1993; 62 FR 6132, Feb. 11, 1997; 64 FR 7807, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.29</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Hearings.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission, in its discretion, may call upon the applicant for a full statement of the nature and extent of his or her qualifications. If the Commission is not satisfied as to the sufficiency of the applicant's qualifications, it will so notify him or her by registered mail, whereupon he or she shall be granted a hearing upon request for the purpose of showing his or her qualifications. If the applicant presents to the Commission no request for such hearing within twenty (20) days after receiving the notification above referred to, his or her application shall be acted upon without further notice. [Rule 29.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.30</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Suspension or disbarment.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission may deny admission to, suspend, or disbar any person from practice before the Commission who it finds does not possess the requisite qualifications to represent others or is lacking in character, integrity, or proper professional conduct. Any person who has been admitted to practice before the Commission may be disbarred from such practice only after being afforded an opportunity to be heard. [Rule 30.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.31</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Statement of interest.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission may call upon any practitioner for a full statement of the nature and extent of his or her interest in the subject matter presented by him or her before the Commission. [Rule 31.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.32</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Former employees.</SUBJECT> <P>Title V of the Ethics in Government Act proscribes certain activities by certain former Federal employees (18 U.S.C. 207). In summary, as applied to former Commission employees, the restrictions and basic procedures are as follows:<PRTPAGE P="27"/> </P> <P>(a) <E T="03">Restrictions.</E> (1) No former Commission employee may represent in any formal or informal appearance or make any oral or written communication with intent to influence a U.S. Government agency in a particular matter involving a specific party or parties in which the employee participated personally and substantially while with the Commission.</P> <P>(2) No former Commission employee may, within two years of terminating Commission employment, act as a representative in the manner described in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, as to a particular matter which was actually pending under the employee's official responsibility within one year prior to termination of the employment.</P> <P>(3) Former senior Commission employees (defined as Commissioners and members of the Senior Executive Service as designated by the Office of Government Ethics under 18 U.S.C. 207(d)(1)) may not, for two years after terminating Commission employment, assist in representing a person by personal presence at an appearance before the Government on a matter in which the former employee had participated personally and substantially while at the Commission.</P> <P>(4) Former senior Commission employees, as defined in paragraph (a)(3) of this section, are barred for one year from representing parties before the Commission or communicating with intent to influence the Commission, regardless of prior involvement in the particular proceeding.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Prior consent for appearance.</E> (1) Prior to making any appearance, representation or communication described in paragraph (a) of this section, and, in addition to other requirements of this subpart, every former employee must apply for and obtain prior written consent of the Commission for each proceeding or matter in which such appearance, representation, or communication is contemplated. Such consent will be given only if the Commission determines that the appearance, representation or communication is not prohibited by the Act, this section or other provisions of this chapter.</P> <P>(2) To facilitate the Commission's determination that the intended activity is not prohibited, applications for written consent shall:</P> <P>(i) Be directed to the Commission, state the former connection of the applicant with the Commission and date of termination of employment, and identify the matter in which the applicant desires to appear; and</P> <P>(ii) Be accompanied by an affidavit to the effect that the matter for which consent is requested is not a matter in which the applicant participated personally and substantially while at the Commission and, as made applicable by paragraph (a) of this section, that the particular matter as to which consent is requested was not pending under the applicant's official responsibility within one year prior to termination of employment and that the matter was not one in which the former employee had participated personally and substantially while at the Commission. The statements contained in the affidavit shall not be sufficient if disproved by an examination of the files and records of the case.</P> <P>(3) The applicant shall be promptly advised as to his or her privilege to appear, represent or communicate in the particular matter, and the application, affidavit and consent, or refusal to consent, shall be filed by the Commission in its records relative thereto.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Basic procedures for possible violations.</E> The following basic guidelines for administrative enforcement restrictions on post employment activities are designed to expedite consultation with the Director of the Office of Government Ethics as required pursuant to section 207(j) of Title 18, United States Code.</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Delegation.</E> The Chairman may delegate his or her authority under this subpart.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Initiation of administrative disciplinary hearing.</E> (i) On receipt of information regarding a possible violation of 18 U.S.C. 207, and after determining that such information appears substantiated, the Chairman shall expeditiously provide such information, along with any comments or agency regulations, to the Director of the Office of Government Ethics and to the Criminal Division, Department of Justice. The Commission shall coordinate any investigation or administrative action <PRTPAGE P="28"/>with the Department of Justice to avoid prejudicing criminal proceedings, unless the Department of Justice communicates to the Commission that it does not intend to initiate criminal prosecution.</P> <P>(ii) Whenever the Commission has determined after appropriate review that there is reasonable cause to believe that a former Commission employee has violated any provision of paragraph (a) of this section or 18 U.S.C. 207 (a), (b), or (c), it may initiate an administrative disciplinary proceeding by providing the former Commission employee with notice as defined in paragraph (c)(3) of this section.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">Adequate notice.</E> (i) The Commission shall provide a former Commission employee with adequate notice of an intention to institute a proceeding and an opportunity for a hearing.</P> <P>(ii) Notice to the former Commission employee must include:</P> <P>(A) A statement of allegations (and the basis thereof) sufficiently detailed to enable the former Commission employee to prepare an adequate defense;</P> <P>(B) Notification of the right to a hearing; and</P> <P>(C) An explanation of the method by which a hearing may be requested.</P> <P>(4) <E T="03">Presiding official.</E> (i) The presiding official at a proceeding under this section shall be an individual to whom the Chairman has delegated authority to make an initial decision (hereinafter referred to as “examiner”).</P> <P>(ii) The examiner must be a Commissioner (other than the Chairman), an administrative law judge, or an attorney employed by the Commission and shall be provided with appropriate administrative and secretarial support by the Commission.</P> <P>(iii) The presiding official shall be impartial. No individual who has participated in any manner in the decision to initiate a proceeding may serve as an examiner in that proceeding.</P> <P>(5) <E T="03">Time, date and place.</E> (i) The hearing shall be conducted at a reasonable time, date and place.</P> <P>(ii) In setting a hearing date, the presiding official shall give due regard to the former Commission employee's need for:</P> <P>(A) Adequate time to prepare a defense properly, and</P> <P>(B) An expeditious resolution of allegations that may be damaging to his or her reputation.</P> <P>(6) <E T="03">Hearing rights.</E> A hearing shall include, at a minimum, the following rights:</P> <P>(i) To represent oneself or to be represented by counsel;</P> <P>(ii) To introduce and examine witnesses and to submit physical evidence;</P> <P>(iii) To confront and cross-examine adverse witnesses;</P> <P>(iv) To receive a transcript or recording of the proceedings, on request.</P> <P>(7) <E T="03">Burden of proof.</E> In any hearing under this subpart, the Commission has the burden of proof and must establish substantial evidence of a violation.</P> <P>(8) <E T="03">Initial decision.</E> (i) The examiner shall make a determination on matters exclusively of record in a proceeding, and shall set forth in the decision all findings of fact and conclusions of law relevant to the matters at issue.</P> <P>(ii) Within a reasonable period of the date of an initial decision, as set by the Commission, either party may appeal the decision solely on the record to the Chairman. The Chairman shall base his or her decision solely on the record of the proceedings or those portions thereof cited by the parties to limit the issues.</P> <P>(iii) If the Chairman modifies or reverses the initial decision, he or she shall specify such findings of facts and conclusions of law as are different from those of the examiner.</P> <P>(9) <E T="03">Administrative sanctions.</E> The Chairman may take appropriate action in the case of any individual who was found in violation of 18 U.S.C. 207 (a), (b), or (c) or the provisions of paragraph (a) of this section after a final administrative decision or who failed to request a hearing after receiving adequate notice by:</P> <P>(i) Prohibiting the individual from making, on behalf of any other person except the United States, any formal or informal appearance before, or, with the intent to influence, any oral or written communication to, the Commission on any matter of business for a period not to exceed five (5) years, which may be accomplished by directing Commission employees to refuse to participate in any such appearance or to accept any such communication; or<PRTPAGE P="29"/> </P> <P>(ii) Taking other appropriate disciplinary action.</P> <P>(10) <E T="03">Judicial review.</E> Any person found to have participated in a violation of 18 U.S.C. 207 (a), (b), or (c) or the provisions of paragraph (a) of this section may seek judicial review of the administrative determination.</P> <P>(11) <E T="03">Consultation and review.</E> The procedures for administrative enforcement set forth in paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) of this section have been reviewed by the Director of the Office of Government Ethics.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Partners or associates.</E> (1) In any case in which a former member, officer, or employee of the Commission is prohibited under this section from practicing, appearing, or representing anyone before the Commission in a particular Commission matter, any partner or legal or business associate of such former member, officer, or employee shall be prohibited from (i) utilizing the services of the disqualified former member, officer, or employee in connection with the matter, (ii) discussing the matter in any manner with the disqualified former member, officer, or employee, and (iii) sharing directly or indirectly with the disqualified former member, officer, or employee in any fees or revenues received for services rendered in connection with such matter.</P> <P>(2) The Commission may require any practitioner or applicant to become a practitioner to file an affidavit to the effect that the practitioner or applicant will not: (i) Utilize the service of, (ii) discuss the particular matter with, or (iii) share directly or indirectly any fees or revenues received for services provided in the particular matter, with a partner, fellow employee, or legal or business associate who is a former member, officer or employee of the Commission and who is either permanently or temporarily precluded from practicing, appearing or representing anyone before the Commission in connection with the particular matter; and that the applicant's employment is not prohibited by any law of the United States or by the regulations of the Commission. [Rule 32.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 502, Subpt. B, Exh. 1</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Exhibit No. 1 to Subpart B [§§ 502.23, 502.26, 502.27] of Part 502—Notice of Appearance</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Federal Maritime Commission</HD> <P>Docket No. _____:</P> <P>Please enter my appearance in this proceeding as counsel for _____.</P> <P>I request to be informed of service of the administrative law judge's initial or recommended decision and of the Commission's decision in this proceeding by:</P> <FP>[] telephone (In the event that I am not available when you call, appropriate advice left with my office will suffice.)</FP> <FP>[] facsimile transmission</FP> <FP>[] electronic mail</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Name]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Address]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Telephone No.]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Fax No.]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[E-mail address]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Signature]</FP> <CITA>[64 FR 7807, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </APPENDIX> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Parties</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.41</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Parties; how designated.</SUBJECT> <P>The term “party”, whenever used in the rules in this part, shall include any natural person, corporation, association, firm, partnership, trustee, receiver, agency, public or private organization, or governmental agency. A party who seeks relief or other affirmative action under § 502.62 shall be designated as “complainant”. A party against whom relief or other affirmative action is sought in any proceeding commenced under § 502.62 or § 502.66, or a party named in an order of investigation issued by the Commission, shall be designated as “respondent,” except that in investigations instituted under section 11(c) of the Shipping Act of 1984, the parties to the agreement shall be designated as “proponents” and the parties protesting the agreement shall be designated as “protestants.” A person who has been permitted to intervene under § 502.72 shall be designated as “intervenor”. All persons or parties designated in this section shall become parties to the proceeding involved <PRTPAGE P="30"/>without further pleadings, and no person other than a party or its representative may introduce evidence or examine witnesses at hearings. [Rule 41.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 61 FR 66617, Dec. 18, 1996]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.42</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Bureau of Enforcement.</SUBJECT> <P>The Director, Bureau of Enforcement, shall be a party to all proceedings governed by the rules in this part except that in complaint proceedings under § 502.62, the Director may become a party only upon leave to intervene granted pursuant to § 502.72, in rulemaking proceedings and in proceedings considering petitions the Director may become a party by designation if the Commission determines that the circumstances of the proceeding warrant such participation, and the Director will not ordinarily be a party to small claims proceedings under § 502.304 and special docket proceedings under § 502.271. The Director or the Director's representative shall be served with copies of all papers, pleadings, and documents in every proceeding in which the Bureau of Enforcement is a party. The Bureau of Enforcement shall actively participate in any proceeding to which the Director is a party, to the extent required in the public interest, subject to the separation of functions required by section 5(c) of the Administrative Procedure Act. (See § 502.224). [Rule 42.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7807, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.43</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Substitution of parties.</SUBJECT> <P>In appropriate circumstances, the Commission or presiding officer may order an appropriate substitution of parties. [Rule 43.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.44</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Necessary and proper parties in certain complaint proceedings.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) If a complaint relates to through transportation by continuous carriage or transshipment, all carriers participating in such through transportation shall be joined as respondents.</P> <P>(b) If the complaint relates to more than one carrier or other person subject to the shipping acts, all carriers or other persons against whom a rule or order is sought shall be made respondents.</P> <P>(c) If complaint is made with respect to an agreement filed under section 5(a) of the Shipping Act of 1984, the parties to the agreement shall be made respondents. (Rule 44).</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 65 FR 81759, Dec. 27, 2000]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Rulemaking</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.51</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Initiation of procedure to issue, amend, or repeal a rule.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">By petition.</E> Any interested party may file with the Commission a petition for the issuance, amendment, or repeal of a rule designed to implement, interpret, or prescribe law, policy, organization, procedure, or practice requirements of the Commission. The petition shall set forth the interest of petitioner and the nature of the relief desired, shall include any facts, views, arguments, and data deemed relevant by petitioner, and shall be verified. If such petition is for the amendment or repeal of a rule, it shall be accompanied by proof of service on all persons, if any, specifically named in such rule, and shall conform in other aspects to subpart H of this part. Petitions shall be accompanied by remittance of a $241 filing fee. Replies to such petition shall conform to the requirements of § 502.74.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">By the Commission.</E> The Commission on its own initiative may initiate the issuance, amendment, or repeal of a rule through notice of proposed rulemaking or advanced notice of proposed rulemaking. [Rule 51.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7808, Feb. 17, 1999, as amended at 67 FR 39859, June 11, 2002; 70 FR 10329, Mar. 3, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.52</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notice of proposed rulemaking.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) General notice of proposed rulemaking, including the information specified in § 502.143, shall be published in the <E T="04">Federal Register,</E> unless all persons subject thereto are named and, either are personally served, or otherwise have actual notice thereof in accordance with law.</P> <P>(b) Except where notice of hearing is required by statute, this section shall not apply to interpretative rules, general statements of policy, organization rules, procedure, or practice of the <PRTPAGE P="31"/>Commission, or any situation in which the Commission for good cause finds (and incorporates such findings in such rule) that notice and public procedure are impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public interest. [Rule 52.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.53</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Participation in rulemaking.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Interested persons will be afforded an opportunity to participate in rulemaking through submission of written data, views, or arguments, with or without opportunity to present the same orally in any manner. No replies to the written submissions will be allowed unless, because of the nature of the proceeding, the Commission indicates that replies would be necessary or desirable for the formulation of a just and reasonable rule, except that, where the proposed rules are such as are required by statute to be made on the record after opportunity for a hearing, such hearing shall be conducted pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 556 and 557, and the procedure shall be the same as stated in subpart J of this part. In the event that replies or succeeding rounds of comments are permitted, copies shall be served on all prior participants in the proceeding. A list of participants may be obtained from the Secretary of the Commission.</P> <P>(b) In those proceedings in which respondents are named, interested persons who wish to participate shall file a petition to intervene in accordance with the provisions of § 502.72 [Rule 53.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 55 FR 28399, July 11, 1990]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.54</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Contents of rules.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission will incorporate in any rules adopted a concise general statement of their basis and purpose. [Rule 54.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.55</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Effective date of rules.</SUBJECT> <P>The publication or service of any substantive rule shall be made not less than thirty (30) days prior to its effective date except (a) as otherwise provided by the Commission for good cause found and published in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> or (b) in the case of rules granting or recognizing exemption or relieving restriction; interpretative rules; or statements of policy. [Rule 55.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.56</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Negotiated rulemaking.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission, either upon petition of interested persons or upon its own motion, may establish a negotiated rulemaking committee to negotiate and develop consensus on a proposed rule, if, upon consideration of the criteria of 5 U.S.C. 563, use of such a committee is determined by the Commission to be in the public interest. [Rule 56.]</P> <CITA>[58 FR 38649, July 19, 1993, as amended at 64 FR 7808, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart E—Proceedings; Pleadings; Motions; Replies</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.61</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Proceedings.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Proceedings are commenced by the filing of a complaint, or by order of the Commission upon petition or upon its own motion, or by reference by the Commission to the formal docket of a petition for a declaratory order.</P> <P>(b) In proceedings referred to the Office of Administrative Law Judges, the Commission shall specify a date on or before which hearing shall commence, which date shall be no more than six months from the date of publication in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> of the Commission's order instituting the proceedings or notice of complaint filed. Hearing dates may be deferred by the presiding judge only to prevent substantial delay, expense, detriment to the public interest or undue prejudice to a party.</P> <P>(c) In the order instituting a proceeding or in the notice of filing of complaint and assignment, the Commission shall establish dates by which the initial decision and the final Commission decision will be issued. These dates may be extended by order of the Commission for good cause shown.</P> <P>(d) All orders instituting a proceeding or noticing the filing of a complaint will contain language requiring that at an early stage of the proceeding and when practicable the parties shall consider the use of alternative dispute resolution in such manner as the presiding officer shall direct and further requiring that hearings shall include oral testimony and cross-examination in the discretion of the presiding officer only upon proper showing that there are genuine issues of material <PRTPAGE P="32"/>fact that cannot be resolved on the basis of sworn statements, affidavits, depositions, or other documents, or that the nature of the matter in issue is such that an oral hearing and cross-examination are necessary for the development of an adequate record. [Rule 61.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 58 FR 38649, July 19, 1993; 64 FR 7808, Feb. 17, 1999; 64 FR 23551, May 3, 1999; 66 FR 43512, Aug. 20, 2001]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.62</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Complaints and fee.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The complaint must be verified and shall contain the name and address of each complainant, the name and address of each complainant's attorney or agent, the name and address of each person against whom complaint is made, a concise statement of the cause of action, and a request for the relief or other affirmative action sought.</P> <P>(b) Where reparation is sought and the nature of the proceeding so requires, the complaint shall set forth: the ports of origin and destination of the shipments; consignees, or real parties in interest, where shipments are on “order” bill of lading; consignors; date of receipt by carrier or tender of delivery to carrier; names of vessels; bill of lading number (and other identifying reference); description of commodities; weights; measurement; rates; charges made or collected; when, where, by whom and to whom rates and charges were paid; by whom the rates and charges were borne; the amount of damage; and the relief sought. Except under unusual circumstances and for good cause shown, reparation will not be awarded upon a complaint in which it is not specifically asked for, nor upon a new complaint by or for the same complainant which is based upon a finding in the original proceeding. Wherever a rate, fare, charge, rule, regulation, classification, or practice is involved, appropriate reference to the tariff should be made, if possible.</P> <P>(c) If the complaint fails to indicate the sections of the acts alleged to have been violated or clearly to state facts which support the allegations, the Commission may, on its own initiative, require the complaint to be amended to supply such further particulars as it deems necessary.</P> <P>(d) The complaint should designate the place at which hearing is desired.</P> <P>(e) Complainant(s) must state whether informal dispute resolution procedures were used prior to filing the complaint and whether complainant(s) consulted with the Commission Dispute Resolution Specialist about utilizing alternative dispute resolution (ADR) under the Commission's ADR program.</P> <P>(f) A form of complaint is set forth in Exhibit No. 1 to this subpart.</P> <P>(g) The complaint shall be accompanied by remittance of a $221 filing fee.</P> <P>(h) Complainants desiring to use the discovery provisions of subpart L must commence discovery at the time the complaint is filed, pursuant to § 502.201(b).</P> <P>(i) For special types of cases, see § 502.271 in subpart Q (Refund or waiver of freight charges); subpart K (Shortened Procedure); and subpart S (Small Claims). [Rule 62.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 55 FR 28399, July 11, 1990; 63 FR 50535, Sept. 22, 1998; 64 FR 7808, Feb. 17, 1999; 66 FR 43513, Aug. 20, 2001; 67 FR 39859, June 11, 2002; 70 FR 10329, Mar. 3, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.63</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Statute of limitations for reparations.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Complaints seeking reparation pursuant to section 11 of the Shipping Act of 1984 shall be filed within three years after the cause of action accrues.</P> <P>(b) The Commission will consider as in substantial compliance with a statute of limitations a complaint in which complainant alleges that the matters complained of, if continued in the future, will constitute violations of the shipping acts in the particulars and to the extent indicated and in which complainant prays for reparation accordingly for injuries which may be sustained as a result of such violations. (See §§ 502.251-502.253 and Exhibit No. 1 to subpart O.)</P> <P>(c) Notification to the Commission that a complaint may or will be filed for the recovery of reparation will not constitute a filing within the applicable statutory period.<PRTPAGE P="33"/> </P> <P>(d) A complaint is deemed filed on the date it is received by the Commission. [Rule 63.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 7808, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.64</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Answer to complaint; counter-complaint.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Respondent shall file with the Commission an answer to the complaint and shall serve it on complainant as provided in subpart H of this part within twenty (20) days after the date of service of the complaint by the Commission or within thirty (30) days if such respondent resides in Alaska or beyond the Continental United States, unless such periods have been extended under § 502.71 or § 502.102, or reduced under § 502.103, or unless motion is filed to withdraw or dismiss the complaint, in which latter case, answer shall be made within ten (10) days after service of an order denying such motion. Such answer shall give notice of issues controverted in fact or law. Recitals of material and relevant facts in a complaint, amended complaint, or bill of particulars, unless specifically denied in the answer thereto, shall be deemed admitted as true, but if request is seasonably made, a competent witness shall be made available for cross-examination on such evidence. An answer to the complaint must be verified.</P> <P>(b) In the event that respondent should fail to file and serve the answer within the time provided, the presiding officer may enter such rule or order as may be just, or may in any case require such proof as he or she may deem proper, except that the presiding officer may permit the filing of a delayed answer after the time for filing the answer has expired, for good cause shown.</P> <P>(c) A form of answer to complaint is set forth in Exhibit No. 2 to this subpart. [Rule 64.]</P> <P>(d) In addition to filing an answer to a complaint, respondent may file a counter-complaint alleging violations of the Shipping Acts within the jurisdiction of the Commission. The filing of counter-complaints and answers to counter-complaints is governed by the rules and requirements of § 502.62 (excluding fees) and of this section for the filing of complaints and answers. Counter-complaints may be served directly by the parties if authorized by the presiding officer. [Rule 64.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 58 FR 27210, May 7, 1993; 64 FR 7808, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.65</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Replies to answers not permitted.</SUBJECT> <P>Replies to answers will not be permitted. New matters set forth in respondent's answer will be deemed to be controverted. [Rule 65.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.66</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Order to show cause.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission may institute a proceeding by order to show cause. The order shall be served upon all persons named therein, shall include the information specified in § 502.143, may require the person named therein to answer, and shall require such person to appear at a specified time and place and present evidence upon the matters specified. [Rule 66.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.67</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exemption procedures—General.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Authority.</E> The Commission, upon application or on its own motion, may by order or rule exempt for the future any class of agreements between persons subject to the Shipping Act of 1984 or any specified activity of persons subject to the Shipping Act of 1984 from any requirement of the Shipping Act of 1984 if it finds that the exemption will not result in substantial reduction in competition or be detrimental to commerce. The Commission may attach conditions to any exemption and may, by order, revoke any exemption.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Application for exemption.</E> Any person may petition the Commission for an exemption or revocation of an exemption of any class of agreements or an individual agreement or any specified activity pursuant to section 16 of the Shipping Act of 1984. A petition for exemption shall state the particular requirement of the Shipping Act of 1984 for which exemption is sought. The petition shall also include a statement of the reasons why an exemption should be granted or revoked, shall provide information relevant to any finding required by the Shipping Act of 1984 and shall comply with § 502.69. Where a petition for exemption of an individual <PRTPAGE P="34"/>agreement is made, the application shall include a copy of the agreement.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Participation by interested persons.</E> No order or rule of exemption or revocation of exemption may be issued unless opportunity for hearing has been afforded interested persons and departments and agencies of the United States.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Federal Register notice.</E> Notice of any proposed exemption or revocation of exemption, whether upon petition or upon the Commission's own motion, shall be published in the <E T="04">Federal Register.</E> The notice shall include when applicable:</P> <P>(1) A short title for the proposed exemption or the title of the existing exemption;</P> <P>(2) The identity of the party proposing the exemption or seeking revocation;</P> <P>(3) A concise summary of the agreement or class of agreements or specified activity for which exemption is sought, or the exemption which is to be revoked;</P> <P>(4) A statement that the petition and any accompanying information are available for inspection in the Commission's offices in Washington, DC; and</P> <P>(5) The final date for filing comments regarding the proposal. [Rule 67.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7808, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.68</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Declaratory orders and fee.</SUBJECT> <P>(a)(1) The Commission may, in its discretion, issue a declaratory order to terminate a controversy or to remove uncertainty.</P> <P>(2) Petitions for the issuance thereof shall: state clearly and concisely the controversy or uncertainty; name the persons and cite the statutory authority involved; include a complete statement of the facts and grounds prompting the petition, together with full disclosure of petitioner's interest; be served upon all parties named therein; and conform to the requirements of subpart H of this part.</P> <P>(3) Petitions shall be accompanied by remittance of a $241 filing fee.</P> <P>(b) Petitions under this section shall be limited to matters involving conduct or activity regulated by the Commission under statutes administered by the Commission. The procedures of this section shall be invoked solely for the purpose of obtaining declaratory rulings which will allow persons to act without peril upon their own view. Controversies involving an allegation of violation by another person of statutes administered by the Commission, for which coercive rulings such as payment of reparation or cease and desist orders are sought, are not proper subjects of petitions under this section. Such matters must be adjudicated either by filing of a complaint under section 11 of the Shipping Act of 1984 and § 502.62, or by filing of a petition for investigation under § 502.69.</P> <P>(c) Petitions under this section shall be accompanied by the complete factual and legal presentation of petitioner as to the desired resolution of the controversy or uncertainty, or a detailed explanation why such can only be developed through discovery or evidentiary hearing.</P> <P>(d) Replies to the petition shall contain the complete factual and legal presentation of the replying party as to the desired resolution, or a detailed explanation why such can only be developed through discovery or evidentiary hearing. Replies shall conform to the requirements of § 502.74 and shall be served pursuant to subpart H of this part.</P> <P>(e) No additional submissions will be permitted unless ordered or requested by the Commission or the presiding officer. If discovery or evidentiary hearing on the petition is deemed necessary by the parties, such must be requested in the petition or replies. Requests shall state in detail the facts to be developed, their relevance to the issues, and why discovery or hearing procedures are necessary to develop such facts.</P> <P>(f)(1) A notice of filing of any petition which meets the requirements of this section shall be published in the <E T="04">Federal Register.</E> The notice will indicate the time for filing of replies to the petition. If the controversy or uncertainty is one of general public interest, and not limited to specifically named persons, opportunity for reply will be given to all interested persons including the Commission's Bureau of Enforcement.</P> <P>(2) In the case of petitions involving a matter limited to specifically named <PRTPAGE P="35"/>persons, participation by persons not named therein will be permitted only upon grant of intervention by the Commission pursuant to § 502.72.</P> <P>(3) Petitions for leave to intervene shall be submitted on or before the reply date and shall be accompanied by intervenor's complete reply including its factual and legal presentation in the matter.</P> <P>(g) Petitions for declaratory order which conform to the requirements of this section will be referred to a formal docket. Referral to a formal docket is not to be construed as the exercise by the Commission of its discretion to issue an order on the merits of the petition. [Rule 68.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 59 FR 59170, Nov. 16, 1994; 61 FR 51233, Oct. 1, 1996; 63 FR 50535, Sept. 22, 1998; 65 FR 81759, Dec. 27, 2000; 67 FR 39859, June 11, 2002; 70 FR 10329, Mar. 3, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.69</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Petitions—General and fee.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Except when submitted in connection with a formal proceeding, all claims for relief or other affirmative action by the Commission, including appeals from Commission staff action, except as otherwise provided in this part, shall be by written petition, which shall state clearly and concisely the petitioner's grounds of interest in the subject matter, the facts relied upon and the relief sought, shall cite by appropriate reference the statutory provisions or other authority relied upon for relief, shall be served upon all parties named therein, and shall conform otherwise to the requirements of subpart H of this part. Replies thereto shall conform to the requirements of § 502.74.</P> <P>(b) Petitions shall be accompanied by remittance of a $241 filing fee. [Rule 69.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 52 FR 4143, Feb. 10, 1987; 59 FR 59170, Nov. 16, 1994; 63 FR 50535, Sept. 22, 1998; 67 FR 39859, June 11, 2002; 70 FR 10329, Mar. 3, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.70</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Amendments or supplements to pleadings.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Amendments or supplements to any pleadings will be permitted or rejected, either in the discretion of the Commission if the case has not been assigned to a presiding officer for hearing, or otherwise, in the discretion of the officer designated to conduct the hearing, except that after a case is assigned for hearing, no amendment shall be allowed which would broaden the issues, without opportunity to reply to such amended pleading and to prepare for the broadened issues. The presiding officer may direct a party to state its case more fully and in more detail by way of amendment.</P> <P>(b) A response to an amended pleading must be filed and served in conformity with the requirements of subpart H of this part and § 502.74, unless the Commission or the presiding officer directs otherwise. Amendments or supplements allowed prior to hearing will be served in the same manner as the original pleading, except that the presiding officer may authorize the service of amended complaints directly by the parties rather than by the Secretary of the Commission.</P> <P>(c) Whenever by the rules in this part a pleading is required to be verified, the amendment or supplement shall also be verified. [Rule 70.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 58 FR 27210, May 7, 1993]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.71</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Motions for more definite statement.</SUBJECT> <P>If a pleading (including a complaint or counter-complaint filed pursuant to § 502.62 or § 502.64) to which a responsive pleading is permitted is so vague or ambiguous that a party cannot reasonably be required to frame a responsive pleading, the party may move for a more definite statement before interposing a responsive pleading. The motion shall be filed within 15 days of the pleading and shall point out the defects complained of and the details desired. If the motion is granted and the order of the presiding officer is not obeyed within 10 days after service of the order or within such time as the presiding officer may fix, the presiding officer may strike the pleading to which the motion was directed or make such order as is deemed just. If the motion is disallowed, the time for responding to the pleading shall be extended to a date 10 days after service of the notice of disallowance. [Rule 71.]</P> <CITA>[58 FR 27210, May 7, 1993, as amended at 64 FR 7808, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <PRTPAGE P="36"/> <SECTNO>§ 502.72</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Petition for leave to intervene.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) A petition for leave to intervene may be filed in any proceeding and shall be served on existing parties by the petitioner pursuant to subpart H of this part. An additional fifteen (15) copies of the petition shall be filed with the Secretary for the use of the Commission. Upon request, the Commission will furnish a service list to any member of the public pursuant to part 503 of this chapter. The petition shall set forth the grounds for the proposed intervention and the interest and position of the petitioner in the proceeding and shall comply with the other applicable provisions of subpart H of this part, and if affirmative relief is sought, the basis for such relief. Such petition shall also indicate the nature and extent of the participation sought, e.g., the use of discovery, presentation of evidence and examination of witnesses.</P> <P>(b)(1) Petitions for leave to intervene as a matter of right will only be granted upon a clear and convincing showing that:</P> <P>(i) The petitioner has a substantial interest relating to the matter which is the subject of the proceeding warranting intervention; and</P> <P>(ii) The proceeding may, as a practical matter, materially affect the petitioner's interest; and</P> <P>(iii) The interest is not adequately represented by existing parties to the proceeding.</P> <P>(2) Petitions for intervention as a matter of Commission discretion may be granted only upon a showing that:</P> <P>(i) A common issue of law or fact exists between the petitioner's interests and the subject matter of the proceeding; and</P> <P>(ii) Petitioner's intervention will not unduly delay or broaden the scope of the proceeding, prejudice the adjudication of the rights of or be duplicative of positions of any existing party; and</P> <P>(iii) The petitioner's participation may reasonably be expected to assist in the development of a sound record.</P> <P>(3) The timeliness of the petition will also be considered in determining whether a petition will be granted under paragraphs (b)(1) or (b)(2) of this section. If filed after hearings have been closed, a petition will not ordinarily be granted.</P> <P>(c) In the interests of: (1) Restricting irrelevant, duplicative, or repetitive discovery, evidence or arguments; (2) having common interests represented by a spokesperson; and (3) retaining authority to determine priorities and control the course of the proceeding, the presiding officer, in his or her discretion, may impose reasonable limitations on an intervenor's participation, e.g., the filing of briefs, presentation of evidence on selected factual issues, or oral argument on some or all of the issues.</P> <P>(d) Absent good cause shown, any intervenor desiring to utilize the procedures provided by subpart L must commence doing so no later than fifteen (15) days after its petition for leave to intervene has been granted. If the petition is filed later than thirty (30) days after the date of publication in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> of the Commission's Order instituting the proceeding or notice of complaint filed, petitioner will be deemed to have waived its right to utilize such procedures, unless good cause is shown for the failure to file the petition within the 30-day period. The use of subpart L procedures by an intervenor whose petition was filed beyond such 30-day period will in no event be allowed, if, in the opinion of the presiding officer, such use will result in delaying the proceeding unduly.</P> <P>(e) If intervention is granted before or at a prehearing conference convened for the purpose of considering matters relating to discovery, the intervenor's discovery matters may also be considered at that time, and may be limited under the provisions of paragraph (c) of this section.</P> <P>(f) A form of petition for leave to intervene is set forth in Exhibit No. 3 to this subpart. [Rule 72.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 52 FR 4143, Feb. 10, 1987]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.73</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Motions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) In any docketed proceeding, an application or request for an order or ruling not otherwise specifically provided for in this part shall be by motion. After the assignment of a presiding officer to a proceeding and before the issuance of his or her recommended or initial decision, all motions shall be addressed to and ruled <PRTPAGE P="37"/>upon by the presiding officer unless the subject matter of the motion is beyond his or her authority, in which event the matter shall be referred to the Commission. If the proceeding is not before the presiding officer, motions shall be designated as “petitions” and shall be addressed to and passed upon by the Commission.</P> <P>(b) Motions shall be in writing, except that a motion made at a hearing shall be sufficient if stated orally upon the record, unless the presiding officer directs that it be reduced to writing.</P> <P>(c) All written motions shall state clearly and concisely the purpose of and the relief sought by the motion, the statutory or principal authority relied upon, and the facts claimed to constitute the grounds requiring the relief requested; and shall conform with the requirements of subpart H of this part.</P> <P>(d) Oral argument upon a written motion may be permitted at the discretion of the presiding officer or the Commission, as the case may be.</P> <P>(e) A repetitious motion will not be entertained. [Rule 73.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.74</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Replies to pleadings, motions, applications, etc.</SUBJECT> <P>(a)(1) Except as provided under subpart V of this part, a reply to a reply is not permitted.</P> <P>(2) Except as otherwise provided respecting answers (§ 502.64), shortened procedure (subpart K of this part), briefs (§ 502.221), exceptions (§ 502.227), replies to petitions for attorney fees under the Equal Access to Justice Act (§ 502.503(b)(1)), and the documents specified in paragraph (b) of this section, any party may file and serve a reply to any written motion, pleading, petition, application, etc., permitted under this part within fifteen (15) days after the date of service thereof, unless a shorter period is fixed under § 502.103.</P> <P>(b) When time permits, replies also may be filed to applications for enlargement of time and postponement of hearing (subpart G of this part), and motions to take depositions (§ 502.201).</P> <P>(c) Replies shall be in writing, shall be verified if verification of original pleading is required, shall be so drawn as to fully and completely advise the parties and the Commission as to the nature of the defense, shall admit or deny specifically and in detail each material allegation of the pleading answered, shall state clearly and concisely the facts and matters of law relied upon, and shall conform to the requirements of subpart H of this part. [Rule 74.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 52 FR 28264, July 29, 1987; 61 FR 66617, Dec. 18, 1996]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.75</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Proceedings involving assessment agreements.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) In complaint proceedings involving assessment agreements filed under section 5(e) of the Shipping Act of 1984, the Notice of Filing of Complaint and Assignment will specify a date before which the initial decision will be issued, which date will not be more than eight months from the date the complaint was filed.</P> <P>(b) Any party to a proceeding conducted under this section who desires to utilize the prehearing discovery procedures provided by subpart L of this part shall commence doing so at the time it files its initial pleading, i.e., complaint, answer or petition for leave to intervene. Discovery matters accompanying complaints shall be filed with the Secretary of the Commission for service pursuant to § 502.113. Answers or objections to discovery requests shall be subject to the normal provisions set forth in subpart L.</P> <P>(c) Exceptions to the decision of the presiding officer, filed pursuant to § 502.227, shall be filed and served no later than fifteen (15) days after date of service of the initial decision. Replies thereto shall be filed and served no later than fifteen (15) days after date of service of exceptions. In the absence of exceptions, the decision of the presiding officer shall be final within thirty (30) days from the date of service, unless within that period, a determination to review is made in accordance with the procedures outlined in § 502.227. [Rule 75.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 7808, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.76</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Brief of an amicus curiae.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) A brief of an amicus curiae may be filed only by leave of the Commission or the presiding officer granted on motion with notice to the parties, or at <PRTPAGE P="38"/>the request of the Commission or the presiding officer, except that leave shall not be required when the brief is presented by the United States or any agency or officer of the United States. The brief may be conditionally filed with the motion for leave. A brief of an amicus curiae shall be limited to questions of law or policy.</P> <P>(b) A motion for leave to file an amicus brief shall identify the interest of the applicant and shall state the reasons why such a brief is desirable.</P> <P>(c) Except as otherwise permitted by the Commission or the presiding officer, an amicus curiae shall file its brief within the time allowed the party whose position as to affirmance or reversal the amicus brief will support. The Commission or the presiding officer shall grant leave for a later filing only for cause shown, in which event the period within which an opposing party may answer shall be specified.</P> <P>(d) A motion of an amicus curiae to participate in oral argument will be granted only in accordance with the requirements of § 502.241. [Rule 76.]</P> <CITA>[52 FR 4143, Feb. 10, 1987]</CITA> </SECTION> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 502, Subpt. E, Exh. 1</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Exhibit No. 1 to Subpart E [§ 502.62] of Part 502—Complaint Form and Information Checklist</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Before the Federal Maritime Commission</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Complaint</HD> <FP SOURCE="FP-2">______ v. ______ [Insert without abbreviation exact and complete name of party or parties respondent]</FP> <P>I. The complainant is [State in this paragraph whether complainant is an association, a corporation, firm, or partnership and the names of the individuals composing the same. State also the nature and principal place of business].</P> <P>II. The respondent is [State in this paragraph whether respondent is an association, a corporation, firm, or partnership and the names of the individuals composing the same. State also the nature and principal place of business].</P> <P>III. Allegation of jurisdiction. [State in this paragraph a synopsis of the statutory bases for claim(s)].</P> <P>IV. That [State in this or subsequent paragraphs to be lettered “A”, “B”, etc., the matter or matters complained of. If rates are involved, name each rate, fare, charge, classification, regulation, or practice, the lawfulness of which is challenged].</P> <P>V. That by reason of the facts stated in the foregoing paragraphs, complainant has been (and is being) subject to injury as a direct result of the violations by respondent of sections ___ [State in this paragraph the causal connection between the alleged illegal acts of respondent and the claimed injury to complainant, with all necessary statutory sections relied upon].</P> <P>VI. That complainant has been injured in the following manner: To its damage in the sum of $___.</P> <P>VII. Wherefore complainant prays that respondent be required to answer the charges herein; that after due hearing, an order be made commanding said respondent (and each of them): to cease and desist from the aforesaid violations of said act(s); to establish and put in force such practices as the Commission determines to be lawful and reasonable; to pay to said complainant by way of reparations for the unlawful conduct hereinabove described the sum of $___, with interest and attorney's fees or such other sum as the Commission may determine to be proper as an award of reparation; and that such other and further order or orders be made as the Commission determines to be proper in the premises. </P> <FP>Dated at ________, this ______ day of _________, 19__.</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Complainant's signature]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Office and post office address]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Signature or agent or attorney of complainant]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Post office address]</FP> <HD SOURCE="HD1">Verification [See § 502.112]</HD> <FP>State of ________, County of __________, ss: _________, ____________ being first duly sworn on oath deposes and says that he (she) is</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[The complainant, or, if a firm, association, or corporation, state the capacity of the affiant]</FP> <FP>and is the person who signed the foregoing complaint; that he (she) has read the complaint and that the facts stated therein, upon information received from others, affiant believes to be true.</FP> <P>Subscribed and sworn to before me, a notary public in and for the State of ___, County of ___ this ___ day ___, A.D. 19—. </P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">[Seal]</FP> <FP>(Notary Public)</FP> <PRTPAGE P="39"/> <FP>My Commission expires ____.</FP> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Information To Assist in Filing Formal Complaint</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">General</HD> <P>Formal Docket Complaint procedures usually involve an evidentiary hearing on disputed facts. Where no evidentiary hearing on disputed facts is necessary and where all parties agree to the use of different procedures, a complaint may be processed under subpart K [Shortened Procedure] or subpart S [Informal Docket for a claim of $10,000 or less]. An application for refund or waiver of collection of freight charges due to tariff error should be filed pursuant to § 502.92 and Exhibit No. 1 to subpart F. Consider also the feasibilty of filing a Petition for Declaratory Order under § 502.68.</P> <P>Under the Shipping Act of 1984 [foreign commerce], the complaint must be filed within three (3) years from the time the cause of action accrues and may be brought against any person alleged to have violated the 1984 Act to the injury of complainant.</P> <P>Because of the limitation periods, a complaint is deemed to be filed only when it is physically received at the Commission. [See § 502.114]</P> <P>The format of exhibit No. 1 to subpart E must be followed and a verification must be included. (See §§ 502.21-502.32, 502.62 and 502.112.) The complaint must also fully describe the alleged violations of the specific section(s) of the shipping statute(s) involved and how complainant is or was directly injured as a result. An original and fifteen copies, plus a further number of copies sufficient for service upon each named respondent must be filed and the Commission will serve the other parties. [<E T="03">See</E> §§ 502.113 and 502.118]</P> <P>In addition to subpart E, some other important rules are: § 502.2 (mailing address; hours); § 502.7 (documents in foreign language); § 502.23 (Notice of Appearance); § 502.41 (parties; how designated); § 502.44 (necessary and proper parties to certain complaint proceedings); and subpart H (form, execution and service of documents).</P> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Checklist of Specific Information</HD> <P>The following checklist sets forth items of information which are pertinent in cases submitted to the Commission pursuant to the regulatory provisions of the shipping statutes. The list is not intended to be inclusive, nor does it indicate all of the essential allegations which may be material in specific cases.</P> <P>1. Identity of complainant; if an individual, complainant's residence; if a partnership, name of partners, business and principal place thereof; if a corporation, name, state of incorporation, and principal place of business. The same information with respect to respondents, intervenors, or others who become parties is necessary.</P> <P>2. Description of commodity involved, with port of origin, destination port, weight, consignor and consignee of shipment(s), date shipped from loading port, and date received at discharge port.</P> <P>3. Rate charged, with tariff authority for same, and any rule or regulation applicable thereto; the charges collected and from whom.</P> <P>4. Route of shipment, including any transshipment; bill of lading reference.</P> <P>5. Date of delivery or tender of delivery of each shipment.</P> <P>6. Where the rate is challenged and comparisons are made with rates on other commodities, the form, packing, density, susceptibility to damage, tendency to contaminate other freight, value, volume of movement, competitive situation, and all matters relating to the cost of loading, unloading, and otherwise handling of respective commodities.</P> <P>7. If comparisons are made between the challenged rates and rates on other routes, the allegation showing similarity of service should include at least respective distances, volumes of movement, cost of handling, and competitive conditions.</P> <P>8. History of rate with reasons for previous increases or decreases of same.</P> <P>9. When the complaint alleges undue prejudice or preference, the complaint should indicate what manner of undue prejudice or preference is involved, and whether to a particular person, locality, or description of traffic; how the preference or discrimination resulted and the manner in which the respondents are responsible for the same; and how complainant is damaged by the prejudice or preference, in loss of sales or otherwise.</P> <P>10. Care should be exercised to differentiate between the measure of damages required in cases where prejudice or preference is charged, where the illegality of rates is charged and other situations.</P> <P>11. Where a filed agreement or conduct under the agreement is challenged, all necessary provisions of the shipping statute involved must be specifically cited, showing in detail how a section was violated and how the conduct or agreement injures complainant. The complaint should be thorough and clear as to all relief complainant is requesting.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 55 FR 28400, July 11, 1990; 64 FR 7808, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </APPENDIX> <APPENDIX> <PRTPAGE P="40"/> <EAR>Pt. 502, Subpt. E, Exh. 2</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Exhibit No. 2 to Subpart E [§ 502.64] of Part 502—Answer to Complaint</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Before the Federal Maritime Commission</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Answer</HD> <FP>______ v. ______</FP> <FP>[Complainant][Respondent]</FP> <FP>Docket No. ____</FP> <P>The above-named respondent, for answer to the complaint in this proceeding, states:</P> <P>I. [State in this and subsequent paragraphs to be numbered II, III, etc., appropriate and responsive admissions, denials, and averments, specifically answering the complaint, paragraph by paragraph.]</P> <P>Wherefore respondent prays that the complaint in this proceeding be dismissed. </P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Name of respondent]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">By</FP> <FP>[Title of Officer]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Office and post office address]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Signature of attorney or agent]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Post office address]</FP> <P>Date ______________, 19__.</P> <HD SOURCE="HD1">Verification</HD> <FP>[See form for verification of complaint in Exhibit No. 1 to this subpart and § 502.112.]</FP> <HD SOURCE="HD1">Certificate of Service</HD> <FP>[See § 502.114.]</FP> </APPENDIX> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 502, Subpt. E, Exh. 3</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Exhibit No. 3 to Subpart E [§ 502.72] of Part 502—Petition for Leave To Intervene</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Before the Federal Maritime Commission</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Petition for Leave To Intervene</HD> <FP SOURCE="FP-1">___ v. ___ Docket No. ___.</FP> <P>Your petitioner, ______________, respectfully represents that he (she) has an interest in the matters in controversy in the above-entitled proceeding and desires to intervene in and become a party to said proceeding, and for grounds of the proposed intervention says:</P> <P>I. That petitioner is [State whether an association, corporation, firm, or partnership, etc., as in Exhibit No. 1 to this subpart, and nature and principal place of business].</P> <P>II. [Here set out specifically position and interest of petitioner in the above-entitled proceeding and other essential averments in accordance with Rule 72 (46 CFR 502.72).]</P> <P>Wherefore said _____________ requests leave to intervene and be treated as a party hereto with the right to have notice of and appear at the taking of testimony, produce and cross-examine witnesses, and be heard in person or by counsel upon brief and at the oral argument, if oral argument is granted.</P> <P>[If affirmative relief is sought, insert appropriate request here.] </P> <FP>Dated at ________, this _______ day of __________, 19__.</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Petitioner's signature]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Office and post office address]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Signature of agent or attorney of petitioner]</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>[Post office address]</FP> <HD SOURCE="HD1">Verification and Certificate of Service</HD> <FP>[See Exhibits Nos. 1 and 2 to this subpart.]</FP> </APPENDIX> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart F—Settlement; Prehearing Procedure</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.91</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Opportunity for informal settlement.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Parties are encouraged to make use of all the procedures of this part which are designed to simplify or avoid formal litigation, and to assist the parties in reaching settlements whenever it appears that a particular procedure would be helpful.</P> <P>(b) Where time, the nature of the proceeding, and the public interest permit, all interested parties shall have the opportunity for the submission and consideration of facts, argument, offers of settlement, or proposal of adjustment, without prejudice to the rights of the parties.</P> <P>(c) No stipulation, offer, or proposal shall be admissible in evidence over the objection of any party in any hearing on the matter. [Rule 91.]</P> <P>(d) As soon as practicable after the commencement of any proceeding, the presiding judge shall direct the parties or their representatives to consider the use of alternative dispute resolution, including but not limited to mediation, <PRTPAGE P="41"/>and may direct the parties or their representatives to consult with the Federal Maritime Commission Alternative Dispute Resolution Specialist about the feasibility of alternative dispute resolution.</P> <P>(e) Any party may request that a mediator or other neutral be appointed to assist the parties in reaching a settlement. If such a request or suggestion is made and is not opposed, the presiding judge will appoint a mediator or other neutral who is acceptable to all parties, coordinating with the Federal Maritime Commission Alternative Dispute Resolution Specialist. The mediator or other neutral shall convene and conduct one or more mediation or other sessions with the parties and shall inform the presiding judge, within the time prescribed by the presiding judge, whether the dispute resolution proceeding resulted in a resolution or not, and may make recommendations as to future proceedings. If settlement is reached, it shall be submitted to the presiding judge who shall issue an appropriate decision or ruling. All such dispute resolution proceedings shall be subject to the provisions of subpart U.</P> <P>(f) Any party may request that a settlement judge be appointed to assist the parties in reaching a settlement. If such a request or suggestion is made and is not opposed, the presiding judge will advise the Chief Administrative Law Judge who may appoint a settlement judge who is acceptable to all parties. The settlement judge shall convene and preside over conferences and settlement negotiations and shall report to the presiding judge within the time prescribed by the Chief Administrative Law Judge, on the results of settlement discussions with appropriate recommendations as to future proceedings. If settlement is reached, it shall be submitted to the presiding judge who shall issue an appropriate decision or ruling. [Rule 91].</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 58 FR 38649, July 19, 1993; 64 FR 7808, Feb. 17, 1999; 66 FR 43513, Aug. 20, 2001]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.92</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.94</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Prehearing conference.</SUBJECT> <P>(a)(1) Prior to any hearing, the Commission or presiding officer may direct all interested parties, by written notice, to attend one or more prehearing conferences for the purpose of considering any settlement under § 502.91, formulating the issues in the proceeding and determining other matters to aid in its disposition. In addition to any offers of settlement or proposals of adjustment, there may be considered the following:</P> <P>(i) Simplification of the issues;</P> <P>(ii) The necessity or desirability of amendments to the pleadings;</P> <P>(iii) The possibility of obtaining admissions of fact and of documents which will avoid unnecessary proof;</P> <P>(iv) Limitation on the number of witnesses;</P> <P>(v) The procedure at the hearing;</P> <P>(vi) The distribution to the parties prior to the hearing of written testimony and exhibits;</P> <P>(vii) Consolidation of the examination of witnesses by counsel;</P> <P>(viii) Such other matters as may aid in the disposition of the proceeding.</P> <P>(2) The presiding officer may require, prior to the hearing, exchange of exhibits and any other material which may expedite the hearing. He or she shall assume the responsibility of accomplishing the purposes of the notice of prehearing conference so far as this may be possible without prejudice to the rights of any party.</P> <P>(3) The presiding officer shall rule upon all matters presented for decision, orally upon the record when feasible, or by subsequent ruling in writing. If a party determines that a ruling made orally does not cover fully the issue presented, or is unclear, such party may petition for a further ruling thereon within ten (10) days after receipt of the transcript.</P> <P>(b) In any proceeding under the rules in this part, the presiding officer may call the parties together for an informal conference prior to the taking of testimony, or may recess the hearing for such a conference, with a view to carrying out the purposes of this section. [Rule 94.]</P> <P>(c) At any prehearing conference, consideration shall be given to whether the use of alternative dispute resolution would be appropriate or useful for the disposition of the proceeding <PRTPAGE P="42"/>whether or not there has been previous consideration of such use.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 58 FR 38649, July 19, 1993; 64 FR 7808, Feb. 17, 1999; 66 FR 43513, Aug. 20, 2001]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.95</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Prehearing statements.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Unless waiver is granted by the presiding officer, it shall be the duty of all parties to a proceeding to prepare a statement or statements at a time and in the manner to be established by the presiding officer provided that there has been reasonable opportunity for discovery. To the extent possible, joint statements should be prepared.</P> <P>(b) A prehearing statement shall state the name of the party or parties on whose behalf it is presented and briefly set forth the following matters, unless otherwise ordered by the presiding officer:</P> <P>(1) Issues involved in the proceeding.</P> <P>(2) Facts stipulated pursuant to the procedures together with a statement that the party or parties have communicated or conferred in a good faith effort to reach stipulation to the fullest extent possible.</P> <P>(3) Facts in dispute.</P> <P>(4) Witnesses and exhibits by which disputed facts will be litigated.</P> <P>(5) A brief statement of applicable law.</P> <P>(6) The conclusion to be drawn.</P> <P>(7) Suggested time and location of hearing and estimated time required for presentation of the party's or parties' case.</P> <P>(8) Any appropriate comments, suggestions or information which might assist the parties in preparing for the hearing or otherwise aid in the disposition of the proceeding.</P> <P>(c) The presiding officer may, for good cause shown, permit a party to introduce facts or argue points of law outside the scope of the facts and law outlined in the prehearing statement. Failure to file a prehearing statement, unless waiver has been granted by the presiding officer, may result in dismissal of a party from the proceeding, dismissal of a complaint, judgment against respondents, or imposition of such other sanctions as may be appropriate under the circumstances.</P> <P>(d) Following the submission of prehearing statements, the presiding officer may, upon motion or otherwise, convene a prehearing conference for the purpose of further narrowing issues and limiting the scope of the hearing if, in his or her opinion, the prehearing statements indicate lack of dispute of material fact not previously acknowledged by the parties or lack of legitimate need for cross-examination and is authorized to issue appropriate orders consistent with the purposes stated in this section. [Rule 95.]</P> </SECTION> <APPENDIX> <RESERVED>Exhibit No. 1 to Subpart F of Part 502 [Reserved]</RESERVED> </APPENDIX> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart G—Time</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.101</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Computation.</SUBJECT> <P>In computing any period of time under the rules in this part, the time begins with the day following the act, event, or default, and includes the last day of the period, unless it is a Saturday, Sunday, or national legal holiday, in which event the period runs until the end of the next day which is not a Saturday, Sunday, or national legal holiday. When the period of time prescribed or allowed is less than seven (7) days, intermediate Saturdays, Sundays, or national legal holidays shall be excluded from the computation. [Rule 101.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.102</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Enlargement of time to file documents.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Motions for enlargement of time for the filing of any pleading or other document, or in connection with the procedures of subpart L of this part, shall set forth the reasons for the motion and be submitted at least five (5) days before the scheduled date for filing. Except for good cause shown, failure to meet this time requirement may result in summary rejection of the request.</P> <P>(b) Such motions will be granted only under exceptional circumstances duly demonstrated in the request, and shall conform to the requirements of Subpart H of this part, except as to service if they show that the parties have received actual notice of the motion; and in relation to briefs, exceptions, and replies to exceptions, such motions shall conform to the further provisions of §§ 502.222 and 502.227.<PRTPAGE P="43"/> </P> <P>(c) Upon motion made after the expiration of the scheduled date, the filing may be permitted where reasonable grounds are found for the failure to file.</P> <P>(d) Replies to such motions for enlargement of time shall conform to the requirements of § 502.74. [Rule 102.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7808, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.103</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Reduction of time to file documents.</SUBJECT> <P>Except as otherwise provided by law and for good cause, the Commission, with respect to matters pending before it, and the presiding officer, with respect to matters pending before him or her, may reduce any time limit prescribed in the rules in this part. [Rule 103.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.104</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Postponement of hearing.</SUBJECT> <P>Motions for postponement of any hearing date shall set forth the reasons for the motion, and shall conform to the requirements of subpart H of this part, except as to service if they show that parties have received such actual notice of motion. Such motions will be granted only if found necessary to prevent substantial delay, expense, detriment to the public interest or undue prejudice to a party. Such motions must be received, whether orally or in writing, at least five (5) days before the scheduled date for hearing. Except for good cause shown, failure to meet this requirement may result in summary rejection of the request. Replies to such motions shall conform to the requirements of § 502.74. [Rule 104.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 7809, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.105</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Waiver of rules governing enlargements of time and postponements of hearings.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission, the presiding officer, or the Chief Administrative Law Judge may waive the requirements of §§ 502.102 and 502.104 as to replies and may rule ex parte on such requests. [Rule 105.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7809, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart H—Form, Execution, and Service of Documents</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.111</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Form and appearance of documents filed with Commission.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) All papers to be filed under the rules in this part must be clear and legible, dated, show the docket description and title of the proceeding, and include the title, if any, and address of the signer. An original signed in ink must be provided. Text shall appear on only one side of the paper and must be double spaced except that quotations must be single spaced and indented. The paper must be strong and durable, not more than 8<FR>1/2</FR> inches wide and 12 inches long, with a left hand margin of 1<FR>1/2</FR> inches. Documents shall be printed in clear type, never smaller than 12 point.</P> <P>(b) Filings by facsimile for purposes of meeting a deadline will not be accepted unless authorized by the presiding officer or the Secretary.</P> <P>(c) Facsimile transmissions of signature pages on filings will be tentatively accepted for the purpose of meeting filing deadlines pending receipt of the original signature page within seven working days. [Rule 111.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7809, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.112</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Verification of documents.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) If a party is represented by an attorney or other person qualified to practice before the Commission under the rules in this part, each pleading, document or other paper of such party filed with the Commission shall be signed by at least one person of record admitted to practice before the Commission in his or her individual name, whose address shall be stated. Except when otherwise specifically provided by rule or statute, such pleading, document or paper need not be verified or accompanied by affidavit. The signature of a person admitted or qualified to practice before the Commission constitutes a certificate by the signer that the signer has read the pleading, document or paper; that the signer is authorized to file it; that to the best of the signer's knowledge, information, and belief formed after reasonable inquiry the filing is well grounded in fact and is warranted by existing law or a <PRTPAGE P="44"/>good faith argument for the extension, modification, or reversal of existing law; and that it is not interposed for any improper purpose, such as to harass or to cause unnecessary delay or needless increase in the cost of litigation. For a willful violation of this section, a person admitted or qualified to practice before the Commission may be subjected to appropriate disciplinary action.</P> <P>(b) If a party is not represented by a person admitted or qualified to practice before the Commission, each pleading, document or other paper of such party filed with the Commission shall be signed and verified under oath by the party or by a duly authorized officer or agent of the party, whose address and title shall be stated. The form of verification shall be substantially as set forth in exhibit No. 1 to subpart E. [Rule 112.]</P> <P>(c) Wherever, under any rules of this part, any matter is required or permitted to be supported, evidenced, established, or proved by the sworn declaration, verification, certificate, statement, oath, or affidavit, in writing of the person making the same (other than a deposition under § 502.203 or § 502.204), such matter may, with like force and effect, be supported, evidenced, established, or proved by the unsworn declaration, certificate, verification, or statement, in writing of such person which is subscribed by such person, as true under penalty of perjury, in substantially the following form.</P> <P>(1) If executed without the United States: “I declare (or certify, verify, or state) under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the foregoing is true and correct.”</P> <P>(2) If executed within the United States, its territories, possessions, or commonwealths: “I declare (or certify, verify, or state) under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.” [Rule 112.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 58 FR 27210, May 7, 1993; 64 FR 7809, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.113</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service by the Commission.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Complaints filed pursuant to § 502.62, (including any accompanying discovery requests initiated pursuant to § 502.201(b)), amendments to complaints (unless otherwise authorized by the presiding officer pursuant to § 502.70(b)), and complainant's memoranda filed in shortened procedure cases will be served by the Secretary of the Commission.</P> <P>(b) The complainant may also effect proper service, in which case an affidavit setting forth the method, time and place of service must be filed with the Secretary within five days following service.</P> <P>(c) In addition to and accompanying the original of every document filed with the Commission for service by the Commission, there shall be a sufficient number of copies for use of the Commission (see § 502.118) and for service on each party to the proceeding.</P> <P>(d) The presiding officer may dismiss a complaint that has not been served within thirty (30) days after the complaint was filed. [Rule 113.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7809, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.114</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service by parties of pleadings and other documents.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Except as otherwise specifically provided by the rules in this part, all pleadings, documents, and papers of every kind (except requests for subpoenas, documents served by the Commission under § 502.113, and documents submitted at a hearing or prehearing conference) in proceedings before the Commission under the rules in this part shall, when tendered to the Commission or the presiding officer for filing, show that service has been made upon all parties to the proceeding and upon any other persons required by the rules in this part to be served. Such service shall be made by delivering one copy to each party; by hand delivering in person; by mail, properly addressed with postage prepaid; by courier; or by facsimile transmission if agreed by both parties prior to service.</P> <P>(b) Service on all prior participants shall be shown when submitting comments or replies beyond the initial round, or when submitting post-decisional pleadings and replies such as petitions for reconsideration, or for stay under rule 261 or to reopen under <PRTPAGE P="45"/>rule 230 in all general notice proceedings, including those involving disposition of petitions for rulemaking (rule 51), petitions for declaratory order (rule 68), petitions general (rule 69), notices of proposed rulemaking (rule 52), proceedings under section 19 of the Merchant Marine Act, 1920, 46 U.S.C. app. 876(1)(b) (part 550), and proceedings under section 13(b)(6) of the Shipping Act of 1984 (part 560). A list of all participants may be obtained from the Secretary of the Commission.</P> <P>(c) Except with respect to filing of complaints pursuant to §§ 502.62 and 502.63, and claims pursuant to § 502.302, the date of filing shall be either the date on which the pleading, document, or paper is physically lodged with the Commission by a party or the date which a party certifies it to have been deposited in the mail or delivered to a courier. [Rule 114.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 55 FR 28400, July 11, 1990; 61 FR 66617, Dec. 18, 1996; 64 FR 7809, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.115</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service on attorney or other representative.</SUBJECT> <P>When a party has appeared by attorney or other representative, service upon each attorney or other representative of record will be deemed service upon the party, except that, if two or more attorneys of record are partners or associates of the same firm, only one of them need be served. [Rule 115.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.116</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Date of service.</SUBJECT> <P>The date of service of documents served by the Commission shall be the date shown in the service stamp thereon. The date of service of documents served by parties shall be the date when matter served is deposited in the United States mail, delivered to a courier, delivered in person, or transmitted by facsimile, as the case may be. In computing the time from such dates, the provisions of § 502.101 shall apply. [Rule 116.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7809, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.117</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Certificate of service.</SUBJECT> <P>The original of every document filed with the Commission and required to be served upon all parties to a proceeding shall be accompanied by a certificate of service signed by the party making service, stating that such service has been made upon each party to the proceeding. Certificates of service may be in substantially the following form:</P> <EXTRACT> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Certificate of Service</HD> <P>I hereby certify that I have this day served the foregoing document upon [all parties of record or name of person(s)] by [mailing, delivering to courier or delivering in person] a copy to each such person. </P> <P>Dated at, ___ this ___ day of ___ 19—. </P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">(Signature)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">(For)</FP> <FP>[Rule 117.]</FP> </EXTRACT> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.118</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Copies of documents for use of the Commission.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Except as otherwise provided in the rules in this part, the original and fifteen (15) copies of every document filed and served in proceedings before the Commission shall be furnished for the Commission's use. If a certificate of service accompanied the original document, a copy of such certificate shall be attached to each such copy of the document.</P> <P>(b) In matters pending before an administrative law judge the following copy requirements apply.</P> <P>(1) An original and fifteen copies shall be filed with the Secretary of:</P> <P>(i) Appeals and replies thereto filed pursuant to § 502.153;</P> <P>(ii) Memoranda submitted under shortened procedures of subpart K of this part;</P> <P>(iii) Briefs submitted pursuant to § 502.221;</P> <P>(iv) All motions, replies and other filings for which a request is made of the administrative law judge for certification to the Commission or on which it otherwise appears it will be necessary for the Commission to rule either directly or upon review of the administrative law judge's disposition thereof, pursuant to § 502.227;</P> <P>(v) Answers to complaints filed pursuant to § 502.64.</P> <P>(2) An original and four copies shall be filed with the Secretary of prehearing statements required by § 502.95, stipulations under § 502.162, notices of appearance required by § 502.23, and all <PRTPAGE P="46"/>other motions, petitions, or other written communications seeking a ruling from the presiding administrative law judge.</P> <P>(3)(i) A single copy shall be filed with the Secretary of requests for discovery, answers, or objections exchanged among the parties under procedures of subpart L of this part. Such materials will not be part of the record for decision unless admitted by the presiding officer or Commission.</P> <P>(ii) Motions filed pursuant to § 502.201 are governed by the requirements of paragraph (b)(2) of this section and motions involving persons and documents located in a foreign country are governed by the requirements of paragraph (b)(1)(iv) of this section.</P> <P>(4) One copy of each exhibit shall be furnished to the official reporter, to each of the parties present at the hearing and to the Presiding Officer unless he or she directs otherwise. If submitted other than at a hearing, the “reporter's” copy of an exhibit shall be furnished to the administrative law judge for later inclusion in the record if and when admitted.</P> <P>(5) Copies of prepared testimony submitted pursuant to § 502.157 are governed by the requirements for exhibits in paragraph (b)(4) of this section. [Rule 118.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 55 FR 28400, July 11, 1990; 61 FR 66617, Dec. 18, 1996; 64 FR 7809, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.119</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Documents containing confidential materials.</SUBJECT> <P>Except as otherwise provided in the rules of this part, all filings which contain information previously designated as confidential pursuant to §§ 502.167, 502.201(i)(1)(vii), or any other rules of this part or for which a request for protective order pursuant to § 502.201(i)(1)(vii) is pending, are subject to the following requirements:</P> <P>(a) Filings shall be accompanied by a transmittal letter which identifies the filing as “confidential” and describes the nature and extent of the authority for requesting confidential treatment. The confidential copies shall consist of the complete filing and shall include a cover page marked “Confidential-Restricted,” with the confidential materials clearly marked on each page.</P> <P>(b) Whenever a confidential filing is submitted, there must also be submitted an original and one copy of a public version of the filing. Such public version shall exclude confidential materials, and shall indicate on the cover page and on each affected page “confidential materials excluded.”</P> <P>(c) Confidential treatment afforded by this section is subject to the proviso that any information designated as confidential may be used by the administrative law judge or the Commission if deemed necessary to a correct decision in the proceeding. [Rule 119.]</P> <CITA>[55 FR 28400, July 11, 1990, as amended at 64 FR 7809, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart I—Subpenas</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.131</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Requests; issuance.</SUBJECT> <P>Subpenas for the attendance of witnesses or the production of evidence shall be issued upon request of any party, without notice to any other party. Requests for subpenas for the attendance of witnesses may be made orally or in writing; requests for subpenas for the production of evidence shall be in writing. The party requesting the subpena shall tender to the presiding officer an original and at least two copies of such subpena. Where it appears to the presiding officer that the subpena sought may be unreasonable, oppressive, excessive in scope, or unduly burdensome, he or she may in his or her discretion, as a condition precedent to the issuance of the subpena, require the person seeking the subpena to show the general relevance and reasonable scope of the testimony or other evidence sought. [Rule 131.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.132</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Motions to quash or modify.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Except when issued at a hearing, or in connection with the taking of a deposition, within ten (10) days after service of a subpena for attendance of a witness or a subpena for production of evidence, but in any event at or before the time specified in the subpena for compliance therewith, the person to whom the subpena is directed may, by motion with notice to the party requesting the subpena, petition the presiding officer to quash or modify the subpena.<PRTPAGE P="47"/> </P> <P>(b) If served at the hearing, the person to whom the subpena is directed may, by oral application at the hearing, within a reasonable time fixed by the presiding officer, petition the presiding officer to revoke or modify the subpena.</P> <P>(c) If served in connection with the taking of a deposition pursuant to § 502.203 unless otherwise agreed to by all parties or otherwise ordered by the presiding officer, the party who has requested the subpena shall arrange that it be served at least twenty (20) days prior to the date specified in the subpena for compliance therewith, the person to whom the subpena is directed may move to quash or modify the subpena within ten (10) days after service of the subpena, and a reply to such motion shall be served within five (5) days thereafter. [Rule 132.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.133</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Attendance and mileage fees.</SUBJECT> <P>Witnesses summoned by subpena to a hearing or deposition are entitled to the same fees and mileage that are paid to witnesses in courts of the United States. Fees and mileage shall be paid, upon request, by the party at whose instance the witness appears. [Rule 133.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7809, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.134</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service of subpenas.</SUBJECT> <P>If service of a subpena is made by a United States marshal, or his or her deputy, or an employee of the Commission, such service shall be evidenced by his or her return thereon. If made by any other person, such person shall make affidavit thereto, describing the manner in which service is made, and return such affidavit on or with the original subpena. In case of failure to make service, the reasons for the failure shall be stated on the original subpena. In making service, the original subpena shall be exhibited to the person served, shall be read to him or her if he or she is unable to read, and a copy thereof shall be left with him or her. The original subpena, bearing or accompanied by required return, affidavit, or statement, shall be returned without delay to the Commission, or if so directed on the subpena, to the presiding officer before whom the person named in the subpena is required to appear. [Rule 134.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.135</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Subpena of Commission staff personnel, documents or things.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) A subpena for the attendance of Commission staff personnel or for the production of documentary materials in the possession of the Commission shall be served upon the Secretary. If the subpena is returnable at hearing, a motion to quash may be filed within five (5) days of service and attendance shall not be required until the presiding officer rules on said motion. If the subpena is served in connection with prehearing depositions, the procedure to be followed with respect to motions to quash and replies thereto will correspond to the procedures established with respect to motions and replies in § 502.132(c).</P> <P>(b) The General Counsel shall designate an attorney to represent any Commission staff personnel subpenaed under this section. The attorney so designated shall not thereafter participate in the Commission's decision-making process concerning any issue in the proceeding.</P> <P>(c) Rulings of the presiding officer issued under § 502.135(a) shall become final rulings of the Commission unless an appeal is filed within ten (10) days after date of issuance of such rulings or unless the Commission, on its own motion, reverses, modifies, or stays such rulings within twenty (20) days of their issuance. Replies to appeals may be filed within ten (10) days. No ruling of the presiding officer shall be effective until twenty (20) days from date of issuance unless the Commission otherwise directs. [Rule 135.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.136</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Enforcement.</SUBJECT> <P>In the event of failure to comply with any subpena or order issued in connection therewith, the Commission may seek enforcement as provided in § 502.210(b). [Rule 136.]</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart J—Hearings; Presiding Officers; Evidence</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.141</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Hearings not required by statute.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission may call informal public hearings, not required by statute, to be conducted under the rules in <PRTPAGE P="48"/>this part where applicable, for the purpose of rulemaking or to obtain information necessary or helpful in the determination of its policies or the carrying out of its duties, and may require the attendance of witnesses and the production of evidence to the extent permitted by law. [Rule 141.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.142</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Hearings required by statute.</SUBJECT> <P>In complaint and answer cases, investigations on the Commission's own motion, and in other rulemaking and adjudication proceedings in which a hearing is required by statute, formal hearings shall be conducted pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 554. [Rule 142.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.143</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notice of nature of hearing, jurisdiction and issues.</SUBJECT> <P>Persons entitled to notice of hearings, except those notified by complaint served under § 502.113, will be duly and timely informed of (a) the nature of the proceeding, (b) the legal authority and jurisdiction under which the proceeding is conducted, and (c) the terms, substance, and issues involved, or the matters of fact and law asserted, as the case may be. Such notice shall be published in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> unless all persons subject thereto are named and either are personally served or otherwise have actual notice thereof in accordance with law. [Rule 143.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 7810, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.144</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notice of time and place of hearing; postponement of hearing.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Notice of hearing will designate the time and place thereof, the person or persons who will preside, and the kind of decision to be issued. The date or place of a hearing for which notice has been issued may be changed when warranted. Reasonable notice will be given to the parties or their representatives of the time and place of the change thereof, due regard being had for the public interest and the convenience and necessity of the parties or their representatives. Notice may be served by mail or telegraph. Notice may be served by mail, facsimile transmission, or electronic mail.</P> <P>(b) Motions for postponement of any hearing date shall be filed in accordance with § 502.104. [Rule 144.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 7810, Feb. 17, 1999; 64 FR 23551, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.145</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Presiding officer.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Definition. Presiding officer</E> includes, where applicable, a member of the Commission or an administrative law judge. (See § 502.25.)</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Designation of administrative law judge.</E> An administrative law judge will be designated by the Chief of the Commission's Office of Administrative Law Judges to preside at hearings required by statute, in rotation so far as practicable, unless the Commission or one or more members thereof shall preside, and will also preside at hearings not required by statute when designated to do so by the Commission.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Unavailability.</E> If the presiding officer assigned to a proceeding becomes unavailable to the Commission, the Commission, or Chief Judge (if such presiding officer was an administrative law judge), shall designate a qualified officer to take his or her place. Any motion predicated upon the substitution of a new presiding officer for one originally designated shall be made within ten (10) days after notice of such substitution. [Rule 145.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.146</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Commencement of functions of Office of Administrative Law Judges.</SUBJECT> <P>In proceedings handled by the Office of Administrative Law Judges, its functions shall attach:</P> <P>(a) Upon the service by the Commission of a complaint filed pursuant to § 502.62, or § 502.182, or upon referral under subpart T of this part; or</P> <P>(b) Upon reference by the Commission of a petition for a declaratory order pursuant to § 502.68; or</P> <P>(c) Upon forwarding for assignment by the Office of the Secretary of a special docket application pursuant to § 502.271; or</P> <P>(d) Upon the initiation of a proceeding and ordering of hearing before an administrative law judge. [Rule 146.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 7810, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <PRTPAGE P="49"/> <SECTNO>§ 502.147</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Functions and powers.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Of presiding officer.</E> The officer designated to hear a case shall have authority to arrange and give notice of hearing; sign and issue subpenas authorized by law; take or cause depositions to be taken; rule upon proposed amendments or supplements to pleadings; delineate the scope of a proceeding instituted by order of the Commission by amending, modifying, clarifying or interpreting said order; inform the parties as to the availability of one or more alternative means of dispute resolution, encourage use of such methods, and require consideration of their use at an early stage of the proceeding; hold conferences for the settlement or simplification of the issues by consent of the parties or by the use of alternative means of dispute resolution; transmit the request of parties for the appointment of a mediator or settlement judge, as provided by § 502.91 of this part; require the attendance at any such conference pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 556(c)(8), of at least one representative of each party who has authority to negotiate concerning resolution of issues in controversy; regulate the course of the hearing; prescribe the order in which evidence shall be presented; dispose of procedural requests or similar matters; hear and rule upon motions; administer oaths and affirmations; examine witnesses; direct witnesses to testify or produce evidence available to them which will aid in the determination of any question of fact in issue; rule upon offers of proof and receive relevant material, reliable and probative evidence; act upon petitions to intervene; permit submission of facts, arguments, offers of settlement, and proposals of adjustment; and, if the parties so request, issue formal opinions providing tentative evaluations of the evidence submitted; hear oral argument at the close of testimony; fix the time for filing briefs, motions, and other documents to be filed in connection with hearings and the administrative law judge's decision thereon, except as otherwise provided by the rules in this part; act upon petitions for enlargement of time to file such documents, including answers to formal complaints; and dispose of any other matter that normally and properly arises in the course of proceedings. The presiding officer or the Commission may exclude any person from a hearing for disrespectful, disorderly, or contumacious language or conduct.</P> <P>(b) All of the functions delegated in subparts A to Q and subpart T of this part, inclusive, to the Chief Judge, presiding officer, or administrative law judge include the functions with respect to hearing, determining, ordering, certifying, reporting, or otherwise acting as to any work, business, or matter, pursuant to the provisions of section 105 of Reorganization Plan No. 7 of 1961. [Rule 147.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 58 FR 38650, July 19, 1993; 64 FR 7810, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.148</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Consolidation of proceedings.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission or the Chief Judge (or designee) may order two or more proceedings which involve substantially the same issues consolidated and heard together. [Rule 148.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.149</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Disqualification of presiding or participating officer.</SUBJECT> <P>Any presiding or participating officer may at any time withdraw if he or she deems himself or herself disqualified, in which case there will be designated another presiding officer. If a party to a proceeding, or its representative, files a timely and sufficient affidavit of personal bias or disqualification of a presiding or participating officer, the Commission will determine the matter as a part of the record and decision in the case. [Rule 149.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.150</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Further evidence required by presiding officer during hearing.</SUBJECT> <P>At any time during the hearing, the presiding officer may call for further evidence upon any issue, and require such evidence where available to be presented by the party or parties concerned, either at the hearing or adjournment thereof. [Rule 150.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.151</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exceptions to rulings of presiding officer unnecessary.</SUBJECT> <P>Formal exceptions to rulings of the presiding officer are unnecessary. It is sufficient that a party, at the time the ruling of the presiding officer is made or sought, makes known the action <PRTPAGE P="50"/>which it desires the presiding officer to take or its objection to an action taken, and its grounds therefor. [Rule 151.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.152</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Offer of proof.</SUBJECT> <P>An offer of proof made in connection with an objection taken to any ruling of the presiding officer rejecting or excluding proffered oral testimony shall consist of a statement of the substance of the evidence which counsel contends would be adduced by such testimony; and, if the excluded evidence consists of evidence in documentary or written form or of reference to documents or records, a copy of such evidence shall be marked for identification and shall constitute the offer of proof. [Rule 152.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.153</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Appeal from ruling of presiding officer other than orders of dismissal in whole or in part.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Rulings of the presiding officer may not be appealed prior to or during the course of the hearing, or subsequent thereto, if the proceeding is still before him or her, except where the presiding officer shall find it necessary to allow an appeal to the Commission to prevent substantial delay, expense, or detriment to the public interest, or undue prejudice to a party.</P> <P>(b) Any party seeking to appeal must file a motion for leave to appeal no later than fifteen (15) days after written service or oral notice of the ruling in question, unless the presiding officer, for good cause shown, enlarges or shortens the time. Any such motion shall contain not only the grounds for leave to appeal but the appeal itself.</P> <P>(c) Replies to the motion for leave to appeal and the appeal may be filed within fifteen (15) days after date of service thereof, unless the presiding officer, for good cause shown, enlarges or shortens the time. If the motion is granted, the presiding officer shall certify the appeal to the Commission.</P> <P>(d) Unless otherwise provided, the certification of the appeal shall not operate as a stay of the proceeding before the presiding officer.</P> <P>(e) The provisions of § 502.10 shall not apply to this section. [Rule 153.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.154</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Rights of parties as to presentation of evidence.</SUBJECT> <P>Every party shall have the right to present its case or defense by oral or documentary evidence, to submit rebuttal evidence, and to conduct such cross-examination as may be required for a full and true disclosure of the facts. The presiding officer shall, however, have the right and duty to limit the introduction of evidence and the examination and cross-examination of witnesses when in his or her judgment, such evidence or examination is cumulative or is productive of undue delay in the conduct of the hearing. [Rule 154.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.155</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Burden of proof.</SUBJECT> <P>In all cases, as prescribed by the Administrative Procedure Act, 5 U.S.C. 556(d), the burden of proof shall be on the proponent of the rule or order. [Rule 155.]</P> <CITA>[61 FR 66617, Dec. 18, 1996]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.156</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Evidence admissible.</SUBJECT> <P>In any proceeding under the rules in this part, all evidence which is relevant, material, reliable and probative, and not unduly repetitious or cumulative, shall be admissible. All other evidence shall be excluded. Unless inconsistent with the requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act and these Rules, the Federal Rules of Evidence, Public Law 93-595, effective July 1, 1975, will also be applicable. [Rule 156.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.157</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Written evidence.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The use of written statements in lieu of oral testimony shall be resorted to where the presiding officer in his or her discretion rules that such procedure is appropriate. The statements shall be numbered in paragraphs, and each party in its rebuttal shall be required to list the paragraphs to which it objects, giving an indication of its reasons for objecting. Statistical exhibits shall contain a short commentary explaining the conclusions which the offeror draws from the data. Any portion of such testimony which is argumentative shall be excluded. Where written statements are used, <PRTPAGE P="51"/>copies of the statement and any rebuttal statement shall be furnished to all parties, as shall copies of exhibits. The presiding officer shall fix respective dates for the exchange of such written rebuttal statements and exhibits in advance of the hearing to enable study by the parties of such testimony. Thereafter, the parties shall endeavor to stipulate as many of the facts set forth in the written testimony as they may be able to agree upon. Oral examination of witnesses shall thereafter be confined to facts which remain in controversy, and a reading of the written statements at the hearing will be dispensed with unless the presiding officer otherwise directs.</P> <P>(b) Where a formal hearing is held in a rulemaking proceeding, interested persons will be afforded an opportunity to participate through submission of relevant, material, reliable and probative written evidence properly verified, except that such evidence submitted by persons not present at the hearing will not be made a part of the record if objected to by any party on the ground that the person who submits the evidence is not present for cross-examination. [Rule 157.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.158</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Documents containing matter not material.</SUBJECT> <P>Where written matter offered in evidence is embraced in a document containing other matter which is not intended to be offered in evidence, the offering party shall present the original document to all parties at the hearing for their inspection, and shall offer a true copy of the matter which is to be introduced, unless the presiding officer determines that the matter is short enough to be read into the record. Opposing parties shall be afforded an opportunity to introduce in evidence, in like manner, other portions of the original document which are material and relevant. [Rule 158.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.159</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.160</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Records in other proceedings.</SUBJECT> <P>When any portion of the record before the Commission in any proceeding other than the one being heard is offered in evidence, a true copy of such portion shall be presented for the record in the form of an exhibit unless the parties represented at the hearing stipulate upon the record that such portion may be incorporated by reference. [Rule 160.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.161</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Commission's files.</SUBJECT> <P>Where any matter contained in a tariff, report, or other document on file with the Commission is offered in evidence, such document need not be produced or marked for identification, but the matter so offered shall be specified in its particularity, giving tariff number and page number of tariff, report, or document in such manner as to be readily identified, and may be received in evidence by reference, subject to comparison with the original document on file. [Rule 161.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.162</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Stipulations.</SUBJECT> <P>The parties may, by stipulation, agree upon any facts involved in the proceeding and include them in the record with the consent of the presiding officer. It is desirable that facts be thus agreed upon whenever practicable. Written stipulations shall be subscribed and shall be served upon all parties of record unless presented at the hearing or prehearing conference. A stipulation may be proposed even if not subscribed by all parties without prejudice to any nonsubscribing party's right to cross-examine and offer rebuttal evidence. [Rule 162.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.163</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Receipt of documents after hearing.</SUBJECT> <P>Documents or other writings to be submitted for the record after the close of the hearing will not be received in evidence except upon permission of the presiding officer. Such documents or other writings when submitted shall be accompanied by a statement that copies have been served upon all parties, and shall be received, except for good cause shown, not later than ten (10) days after the close of the hearing and not less than (10) days prior to the date set for filing briefs. Exhibit numbers will not be assigned until such documents are actually received and incorporated in the record. [Rule 163.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <PRTPAGE P="52"/> <SECTNO>§ 502.164</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Oral argument at hearings.</SUBJECT> <P>Oral argument at the close of testimony may be ordered by the presiding officer in his or her discretion. [Rule 164.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.165</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Official transcript.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The Commission will designate the official reporter for all hearings. The official transcript of testimony taken, together with any exhibits and any briefs or memoranda of law filed therewith, shall be filed with the Commission. Transcripts of testimony will be available in any proceeding under the rules in this part, and will be supplied by the official reporter to the parties and to the public, except when required for good cause to be held confidential, at rates not to exceed the maximum rates fixed by contract between the Commission and the reporter.</P> <P>(b)(1) Section 11 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act provides that, except where prohibited by contractual agreements entered into prior to the effective date of this Act, agencies and advisory committees shall make available to any person, at actual cost of duplication, copies of transcripts of agency proceedings or advisory committee meetings. As used in this section, “agency proceeding” means any proceeding as defined in 5 U.S.C. 551(12).</P> <P>(2) The Office of Management and Budget has interpreted this provision as being applicable to proceedings before the Commission and its administrative law judges. (Guidelines, 38 FR 12851, May 16, 1973.)</P> <P>(3) The Commission interprets section 11 and the OMB guidelines as follows:</P> <P>(i) Future contracts between the Commission and the successfully bidding recording firm will provide that any party to a Commission proceeding or other interested person (hereinafter included within the meaning of “party”) shall be able to obtain a copy of the transcript of the proceeding in which it is involved at the actual cost of duplication of the original transcript, which includes a reasonable amount for overhead and profit, except where it requests delivery of copies in a shorter period of time than is required for delivery by the Commission.</P> <P>(ii) The Commission will bear the full expense of transcribing all of its administrative proceedings where it requests regular delivery service (as set forth in the Contract). In cases where the Commission requests daily delivery of transcript copies (as set forth in the Contract), any party may receive daily delivery service at the actual cost of duplication.</P> <P>(iii)(A) Where the Commission does not request daily copy service, any party requesting such service must bear the incremental cost of transcription above the regular copy transcription cost borne by the Commission, in addition to the actual cost of duplication, except that where the party applies for and properly shows that the furnishing of daily copy is indispensable to the protection of a vital right or interest in achieving a fair hearing, the presiding officer in the proceeding in which the application is made shall order that daily copy service be provided the applying party at the actual cost of duplication, with the full cost of transcription being borne by the Commission.</P> <P>(B) In the event a request for daily copy is denied by the presiding officer, the requesting party, in order to obtain daily copy, must pay the cost of transcription over and above that borne by the Commission, i.e., the incremental cost between that paid by the Commission when it requests regular copy and when it requests daily copy.</P> <P>(C) The decision of the presiding officer in this situation is interpreted as falling within the scope of the functions and powers of the presiding officer, as defined in § 502.147(a). [Rule 165.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.166</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Corrections of transcript.</SUBJECT> <P>Motions made at the hearing to correct the record will be acted upon by the presiding officer. Motions made after the hearing to correct the record shall be filed with the presiding officer within twenty-five (25) days after the last day of hearing or any session thereof, unless otherwise directed by the presiding officer, and shall be served on all parties. Such motions may be in the form of a letter. If no objections are received within ten (10) <PRTPAGE P="53"/>days after date of service, the transcript will, upon approval of the presiding officer, be changed to reflect such corrections. If objections are received, the motion will be acted upon with due consideration of the stenographic record of the hearing. [Rule 166.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.167</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Objection to public disclosure of information.</SUBJECT> <P>Upon objection to public disclosure of any information sought to be elicited during a hearing, the presiding officer may in his or her discretion order that the witness shall disclose such information only in the presence of those designated and sworn to secrecy by the presiding officer. The transcript of testimony shall be held confidential. Copies of said transcript need be served only upon the parties to whose representatives the information has been disclosed and upon such other parties as the presiding officer may designate. This rule is subject to the proviso that any information given pursuant thereto, may be used by the presiding officer or the Commission if deemed necessary to a correct decision in the proceeding. [Rule 167.]</P> <CITA>[55 FR 28400, July 11, 1990]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.168</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Copies of data or evidence.</SUBJECT> <P>Every person compelled to submit data or evidence shall be entitled to retain or, on payment of proper costs, procure a copy of transcript thereof. [Rule 168.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.169</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Record of decision.</SUBJECT> <P>The transcript of testimony and exhibits, together with all papers and requests filed in the proceeding, shall constitute the exclusive record for decision. [Rule 169.]</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart K—Shortened Procedure</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.181</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Selection of cases for shortened procedure; consent required.</SUBJECT> <P>By consent of the parties and with approval of the Commission or presiding officer, a complaint proceeding may be conducted under shortened procedure without oral hearing, except that a hearing may be ordered by the presiding officer at the request of any party or in his or her discretion. [Rule 181.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.182</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Complaint and memorandum of facts and arguments and filing fee.</SUBJECT> <P>A complaint filed with the Commission under this subpart shall have attached a memorandum of the facts, subscribed and verified according to § 502.112, and of arguments separately stated, upon which it relies. The original of each complaint with memorandum shall be accompanied by copies for the Commission's use. The complaint shall be accompanied by remittance of a $221 filing fee. [Rule 182.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 59 FR 59170, Nov. 16, 1994; 63 FR 50535, Sept. 22, 1998; 67 FR 39859, June 11, 2002; 70 FR 10329, Mar. 3, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.183</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Respondent's answering memorandum.</SUBJECT> <P>Within twenty-five (25) days after date of service of the complaint, unless a shorter period is fixed, each respondent shall, if it consents to the shortened procedure provided in this subpart, serve upon complainant pursuant to subpart H of this part an answering memorandum of the facts, subscribed and verified according to § 502.112, and of arguments, separately stated, upon which it relies. The original of the answering memorandum shall be accompanied by a certificate of service as provided in § 502.114 and shall be accompanied by copies for the Commission's use. If the respondent does not consent to the proceeding being conducted under the shortened procedure provided in this subpart, the matter will be governed by subpart E of this part and the respondent shall file an answer under § 502.64. [Rule 183.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.184</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Complainant's memorandum in reply.</SUBJECT> <P>Within fifteen (15) days after the date of service of the answering memorandum prescribed in § 502.183, unless a shorter period is fixed, each complainant may file a memorandum in reply, subscribed and verified according to § 502.112, served as provided in § 502.114, and accompanied by copies for the Commission's use. This will close the record for decision unless the presiding <PRTPAGE P="54"/>officer determines that the record is insufficient and orders the submission of additional evidentiary materials. [Rule 184.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.185</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service of memoranda upon and by interveners.</SUBJECT> <P>Service of all memoranda shall be made upon any interveners. Interveners shall file and serve memoranda in conformity with the provisions relating to the parties on whose behalf they intervene. [Rule 185.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.186</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Contents of memoranda.</SUBJECT> <P>The memorandum should contain concise arguments and fact, the same as would be offered if a formal hearing were held and briefs filed. If reparation is sought, paid freight bills should accompany complainant's original memorandum. [Rule 186.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.187</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedure after filing of memoranda.</SUBJECT> <P>An initial, recommended, or tentative decision will be served upon the parties in the same manner as is provided under § 502.225. Thereafter, the procedure will be the same as that in respect to proceedings after formal hearing. [Rule 187.]</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart L—Depositions, Written Interrogatories, and Discovery</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.201</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General provisions governing discovery.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Applicability.</E> The procedures described in this subpart are available in all adjudicatory proceedings under the Shipping Act of 1984. Unless otherwise ordered by the presiding officer, the copy requirements of § 502.118(b)(3)(i) shall be observed.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Schedule of use</E>—(1) <E T="03">Complaint proceedings.</E> Any party desiring to use the procedures provided in this subpart shall commence doing so at the time it files its initial pleading, e.g., complaint, answer or petition for leave to intervene. Discovery matters accompanying complaints shall be filed with the Secretary of the Commission for service pursuant to § 502.113.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Commission instituted proceedings.</E> All parties desiring to use the procedures provided in this subpart shall commence to do so within 30 days of the service of the Commission's order initiating the proceeding.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">Commencement of discovery.</E> The requirement to commence discovery under paragraphs (b)(1) and (b)(2) of this section shall be deemed satisfied when a party serves any discovery request under this subpart upon a party or person from whom a response is deemed necessary by the party commencing discovery. A schedule for further discovery pursuant to this subpart shall be established at the conference of the parties pursuant to paragraph (d) of this section.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Completion of discovery.</E> Discovery shall be completed within 120 days of the service of the complaint or the Commission's order initiating the proceeding.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Duty of the parties to meet or confer.</E> In all proceedings in which the procedures of this subpart are used, it shall be the duty of the parties to meet or confer within fifteen (15) days after service of the answer to a complaint or after service of the discovery requests in a Commission-instituted proceeding in order to: establish a schedule for the completion of discovery within the 120-day period prescribed in paragraph (c) of this section; resolve to the fullest extent possible disputes relating to discovery matters; and expedite, limit, or eliminate discovery by use of admissions, stipulations and other techniques. The schedule shall be submitted to the presiding officer not later than five (5) days after the conference. Nothing in this rule should be construed to preclude the parties from meeting or conferring at an earlier date.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Submission of status reports and requests to alter schedule.</E> The parties shall submit a status report concerning their progress under the discovery schedule established pursuant to paragraph (d) of this section not later than thirty (30) days after submission of such schedule to the presiding officer and at 30-day intervals thereafter, concluding on the final day of the discovery schedule, unless the presiding officer otherwise directs. Requests to alter such schedule beyond the 120-day <PRTPAGE P="55"/>period shall set forth clearly and in detail the reasons why the schedule cannot be met. Such requests may be submitted with the status reports unless an event occurs which makes adherence to the schedule appear to be impossible, in which case the requests shall be submitted promptly after occurrence of such event.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Conferences by order of the presiding officer.</E> The presiding officer may at any time order the parties or their attorneys to participate in a conference at which the presiding officer may direct the proper use of the procedures of this subpart or make such orders as may be necessary to resolve disputes with respect to discovery and to prevent delay or undue inconvenience. When a reporter is not present and oral rulings are made at a conference held pursuant to this paragraph or paragraph (g) of this section, the parties shall submit to the presiding officer as soon as possible but within three (3) work days, unless the presiding officer grants additional time, a joint memorandum setting forth their mutual understanding as to each ruling on which they agree and, as to each ruling on which their understandings differ, the individual understandings of each party. Thereafter, the presiding officer shall issue a written order setting forth such rulings.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Resolution of disputes.</E> After making every reasonable effort to resolve discovery disputes, a party may request a conference or rulings from the presiding officer on such disputes. Such rulings shall be made orally upon the record when feasible and/or by subsequent ruling in writing. If necessary to prevent undue delay or otherwise facilitate conclusion of the proceeding, the presiding officer may order a hearing to commence before the completion of discovery.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Scope of examination.</E> Persons and parties may be examined regarding any matter, not privileged, which is relevant to the subject matter involved in the proceeding, whether it relates to the claim or defense of the examining party or to the claim or defense of any other party, including the existence, description, nature, custody, condition, and location of any books, documents, or other tangible things, and the identity and location of persons having knowledge of relevant facts. It is not ground for objection that the testimony will be inadmissible at the hearing if the testimony sought appears reasonably calculated to lead to the discovery of admissible evidence.</P> <P>(i) <E T="03">Protective orders.</E> (1) Upon motion by a party or by the person from whom discovery is sought, and for good cause shown, the presiding officer may make any order which justice requires to protect a party or person from annoyance, embarrassment, oppression, or undue burden or expense including one or more of the following:</P> <P>(i) That the discovery not be had;</P> <P>(ii) That the discovery may be had only on specified terms and conditions including a designation of the time or place;</P> <P>(iii) That the discovery may be had only by a method of discovery other than that selected by the party seeking discovery;</P> <P>(iv) That certain matters not be inquired into, or that the scope of the discovery be limited to certain matters;</P> <P>(v) That discovery may be conducted with no one present except persons designated by the presiding officer;</P> <P>(vi) That a deposition after being sealed be opened only by order of the presiding officer;</P> <P>(vii) That a trade secret or other confidential research, development, or commercial information not be disclosed or be disclosed only in a designated way;</P> <P>(viii) That the parties simultaneously file specified documents or information enclosed in sealed envelopes to be opened as directed by the presiding officer.</P> <P>(2) If the motion for a protective order is denied in whole or in part, the presiding officer may, on such terms and conditions as are just, order that any party or person provide or permit discovery. Rulings under this paragraph shall be issued by the presiding officer at a discovery conference called under § 502.201(f) or, if circumstances warrant, under such other procedure the presiding officer may establish.</P> <P>(j) <E T="03">Supplementation of responses.</E> A party who has responded to a request for discovery with a response that was <PRTPAGE P="56"/>complete when made is under no duty to supplement the party's responses to include information thereafter acquired, except as follows:</P> <P>(1) A party is under a duty seasonably to supplement responses with respect to any question directly addressed to (i) the identity and location of persons having knowledge of discoverable matters, and (ii) the identity of each person expected to be called as an expert witness at a hearing, the subject matter on which such person is expected to testify, and the substance of the testimony.</P> <P>(2) A party is under a duty seasonably to amend a prior response if the party obtains information upon the basis of which (i) the party knows that the response was incorrect when made, or (ii) the party knows that the response though correct when made is no longer true and the circumstances are such that a failure to amend the response is in substance a knowing concealment.</P> <P>(3) A duty to supplement responses may be imposed by order of the presiding officer or by agreement of the parties, subject to the time limitations set forth in paragraph (c) of this section or established under paragraph (e) of this section. [Rule 201.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 7810, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.202</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Persons before whom depositions may be taken.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Within the United States.</E> Within the United States or within a territory or insular possession subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, depositions shall be taken before an officer authorized to administer oaths under the laws of the United States or of the place where the examination is held.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">In foreign countries.</E> In a foreign country, depositions may be taken (1) on notice, before a person authorized to administer oaths in the place in which the examination is held, either under the law thereof or under the law of the United States, or (2) before a person commissioned by the Commission, and a person so commissioned shall have the power by virtue of his or her commission to administer any necessary oath and take testimony, or (3) pursuant to a letter rogatory. A commission or a letter rogatory shall be issued on application and notice and on terms that are just and appropriate. It is not requisite to the issuance of a commission or a letter rogatory that the taking of the deposition in any other manner is impracticable or inconvenient; and both a commission and a letter rogatory may be issued in proper cases. A notice or commission may designate the person before whom the deposition is to be taken either by name or descriptive title. A letter rogatory may be addressed “To the Appropriate Authority in [here name the country].” Evidence obtained in response to a letter rogatory need not be excluded merely for the reason that it is not a verbatim transcript or that the testimony was not taken under oath or for any similar departure from the requirements for depositions taken within the United States under the rules in this subpart. (See 22 CFR 92.49-92.66.)</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Disqualification for interest.</E> No deposition shall be taken before a person who is a relative or employee or attorney or counsel of any of the parties, or is a relative or employee of such attorney or counsel, or is financially interested in the action.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Waiver of objection.</E> Objection to taking a deposition because of disqualification of the officer before whom it is to be taken is waived unless made before the deposition begins or as soon thereafter as the disqualification becomes known or could be discovered with reasonable diligence</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Stipulations.</E> If the parties so stipulate in writing, depositions may be taken before any person, at any time or place, upon any notice, and in any manner and when so taken may be used like other depositions. [Rule 202.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.203</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Depositions upon oral examination.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Notice of examination.</E> (1) A party desiring to take the deposition of any person upon oral examination shall give reasonable notice in writing to such person and to every other party to the action, pursuant to subpart H of this part. The notice shall state the time and place for taking the deposition and the name and address of each person to be examined, if known, and, <PRTPAGE P="57"/>if the name is not known, a general description sufficient to identify the person or the particular class or group to which the person belongs. The notice shall also contain a statement of the matters concerning which each witness will testify.</P> <P>(2) The attendance of witnesses may be compelled by subpena as provided in subpart I of this part. If a subpena duces tecum is to be served on the person to be examined, the designation of the materials to be produced as set forth in the subpena shall be attached to or included in the notice.</P> <P>(3) All errors and irregularities in the notice or subpena for taking of a deposition are waived unless written objection is promptly served upon the party giving the notice.</P> <P>(4) Examination and cross-examination of deponents may proceed as permitted at the hearing under the provisions of § 502.154.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Record of examination; oath; objections.</E> (1) The officer before whom the deposition is to be taken shall put the witness on oath and shall personally, or by someone acting under the direction and in his or her presence, record the testimony of the witness. The testimony shall be taken stenographically and transcribed unless the parties agree otherwise. All objections made at the time of the examination to the qualifications of the officer taking it, or to the evidence presented, or to the conduct of any party, and any other objection to the proceedings, shall be noted by the officer upon the deposition. Evidence objected to shall be taken subject to the objections. Objections shall be resolved at a discovery conference called under § 502.201(f) or, if circumstances warrant, by such other procedure as the presiding officer may establish.</P> <P>(2) In lieu of participating in the oral examination, parties served with notice of taking a deposition may transmit written interrogatories to the officer, who shall propound them to the witness and record the answers verbatim.</P> <P>(3) The parties may stipulate or the presiding officer may upon motion order that a deposition be taken by telephone or other reliable device.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Motion to terminate or limit examination.</E> At any time during the taking of the deposition, on motion of any party or of the deponent and upon a showing that the examination is being conducted in bad faith or in such manner as unreasonably to annoy, embarrass, or oppress the deponent or party, the presiding officer may order the officer conducting the examination to cease forthwith from taking the deposition, or may limit the scope and manner of the taking of the deposition as provided in paragraph (b) of this section. If the order made terminates the examination, it shall be resumed thereafter only upon the order of the presiding officer. Upon demand of the objecting party or deponent, the taking of the deposition shall be suspended for the time necessary to make a motion for an order. Rulings under this paragraph shall be issued by the presiding officer at a discovery conference called under § 502.201(f) or, if circumstances warrant, by such other procedure as the presiding officer may establish.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Submission to witness; changes; signing.</E> When the testimony is fully transcribed, the deposition shall be submitted to the witness for examination and shall be read to or by the witness, unless such examination and reading are waived by the witness and by the parties. Any changes in form or substance which the witness desires to make shall be entered upon the deposition by the officer with a statement of the reasons given by the witness for making them. The deposition shall then be signed by the witness unless the parties by stipulation waive the signing or the witness is ill or cannot be found or refuses to sign. If the deposition is not signed by the witness, the officer shall sign it and state on the record the fact of the waiver or of the illness or absence of the witness or the fact of the refusal to sign, together with the reason, if any, given therefor, and the deposition may then be used as fully as though signed, unless upon objection, the presiding officer holds that the reasons given for the refusal to sign require rejection of the deposition in whole or in part.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Certification and filing by officer; copies, notice of filing.</E> (1) The officer taking the deposition shall certify on <PRTPAGE P="58"/>the deposition that the witness was duly sworn by the officer and that the deposition is a true record of the testimony given by the witness. The officer shall then securely seal the deposition in an envelope endorsed with the title of the action and marked “Deposition of [here insert name of witness]” and shall promptly file it with the Secretary of the Commission by hand or registered or certified mail.</P> <P>(2) Interested parties shall make their own arrangements with the officer taking the deposition for copies of the testimony and the exhibits.</P> <P>(3) The party taking the deposition shall give prompt notice of its filing to all other parties.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Effect of errors and irregularities.</E> Errors and irregularities in the manner in which the testimony is transcribed or the deposition is prepared, signed, certified, sealed, endorsed, transmitted, filed, or otherwise dealt with by the officer under this section and § 502.204 are waived unless a motion to suppress the deposition or some part thereof is made within ten (10) days of filing. [Rule 203.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 58 FR 27211, May 7, 1993]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.204</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Depositions upon written interrogatories.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Serving interrogatories; notice.</E> A party desiring to take the deposition of any person upon written interrogatories shall serve them upon every other party pursuant to subpart H of this part with a notice stating the name and address of the person who is to answer them and the name or descriptive title and address of the officer before whom the deposition is to be taken. Within ten (10) days thereafter, a party so served may serve cross interrogatories upon the party proposing to take the deposition. All errors and irregularities in the notice are waived unless written objection is promptly served upon the party giving the notice.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Officer to take responses and prepare record.</E> A copy of the notice and copies of all interrogatories served shall be delivered by the party taking the deposition to the officer designated in the notice, who shall proceed promptly in the manner provided by paragraphs (b), (d) and (e) of § 502.203 to take the testimony of the witness in response to the interrogatories and to prepare, certify, and file or mail the deposition, attaching thereto the copy of the notice and the interrogatories received by him or her.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Notice of filing.</E> When the deposition is filed, the party taking it shall promptly give notice thereof to all other parties. [Rule 204.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.205</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Interrogatories to parties.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Service; answers.</E> (1) Any party may serve, pursuant to subpart H of this part, upon any other party written interrogatories to be answered by the party served or, if the party served is a public or private corporation or a partnership or association, by any officer or agent, who shall furnish such information as is available to the party. Any party desiring to serve interrogatories as provided by this section must comply with the applicable provisions of § 502.201 and make service thereof on all parties to the proceeding.</P> <P>(2) Each interrogatory shall be answered separately and fully in writing under oath, unless it is objected to, in which event the reasons for objection shall be stated in lieu of an answer. The answers are to be signed by the person making them, and the objections signed by the attorney making them.</P> <P>(3) The party upon whom the interrogatories have been served shall serve a copy of the answers, and objections if any, on all parties to the proceeding under the schedule established pursuant to § 502.201. The presiding officer, for good cause, may limit service of answers.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Objections to interrogatories.</E> All objections to interrogatories shall be resolved at the conference or meeting provided for under § 502.201(f) or, if circumstances warrant, by such other procedure as the presiding officer may establish. Written replies to objections to interrogatories shall be permitted only to the extent that the discovery schedule previously established under § 502.201(d) is not delayed.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Scope, time, number and use.</E> (1) Interrogatories may relate to any matters which can be inquired into under <PRTPAGE P="59"/>§ 502.201(h), and the answers may be used to the same extent as provided in § 502.209 for the use of the deposition of a party.</P> <P>(2) Interrogatories may be sought after interrogatories have been answered, but the presiding officer, on motion of the deponent or the party interrogated, may make such protective order as justice may require.</P> <P>(3) The number of interrogatories or of sets of interrogatories to be served is not limited except as justice requires to protect the party from annoyance, expense, embarrassment, or oppression.</P> <P>(4) An interrogatory otherwise proper is not necessarily objectionable merely because an answer to the interrogatory involves an opinion or contention that relates to fact or the application of law to fact, but the presiding officer may order that such an interrogatory need not be answered until after designated discovery has been completed or until a prehearing conference or other later time.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Option to produce business records.</E> Where the answer to an interrogatory may be derived or ascertained from the business records of the party upon whom the interrogatory has been served or from an examination, audit or inspection of such business records, or from a compilation, abstract or summary based thereon, and the burden of deriving or ascertaining the answer is substantially the same for the party serving the interrogatory as for the party served, it is a sufficient answer to such interrogatory to specify the records from which the answer may be derived or ascertained and to afford to the party serving the interrogatory reasonable opportunity to examine, audit or inspect such records and to make copies, compilations, abstracts or summaries. [Rule 205.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.206</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Production of documents and things and entry upon land for inspection and other purposes.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Scope.</E> Any party may serve, pursuant to subpart H of this part, on any other party a request (1) to produce and permit the party making the request, or someone acting on its behalf, to inspect and copy any designated documents (including writings, drawings, graphs, charts, photographs, sound or video recordings, and other data compilations from which information can be obtained, translated, if necessary, by the respondent through detection devices into reasonably usable form), or to inspect and copy, test, or sample any tangible things which constitute or contain matters within the scope of § 502.203(a) and which are in the possession, custody or control of the party upon whom the request is served; or (2) to permit entry upon designated land or other property in the possession or control of the party upon whom the request is served for the purpose of inspection and measuring, surveying, photographing, testing, or sampling the property of any designated object or operation thereon, within the scope of § 502.203(a).</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Procedure.</E> The request shall set forth the items to be inspected either by individual item or by category, and describe each item and category with reasonable particularity. The request shall specify a reasonable time, place, and manner of making the inspection and performing the related acts. Responses shall be served under the schedule established pursuant to § 502.201. The response shall state, with respect to each item or category, that inspection and related activities will be permitted as requested, unless the request is objected to, in which event the reasons for objection shall be stated. Objections to requests for production of documents shall be resolved at the conference or meeting required under § 502.201(f) or, if circumstances warrant, by such other procedure as the presiding officer may establish. Written replies to objections to requests for production of documents shall be permitted only to the extent that the discovery schedule previously established under § 502.201(d) is not delayed. [Rule 206.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.207</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Requests for admission.</SUBJECT> <P>(a)(1) A party may serve, pursuant to subpart H of this part, upon any other party a written request for the admission, for purposes of the pending action only, of the truth of any matters within the scope of § 502.203(a) set forth in the request that relate to statements <PRTPAGE P="60"/>or opinions of fact or of the application of law to fact, including the genuineness of any documents described in the request. Copies of documents shall be served with the request unless they have been or are otherwise furnished or made available for inspection and copying. Any party desiring to serve a request as provided by this section must comply with the applicable provisions of § 502.201.</P> <P>(2)(i) Each matter of which an admission is requested shall be separately set forth.</P> <P>(ii) The matter is admitted unless, within thirty (30) days after service of the request, or within such shorter or longer time as the presiding officer may allow pursuant to § 502.201, the party to whom the request is directed serves upon the party requesting the admission a written answer or objection addressed to the matter, signed by the party or the party's attorney. If objection is made, the reasons therefor shall be stated. The answer shall specifically deny the matter or set forth in detail the reasons why the answering party cannot truthfully admit or deny the matter. A denial shall fairly meet the substance of the requested admission, and when good faith requires that a party qualify the answer or deny only a part of the matter of which an admission is requested, the party shall specify so much of it as is true and qualify or deny the remainder.</P> <P>(iii) An answering party may not give lack of information or knowledge as a reason for failure to admit or deny unless the party states that reasonable inquiry has been made and that the information known or readily obtainable is insufficient to enable the party to admit or deny. A party who considers that a matter of which an admission has been requested presents a genuine issue for trial may not, on that ground alone, object to the request; a party may, subject to the provisions of § 502.207(c) deny the matter or set forth reasons why it cannot be admitted or denied.</P> <P>(3) The party who has requested admissions may request rulings on the sufficiency of the answers or objections. Rulings on such requests shall be issued at a conference called under § 502.201(f) or, if circumstances warrant, by such other procedure as the presiding officer may establish. Unless the presiding officer determines that an objection is justified, the presiding officer shall order that an answer be served. If the presiding officer determines that an answer does not comply with the requirements of this rule, the presiding officer may order either that the matter is admitted or that an amended answer be served. The presiding officer may, in lieu of these orders, determine that final disposition of the request be made at a prehearing conference or at a designated time prior to hearing.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Effect of admission.</E> Any matter admitted under this rule is conclusively established unless the presiding officer on motion permits withdrawal or amendment when the presentation of the merits of the action will be subserved thereby and the party who obtained the admission fails to satisfy the presiding officer that withdrawal or amendment will be prejudicial in maintaining the party's action or defense on the merits. Any admission made by a party under this rule is for the purpose of the pending proceeding only and is not an admission for any other purpose, nor may it be used against the party in any other proceeding.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Expenses on failure to admit.</E> If a party fails to admit the genuineness of any document or the truth of any matter as requested under paragraph (a) of this section, and if the party requesting the admission thereafter proves the genuineness of the document or the truth of the matter, that party may apply to the presiding officer for an order requiring the other party to pay the reasonable expenses incurred in making that proof, including reasonable attorney's fees. Such application must be made to the presiding officer before issuance of the initial decision in the proceeding. The presiding officer shall make the order unless it is found that:</P> <P>(1) The request was held objectionable pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section, or</P> <P>(2) The admission sought was of no substantial importance, or<PRTPAGE P="61"/> </P> <P>(3) The party failing to admit had reasonable ground to believe that it might prevail on the matter, or</P> <P>(4) There was other good reason for the failure to admit. [Rule 207.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.208</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Use of discovery procedures directed to Commission staff personnel.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Discovery procedures described in §§ 502.202, 502.203, 502.204, 502.205, 502.206, and 502.207, directed to Commission staff personnel shall be permitted and shall be governed by the procedures set forth in those sections except as modified by paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section. All notices to take depositions, written interrogatories, requests for production of documents and other things, requests for admissions, and any motions in connection with the foregoing, shall be served on the Secretary of the Commission.</P> <P>(b) The General Counsel shall designate an attorney to represent any Commission staff personnel to whom any discovery requests or motions are directed. The attorney so designated shall not thereafter participate in the Commission's decision-making process concerning any issue in the proceeding.</P> <P>(c) Rulings of the presiding officer issued under paragraph (a) of this section shall become final rulings of the Commission unless an appeal is filed within ten (10) days after date of issuance of such rulings or unless the Commission on its own motion reverses, modifies, or stays such rulings within twenty (20) days of their issuance. Replies to appeals may be filed within ten (10) days. No motion for leave to appeal is necessary in such instances and no ruling of the presiding officer shall be effective until twenty (20) days from date of issuance unless the Commission otherwise directs. [Rule 208.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.209</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Use of depositions at hearings.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> At the hearing, any part or all of a deposition, so far as admissible under the rules of evidence, may be used against any party who was present or represented at the taking of the deposition or who had due notice thereof in accordance with any one of the following provisions:</P> <P>(1) Any deposition may be used by any party for the purpose of contradicting or impeaching the testimony of deponent as a witness.</P> <P>(2) The deposition of a party or of anyone who at the time of taking the deposition was an officer, director, or duly authorized agent of a public or private corporation, partnership, or association which is a party, may be used by any other party for any purpose.</P> <P>(3) The deposition of a witness, whether or not a party, may be used by any party for any purpose if the presiding officer finds:</P> <P>(i) That the witness is dead; or</P> <P>(ii) That the witness is out of the United States unless it appears that the absence of the witness was procured by the party offering the depositions; or</P> <P>(iii) That the witness is unable to attend or testify because of age, sickness, infirmity, or imprisonment; or</P> <P>(iv) That the party offering the deposition has been unable to procure the attendance of the witness by subpoena; or</P> <P>(v) Upon application and notice, that such exceptional circumstances exist as to make it desirable, in the interest of justice and with due regard to the importance of presenting the testimony of witnesses orally in open hearing, to allow the deposition to be used.</P> <P>(4) If only part of a deposition is offered in evidence by a party, any other party may require introduction of all of it which is relevant to the part introduced, and any party may introduce any other parts.</P> <P>(5) Substitution of parties does not affect the right to use depositions previously taken; and, when a proceeding in any hearing has been dismissed and another proceeding involving the same subject matter is afterward brought between the same parties or their representatives or successors in interest, all depositions lawfully taken and duly filed in the former proceeding may be used in the latter as if originally taken therefor.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Objections to admissibility.</E> (1) Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph, objection may be made at the hearing to receiving in evidence any deposition or part thereof for any reason which would require the exclusion <PRTPAGE P="62"/>of the evidence if the witness were then present and testifying.</P> <P>(2) Objections to the competency of a witness or to the competency, relevancy, or materiality of testimony are not waived by failure to make them before or during the taking of the deposition, unless the ground of the objection is one which might have been obviated or removed if presented at the time.</P> <P>(3) Errors and irregularities occurring at the oral examination in the manner of taking the deposition, in the form of the questions or answers, in the oath or affirmation, or in the conduct of parties and errors of any kind which might be obviated, removed, or cured if promptly presented, are waived unless reasonable objection thereto is made at the taking of the deposition.</P> <P>(4) Objections to the form of written interrogatories submitted under § 502.204 are waived unless served in writing upon the party propounding them within the time allowed for serving the succeeding cross interrogatories.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Effect of taking or using depositions.</E> A party shall not be deemed to make a person its own witness for any purpose by taking such person's deposition. The introduction in evidence of the deposition or any part thereof for any purpose other than that of contradicting or impeaching the deponent makes the deponent the witness of the party introducing the deposition, but this shall not apply to the use by any other party of a deposition as described in paragraph (a)(3) of this section. At the hearing, any party may rebut any relevent evidence contained in a deposition whether introduced by it or by any other party. [Rule 209.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.210</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Refusal to comply with orders to answer or produce documents; sanctions; enforcement.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Sanctions for failure to comply with order.</E> If a party or an officer or duly authorized agent of a party refuses to obey an order requiring such party to answer designated questions or to produce any document or other thing for inspection, copying or photographing or to permit it to be done, the presiding officer may make such orders in regard to the refusal as are just, and among others, the following:</P> <P>(1) An order that the matters regarding which the order was made or any other designated facts shall be taken to be established for the purposes of the action in accordance with the claim of the party obtaining the order;</P> <P>(2) An order refusing to allow the disobedient party to support or oppose designated claims or defenses, or prohibiting the disobedient party from introducing designated matters in evidence or an order that with respect to matters regarding which the order was made or any other designated fact, inferences will be drawn adverse to the person or party refusing to obey such order;</P> <P>(3) An order striking out pleadings or parts thereof, or staying further proceedings until the order is obeyed, or dismissing the action or proceeding or any party thereto, or rendering a judgement by default against the disobedient party.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Enforcement of orders and subpenas.</E> In the event of refusal to obey an order or failure to comply with a subpena, the Attorney General at the request of the Commission, or any party injured thereby may seek enforcement by a United States district court having jurisdiction over the parties. Any action with respect to enforcement of subpenas or orders relating to depositions, written interrogatories, or other discovery matters shall be taken within twenty (20) days of the date of refusal to obey or failure to comply. A private party shall advise the Commission five (5) days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays) before applying to the court of its intent to seek enforcement of such supenas and discovery orders.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Persons and documents located in a foreign country.</E> Orders of the presiding officer directed to persons or documents located in a foreign country shall become final orders of the Commission unless an appeal to the Commission is filed within ten (10) days after date of issuance of such orders or unless the Commission on its own motion reverses, modifies, or stays such rulings within twenty (20) days of their <PRTPAGE P="63"/>issuance. Replies to appeals may be filed within ten (10) days. No motion for leave to appeal is necessary in such instances and no orders of the presiding officer shall be effective until twenty (20) days from date of issuance unless the Commission otherwise directs. [Rule 210.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart M—Briefs; Requests for Findings; Decisions; Exceptions</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.221</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Briefs; requests for findings.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The presiding officer shall fix the time and manner of filing briefs and any enlargement of time. The period of time allowed shall be the same for all parties unless the presiding officer, for good cause shown, directs otherwise.</P> <P>(b) Briefs shall be served upon all parties pursuant to subpart H of this part.</P> <P>(c) In investigations instituted on the Commission's own motion, the presiding officer may require the Bureau of Enforcement to file a request for findings of fact and conclusions within a reasonable time prior to the filing of briefs. Service of the request shall be in accordance with the provisions of subpart H of this part.</P> <P>(d) Unless otherwise ordered by the presiding officer, opening or initial briefs shall contain the following matters in separately captioned sections: (1) Introductory section describing the nature and background of the case, (2) proposed findings of fact in serially numbered paragraphs with reference to exhibit numbers and pages of the transcript, (3) argument based upon principles of law with appropriate citations of the authorities relied upon, and (4) conclusions.</P> <P>(e) All briefs shall contain a subject index or table of contents with page references and a list of authorities cited.</P> <P>(f) All briefs filed pursuant to this section shall ordinarily be limited to eighty (80) pages in length, exclusive of pages containing the table of contents, table of authorities, and certificate of service, unless the presiding officer allows the parties to exceed this limit for good cause shown and upon application filed not later than five (5) days before the time fixed for filing of such a brief or reply. [Rule 221.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 61 FR 51233, Oct. 1, 1996; 64 FR 7810, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.222</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Requests for enlargement of time for filing briefs.</SUBJECT> <P>Requests for enlargement of time within which to file briefs shall conform to the requirements of § 502.102. Except for good cause shown, such requests shall be filed and served pursuant to subpart H of this part not later than five (5) days before the expiration of the time fixed for the filing of the briefs. [Rule 222.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.223</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Decisions—Administrative law judges.</SUBJECT> <P>To the administrative law judges is delegated the authority to make and serve initial or recommended decisions. All initial and recommended decisions will include a statement of findings and conclusions, as well as the reasons or basis therefor, upon all the material issues presented on the record, and the appropriate rule, order, sanction, relief, or denial thereof. Where appropriate, the statement of findings and conclusions should be numbered. Initial decisions should address only those issues necessary to a resolution of the material issues presented on the record. A copy of each decision when issued shall be served on the parties to the proceeding. In proceedings involving overcharge claims, the presiding officer may, where appropriate, require that the carrier publish notice in its tariff of the substance of the decision. This provision shall also apply to decisions issued pursuant to subpart T of this part. [Rule 223.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7810, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.224</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Separation of functions.</SUBJECT> <P>The separation of functions as required by 5 U.S.C. 554(d) shall be observed in proceedings under subparts A to Q inclusive, of this part. [Rule 224.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.225</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Decisions—Commission.</SUBJECT> <P>All final decisions will include a statement of findings and conclusions, as well as the reasons or basis therefor, <PRTPAGE P="64"/>upon all the material issues presented on the record, and the appropriate rule, order, sanction, relief, or denial thereof. A copy of each decision when issued shall be served on the parties to the proceeding. This provision shall also apply to decisions issued pursuant to subpart T of this part. [Rule 225.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7810, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.226</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Decision based on official notice; public documents.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Official notice may be taken of such matters as might be judicially noticed by the courts, or of technical or scientific facts within the general knowledge of the Commission as an expert body, provided, that where a decision or part thereof rests on the official notice of a material fact not appearing in the evidence in the record, the fact of official notice shall be so stated in the decision, and any party, upon timely request, shall be afforded an opportunity to show the contrary.</P> <P>(b) Whenever there is offered in evidence (in whole or in part) a public document, such as an official report, decision, opinion, or published scientific or economic statistical data issued by any of the executive departments (or their subdivisions), legislative agencies or committees, or administrative agencies of the Federal Government (including Government-owned corporations), or a similar document issued by a state or its agencies, and such document (or part thereof) has been shown by the offeror to be reasonably available to the public, such document need not be produced or marked for identification, but may be offered in evidence as a public document by specifying the document or relevant part thereof. [Rule 226.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.227</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exceptions to decisions or orders of dismissal of administrative law judge; replies thereto; review of decisions or orders of dismissal by Commission; and judicial review.</SUBJECT> <P>(a)(1) Within twenty-two (22) days after date of service of the initial decision, unless a shorter period is fixed under § 502.103, any party may file a memorandum excepting to any conclusions, findings, or statements contained in such decision, and a brief in support of such memorandum. Such exceptions and brief shall constitute one document, shall indicate with particularity alleged errors, shall indicate transcript page and exhibit number when referring to the record, and shall be served on all parties pursuant to subpart H of this part.</P> <P>(2) Any adverse party may file and serve a reply to such exceptions within twenty-two (22) days after the date of service thereof, which shall contain appropriate transcript and exhibit references.</P> <P>(3) Whenever the officer who presided at the reception of the evidence, or other qualified officer, makes an initial decision, such decision shall become the decision of the Commission thirty (30) days after date of service thereof (and the Secretary shall so notify the parties), unless within such 30-day period, or greater time as enlarged by the Commission for good cause shown, request for review is made in exceptions filed or a determination to review is made by the Commission on its own initiative.</P> <P>(4) A decision or order of dismissal by an administrative law judge shall only be considered final for purposes of judicial review if the party has first sought review by the Commission pursuant to this section.</P> <P>(5) Upon the filing of exceptions to, or review of, an initial decision, such decision shall become inoperative until the Commission determines the matter.</P> <P>(6) Where exceptions are filed to, or the Commission reviews, an initial decision, the Commission, except as it may limit the issues upon notice or by rule, will have all the powers which it would have in making the initial decision. Whenever the Commission shall determine to review an initial decision on its own initiative, notice of such intention shall be served upon the parties.</P> <P>(7) The time periods for filing exceptions and replies to exceptions, prescribed by this section, shall not apply to proceedings conducted under § 502.75.</P> <P>(b)(1) If an administrative law judge has granted a motion for dismissal of the proceeding in whole or in part, any party desiring to appeal must file such appeal no later than twenty-two (22) <PRTPAGE P="65"/>days after service of the ruling on the motion in question.</P> <P>(2) Any adverse party may file and serve a reply to an appeal under this paragraph within twenty-two (22) days after the appeal is served.</P> <P>(3) The denial of a petition to intervene or withdrawal of a grant of intervention shall be deemed to be a dismissal within the meaning of this paragraph.</P> <P>(c) Whenever an administrative law judge orders dismissal of a proceeding in whole or in part, such order, in the absence of appeal, shall become the order of the Commission thirty (30) days after date of service of such order (and the Secretary shall so notify the parties), unless within such 30-day period the Commission decides to review such order on its own motion, in which case notice of such intention shall be served upon the parties.</P> <P>(d) The Commission shall not, on its own initiative, review any initial decision or order of dismissal unless such review is requested by an individual Commissioner. Any such request must be transmitted to the Secretary within thirty (30) days after date of service of the decision or order. Such request shall be sufficient to bring the matter before the Commission for review.</P> <P>(e) All briefs and replies filed pursuant to this section shall ordinarily be limited to fifty (50) pages in length, exclusive of pages containing the table of contents, table of authorities, and certificate of service, unless the Commission allows the parties to exceed this limit for good cause shown and upon application filed not later than five (5) days before the time fixed for filing of such a brief or reply. [Rule 227.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 58 FR 27211, May 7, 1993; 61 FR 66617, Dec. 18, 1996; 64 FR 7810, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.228</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Request for enlargement of time for filing exceptions and replies thereto.</SUBJECT> <P>Requests for enlargement of time within which to file exceptions, and briefs in support thereof, or replies to exceptions shall conform to the applicable provisions of § 502.102. Requests for extensions of these periods will be granted only under exceptional circumstances duly demonstrated in the request. Except for good cause shown, such requests shall be filed and served not later than five (5) days before the expiration of the time fixed for the filing of such documents. Any enlargement of time granted will automatically extend by the same period the date for the filing of notice or review by the Commission. [Rule 228.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.229</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Certification of record by presiding or other officer.</SUBJECT> <P>The presiding or other officer shall certify and transmit the entire record to the Commission when (a) exceptions are filed or the time therefor has expired, (b) notice is given by the Commission that the initial decision will be reviewed on its own initiative, or (c) the Commission requires the case to be certified to it for initial decision. [Rule 229.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.230</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Reopening by presiding officer or Commission.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Motion to reopen.</E> At any time after the conclusion of a hearing in a proceeding, but before issuance by the presiding officer of a recommended or initial decision, any party to the proceeding may file with the presiding officer a motion to reopen the proceeding for the purpose of receiving additional evidence. A motion to reopen shall be served in conformity with the requirements of subpart H and shall set forth the grounds requiring reopening of the proceeding, including material changes of fact or of law alleged to have occurred since the conclusion of the hearing.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Reply.</E> Within ten (10) days following service of a motion to reopen, any party may reply to such motion.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Reopening by presiding officer.</E> At any time prior to filing his or her decision, the presiding officer upon his or her own motion may reopen a proceeding for the reception of further evidence.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Reopening by the Commission.</E> Where a decision has been issued by the presiding officer or where a decision by the presiding officer has been omitted, but before issuance of a Commission decision, the Commission may, after petition and reply in conformity with paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, <PRTPAGE P="66"/>or upon its own motion, reopen a proceeding for the purpose of taking further evidence.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Remand by the Commission.</E> Nothing contained in this rule shall preclude the Commission from remanding a proceeding to the presiding officer for the taking of additional evidence or determining points of law. [Rule 230.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart N—Oral Argument; Submission for Final Decision</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.241</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Oral argument.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The Commission may hear oral argument either on its own motion or upon the written request of a party. If oral argument before the Commission is desired on exceptions to an initial or recommended decision, or on a motion, petition, or application, a request therefor shall be made in writing. Any party may make such a request irrespective of its filing exceptions under § 502.227. If a brief on exceptions is filed, the request for oral argument shall be incorporated in such brief. Requests for oral argument on any motion, petition, or application shall be made in the motion, petition, or application, or in the reply thereto. If the Commission determines to hear oral argument, a notice will be issued setting forth the order of presentation and the amount of time allotted to each party.</P> <P>(b)(1) Requests for oral argument will be granted or denied in the discretion of the Commission.</P> <P>(2) Parties requesting oral argument shall set forth the specific issues they propose to address at oral argument.</P> <P>(c) Those who appear before the Commission for oral argument shall confine their argument to points of controlling importance raised on exceptions or replies thereto. Where the facts of a case are adequately and accurately dealt with in the initial or recommended decision, parties should, as far as possible, address themselves in argument to the conclusions.</P> <P>(d) Effort should be made by parties taking the same position to agree in advance of the argument upon those persons who are to present their side of the case, and the names of such persons and the amount of time requested should be received by the Commission not later than ten (10) days before the date set for the argument. The fewer the number of persons making the argument the more effectively can the parties' interests be presented in the time allotted. [Rule 241.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 52 FR 4144, Feb. 10, 1987]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.242</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Submission to Commission for final decision.</SUBJECT> <P>A proceeding will be deemed submitted to the Commission for final decision as follows: (a) If oral argument is had, the date of completion thereof, or if memoranda on points of law are permitted to be filed after argument, the last date of such filing; (b) if oral argument is not had, the last date when exceptions or replies thereto are filed, or if exceptions are not filed, the expiration date for such exceptions; (c) in the case of an initial decision, the date of notice of the Commission's intention to review the decision, if such notice is given. [Rule 242.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.243</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Participation of absent Commissioner.</SUBJECT> <P>Any Commissioner who is not present at oral argument and who is otherwise authorized to participate in a decision shall participate in making that decision after reading the transcript of oral argument unless he or she files in writing an election not to participate. [Rule 243.]</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart O—Reparation</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.251</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Proof on award of reparation.</SUBJECT> <P>If many shipments or points of origin or destination are involved in a proceeding in which reparation is sought (See § 502.63), the Commission will determine in its decision the issues as to violations, injury to complainant, and right to reparation. If complainant is found entitled to reparation, the parties thereafter will be given an opportunity to agree or make proof respecting the shipments and pecuniary amount of reparation due before the order of the Commission awarding reparation is entered. In such cases, freight bills and other exhibits bearing <PRTPAGE P="67"/>on the details of all shipments, and the amount of reparation on each, need not be produced at the original hearing unless called for or needed to develop other pertinent facts. [Rule 251.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.252</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Reparation statements.</SUBJECT> <P>When the Commission finds that reparation is due, but that the amount cannot be ascertained upon the record before it, the complainant shall immediately prepare a statement in accordance with the approved reparation statement in Exhibit No. 1 to this subpart, showing details of the shipments on which reparation is claimed. This statement shall not include any shipments not covered by the findings of the Commission. Complainant shall forward the statement, together with the paid freight bills on the shipments, or true copies thereof, to the respondent or other person who collected the charges for checking and certification as to accuracy. Statements so prepared and certified shall be filed with the Commission for consideration in determining the amount of reparation due. Disputes concerning the accuracy of amounts may be assigned for conference by the Commission, or in its discretion referred for further hearing. [Rule 252.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.253</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Interest in reparation proceedings.</SUBJECT> <P>Except as to applications for refund or waiver of freight charges under § 502.271 and claims which are settled by agreement of the parties, and absent fraud or misconduct of a party, interest granted on awards of reparation in complaint proceedings instituted under the Shipping Act of 1984 will accrue from the date of injury to the date specified in the Commission order awarding reparation. Compounding will be daily from the date of injury to the date specified in the Commission order awarding reparation. Normally, the date specified within which payment must be made will be fifteen (15) days subsequent to the date of service of the Commission order. Interest shall be computed on the basis of the average monthly secondary market rate on six-month U.S. Treasury bills commencing with the rate for the month that the injury occurred and concluding with the latest available monthly U.S. Treasury bill rate at the date of the Commission order awarding reparation. The monthly secondary market rates on six-month U.S. Treasury bills for the reparation period will be summed up and divided by the number of months for which interest rates are available in the reparation period to determine the average interest rate applicable during the period. [Rule 253.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7810, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.254</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Attorney's fees in reparation proceedings.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Scope.</E> The Commission shall, upon petition, award the complainant reasonable attorney's fees directly related to obtaining a reparations award in any complaint proceeding under section 11 of the Shipping Act of 1984. For purposes of this section, “attorney's fees” includes the fair market value of the services of any person permitted to appear and practice before the Commission in accordance with subpart B of this part, and may include compensation for services rendered the complainant in a related proceeding in Federal court that is useful and necessary to the determination of a reparations award in the complaint proceeding.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Content of petitions.</E> Petitions for attorney's fees under this section shall specify the number of hours claimed by each person representing the complainant at each identifiable stage of the proceeding, and shall be supported by evidence of the reasonableness of hours claimed and the customary fees charged by attorneys and associated legal representative in the community where the petitioner practices. Requests for additional compensation must be supported by evidence that the customary fees for the hours reasonably expended on the case would result in an unreasonable fee award.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Filing of petition.</E> (1) Petitions for attorney's fees shall be filed within 30 days of a final reparation award:</P> <P>(i) With the presiding officer where the presiding officer's decision awarding reparations became administratively final pursuant to § 502.227(a)(3) and § 502.304(g); or</P> <P>(ii) With the Commission, if exceptions were filed to, or the Commission <PRTPAGE P="68"/>reviewed, the presiding officer's reparation award decision pursuant to § 502.227 of this part.</P> <P>(2) For purposes of this section, a reparation award shall be considered final after a decision disposing of the merits of a complaint is issued and the time for the filing of court appeals has run or after a court appeal has terminated.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Replies to petitions.</E> Within 20 days of filing of the petition, a reply to the petition may be filed by the respondent, addressing the reasonableness of any aspect of the petitioner's claim. A respondent may also suggest adjustments to the claim under the criteria stated in paragraph (b) of this section.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Ruling on petitions.</E> Upon consideration of a petition and any reply thereto, the Commission or the presiding officer shall issue an order stating the total amount of attorney's fees awarded. The order shall specify the hours and rate of compensation found awardable and shall explain the basis for any additional adjustments. An award order shall be served within 60 days of the date of the filing of the reply to the petition or expiration of the reply period; except that in cases involving a substantial dispute of facts critical to the award determination, the Commission or presiding officer may hold a hearing on such issues and extend the time for issuing a fee award order by an additional 30 days. The Commission or the presiding officer may adopt a stipulated settlement of attorney's fees.</P> <P>(f) In cases where the presiding officer issues an award order, appeal of that order and Commission review of that order in the absence of appeal shall be governed by the procedures of § 502.227 of this part. [Rule 254.]</P> <CITA>[52 FR 6331, Mar. 3, 1987, as amended at 58 FR 27211, May 7, 1993; 64 FR 7811, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <APPENDIX> <PRTPAGE P="69"/> <EAR>Pt. 502, Subpt O, Exh. 1</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Exhibit No. 1 to Subpart O [§ 502.252] of Part 502—Reparation Statement To Be Filed Pursuant to Rule 252</HD> <GPOTABLE CDEF="xls20,xls20,xls20,xls20,xls20,xls20,xls20,xls20,xls20,xls20,xls20,xls20,xls20,xls20,xls20,xls20" COLS="16" OPTS="L2"> <TDESC>Claim of __________ under the decision of the Federal Maritime Commission in Docket No. __________.</TDESC> <BOXHD> <CHED H="1">Date of B/L</CHED> <CHED H="1">Date of delivery or tender of delivery</CHED> <CHED H="1">Date charges paid</CHED> <CHED H="1">Vessel</CHED> <CHED H="1">Voyage No.</CHED> <CHED H="1">Port of origin</CHED> <CHED H="1">Destination port</CHED> <CHED H="1">Route</CHED> <CHED H="1">Commodity</CHED> <CHED H="1">Weight or measurement</CHED> <CHED H="1">As charged</CHED> <CHED H="2">Rate</CHED> <CHED H="2">Amount</CHED> <CHED H="1">Should be</CHED> <CHED H="2">Rate</CHED> <CHED H="2">Amount</CHED> <CHED H="1">Reparation</CHED> <CHED H="1">Charges paid by *</CHED> </BOXHD> <ROW> <ENT I="11"/> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="11"/> </ROW> <TNOTE>*Here insert name of person paying charges in the first instance, and state whether as consignor, consignee, or in what other capacity.</TNOTE> </GPOTABLE> <GPOTABLE CDEF="s400,1" COLS="2" OPTS="L0,ns,p0,7/8,g1,t1"> <ROW> <ENT I="11">Total amount of reparation $____________________. </ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="12">The undersigned hereby certifies that this statement has been checked against the records of this company and found correct. </ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="12">Date ____________________. </ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="11">____________________ Steamship Company, Collecting Carrier Respondent, </ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="11">By ____________________, Auditor </ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="11">By ____________________, <E T="03">Claimant</E> </ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="11">____________________, <E T="03">Attorney</E> </ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="11">(address and date)</ENT> </ROW> </GPOTABLE> </APPENDIX> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <PRTPAGE P="70"/> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart P—Reconsideration of Proceedings</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.261</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Petitions for reconsideration and stay.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Within thirty (30) days after issuance of a final decision or order by the Commission, any party may file a petition for reconsideration. Such petition shall be limited to 25 pages in length and shall be served in conformity with the requirements of subpart H of this part. A petition will be subject to summary rejection unless it:</P> <P>(1) Specifies that there has been a change in material fact or in applicable law, which change has occurred after issuance of the decision or order;</P> <P>(2) Identifies a substantive error in material fact contained in the decision or order; or</P> <P>(3) Addresses a finding, conclusion or other matter upon which the party has not previously had the opportunity to comment or which was not addressed in the briefs or arguments of any party. Petitions which merely elaborate upon or repeat arguments made prior to the decision or order will not be received. A petition shall be verified if verification of the original pleading is required and shall not operate as a stay of any rule or order of the Commission.</P> <P>(b) A petition for stay of a Commission order which directs the discontinuance of statutory violations will not be received.</P> <P>(c) The provisions of this section are not applicable to decisions issued pursuant to subpart S of this part. [Rule 261.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 58 FR 27211, May 7, 1993]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.262</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Reply to petition for reconsideration or stay.</SUBJECT> <P>Any party may file a reply in opposition to a petition for reconsideration or stay within fifteen (15) days after the date of service of the petition in accordance with § 502.74. The reply shall be limited to 25 pages in length and shall be served in conformity with subpart H of this part. [Rule 262.]</P> <CITA>[58 FR 27211, May 7, 1993]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart Q—Refund or Waiver of Freight Charges</HD> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>64 FR 7811, Feb. 17, 1999, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.271</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Special docket application for permission to refund or waive freight charges.</SUBJECT> <P>(a)(1) A common carrier or a shipper may file a special docket application seeking permission for a common carrier or conference to refund or waive collection of a portion of freight charges if there is:</P> <P>(i) An error in the tariff;</P> <P>(ii) An error in failing to publish a new tariff; or</P> <P>(iii) An error in quoting a tariff .</P> <P>(2) Such refund or waiver must not result in discrimination among shippers, ports, or carriers.</P> <P>(b) Such application must be filed within one hundred eighty (180) days from the date of sailing of the vessel from the port at which the cargo was loaded. An application is filed when it is placed in the mail, delivered to a courier, or, if delivered by another method, when it is received by the Commission. Filings by mail or courier must include a certification as to date of mailing or delivery to the courier.</P> <P>(c) Prior to submission of the application for a refund for an error in a tariff or a failure to publish a new tariff, the carrier or conference must publish a new tariff which sets forth the rate on which refund or waiver would be based.</P> <P>(d) Such application must be in accordance with Exhibit 1 to this Subpart and must also comply with the following requirements:</P> <P>(1) Applications must be submitted to the Office of the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573-0001.</P> <P>(2) Applications must be submitted in an original and one (1) copy.</P> <P>(3) Applications must be sworn to before a notary public or otherwise verified in accordance with § 502.112.</P> <P>(4) When a rate published in a conference tariff is involved, the carrier or shipper must serve a copy of the application on the conference and so certify in accordance with § 502.117 to that service in the application. A shipper <PRTPAGE P="71"/>must also make a similar service and certification with respect to the common carrier.</P> <P>(5) Applications must be accompanied by remittance of a $77 filing fee.</P> <P>(e) Any application which does not furnish the information required by this Subpart may be returned to the applicant by the Secretary without prejudice to resubmission within the 180-day limitation period.</P> <P>(f)(1) The Secretary in his discretion shall either forward an application to the Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services, for assignment to a Special Dockets Officer, or assign an application to the Office of Administrative Law Judges. Authority to issue decisions under this subpart is delegated to the assigned Special Dockets Officer or Administrative Law Judge.</P> <P>(2) Applicants will be notified as to the assignment of a deciding official, and the assignment of a special docket number. Formal proceedings as described in other rules of this part need not be conducted. The deciding official may, in his or her discretion, require the submission of additional information.</P> <P>(g) The deciding official shall issue a decision which, pursuant to § 501.21 of this chapter, shall become final ten (10) days after service of such decision, unless the Commission in its discretion chooses to review such decision within that time, or the applicant chooses to file exceptions to such decision within that time. [Rule 271.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7811, Feb. 17, 1999, as amended at 65 FR 81759, Dec. 27, 2000; 67 FR 39859, June 11, 2002; 70 FR 7669, Feb. 15, 2005; 70 FR 10329, Mar. 3, 2005; 70 FR 44867, Aug. 4, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 502, Subpt. Q, Exh. 1</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Exhibit No. 1 to Subpart Q [§ 502.271(d)] of Part 502—Application for Refund or Waiver of Freight Charges Due to Tariff or Quoting Error</HD> <P>Federal Maritime Commission Special Docket No. _____ [leave blank].</P> <P>Amount of Freight Charges to be refunded or waived:</P> <P>Application of (Name of carrier or shipper) for the benefit of (Name of person who paid or is responsible for payment of freight charges).</P> <P>1. Shipment(s). Here fully describe:</P> <P>(a) Commodity (according to tariff description).</P> <P>(b) Number of shipments.</P> <P>(c) Weight or measurement, container size, and number of containers of individual shipment, as well as all shipments.</P> <P>(d)(1) Date(s) of receipt of shipment(s) by the carrier;</P> <P>(2) Date(s) of sailing(s) (furnish supporting evidence).</P> <P>(e) Shipper and place of origin.</P> <P>(f) Consignee, place of destination and routing of shipment(s).</P> <P>(g) Name of carrier and date shown on bill of lading (furnish legible copies of bill(s) of lading).</P> <P>(h) Names of participating ocean carrier(s).</P> <P>(i) Name(s) of vessel(s) involved in carriage.</P> <P>(j) Amount of freight charges actually collected (furnish legible copies of rated bill(s) of lading or freight bill(s), as appropriate) broken down (i) per shipment, (ii) in the aggregate, (iii) by whom paid, (iv) who is responsible for payment if different, and (v) date(s) of collection.</P> <P>(k) Rate and tariff commodity description applicable at time of shipment (furnish legible copies of tariff materials).</P> <P>(l) Rate and commodity description sought to be applied (furnish legible copies of applicable tariff materials).</P> <P>(m)(1) Amount of applicable freight charges, per shipment and in the aggregate;</P> <P>(2) Amount of freight charges at rate sought to be applied, per shipment and in the aggregate.</P> <P>(n) Amount of freight charges sought to be (refunded) (waived), per shipment and in the aggregate.</P> <P>2. Furnish docket numbers of other special docket applications or decided or pending formal proceedings involving the same rate situations.</P> <P>3. Fully explain the basis for the application, i.e., the error, failure to publish, or misquote, showing why the application should be granted. Furnish affidavits, if appropriate, and legible copies of all supporting documents. If the error is due to failure to publish a tariff, specify the date when the carrier and/or conference intended or agreed to publish a new tariff. If the application is based on a misquote, the application must include the affidavit of the person who made the misquote describing the circumstances surrounding such misquote along with any other supporting documentary evidence available.</P> <P>4. Furnish any information or evidence as to whether granting the application may result in discrimination among shippers, ports or carriers. List any shipments of other shippers of the same commodity which (i) moved via the carrier(s) or conference involved in this application during the period of time beginning on the date the intended rate would <PRTPAGE P="72"/>have become effective and ending on the day before the effective date of the conforming tariff; (ii) moved on the same voyage(s) of the vessel(s) carrying the shipment(s) described in No. 1, above; or (iii), in the case of a misquote, moved between the date of receipt of shipment(s) described in No. 1 above, and the date(s) of sailing(s).</P> <P>(Here set forth Name of Applicant, Signature of Authorized Person, Typed or Printed Name of Person, Title of Person and Date)</P> <P>State of , County of . ss:</P> <P>I,___ , on oath declare that I am ___ of the above-named applicant, that I have read this application and know its contents, and that they are true. Subscribed and sworn to before me, a notary public in and for the State of ______ , County of ______, this ___ day of ___ .</P> <FP>(Seal)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <P>Notary Public</P> <P>My Commission expires.</P> <HD SOURCE="HD3">CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE (if applicable)</HD> <P>I hereby certify that I have this day served the foregoing document upon the (insert the conference name if a conference tariff is involved; or the name of the carrier if the applicant is a shipper) by delivering a copy (insert means by which copy delivered).</P> <P>Dated in (insert city, county, state) this ___ day of ___. (signature)</P> <P>For:</P> <HD SOURCE="HD3">CERTIFICATE OF MAILING</HD> <P>I certify that the date shown below is the date of mailing (or date of delivery to courier) of the original and one (1) copy of this application to the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC, 20573-0001.</P> <P>Dated at ___, this ___ day of ___ .</P> <P>(Signature) .</P> <P>For.</P> </APPENDIX> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart R—Nonadjudicatory Investigations</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.281</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Investigational policy.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission has extensive regulatory duties under the various acts it is charged with administering. The conduct of investigations is essential to the proper exercise of the Commission's regulatory duties. It is the purpose of this subpart to establish procedures for the conduct of such investigations which will insure protection of the public interest in the proper and effective administration of the law. The Commission encourages voluntary cooperation in its investigations where such can be effected without delay or without prejudice to the public interest. The Commission may, in any matter under investigation, invoke any or all of the compulsory processes authorized by law. [Rule 281.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.282</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Initiation of investigations.</SUBJECT> <P>Commission inquiries and nonadjudicatory investigations are originated by the Commission upon its own motion when in its discretion the Commission determines that information is required for the purposes of rulemaking or is necessary or helpful in the determination of its policies or the carrying out of its duties, including whether to institute formal proceedings directed toward determining whether any of the laws which the Commission administers have been violated. [Rule 282.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.283</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Order of investigation.</SUBJECT> <P>When the Commission has determined that an investigation is necessary, an Order of Investigation shall be issued. [Rule 283.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.284</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>By whom conducted.</SUBJECT> <P>Investigations are conducted by Commission representatives designated and duly authorized for the purpose. (See § 502.25.) Such representatives are authorized to exercise the duties of their office in accordance with the laws of the United States and the regulations of the Commission, including the resort to all compulsory processes authorized by law, and the administration of oaths and affirmances in any matters under investigation by the Commission. [Rule 284.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.285</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Investigational hearings.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Investigational hearings, as distinguished from hearings in adjudicatory proceedings, may be conducted in the course of any investigation undertaken by the Commission, including inquiries initiated for the purpose of determining whether or not a person is complying with an order of the Commission.</P> <P>(b) Investigational hearings may be held before the Commission, one or more of its members, or a duly designated representative, for the purpose of hearing the testimony of witnesses <PRTPAGE P="73"/>and receiving documents and other data relating to any subject under investigation. Such hearings shall be stenographically reported and a transcript thereof shall be made a part of the record of investigation. [Rule 285.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.286</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Compulsory process.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission, or its designated representative may issue orders or subpenas directing the person named therein to appear before a designated representative at a designated time and place to testify or to produce documentary evidence relating to any matter under investigation, or both. Such orders and subpenas shall be served in the manner provided in § 502.134. [Rule 286.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.287</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Depositions.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission, or its duly authorized representative, may order testimony to be taken by deposition in any investigation at any stage of such investigation. Such depositions may be taken before any person designated by the Commission having the power to administer oaths. Such testimony shall be reduced to writing by the person taking the deposition or under his or her direction, and shall then be subscribed by the deponent. Any person may be compelled to appear and be deposed and to produce evidence in the same manner as witnesses may be compelled to appear and testify and produce documentary evidence as provided in § 502.131. [Rule 287.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.288</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Reports.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission may issue an order requiring a person to file a report or answers in writing to specific questions relating to any matter under investigation. [Rule 288.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.289</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Noncompliance with investigational process.</SUBJECT> <P>In case of failure to comply with Commission investigational processes, appropriate action may be initiated by the Commission, including actions for enforcement by the Commission or the Attorney General and forfeiture of penalties or criminal actions by the Attorney General. [Rule 289.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.290</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Rights of witness.</SUBJECT> <P>Any person required to testify or to submit documentary evidence shall be entitled to retain or, on payment of lawfully prescribed cost, procure a copy of any document produced by such person and of his or her own testimony as stenographically reported or, in the depositions, as reduced to writing by or under the direction of the person taking the deposition. Any party compelled to testify or to produce documentary evidence may be accompanied and advised by counsel, but counsel may not, as a matter or right, otherwise participate in the investigation. [Rule 290.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.291</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Nonpublic proceedings.</SUBJECT> <P>Unless otherwise ordered by the Commission, all investigatory proceedings shall be nonpublic. [Rule 291.]</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart S—Informal Procedure for Adjudication of Small Claims</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.301</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Statement of policy.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Section 11(a) of the Shipping Act of 1984 permits any person to file a complaint with the Commission claiming a violation occurring in connection with the foreign commerce of the United States and to seek reparation for any injury caused by that violation.</P> <P>(b) With the consent of both parties, claims filed under this subpart in the amount of $50,000 or less will be decided by a Settlement Officer appointed by the Federal Maritime Commission Alternative Dispute Resolution Specialist, without the necessity of formal proceedings under the rules of this part. Authority to issue decisions under this subpart is delegated to the appointed Settlement Officer.</P> <P>(c) Determination of claims under this subpart shall be administratively final and conclusive. [Rule 301.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 7812, Feb. 17, 1999; 66 FR 43513, Aug. 20, 2001]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.302</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Limitations of actions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Claims alleging violations of the Shipping Act of 1984 must be filed within three years from the time the cause of action accrues.<PRTPAGE P="74"/> </P> <P>(b) A claim is deemed filed on the date it is received by the Commission. [Rule 302.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 7812, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.303</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.304</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedure and filing fee.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) A sworn claim under this subpart shall be filed in the form prescribed in Exhibit No. 1 to this subpart. Three (3) copies of this claim must be filed, together with the same number of copies of such supporting documents as may be deemed necessary to establish the claim. Copies of tariff pages need not be filed; reference to such tariffs or to pertinent parts thereof will be sufficient. Supporting documents may consist of affidavits, correspondence, bills of lading, paid freight bills, export declarations, dock or wharf receipts, or of such other documents as, in the judgment of the claimant, tend to establish the claim. The Settlement Officer may, if deemed necessary, request additional documents or information from claimants. Claimant may attach a memorandum, brief or other document containing discussion, argument, or legal authority in support of its claim. If a claim filed under this subpart involves any shipment which has been the subject of a previous claim filed with the Commission, formally or informally, full reference to such previous claim must be given.</P> <P>(b) Claims under this subpart shall be addressed to the Office of the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573. Such claims shall be accompanied by remittance of a $67 filing fee.</P> <P>(c) Each claim under this subpart will be acknowledged with a reference to the Informal Docket Number assigned. The number shall consist of a numeral(s) followed by capital “I” in parentheses. All further correspondence pertaining to such claims must refer to the assigned Informal Docket Number. If the documents filed fail to establish a claim for which relief may be granted, the parties affected will be so notified in writing. The claimant may thereafter, but only if the period of limitation has not run, resubmit its claim with such additional proof as may be necessary to establish the claim. In the event a complaint has been amended because it failed to state a claim upon which relief may be granted, it will be considered as a new complaint.</P> <P>(d) A copy of each claim filed under this subpart, with attachments, shall be served by the Settlement Officer on the respondent involved.</P> <P>(e) Within twenty-five (25) days from the date of service of the claim, the respondent shall serve upon the claimant and file with the Commission its response to the claim, together with an indication, in the form prescribed in Exhibit No. 2 to this subpart, as to whether the informal procedure provided in this subpart is consented to. Failure of the respondent to indicate refusal or consent in its response will be conclusively deemed to indicate such consent. The response shall consist of documents, arguments, legal authorities, or precedents, or any other matters considered by the respondent to be a defense to the claim. The Settlement Officer may request the respondent to furnish such further documents or information as deemed necessary, or he or she may require the claimant to reply to the defenses raised by the respondent.</P> <P>(f) If the respondent refuses to consent to the claim being informally adjudicated pursuant to this subpart, the claim will be considered a complaint under § 502.311 and will be adjudicated under subpart T of this part.</P> <P>(g) Both parties shall promptly be served with the Settlement Officer's decision which shall state the basis upon which the decision was made. Where appropriate, the Settlement Officer may require that the respondent publish notice in its tariff of the substance of the decision. This decision shall be final, unless, within thirty (30) days from the date of service of the decision, the Commission exercises its discretionary right to review the decision. The Commission shall not, on its own initiative, review any decision or order of dismissal unless such review is requested by an individual Commissioner. Any such request must be transmitted to the Secretary within thirty (30) days after date of service of the decision or order. Such request <PRTPAGE P="75"/>shall be sufficient to bring the matter before the Commission for review.</P> <P>(h) Within thirty (30) days after service of a final decision by a Settlement Officer, any party may file a petition for reconsideration. Such petition shall be directed to the Settlement Officer and shall act as a stay of the review period prescribed in paragraph (g) of this section. A petition will be subject to summary rejection unless it: (1) Specifies that there has been a change in material fact or in applicable law, which change has occurred after issuance of the decision or order; (2) identifies a substantive error in material fact contained in the decision or order; (3) addresses a material matter in the Settlement Officer's decision upon which the petitioner has not previously had the opportunity to comment. Petitions which merely elaborate upon or repeat arguments made prior to the decision or order will not be received. Upon issuance of a decision or order on reconsideration by the Settlement Officer, the review period prescribed in paragraph (g) of this section will recommence. [Rule 304.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 59 FR 59170, Nov. 16, 1994; 67 FR 39859, June 11, 2002; 70 FR 10329, Mar. 3, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.305</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Applicability of other rules of this part.</SUBJECT> <P>Except §§ 502.253 and 502.254 or as otherwise specifically provided in this subpart, the rules in subparts A through Q, inclusive, of this part do not apply to situations covered by this subpart. [Rule 305.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7812, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 502, Subpt. S, Exh. 1</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Exhibit No. 1 to Subpart S [§ <E T="01">502.304(a)</E>] of Part 502—Small Claim Form for Informal Adjudication and Information Checklist</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC.</HD> <P>Informal Docket No.___ </P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>(Claimant)</FP> <P>vs.</P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>(Respondent)</FP> <P>I. The claimant is [state in this paragraph whether claimant is an association, corporation, firm or partnership, and if a firm or partnership, the names of the individuals composing the same. State the nature and principal place of business.]</P> <P>II. The respondent named above is [state in this paragraph whether respondent is an association, corporation, firm or partnership, and if a firm or partnership, the names of the individuals composing the same. State the nature and principal place of business.]</P> <P>III. That [state in this and subsequent paragraphs to be lettered A, B, etc., the matters that gave rise to the claim. Name specifically each rate, charge, classification, regulation or practice which is challenged. Refer to tariffs, tariff items or rules, or agreement numbers, if known. If claim is based on the fact that a firm is a common carrier, state where it is engaged in transportation by water and which statute(s) it is subject to under the jurisdiction of the Federal Maritime Commission].</P> <P>IV. If claim is for overcharges, state commodity, weight and cube, origin, destination, bill of lading description, bill of lading number and date, rate and/or charges assessed, date of delivery, date of payment, by whom paid, rate or charge claimed to be correct and amount claimed as overcharges. [Specify tariff item for rate or charge claimed to be proper].</P> <P>V. State section of statute claimed to have been violated. (Not required if claim is for overcharges).</P> <P>VI. State how claimant was injured and amount of damages requested.</P> <P>VII. The undersigned authorizes the Settlement Officer to determine the above-stated claim pursuant to the informal procedure outlined in subpart S (46 CFR 502.301-502.305) of the Commission's informal procedure for adjudication of small claims subject to discretionary Commission review.</P> <P>Attach memorandum or brief in support of claim. Also attach bill of lading, copies of correspondence or other documents in support of claim.</P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>(Date)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>(Claimant's signature)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>(Claimant's address)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>(Signature of agent or attorney)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>(Agent's or attorney's address)</FP> <HD SOURCE="HD1">Verification</HD> <P>State of ___, County of ___, ss: ___, being first duly sworn on oath deposes and says that he or she is</P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <PRTPAGE P="76"/> <FP>The claimant [or if a firm, association, or corporation, state the capacity of the affiant] and is the person who signed the foregoing claim, that he or she has read the foregoing and that the facts set forth without qualification are true and that the facts stated therein upon information received from others, affiant believes to be true.</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Subscribed and sworn to before me, a notary public in and for the State of ___, County of ___, this __ day of ___ 19—. (Seal)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <HD SOURCE="HD3">(Notary Public)</HD> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">My Commission expires,</FP> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Information To Assist in Filing Informal Complaints</HD> <P>Informal Docket procedures are limited to claims of $10,000 or less and are appropriate only in instances when an evidentiary hearing on disputed facts is not necessary. Where, however, a respondent elects not to consent to the informal procedures [See Exhibit No. 2 to subpart S], the claim will be adjudicated by an administrative law judge under subpart T of Part 502.</P> <P>Under the Shipping Act of 1984 [for foreign commerce], the claim must be filed within three (3) years from the time the cause of action accrues and may be brought against any person alleged to have violated the 1984 Act to the injury of claimant.</P> <P>A violation of a specific section of a particular shipping statute must be alleged.</P> <P>The format of Exhibit No. 1 must be followed and a verification must be included. (See §§ 502.21-502.32, 502.112, and 502.304.) An original and two (2) copies of the claim <E T="03">and all attachments,</E> including a brief in support of the claim, must be submitted.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 55 FR 28400, July 11, 1990; 64 FR 7812, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </APPENDIX> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 502, Subpt. S, Exh. 2</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Exhibit No. 2 to Subpart S [§ <E T="01">502.304(e)</E>] of Part 502—Respondent's Consent Form for Informal Adjudication</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC.</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Informal Docket No. ___</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Respondent's Affidavit</HD> <P>I authorize the Settlement Officer to determine the above-numbered claim in accordance with subpart S (46 CFR 502) of the Commission's informal procedure for adjudication of small claims subject to discretionary Commission Review. </P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">(Date)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">(Signed)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">(Capacity)</FP> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Verification</HD> <P>State of ___________, County of __________, ss: ______, being first duly sworn on oath deposes and says that he or she is _________, (Title or Position) and is the person who signed the foregoing and agrees without qualification to its truth. </P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <P>Subscribed and sworn to before me, a notary public in and for the State of ________, County of ________, this ______ day of __________, 19__.</P> <FP>(Seal)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>(Notary Public)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">My Commission expires.</FP> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Certificate of Service [See § 502.320]</HD> </APPENDIX> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart T—Formal Procedure for Adjudication of Small Claims</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.311</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Applicability.</SUBJECT> <P>In the event the respondent elects not to consent to determination of the claim under subpart S of this part, it shall be adjudicated by the administrative law judges of the Commission under procedures set forth in this subpart, if timely filed under § 502.302. The previously assigned Docket Number shall be used except that it shall now be followed by capital “F” instead of “I” in parentheses (See § 502.304(c)). The complaint shall consist of the documents submitted by the claimant under subpart S of this part. [Rule 311.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.312</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Answer to complaint.</SUBJECT> <P>The respondent shall file with the Commission an answer within twenty-five (25) days of service of the complaint and shall serve a copy of said answer upon complainant. The answer shall admit or deny each matter set forth in the complaint. Matters not specifically denied will be deemed admitted. Where matters are urged in defense, the answer shall be accompanied by appropriate affidavits, other documents, and memoranda. [Rule 312.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <PRTPAGE P="77"/> <SECTNO>§ 502.313</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Reply of complainant.</SUBJECT> <P>Complainant may, within twenty (20) days of service of the answer filed by respondent, file with the Commission and serve upon the respondent a reply memorandum accompanied by appropriate affidavits and supporting documents. [Rule 313.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.314</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Additional information.</SUBJECT> <P>The administrative law judge may require the submission of additional affidavits, documents, or memoranda from complainant or respondent. [Rule 314.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.315</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Request for oral hearing.</SUBJECT> <P>In the usual course of disposition of complaints filed under this subpart, no oral hearing will be held, but, the administrative law judge, in his or her discretion, may order such hearing. A request for oral hearing may be incorporated in the answer or in complainant's reply to the answer. Requests for oral hearing will not be entertained unless they set forth in detail the reasons why the filing of affidavits or other documents will not permit the fair and expeditious disposition of the claim, and the precise nature of the facts sought to be proved at such oral hearing. The administrative law judge shall rule upon a request for oral hearing within ten (10) days of its receipt. In the event an oral hearing is ordered, it will be held in accordance with the rules applicable to other formal proceedings, as set forth in subparts A through Q of this part. [Rule 315.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.316</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Intervention.</SUBJECT> <P>Intervention will ordinarily not be permitted. [Rule 316.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.317</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Oral argument.</SUBJECT> <P>No oral argument will be held unless otherwise directed by the administrative law judge. [Rule 317.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.318</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Decision.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The decision of the administrative law judge shall be final, unless, within twenty-two (22) days from the date of service of the decision, either party requests review of the decision by the Commission, asserting as grounds therefor that a material finding of fact or a necessary legal conclusion is erroneous or that prejudicial error has occurred, or unless, within thirty (30) days from the date of service of the decision, the Commission exercises its discretionary right to review the decision. The Commission shall not, on its own initiative, review any decision or order of dismissal unless such review is requested by an individual Commissioner. Any such request must be transmitted to the Secretary within thirty (30) days after date of service of the decision or order. Such request shall be sufficient to bring the matter before the Commission for review. [Rule 318.]</P> <P>(b) If the complainant is awarded reparations pursuant to section 11 of the Shipping Act of 1984, attorney's fees shall also be awarded in accordance with § 502.254 of this part. [Rule 318.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 52 FR 6332, Mar. 3, 1987]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.319</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Date of service and computation of time.</SUBJECT> <P>The date of service of documents served by the Commission shall be that which is shown in the service stamp thereon. The date of service of documents served by parties shall be the date when the matter served is mailed or delivered in person, as the case may be. When the period of time prescribed or allowed is ten (10) days or less, intermediate Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays shall be excluded from the computation. [Rule 319.]</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.320</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service.</SUBJECT> <P>All claims, resubmitted claims, petitions to intervene and rulings thereon, notices of oral hearings, notices of oral arguments (if necessary), decisions of the administrative law judge, notices of review, and Commission decisions shall be served by the administrative law judge or the Commission. All other pleadings, documents and filings shall, when tendered to the Commission, evidence service upon all parties to the proceeding. Such certificate shall be in substantially the following form:</P> <EXTRACT> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Certificate of Service</HD> <P>I hereby certify that I have this day served the foregoing document upon all parties of <PRTPAGE P="78"/>record in this proceeding by [mailing, delivering to courier, or delivering in person], a copy to each such person in sufficient time to reach such person on the date the document is due to be filed with the Commission. </P> <P>Dated at __________ this ________ day of _________, 19__. </P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">(Signature)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">(For)</FP> <FP>[Rule 320.]</FP> </EXTRACT> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.321</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Applicability of other rules of this part.</SUBJECT> <P>Except as specifically provided in this part, rules in subparts A through Q, inclusive, of this part do not apply to situations covered by this subpart. [Rule 321.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7812, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart U—Alternative Dispute Resolution</HD> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>66 FR 43513, Aug. 20, 2001, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.401</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Policy.</SUBJECT> <P>It is the policy of the Federal Maritime Commission to use alternative means of dispute resolution to the fullest extent compatible with the law and the agency's mission and resources. The Commission will consider using ADR in all areas including workplace issues, formal and informal adjudication, issuance of regulations, enforcement and compliance, issuing and revoking licenses and permits, contract award and administration, litigation brought by or against the Commission, and other interactions with the public and the regulated community. The Commission will provide learning and development opportunities for its employees to develop their ability to use conflict resolution skills, instill knowledge of the theory and practice of ADR, and to facilitate appropriate use of ADR. To this end, all parties to matters under this part are required to consider use of a wide range of alternative means to resolve disputes at an early stage. Parties are encouraged to pursue use of alternative means through the Commission's Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services in lieu of or prior to initiating a Commission proceeding. All employees and persons who interact with the Commission are encouraged to identify opportunities for collaborative, consensual approaches to dispute resolution or rulemaking.</P> <CITA>[66 FR 43513, Aug. 20, 2001, as amended at 70 FR 7669, Feb. 15, 2005; 70 FR 44867, Aug. 4, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.402</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Alternative means of dispute resolution</E> means any procedure that is used to resolve issues in controversy, including, but not limited to, conciliation, facilitation, mediation, factfinding, minitrials, arbitration, and use of ombuds, or any combination thereof;</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Award</E> means any decision by an arbitrator resolving the issues in controversy;</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Dispute resolution communication</E> means any oral or written communication prepared for the purposes of a dispute resolution proceeding, including any memoranda, notes or work product of the neutral, parties or nonparty participant; except that a written agreement to enter into a dispute resolution proceeding, or final written agreement or arbitral award reached as a result of a dispute resolution proceeding, is not a dispute resolution communication;</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Dispute resolution proceeding</E> means any process in which an alternative means of dispute resolution is used to resolve an issue in controversy in which a neutral is appointed and specified parties participate;</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">In confidence</E> means, with respect to information, that the information is provided—</P> <P>(1) With the expressed intent of the source that it not be disclosed; or</P> <P>(2) Under circumstances that would create the reasonable expectation on behalf of the source that the information will not be disclosed;</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Issue in controversy</E> means an issue which is material to a decision concerning a program of the Commission, and with which there is disagreement—</P> <P>(1) Between the Commission and persons who would be substantially affected by the decision; or</P> <P>(2) Between persons who would be substantially affected by the decision;</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Neutral</E> means an individual who, with respect to an issue in controversy, <PRTPAGE P="79"/>functions specifically to aid the parties in resolving the controversy; and</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Person</E> has the same meaning as in 5 U.S.C. 551(2).</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.403</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General authority.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The Commission intends to consider using a dispute resolution proceeding for the resolution of an issue in controversy, if the parties agree to a dispute resolution proceeding.</P> <P>(b) The Commission will consider not using a dispute resolution proceeding if—</P> <P>(1) A definitive or authoritative resolution of the matter is required for precedential value, and such a proceeding is not likely to be accepted generally as an authoritative precedent;</P> <P>(2) The matter involves or may bear upon significant questions of Government policy that require additional procedures before a final resolution may be made, and such a proceeding would not likely serve to develop a recommended policy for the agency;</P> <P>(3) Maintaining established policies is of special importance, so that variations among individual decisions are not increased and such a proceeding would not likely reach consistent results among individual decisions;</P> <P>(4) The matter significantly affects persons or organizations who are not parties to the proceeding;</P> <P>(5) A full public record of the proceeding is important, and a dispute resolution proceeding cannot provide such a record; and</P> <P>(6) The Commission must maintain continuing jurisdiction over the matter with authority to alter the disposition of the matter in the light of changed circumstances, and a dispute resolution proceeding would interfere with the Commission's fulfilling that requirement.</P> <P>(c) Alternative means of dispute resolution authorized under this subpart are voluntary procedures which supplement rather than limit other available agency dispute resolution techniques.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.404</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Neutrals.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) A neutral may be a permanent or temporary officer or employee of the Federal Government or any other individual who is acceptable to the parties to a dispute resolution proceeding. A neutral shall have no official, financial, or personal conflict of interest with respect to the issues in controversy, unless such interest is fully disclosed in writing to all parties and all parties agree that the neutral may serve.</P> <P>(b) A neutral who serves as a conciliator, facilitator, or mediator serves at the will of the parties.</P> <P>(c) With consent of the parties, the Federal Maritime Commission Dispute Resolution Specialist will seek to provide a neutral in dispute resolution proceedings through Commission staff, arrangements with other agencies, or on a contractual basis.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Fees.</E> Should the parties choose a neutral other than an official or employee of the Commission, fees and expenses shall be borne by the parties as the parties shall agree.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.405</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Confidentiality.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section, a neutral in a dispute resolution proceeding shall not voluntarily disclose or through discovery or compulsory process be required to disclose any dispute resolution communication or any communication provided in confidence to the neutral, unless—</P> <P>(1) All parties to the dispute resolution proceeding and the neutral consent in writing, and, if the dispute resolution communication was provided by a nonparty participant, that participant also consents in writing;</P> <P>(2) The dispute resolution communication has already been made public;</P> <P>(3) The dispute resolution communication is required by statute to be made public, but a neutral should make such communication public only if no other person is reasonably available to disclose the communication; or</P> <P>(4) A court determines that such testimony or disclosure is necessary to—</P> <P>(i) Prevent a manifest injustice;</P> <P>(ii) Help establish a violation of law; or</P> <P>(iii) Prevent harm to the public health or safety, of sufficient magnitude in the particular case to outweigh the integrity of dispute resolution proceedings in general by reducing the confidence of parties in future <PRTPAGE P="80"/>cases that their communications will remain confidential.</P> <P>(b) A party to a dispute resolution proceeding shall not voluntarily disclose or through discovery or compulsory process be required to disclose any dispute resolution communication, unless—</P> <P>(1) The communication was prepared by the party seeking disclosure;</P> <P>(2) All parties to the dispute resolution proceeding consent in writing;</P> <P>(3) The dispute resolution communication has already been made public;</P> <P>(4) The dispute resolution communication is required by statute to be made public;</P> <P>(5) A court determines that such testimony or disclosure is necessary to—</P> <P>(i) Prevent a manifest injustice;</P> <P>(ii) Help establish a violation of law; or</P> <P>(iii) Prevent harm to the public health and safety, of sufficient magnitude in the particular case to outweigh the integrity of dispute resolution proceedings in general by reducing the confidence of parties in future cases that their communications will remain confidential;</P> <P>(6) The dispute resolution communication is relevant to determining the existence or meaning of an agreement or award that resulted from the dispute resolution proceeding or to the enforcement of such an agreement or award; or</P> <P>(7) Except for dispute resolution communications generated by the neutral, the dispute resolution communication was provided to or was available to all parties to the dispute resolution proceeding.</P> <P>(c) Any dispute resolution communication that is disclosed in violation of paragraph (a) or (b) of this section shall not be admissible in any proceeding relating to the issues in controversy with respect to which the communication was made.</P> <P>(d) (1) The parties may agree between or amongst themselves to alternative confidential procedures for disclosures by a neutral, and shall inform the neutral before commencement of the dispute resolution proceeding of any modifications to the provisions of paragraph (a) of this section that will govern the confidentiality of the dispute resolution proceeding, in accordance with the guidance on confidentiality in federal proceedings published by the Interagency ADR Working Group and adopted by the ADR Council (<E T="03">http://www.financenet.gov/financenet/fed/iadrwg/confid.pdf</E>). If the parties do not so inform the neutral, paragraph (a) of this section shall apply.</P> <P>(2) To qualify for the exemption under paragraph (j) of this section, an alternative confidential procedure under this subsection may not provide for less disclosure than the confidential procedures otherwise provided under this section.</P> <P>(e) If a demand for disclosure, by way of discovery request or other legal process, is made upon a neutral regarding a dispute resolution communication, the neutral shall make reasonable efforts to notify the parties and any affected nonparty participants of the demand. Any party or affected nonparty participant who receives such notice and within 15 calendar days does not offer to defend a refusal of the neutral to disclose the requested information shall have waived any objection to such disclosure.</P> <P>(f) Nothing in this section shall prevent the discovery or admissibility of any evidence that is otherwise discoverable, merely because the evidence was presented in the course of a dispute resolution proceeding.</P> <P>(g) Paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section shall have no effect on the information and data that are necessary to document an agreement reached or order issued pursuant to a dispute resolution proceeding.</P> <P>(h) Paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section shall not prevent the gathering of information for research or educational purposes, in cooperation with other agencies, governmental entities, or dispute resolution programs, so long as the parties and the specific issues in controversy are not identifiable.</P> <P>(i) Paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section shall not prevent use of a dispute resolution communication to resolve a dispute between the neutral in a dispute resolution proceeding and a party to or participant in such proceeding, so long as such dispute resolution communication is disclosed only to the extent necessary to resolve such dispute.<PRTPAGE P="81"/> </P> <P>(j) A dispute resolution communication which is between a neutral and a party and which may not be disclosed under this section shall also be exempt from disclosure under 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(3).</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.406</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Arbitration.</SUBJECT> <P>(a)(1) Arbitration may be used as an alternative means of dispute resolution whenever all parties consent, except that arbitration may not be used when the Commission or one of its components is a party. Consent may be obtained either before or after an issue in controversy has arisen. A party may agree to—</P> <P>(i) Submit only certain issues in controversy to arbitration; or</P> <P>(ii) Arbitration on the condition that the award must be within a range of possible outcomes.</P> <P>(2) The arbitration agreement that sets forth the subject matter submitted to the arbitrator shall be in writing. Each such arbitration agreement shall specify a maximum award that may be issued by the arbitrator and may specify other conditions limiting the range of possible outcomes.</P> <P>(b) With the concurrence of the Federal Maritime Commission Dispute Resolution Specialist, binding arbitration may be used to resolve any and all disputes that could be the subject of a Commission administrative proceeding before an Administrative Law Judge. The Federal Maritime Commission Dispute Resolution Specialist may withhold such concurrence after considering the factors specified in § 502.403, should the Commission's General Counsel object to use of binding arbitration.</P> <P>(c)(1) The Federal Maritime Commission Dispute Resolution Specialist will appoint an arbitrator of the parties' choosing for an arbitration proceeding.</P> <P>(2) A Commission officer or employee selected as an arbitrator by the parties and appointed by the Federal Maritime Commission Dispute Resolution Specialist shall have authority to settle an issue in controversy through binding arbitration pursuant to the arbitration agreement; provided, however, that decisions by arbitrators shall not have precedential value with respect to decisions by Administrative Law Judges or the Commission. Administrative Law Judges may be appointed as arbitrators with the concurrence of the Chief Administrative Law Judge.</P> <P>(d) The arbitrator shall be a neutral who meets the criteria of 5 U.S.C. 573.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.407</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Authority of the arbitrator.</SUBJECT> <P>An arbitrator to whom a dispute is referred may—</P> <P>(a) Regulate the course of and conduct arbitral hearings;</P> <P>(b) Administer oaths and affirmations;</P> <P>(c) Compel the attendance of witnesses and production of evidence at the hearing under the provisions of 9 U.S.C. 7 only to the extent the Commission is otherwise authorized by law to do so; and</P> <P>(d) Make awards.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.408</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Conduct of arbitration proceedings.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The arbitrator shall set a time and place for the hearing on the dispute and shall notify the parties not less than five days before the hearing.</P> <P>(b) Any party wishing a record of the hearing shall—</P> <P>(1) Be responsible for the preparation of such record;</P> <P>(2) Notify the other parties and the arbitrator of the preparation of such record;</P> <P>(3) Furnish copies to all identified parties and the arbitrator; and</P> <P>(4) Pay all costs for such record, unless the parties agree otherwise or the arbitrator determines that the costs should be apportioned.</P> <P>(c)(1) The parties to the arbitration are entitled to be heard, to present evidence material to the controversy, and to cross-examine witnesses appearing at the hearing.</P> <P>(2) The arbitrator may, with the consent of the parties, conduct all or part of the hearing by telephone, television, computer, or other electronic means, if each party has an opportunity to participate.</P> <P>(3) The hearing shall be conducted expeditiously and in an informal manner.</P> <P>(4) The arbitrator may receive any oral or documentary evidence, except that irrelevant, immaterial, unduly repetitious, or privileged evidence may be excluded by the arbitrator.<PRTPAGE P="82"/> </P> <P>(5) The arbitrator shall interpret and apply relevant statutory and regulatory requirements, legal precedents, and policy directives.</P> <P>(d) The provisions of § 502.11 regarding <E T="03">ex parte</E> communications apply to all arbitration proceedings. No interested person shall make or knowingly cause to be made to the arbitrator an unauthorized <E T="03">ex parte</E> communication relevant to the merits of the proceeding, unless the parties agree otherwise. If a communication is made in violation of this subsection, the arbitrator shall ensure that a memorandum of the communication is prepared and made a part of the record, and that an opportunity for rebuttal is allowed. Upon receipt of a communication made in violation of this subsection, the arbitrator may, to the extent consistent with the interests of justice and the policies underlying this subchapter, require the offending party to show cause why the claim of such party should not be resolved against such party as a result of the improper conduct.</P> <P>(e) The arbitrator shall make an award within 30 days after the close of the hearing, or the date of the filing of any briefs authorized by the arbitrator, whichever date is later, unless the parties agree to some other time limit.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.409</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Arbitration awards.</SUBJECT> <P>(a)(1) The award in an arbitration proceeding under this subchapter shall include a brief, informal discussion of the factual and legal basis for the award, but formal findings of fact or conclusions of law shall not be required.</P> <P>(2) Exceptions to or an appeal of an arbitrator's decision may not be filed with the Commission.</P> <P>(b) An award entered in an arbitration proceeding may not serve as an estoppel in any other proceeding for any issue that was resolved in the proceeding. Such an award also may not be used as precedent or otherwise be considered in any factually unrelated proceeding.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.410</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Representation of parties.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The provisions of § 502.21 apply to the representation of parties in dispute resolution proceedings, as do the provisions of § 502.27 regarding the representation of parties by nonattorneys.</P> <P>(b) A neutral in a dispute resolution proceeding may require participants to demonstrate authority to enter into a binding agreement reached by means of a dispute resolution proceeding.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.411</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Mediation and other alternative means of dispute resolution.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Parties are encouraged to utilize mediation or other forms of alternative dispute resolution in all formal proceedings. The Commission also encourages those with disputes to pursue mediation in lieu of, or prior to, the initiation of a Commission proceeding.</P> <P>(b) Any party may request, at any time, that a mediator or other neutral be appointed to assist the parties in reaching a settlement. If such a request is made in a proceeding assigned to an Administrative Law Judge, the provisions of § 502.91 apply. For all other matters, alternative dispute resolution services may be requested directly from the Federal Maritime Commission Alternative Dispute Resolution Specialist, who may serve as the neutral if the parties agree or who will arrange for the appointment of a neutral acceptable to all parties.</P> <P>(c) The neutral shall convene and conduct mediation or other appropriate dispute resolution proceedings with the parties.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Ex parte Communications.</E> Except with respect to arbitration, the provisions of § 502.11 do not apply to dispute resolution proceedings, and mediators are expressly authorized to conduct private sessions with parties.</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart V—Implementation of the Equal Access to Justice Act in Commission Proceedings</HD> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>52 FR 28264, July 29, 1987, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.501</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General provisions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Purpose.</E> The Equal Access to Justice Act, 5 U.S.C. 504 (“EAJA”), provides for the award of attorney fees and other expenses to eligible individuals and entities who are parties to certain administrative proceedings (called “adversary adjudications”) before the Federal Maritime Commission (“the <PRTPAGE P="83"/>Commission”). An eligible party may receive an award when it prevails over an agency, unless the agency's position was substantially justified or special circumstances make an award unjust. The rules in this subpart describe the parties eligible for awards and the proceedings that are covered. They also explain how to apply for awards, and the procedures and standards that the Commission will use to make them.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">When EAJA applies.</E> EAJA applies to any adversary adjudication:</P> <P>(1) Pending or commenced before the Commission on or after August 5, 1985;</P> <P>(2) Commenced on or after October 1, 1984, and finally disposed of before August 5, 1985, provided that an application for fees and expenses, as described in § 502.502 of this subpart, has been filed with the Commission within 30 days after August 5, 1985; or</P> <P>(3) Pending on or commenced on or after October 1, 1981, in which an application for fees and other expenses was timely filed and was dismissed for lack of jurisdiction.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Proceedings covered.</E> (1)(i) EAJA applies to adversary adjudications conducted by the Commission under this part. These are adjudications under 5 U.S.C. 554 in which the position of this or any other agency of the United States, or any component of any agency, is presented by an attorney or other representative who enters an appearance and participates in the proceeding.</P> <P>(ii) Any proceeding in which the Commission may prescribe a lawful present or future rate is not covered by the Act.</P> <P>(iii) Proceedings to grant or renew licenses are also excluded, but proceedings to modify, suspend, or revoke licenses are covered if they are otherwise “adversary adjudications.”</P> <P>(2) The Commission's failure to identify a type of proceeding as an adversary adjudication shall not preclude the filing of an application by a party who believes the proceeding is covered by the EAJA; whether the proceeding is covered will then be an issue for resolution in proceedings on the application.</P> <P>(3) If a proceeding includes both matters covered by EAJA and matters specifically excluded from coverage, any award made will include only fees and expenses related to covered issues.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Eligibility of applicants.</E> (1) To be eligible for an award of attorney fees and other expenses under EAJA, the applicant must be a party to the adversary adjudication for which it seeks an award. The term “party” is defined in 5 U.S.C. 551(3). The applicant must show that it meets all conditions of eligibility set out in this section and § 502.502.</P> <P>(2) The types of eligible applicants are:</P> <P>(i) An individual with a net worth of not more than $2 million;</P> <P>(ii) The sole owner of an unincorporated business who has a net worth of not more than $7 million, including both personal and business interests, and not more than 500 employees;</P> <P>(iii) A charitable or other tax-exempt organization described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. 501(c)(3)) with not more than 500 employees;</P> <P>(iv) A cooperative association as defined in section 15(a) of the Agricultural Marketing Act (12 U.S.C. 1141j(a)) with not more than 500 employees; and</P> <P>(v) Any other partnership, corporation, association, unit of local government, or organization with a net worth of not more than $7 million and not more than 500 employees.</P> <P>(vi) For purposes of paragraph (e)(3) of this section, a small entity as defined in 5 U.S.C. 601.</P> <P>(3) For the purpose of eligibility, the net worth and number of employees of an applicant shall be determined as of the date the proceeding was initiated.</P> <P>(4) An applicant who owns an unincorporated business will be considered as an “individual” rather than a “sole owner of an unincorporated business” if the issues on which the applicant prevails are related primarily to personal interests rather than to business interests.</P> <P>(5) The employees of an applicant include all persons who regularly perform services for remuneration for the applicant, under the applicant's direction and control. Part-time employees shall be included on a proportional basis.</P> <P>(6) The net worth and number of employees of the applicant and all of its <PRTPAGE P="84"/>affiliates shall be aggregated to determine eligibility. Any individual corporation or other entity that directly or indirectly controls or owns a majority of the voting shares or other interests of the applicant, or any corporation or other entity of which the applicant directly or indirectly owns or controls a majority of the voting shares or other interests, will be considered an affiliate for purposes of this subpart, unless the adjudicative officer determines that such treatment would be unjust and contrary to the purposes of EAJA in light of the actual relationship between the affiliated entities. In addition, the adjudicative officer may determine that financial relationships of the applicant other than those described in this paragraph constitute special circumstances that would make an award unjust.</P> <P>(7) An applicant that participates in a proceeding primarily on behalf of one or more other persons or entities that would be ineligible is not itself eligible for an award.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Standards for awards.</E> (1) A prevailing applicant may receive an award for fees and expenses incurred in connection with a proceeding or in a significant and discrete substantive portion of the proceeding, unless the position of the agency over which the applicant has prevailed was substantially justified. The position of the agency includes, in addition to the position taken by the agency in the adversary adjudication, the action or failure to act by the agency upon which the adversary adjudication is based. The burden of proof that an award should not be made to an eligible prevailing applicant is on agency counsel.</P> <P>(2) An award will be reduced or denied if the applicant has unduly or unreasonably protracted the proceeding or if special circumstances make the award sought unjust.</P> <P>(3) In an adversary adjudication arising from a Commission action to enforce a party's compliance with a statutory or regulatory requirement, if the demand by the Commission is substantially in excess of the decision of the presiding officer and is unreasonable under the facts and circumstances of the case, the presiding officer shall award to the party fees and other expenses related to defending against the excessive demand, unless the party has committed a willful violation of law or otherwise acted in bad faith, or special circumstances make an award unjust.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Allowable fees and expenses.</E> (1) Awards will be based on rates customarily charged by the persons engaged in the business of acting as attorneys, agents and expert witnesses, even if the services were made available without charge or at a reduced rate to the applicant.</P> <P>(2) No award for the fee of an attorney or agent under this subpart may exceed $125 per hour. No award to compensate an expert witness may exceed the highest rate at which the Commission pays expert witnesses. However, an award may also include the reasonable expenses of the attorney, agent, or witness as a separate item, if the attorney, agent or witness ordinarily charges clients separately for such expenses.</P> <P>(3) In determining the reasonableness of the fee sought for an attorney, agent or expert witness, the adjudicative officer shall consider the following:</P> <P>(i) If the attorney, agent or witness is in private practice, his or her customary fees for similar services, or, if an employee of the applicant, the fully allocated costs of the services;</P> <P>(ii) The prevailing rate for similar services in the community in which the attorney, agent or witness ordinarily performs services;</P> <P>(iii) The time actually spent in the representation of the applicant;</P> <P>(iv) The time reasonably spent in light of the difficulty or complexity of the issues in the proceeding; and</P> <P>(v) Such other factors as may bear on the value of the services provided.</P> <P>(4) The reasonable cost of any study, analysis, engineering report, test project or similar matter prepared on behalf of a party may be awarded, to the extent that the charge for the services does not exceed the prevailing rate for similar services, and the study or other matter was necessary for preparation of applicant's case.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Awards against other agencies.</E> If an applicant is entitled to an award because it prevails over another agency of the United States that participates in a proceeding before the Commission <PRTPAGE P="85"/>and takes a position that is not substantially justified, the award or an appropriate portion of the award shall be made against that agency. [Rule 501.]</P> <CITA>[52 FR 28264, July 29, 1987, as amended at 64 FR 7812, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.502</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Information required from applicants.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Contents of petition.</E> (1) An application for an award of fees and expenses under EAJA shall be by petition under § 502.69 of this part, shall clearly indicate that the application is made under EAJA, and shall identify the applicant and the proceeding (including docket number) for which an award is sought. The application shall show that the applicant has prevailed and identify the position of an agency or agencies that the applicant alleges was not substantially justified. Unless the applicant is an individual, the application shall also state the number of employees of the applicant and describe briefly the type and purpose of its organization or business.</P> <P>(2) The petition shall also include a statement that the applicant's net worth does not exceed $2 million (if an individual) or $7 million (for all other applicants, including their affiliates). However, an applicant may omit this statement if:</P> <P>(i) It attaches a copy of a ruling by the Internal Revenue Service that it qualifies as an organization described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. 501(c)(3)) or, in the case of a tax-exempt organization not required to obtain a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service on its exempt status, a statement that describes the basis for the applicant's belief that it qualifies under such section; or</P> <P>(ii) It states that it is a cooperative association as defined in section 15(a) of the Agricultural Marketing Act (12 U.S.C. 1141j(a)).</P> <P>(3) The petition shall state the amount of fees and expenses for which an award is sought.</P> <P>(4) The petition may also include any other matters that the applicant wishes the Commission to consider in determining whether and in what amount an award should be made.</P> <P>(5) The petition shall be signed by the applicant or an authorized officer or attorney of the applicant. It shall also contain or be accompanied by a written verification under oath or under penalty of perjury that the information provided in the application is true and correct.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Net worth exhibit.</E> (1) Each applicant except a qualified tax-exempt organization or cooperative association must provide with its petition a detailed exhibit showing the net worth of the applicant and any affiliates (as defined in § 502.501(d)(6) of this subpart) when the proceeding was initiated. The exhibit may be in any form convenient to the applicant that provides full disclosure of the applicant's and its affiliates' assets and liabilities and is sufficient to determine whether the applicant qualifies under the standards in this subpart. The adjudicative officer may require an applicant to file additional information to determine its eligibility for an award.</P> <P>(2) Ordinarily, the net worth exhibit will be included in the public record of the proceeding. However, an applicant that objects to public disclosure of information in any portion of the exhibit and believes there are legal grounds for withholding it from disclosure may submit that portion of the exhibit directly to the adjudicative officer in a sealed envelope labeled “Confidential Financial Information,” accompanied by a motion to withhold the information from public disclosure. The motion shall describe the information sought to be withheld and explain, in detail, why it falls within one or more of the specific exemptions from mandatory disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(1)-(9), why public disclosure of the information would adversely affect the applicant, and why disclosure is not required in the public interest. The material in question shall be served on counsel representing the agency against which the applicant seeks an award, but need not be served on any other party to the proceeding. If the adjudicative officer finds that the information should not be withheld from disclosure, it shall be placed in the public record of the proceeding. Otherwise, any request to inspect or copy <PRTPAGE P="86"/>the exhibit shall be disposed of in accordance with the Commission's established procedures under the Freedom of Information Act under §§ 503.31-503.43 of this chapter.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Documentation of fees and expenses.</E> The petition shall be accompanied by full documentation of the fees and expenses, including the cost of any study, analysis, engineering report, test, project or similar matter, for which an award is sought. A separate itemized statement shall be submitted for each professional firm or individual whose services are covered by the application, showing the hours spent in connection with the proceeding by each individual, a description of the specific services performed, the rates at which each fee has been computed, any expenses for which reinbursement is sought, the total amount claimed, and the total amount paid or payable by the applicant or by any other person or entity for the services provided. The adjudicative officer may require the applicant to provide vouchers, receipts, or other substantiation for any expenses claimed.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">When a petition may be filed.</E> (1) A petition may be filed whenever the applicant has prevailed in the proceeding or in a significant and discrete substantive portion of the proceeding, but in no case later than 30 days after the Commission's final disposition of the proceeding.</P> <P>(2) For purposes of this subpart, final disposition means the date on which a decision or order disposing of the merits of the proceeding or any other complete resolution of the proceeding, such as a settlement or voluntary dismissal, becomes final and unappealable, both within the Commission and to the courts.</P> <P>(3) If review or reconsideration is sought or taken of a decision as to which an applicant believes it has prevailed, proceedings for the award of fees shall be stayed pending final disposition of the underlying controversy. When the United States appeals the underlying merits of an adversary adjudication to a court, no decision on an application for fees and other expenses in connection with that adversary adjudication shall be made until a final and unreviewable decision is rendered by the court on the appeal or until the underlying merits of the case have been finally determined pursuant to the appeal. [Rule 502.]</P> <CITA>[52 FR 28264, July 29, 1987, as amended at 64 FR 7812, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.503</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedures for considering petitions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Filing and service of documents.</E> (1) Any petition for an award or other pleading or document related to a petition shall be filed and served on all parties to the proceeding in the same manner as other pleadings in the proceeding, except as provided in § 502.502(b)(2) (confidential financial information).</P> <P>(2) The petition and all other pleadings or documents related to the petition will be referred to an Administrative Law Judge to initially decide the matter as adjudicative officer.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Reply to petition.</E> (1) Within 30 days after service of a petition, counsel representing the agency against which an award is sought may file a reply to the petition. Unless counsel requests an extension of time for filing or files a statement of intent to negotiate under paragraph (b)(2) of this section, failure to file a reply within the 30-day period may be treated as a consent to the award requested.</P> <P>(2) If agency counsel and the applicant believe that the issues in the fee application can be settled, they may jointly file a statement of their intent to negotiate a settlement. The filing of this statement shall extend the time for filing a reply for an additional 30 days, and further extension may be granted by the adjudicative officer upon request by agency counsel and the applicant.</P> <P>(3) The reply shall explain in detail any objections to the award requested and identify the facts relied on in support of counsel's position. If the reply is based on any alleged facts not already in the record of the proceeding, agency counsel shall include with the reply either supporting affidavits or a request for further proceedings under paragraph (f) of this section.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Response to reply.</E> Within 15 days after service of a reply, the applicant may file a response. If the response is based on any alleged facts not already <PRTPAGE P="87"/>in the record of the proceeding, the applicant shall include with the response either supporting affidavits or a request for further proceedings under paragraph (f) of this section.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Comments by other parties.</E> Any party to a proceeding other than the applicant and agency counsel may file comments on an application within 30 days after it is served, or on a reply, within 15 days after it is served. A commenting party may not participate further in proceedings on the application unless the adjudicative officer determines that the public interest requires such participation in order to permit full exploration of matters raised in the comments.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Settlement.</E> The applicant and agency counsel may agree on a proposed settlement of the award before final action on the application, either in connection with a settlement of the underlying proceeding, or after the underlying proceeding has been concluded in accordance with the rules of this subpart pertaining to settlement. If a prevailing party and agency counsel agree on a proposed settlement of an award before a petition is filed, the petition shall be filed with the proposed settlement.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Further proceedings.</E> (1) Ordinarily, the determination of an award will be made on the basis of the written record. However, on request of either the applicant or agency counsel, or on his or her own initiative, the adjudicative officer may order further proceedings, such as an informal conference, oral argument, additional written submissions or, as to issues other than substantial justification (such as the applicant's eligibility or substantiation of fees and expenses), pertinent discovery or an evidentiary hearing. Such further proceedings shall be held only when necessary for full and fair resolution of the issues arising from the application, and shall be conducted as promptly as possible. Whether or not the position of the agency was substantially justified shall be determined on the basis of the administrative record, as a whole, which is made in the adversary adjudication for which fees and other expenses are sought.</P> <P>(2) A request that the adjudicative officer order further proceedings under this section shall specifically identify the information sought or the disputed issues and shall explain why the additional proceedings are necessary to resolve the issues.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Decision.</E> The adjudicative officer shall serve an initial decision on the application within 60 days after completion of proceedings on the application. The decision shall include written findings and conclusions on the applicant's eligibility and status as a prevailing party, and an explanation of the reasons for any difference between the amount requested and the amount awarded. The decision shall also include, if at issue, findings on whether the agency's position was substantially justified, whether the applicant unduly protracted the proceedings, or whether special circumstances make an award unjust. If the applicant has sought an award against more than one agency, the decision shall allocate responsibility for payment of any award made among the agencies, and shall explain the reason for the allocation made.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Commission review.</E> Either the applicant or agency counsel may seek review of the initial decision on the fee application, or the Commission may decide to review the decision on its own initiative, in accordance with § 502.227 of this part. If neither the applicant nor agency counsel seeks review and the Commission does not take review on its own initiative, the initial decision on the application shall become a final decision of the Commission 30 days after it is issued. Whether to review a decision is a matter within the discretion of the Commission. If review is taken, the Commission will issue a final decision on the application or remand the application to the adjudicative officer for further proceedings.</P> <P>(i) <E T="03">Judicial review.</E> Judicial review of final Commission decisions on awards may be sought as provided in 5 U.S.C. 504(c)(2).</P> <P>(j) <E T="03">Payment of award.</E> (1)(i) An applicant seeking payment of an award shall submit to the comptroller or other disbursing officer of the paying agency a copy of the Commission's <PRTPAGE P="88"/>final decision granting the award, accompanied by a certification that the applicant will not seek review of the decision in the United States courts.</P> <P>(ii) The agency will pay the amount awarded to the applicant within 60 days.</P> <P>(2) Where the Federal Maritime Commission is the paying agency, the application for payment of award shall be submitted to: Office of Budget and Financial Management, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573. [Rule 503.]</P> <CITA>[52 FR 28264, July 29, 1987, as amended at 64 FR 7812, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart W—Compromise, Assessment, Mitigation, Settlement, and Collection of Civil Penalties</HD> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>49 FR 44418, Nov. 6, 1984, unless otherwise noted. Redesignated at 58 FR 27211, May 7, 1993.</P> </SOURCE> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.601</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose and scope.</SUBJECT> <P>The purpose of this subpart is to implement the statutory provisions of section 19 of the Merchant Marine Act, 1920, section 13 of the Shipping Act of 1984, and sections 2(c) and 3(c) of Pub. L. 89-777 by establishing rules and regulations governing the compromise, assessment, settlement and collection of civil penalties arising under certain designated provisions of the Merchant Marine Act , 1920, the Shipping Act of 1984, Public Law 89-777, and/or any order, rule, or regulation (except for procedural rules and regulations contained in this part) issued or made by the Commission in the exercise of its powers, duties and functions under those statutes. [Rule 601.]</P> <CITA>[64 FR 7812, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.602</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <P>For the purposes of this subpart:</P> <P>(a) <E T="03">Assessment</E> means the imposition of a civil penalty by order of the Commission after a formal docketed proceeding.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Commission</E> means the Federal Maritime Commission.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Compromise</E> means the process whereby a civil penalty for a violation is agreed upon by the respondent and the Commission outside of a formal, docketed proceeding.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Mitigation</E> means the reduction, in whole or in part, of the amount of a civil penalty.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Person</E> includes individuals, corporations, partnerships, and associations existing under or authorized by the laws of the United States or of a foreign country.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Respondent</E> means any person charged with a violation.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Settlement</E> means the process whereby a civil penalty or other disposition of the case for a violation is agreed to in a formal, docketed proceeding instituted by order of the Commission.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Violation</E> includes any violation of sections 19(6)(d), 19(7)(d) and 19(11) of the Merchant Marine Act, 1920; any provision of the Shipping Act of 1984; sections 2 and 3 of Pub. L. 89-777; and/or any order, rule or regulation (except for procedural rules and regulations contained in this part) issued or made by the Commission in the exercise of its powers, duties and functions under the Merchant Marine Act, 1920, the Shipping Act of 1984, or Pub. L. 89-777.</P> <P>(i) Words in the plural form shall include the singular and vice versa; and words importing the masculine gender shall include the feminine and vice versa. The terms “includes” and “including” do not exclude matters not listed but which are in the same general class. The word “and” includes “or”, except where specifically stated or where the context requires otherwise. [Rule 602.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44418, Nov. 6, 1984. Redesignated at 58 FR 27211, May 7, 1993, as amended at 64 FR 7812, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.603</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Assessment of civil penalties: Procedure; criteria for determining amount; limitations; relation to compromise.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Procedure for assessment of penalty.</E> The Commission may assess a civil penalty only after notice and opportunity for hearing. Civil penalty assessment proceedings, including settlement negotiations, shall be governed by the Commission's Rules of Practice <PRTPAGE P="89"/>and Procedure in this part. All settlements must be approved by the Presiding Officer. The full text of any settlement must be included in the final order of the Commission.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Criteria for determining amount of penalty.</E> In determining the amount of any penalties assessed, the Commission shall take into account the nature, circumstances, extent and gravity of the violation committed and the policies for deterrence and future compliance with the Commission's rules and regulations and the applicable statutes. The Commission shall also consider the respondent's degree of culpability, history of prior offenses, ability to pay and such other matters as justice requires.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Limitations; relation to compromise.</E> When the Commission, in its discretion, determines that policy, justice or other circumstances warrant, a civil penalty assessment proceeding may be instituted at any time for any violation which occurred within five years prior to the issuance of the order of investigation. Such proceeding may also be instituted at any time after the initiation of informal compromise procedures, except where a compromise agreement for the same violations under the compromise procedures has become effective under § 502.604(e). [Rule 603.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44418, Nov. 6, 1984. Redesignated at 58 FR 27211, May 7, 1993, as amended at 64 FR 7812, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.604</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Compromise of penalties: Relation to assessment proceedings.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Scope.</E> Except in pending civil penalty assessment proceedings provided for in § 502.603, the Commission, when it has reason to believe a violation has occurred, may invoke the informal compromise procedures of this section.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Notice.</E> When the Commission considers it appropriate to afford an opportunity for the compromise of a civil penalty, it will, except when otherwise authorized by the Commission, or where circumstances render it unnecessary, send a Notice and Demand Letter (“NDL”) to the respondent, by registered or certified mail, or by other means reasonably calculated to give notice. The NDL will describe specific violation(s) on which the claim is based, including the particular facts, dates and other elements necessary for the respondent to identify the specific conduct constituting the alleged violation; the amount of the penalty demanded; and the names of Commission personnel with whom the demand may be discussed, if the person desires to compromise the penalty. The NDL also will state the deadlines for the institution and completion of compromise negotiations and the consequences of failure to compromise.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Request for compromise.</E> Any person receiving a NDL provided for in paragraph (b) of this section may, within the time specified, deny the violation, or submit matters explaining, mitigating or showing extenuating circumstances, as well as make voluntary disclosures of information and documents.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Criteria for compromise.</E> In addition to the factors set forth in § 502.603(b), in compromising a penalty claim, the Commission may consider litigative probabilities, the cost of collecting the claim and enforcement policy.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Disposition of claims in compromise procedures.</E> (1) When a penalty is compromised and the respondent agrees to settle for that amount, a compromise agreement shall be executed. (One example of such compromise agreement is set forth as appendix A to this subpart.) This agreement, after reciting the nature of the claim, will include a statement evidencing the respondent's agreement to the compromise of the Commission's penalty claim for the amount set forth in the agreement and will also embody an approval and acceptance provision which is to be signed by the appropriate Commission official. Upon compromise of the penalty in the agreed amount, a duplicate original of the executed agreement shall be furnished to the respondent.</P> <P>(2) Upon completion of the compromise, the Commission may issue a public notice thereof, the terms and language of which are not subject to negotiation.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Relation to assessment proceedings.</E> Except by order of the Commission, no compromise procedure shall be initiated or continued after institution of a Commission assessment proceeding directed to the same violations. Any <PRTPAGE P="90"/>offer of compromise submitted by the respondent pursuant to this section shall be deemed to have been furnished by the respondent without prejudice and shall not be used against the respondent in any proceeding.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Delegation of compromise authority.</E> The compromise authority set forth in this subpart is delegated to the Director, Bureau of Enforcement. [Rule 604.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44418, Nov. 6, 1984. Redesignated at 58 FR 27211, May 7, 1993, as amended at 61 FR 51233, Oct. 1, 1996; 64 FR 7812, 7813, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.605</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Payment of penalty: Method; default.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Method.</E> Payment of penalties by the respondent is to be made by bank cashier's check or other instrument acceptable to the Commission.</P> <P>(b) All checks or other instruments submitted in payment of claims shall be made payable to the Federal Maritime Commission.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Default in payment.</E> Where a respondent fails or refuses to pay a penalty properly assessed under § 502.603, or compromised and agreed to under § 502.604, appropriate collection efforts will be made by the Commission, including, but not limited to referral to the Department of Justice for collection. Where such defaulting respondent is a licensed freight forwarder, such default also may be grounds for revocation or suspension of the respondent's license, after notice and opportunity for hearing, unless such notice and hearing have been waived by the respondent in writing. [Rule 605.]</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44418, Nov. 6, 1984. Redesignated at 58 FR 27211, May 7, 1993, as amended at 64 FR 7813, Feb. 17, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 502, Subpt. W, App. A</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Appendix A to Subpart W of Part 502—Example of Compromise Agreement To Be Used Under 46 CFR 502.604</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Compromise Agreement</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">FMC File No. ____</HD> <P>This Agreement is entered into between:</P> <P>(1) the Federal Maritime Commission, hereinafter referred to as Commission, and</P> <P>(2) ________, hereinafter referred to as Respondent.</P> <P>Whereas, the Commission is considering the institution of an assessment proceeding against Respondent for the recovery of civil penalties provided under the [appropriate statute], for alleged violations of section ____;</P> <P>Whereas, this course of action is the result of practices believed by the Commission to have been engaged in by Respondent, to wit:</P> <P>[General description of practices and dates or time period involved]</P> <P>Whereas, the Commission has authority under the Shipping Act of 1984 to compromise and collect civil penalties; and,</P> <P>Whereas, Respondent has terminated the practices which are the basis for the allegations of violation set forth herein, and has instituted and indicated its willingness to maintain measures designed to eliminate these practices by Respondent, its officers, directors or employees.</P> <P>Now Therefore, in consideration of the premises herein, and in compromise of all civil penalties arising from the alleged violations, Respondent and the Commission hereby agree upon the following terms and conditions of compromise and settlement:</P> <P>1. Respondent shall make a monetary payment to the Commission herewith, by bank cashier's check, in the total amount of $____.</P> <P>2. Upon acceptance in writing of this Agreement by the Director of the Bureau of Enforcement of the Commission, this instrument shall forever bar the commencement or institution of any assessment proceeding or other claim for recovery of civil penalties from the Respondent arising from the alleged violations set forth above.</P> <P>3. It is expressly understood and agreed that this Agreement is not, and is not to be construed as, an admission by Respondent to the alleged violations set forth above. </P> <FP>(Respondent's Name)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">By:</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">Title:</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">Date:</FP> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Approval and Acceptance</HD> <P>The above terms, conditions and consideration are hereby approved and accepted: </P> <P>By the Federal Maritime Commission: </P> <FP>Director, Bureau of Enforcement</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH">Date:</FP> <CITA>[49 FR 44418, Nov. 6, 1984. Redesignated at 58 FR 27211, May 7, 1993, as amended at 61 FR 51233, Oct. 1, 1996; 65 FR 81759, Dec. 27, 2000]</CITA> </APPENDIX> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <PRTPAGE P="91"/> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart X—Paperwork Reduction Act</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 502.991</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> <P>This section displays the control numbers assigned to information collection requirements of the Commission in this part by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980, Pub. L. 96-511. The Commission intends that this section comply with the Act, which requires that agencies display a current control number assigned by the Director of OMB for each agency information collection requirement:</P> <GPOTABLE CDEF="s50,12" COLS="2" OPTS="L2"> <BOXHD> <CHED H="1">Section</CHED> <CHED H="1">Current OMB control no.</CHED> </BOXHD> <ROW> <ENT I="01">502.27 (Form FMC.12)</ENT> <ENT>3072-0001</ENT> </ROW> </GPOTABLE> <CITA>[49 FR 44369, Nov. 6, 1984. Redesignated at 58 FR 27211, May 7, 1993]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> </PART> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 503</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 503—PUBLIC INFORMATION</HD> <CONTENTS> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—General</HD> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>503.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Statement of policy.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Publication in the Federal Register</HD> <SECTNO>503.11</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Materials to be published.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.12</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Effect of nonpublication.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.13</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Incorporation by reference.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Records, Information and Materials Generally Available to the Public Without Resort to Freedom of Information Act Procedures</HD> <SECTNO>503.21</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Mandatory public records.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.22</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Records available at the Office of the Secretary.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.23</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Records available upon written request.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.24</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Information available via the internet.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Requests for records under the Freedom of Information Act</HD> <SECTNO>503.31</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Records available upon written request under the Freedom of Information Act.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.32</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedures for responding to requests made under the Freedom of Information Act.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.33</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exceptions to availability of records.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.34</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Annual report of public information request activity.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart E—Fees</HD> <SECTNO>503.41</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Policy and services available.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.42</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Payment of fees and charges.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.43</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Fees for services.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart F—Information Security Program</HD> <SECTNO>503.51</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.52</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Senior agency official.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.53</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Oversight Committee.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.54</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Original classification.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.55</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Derivative classification.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.56</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General declassification and downgrading policy.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.57</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Mandatory review for declassification.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.58</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Appeals of denials of mandatory declassification review requests.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.59</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Safeguarding classified information.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart G—Access to Any Record of Identifiable Personal Information</HD> <SECTNO>503.60</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.61</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Conditions of disclosure.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.62</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Accounting of disclosures.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.63</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Request for information.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.64</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Commission procedure on request for information.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.65</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Request for access to records.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.66</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Amendment of a record.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.67</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Appeals from denial of request for amendment of a record.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.68</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exemptions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.69</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Fees.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart H—Public Observation of Federal Maritime Commission Meetings and Public Access to Information Pertaining to Commission Meetings</HD> <SECTNO>503.70</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Policy.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.71</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.72</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General rule—meetings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.73</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exceptions—meetings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.74</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedures for closing a portion or portions of a meeting or a portion or portions of a series of meetings on agency initiated requests.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.75</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedures for closing a portion of a meeting on request initiated by an interested person.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.76</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Effect of vote to close a portion or portions of a meeting or series of meetings.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.77</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Responsibilities of the General Counsel of the agency upon a request to close any portion of any meeting.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.78</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General rule—information pertaining to meeting.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.79</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exceptions—information pertaining to meeting.<PRTPAGE P="92"/> </SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.80</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedures for withholding information pertaining to meeting.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.81</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Effect of vote to withhold information pertaining to meeting.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.82</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Public announcement of agency meeting.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.83</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Public announcement of changes in meeting.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.84</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.85</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agency recordkeeping requirements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.86</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Public access to records.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>503.87</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Effect of provisions of this subpart on other subparts.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>5 U.S.C. 552, 552a, 552b, 553; 31 U.S.C. 9701; E.O. 12958 of April 20, 1995 (60 FR 19825), sections 5.2(a) and (b).</P> </AUTH> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—General</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Statement of policy.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission is responsible for the effective administration of the provisions of Public Law 89-487, as amended. The Chairman shall carry out this responsibility through the program and the officials as hereinafter provided in this part.</P> <P>(b) In addition, the Chairman, pursuant to his responsibility, hereby directs that every effort be expended to facilitate the maximum expedited service to the public with respect to the obtaining of information and records. Accordingly, members of the public may make requests for information, records, decisions or submittals in accordance with the provisions of § 503.31.</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Publication in the Federal Register</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.11</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Materials to be published.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission shall separately state and concurrently publish the following materials in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> for the guidance of the public:</P> <P>(a) Descriptions of its central and field organization and the established places at which the officers from whom, and the methods whereby, the public may secure information, make submittals or requests, or obtain decisions.</P> <P>(b) Statements of the general course and method by which its functions are channeled and determined, including the nature and requirements of all formal and informal procedures available.</P> <P>(c) Rules of procedure, descriptions of forms available or the places at which forms may be obtained, and instructions as to the scope and contents of all papers, reports, or examinations.</P> <P>(d) Substantive rules of general applicability adopted as authorized by law, and statements of general policy or interpretations of general applicability formulated and adopted by the agency.</P> <P>(e) Every amendment, revision, or repeal of the foregoing.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23547, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.12</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Effect of nonpublication.</SUBJECT> <P>Except to the extent that a person has actual and timely notice of the terms thereof, no person shall in any manner be required to resort to, or be adversely affected by any matter required to be published in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> and not so published.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.13</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Incorporation by reference.</SUBJECT> <P>For purposes of this subpart, matter which is reasonably available to the class of persons affected hereby shall be deemed published in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> when incorporated by reference therein with the approval of the Director of the Office of the Federal Register.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47394, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Records, Information and Materials Generally Available to the Public Without Resort to Freedom of Information Act Procedures</HD> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>63 FR 53308, Oct. 5, 1998, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.21</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Mandatory public records.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The Commission, as required by the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. 552, shall make the following materials available for public inspection and copying:</P> <P>(1) Final opinions (including concurring and dissenting opinions) and all <PRTPAGE P="93"/>orders made in the adjudication of cases.</P> <P>(2) Those statements of policy and interpretations which have been adopted by the Commission.</P> <P>(3) Administrative staff manuals and instructions to staff that affect any member of the public.</P> <P>(4) Copies of all records, regardless of form or format, which have been released to any person pursuant to a Freedom of Information Act request, and which the Secretary determines have become or are likely to become the subject of subsequent requests for substantially the same records, and a general index of such records.</P> <P>(b) To prevent unwarranted invasion of personal privacy, the Secretary may delete identifying details when it makes available or publishes an opinion, statement of policy, interpretation, staff manual, instruction, or copies of records referred to in paragraph (a)(4) of this section. In each case, the justification for the deletion shall be explained fully in writing, and the extent of such deletion shall be indicated on that portion of the record which is made available or published, unless including that indication would harm an interest protected by an exemption in § 503.33 under which the deletion is made. If technically feasible, the extent of the deletion shall be indicated at the place in the record where the deletion was made.</P> <P>(c) The Commission maintains and makes available for public inspection and copying a current index providing identifying information for the public as to any matter which is issued, adopted, or promulgated, and which is required by paragraph (a) of this section to be made available or published.</P> <P>(1) The index shall be available at the Office of the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573. Publication of such indices has been determined by the Commission to be unnecessary and impracticable. The indices shall, nonetheless, be provided to any member of the public at a cost not in excess of the direct cost of duplication of any such index upon request therefor.</P> <P>(2) No final order, opinion, statement of policy, interpretation, or staff manual or instruction that affects any member of the public will be relied upon, used, or cited as precedent by the Commission against any private party unless:</P> <P>(i) It has been indexed and either made available or published as provided by this subpart; or</P> <P>(ii) That private party shall have actual and timely notice of the terms thereof.</P> <P>(d) Duplication of records may be subject to fees as prescribed in subpart E of this part.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.22</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Records available at the Office of the Secretary</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The following records will be made available for inspection and copying at the Office of the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol St., NW, Washington, DC 20573, without the requirement of a written request. Access to requested records may be delayed if they have been sent to archives.</P> <P>(1) Proposed and final rules and regulations of the Commission including general substantive rules, statements of policy and interpretations, and rules of practice and procedure.</P> <P>(2) Reports of decisions (including concurring and dissenting opinions), orders and notices in all formal proceedings.</P> <P>(3) Official docket files in all formal proceedings including, but not limited to, orders, notices, pertinent correspondence, transcripts, exhibits, and briefs, except for materials which are the subject of a protective order. Copies of transcripts may only be available from the reporting company contracted by the Commission. Contact the Office of the Secretary for the name and address of this company.</P> <P>(4) News releases.</P> <P>(5) Approved summary minutes of Commission actions showing final votes, except for minutes of closed Commission meetings which are not available until the Commission publicly announces the results of such deliberations.</P> <P>(6) Annual reports of the Commission.</P> <P>(b) Certain fees may be assessed for duplication of records made available <PRTPAGE P="94"/>by this section as prescribed in subpart E of this part.</P> <CITA>[63 FR 53308, Oct. 5, 1998, as amended at 64 FR 23547, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.23</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Records available upon written request.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The following Commission records are generally available for inspection and copying, without resort to Freedom of Information Act procedures, upon request in writing addressed to the Office of the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573:</P> <P>(1) Agreements filed and in effect pursuant to sections 5 and 6 of the Shipping Act of 1984.</P> <P>(2) Agreements filed under section 5 of the Shipping Act of 1984 which have been noticed in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E>.</P> <P>(3) Tariff data filed in the Commission's ATFI system prior to May 1, 1999.</P> <P>(4) List of licensed ocean freight forwarders.</P> <P>(b) Certain fees may be assessed for duplication of records made available by this section as prescribed in subpart E of this part.</P> <CITA>[63 FR 53308, Oct. 5, 1998, as amended at 64 FR 23547, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.24</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Information available via the internet.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The Commission maintains an internet web site. The Commission home page may be found at <E T="03">http://www.fmc.gov.</E> </P> <P>(b) The following general information, records, and resources are accessible through the home page:</P> <P>(1) General descriptions of the functions, bureaus, and offices of the Commission, phone numbers and e-mail addresses for Commission officials, as well as locations of Area Representatives;</P> <P>(2) Information about filing complaints;</P> <P>(3) Commonly used forms;</P> <P>(4) A public information handbook describing the types of information available from the Commission and how to access such information;</P> <P>(5) A Freedom of Information Act Electronic Reading Room which contains:</P> <P>(i) Copies of final decisions in adjudicatory proceedings issued since November 1, 1996;</P> <P>(ii) Recently issued final rules and pending proposed rules;</P> <P>(iii) Access to statements of policy and interpretations as published in part 545 of this chapter; and</P> <P>(iv) Records created by the Commission since November 1, 1996, and made available under § 503.21, paragraph (a)(4).</P> <P>(6) Commission regulations as codified in Title 46 of the Code of Federal Regulations;</P> <P>(7) News releases issued by the Commission;</P> <P>(8) Statements and remarks from the Chairman and Commissioners;</P> <P>(9) A connection to the Government Information Locator Service maintained by the Government Printing Office, which identifies Commission databases; and</P> <P>(10) Privacy Act information;</P> <P>(11) Lists of the location of all common carrier and conference tariffs and publicly available terminal schedules of marine terminal operators; and</P> <P>(12) A list of licensed ocean transportation intermediaries which have furnished the Commission with evidence of financial responsibility.</P> <P>(c) Comments or questions regarding the home page should be addressed via e-mail to <E T="03">webmaster@fmc.gov.</E> </P> <CITA>[63 FR 53308, Oct. 5, 1998, as amended at 64 FR 23547, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Requests for Records Under the Freedom of Information</HD> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>63 FR 53310, Oct. 5, 1998, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.31</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Records available upon written request under the Freedom of Information Act.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) A member of the public may request permission to inspect, copy or be provided with any Commission records not described in subpart C of this part. Such a request must:</P> <P>(1) Reasonably describe the record or records sought;</P> <P>(2) Be submitted in writing to the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573; and<PRTPAGE P="95"/> </P> <P>(3) Be clearly marked on the exterior with the letters “FOIA”.</P> <P>(b) The Secretary shall evaluate each request in conjunction with the official having responsibility for the subject matter area and the General Counsel, and the Secretary shall determine whether or not to grant the request in accordance with the provisions of this subpart.</P> <P>(c) In making any record available to a person under this subpart, the Secretary shall provide the record in any form or format requested by the person if the record is readily reproducible by the Secretary in that form or format.</P> <P>(d) Certain fees may be assessed for processing of requests under this subpart as prescribed in subpart E of this part.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.32</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedures for responding to requests made under the Freedom of Information Act.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Determination to grant or deny request.</E> Upon request by any member of the public for documents, made in accordance with the rules of this part, the Commission's Secretary or his or her delegate in his or her absence, shall determine whether or not such request shall be granted.</P> <P>(1) Such determination shall be made by the Secretary within twenty (20) days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal public holidays) after receipt of such request, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section.</P> <P>(2) Upon granting a request the Secretary shall promptly make records available to the requestor. Upon denial of such a request the Secretary shall promptly notify the requestor of the determination, explain the reason for denial, give an estimate of the volume of matter denied, set forth the names and titles or positions of each person responsible for the denial of the request, and notify the party of its right to appeal that determination to the Chairman.</P> <P>(3)(i) Any party whose request for documents or other information pursuant to this part has been denied in whole or in part by the Secretary may appeal such determination. Any such appeal must:</P> <P>(A) Be addressed to: Chairman, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, D.C. 20573-0001; and</P> <P>(B) Be filed not later than ten (10) working days following receipt of notification of denial or receipt of a part of the records requested.</P> <P>(ii) The Chairman or the Chairman's specific delegate in his or her absence, shall make a determination with respect to that appeal within twenty (20) days (excepting Saturdays, Sundays and legal public holidays) after receipt of such appeal, except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section.</P> <P>(iii) If, on appeal, the denial is upheld, either in whole or in part, the Chairman shall so notify the party submitting the appeal and shall notify such person of the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(4) regarding judicial review of such determination upholding the denial. Notification shall also include the statement that the determination is that of the Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission and the name of the Chairman.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Extension of time limits.</E> (1) In unusual circumstances, as defined in paragraph (b)(2) of this section, the time limits prescribed with respect to initial actions in response to a FOIA request or actions on appeal may be extended by written notice from the Secretary of the Commission to the person making such request, setting forth the reasons for such extension and the date on which a determination is expected to be dispatched. No such notice shall specify a date that would result in an extension for more than ten (10) working days, except as provided in paragraph (b)(3) of this section.</P> <P>(2) As used in this paragraph, unusual circumstances means, but only to the extent reasonably necessary to the proper processing of the particular request:</P> <P>(i) The need to search for and collect the requested records from field facilities or other establishments that are separate from the office processing the request;</P> <P>(ii) The need to search for, collect, and appropriately examine a voluminous amount of separate and distinct records which are demanded in a single request; or<PRTPAGE P="96"/> </P> <P>(iii) The need for consultation, which shall be conducted with all practicable speed, with another agency having a substantial interest in the determination of the request or among two or more components of the agency having substantial subject matter interest therein.</P> <P>(3) If the time limit is extended as prescribed under this section, and the request cannot be processed within the extended time limit, the Secretary shall notify the requestor, and either provide the requestor with an opportunity to limit the scope of the request so that it may be processed within the time limit, or provide the requestor an opportunity to arrange with the Secretary an alternative time frame for processing the request or a modified request.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Aggregation of requests.</E> Certain requests by the same requestor, or by a group of requestors acting in concert, may be aggregated:</P> <P>(1) Upon the Secretary's reasonable belief that such requests actually constitute a single request, which if not aggregated would satisfy the unusual circumstances specified in paragraph (b)(2) of this section; and</P> <P>(2) If the requests involve clearly related matters.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Multitrack processing of requests.</E> The Secretary may provide for multitrack processing of requests based on the amount of time or work involved in processing requests.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Expedited processing of requests.</E> (1) The Secretary will provide for expedited processing of requests for records when:</P> <P>(i) The person requesting the records can demonstrate a compelling need; or</P> <P>(ii) In other cases, in the Secretary's discretion.</P> <P>(2) The term <E T="03">compelling need</E> means:</P> <P>(i) A failure to obtain requested records on an expedited basis under this paragraph could reasonably be expected to pose an imminent threat to the life or physical safety of an individual; or</P> <P>(ii) With respect to a request made by a person primarily engaged in disseminating information, urgency to inform the public concerning actual or alleged Federal Government activity.</P> <P>(3) A demonstration of compelling need by a person making a request for expedited processing must be made in the form of a statement describing the circumstances and certified by such person to be true and correct to the best of such person's knowledge and belief.</P> <P>(4) The Secretary shall determine whether to provide expedited processing, and provide notice of the determination to the person making the request, within ten (10) working days after the date of the request.</P> <P>(5) Appeal of the determination not to provide expedited processing should be sought in accordance with the provisions of paragraph (a)(3)(i) of § 503.32, and will be considered expeditiously.</P> <P>(6) Any request granted expedited processing shall be processed as soon as practicable.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.33</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exceptions to availability of records.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, the following records may be withheld from disclosure:</P> <P>(1) Records specifically authorized under criteria established by an Executive order to be kept secret in the interest of national defense or foreign policy and which are in fact properly classified pursuant to such Executive order. Records to which this provision applies shall be deemed by the Commission to have been properly classified. This exception may apply to records in the custody of the Commission which have been transmitted to the Commission by another agency which has designated the record as nonpublic under an Executive order.</P> <P>(2) Records related solely to the internal personnel rules and practices of the Commission.</P> <P>(3) Records specifically exempted from disclosure by statute, provided that such statute:</P> <P>(i) Requires that the matter be withheld from the public in such a manner as to leave no discretion on the issue, or</P> <P>(ii) Establishes particular criteria for withholding or refers to particular types of matters to be withheld.<PRTPAGE P="97"/> </P> <P>(4) Trade secrets and commercial financial information obtained from a person and privileged or confidential.</P> <P>(5) Inter-agency or intra-agency memoranda or letters which would not be available by law to a party other than an agency in litigation with the Commission.</P> <P>(6) Personnel and medical files and similar files, the disclosure of which would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy.</P> <P>(7) Records or information compiled for law enforcement purposes, but only to the extent that the production of such law enforcement records or information:</P> <P>(i) Could reasonably be expected to interfere with enforcement proceedings;</P> <P>(ii) Would deprive a person of a right to a fair trial or an impartial adjudication;</P> <P>(iii) Could reasonably be expected to constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy;</P> <P>(iv) Could reasonably be expected to disclose the identity of a confidential source, including a State, local, or foreign agency or authority or any private institution which furnished information on a confidential basis, and, in the case of a record or information compiled by a criminal law enforcement authority in the course of a criminal investigation, or by an agency conducting a lawful national security intelligence investigation, information furnished by a confidential source;</P> <P>(v) Would disclose techniques and procedures for law enforcement investigations or prosecutions, or would disclose guidelines for law enforcement investigations or prosecutions if such disclosure could reasonably be expected to risk circumvention of the law; or</P> <P>(vi) Could reasonably be expected to endanger the life or physical safety of any individual.</P> <P>(b) Nothing in this section authorizes withholding of information or limiting the availability of records to the public except as specifically stated in this part, nor shall this part be authority to withhold information from Congress.</P> <P>(c) Any reasonably segregable portion of a record shall be provided to any person requesting such record after deletion of the portions which are exempt under this part. The amount of information deleted shall be indicated on the released portion of the record, unless including that indication would harm an interest protected by the exemption in this section under which the deletion is made. If technically feasible, the amount of the information deleted shall be indicated at the place in the record where such deletion is made.</P> <P>(d) Whenever a request is made which involves access to records described in paragraph (a)(7)(i) of this section and the investigation or proceeding involves a possible violation of criminal law, and there is reason to believe that the subject of the investigation or proceeding is not aware of its pendency, and disclosure of the existence of the records could reasonably be expected to interfere with enforcement proceedings, the Commission may, during only such time as that circumstance continues, treat the records as not subject to the requirements of 5 U.S.C. 552 and this subpart.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.34</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Annual report of public information request activity.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) On or before February 1 of each year, the Commission shall submit to the Attorney General of the United States, as required by the Attorney General, a report which shall cover the preceeding fiscal year and which shall include:</P> <P>(1) The number of determinations made not to comply with requests for records made to the Commission under this Subpart and the reasons for each such determination;</P> <P>(2)(i) The number of appeals made by persons under § 503.32, the result of such appeals, and the reason for the action upon each appeal that results in a denial of information; and</P> <P>(ii) A complete list of all statutes relied upon to authorize withholding of information under § 503.33(a)(3) , a description of whether a court has upheld the Commission's decision to withhold information under each such statute, and a concise description of the scope of any information withheld;</P> <P>(3) The number of requests for records pending before the Commission as of September 30 of the preceding <PRTPAGE P="98"/>year, and the median number of days that such requests had been pending as of that date;</P> <P>(4) The number of requests for records received by the Commission and the number of requests which the Commission processed;</P> <P>(5) The median number of days taken to process different types of requests;</P> <P>(6) The total amount of fees collected for processing requests; and</P> <P>(7) The number of full-time staff devoted to processing requests for records under this section, and total amount expended for processing such requests.</P> <P>(b) Each such report shall be made available to the public at the Office of the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, D.C. 20573 and on the Commission's web site (<E T="03">www.fmc.gov</E>).</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart E—Fees</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.41</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Policy and services available.</SUBJECT> <P>Pursuant to policies established by Congress, the Government's costs for services provided to identifiable persons are to be recovered by the payment of fees (Independent Offices Appropriations Act, 31 U.S.C. 9701 and Freedom of Information Reform Act of 1986, October 27, 1986, 5 U.S.C. 552). Except as otherwise noted, it is the general policy of the Commission not to waive or reduce service and filing fees contained in this chapter. In extraordinary situations, the Commission will accept requests for waivers or fee reductions. Such requests are to be made to the Secretary of the Commission at the time of the information request or the filing of documents and must demonstrate that the waiver or reduction of a fee is in the best interest of the public, or that payment of a fee would impose an undue hardship. The Secretary will notify the requestor of the decision to grant or deny the request for waiver or reduction.</P> <P>(a) Upon request, the following services are available upon the payment of the fees hereinafter prescribed; except that no fees shall be assessed for search, duplication or review in connection with requests for single copies of materials described in §§ 503.11 and 503.21:</P> <P>(1) Records/documents search.</P> <P>(2) Duplication of records/documents.</P> <P>(3) Review of records/documents.</P> <P>(4) Certification of copies of records/documents.</P> <P>(b) Fees shall also be assessed for the following services provided by the Commission:</P> <P>(1) Placing one's name, as an interested party, on the mailing list of a docketed proceeding.</P> <P>(2) Processing nonattorney applications to practice before the Commission.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 52 FR 13682, Apr. 24, 1987; 59 FR 59170, Nov. 16, 1994; 63 FR 50535, Sept. 22, 1998]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.42</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Payment of fees and charges.</SUBJECT> <P>The fees charged for special services may be paid through the mail by check, draft, or postal money order, payable to the Federal Maritime Commission, except for charges for transcripts of hearings. Transcripts of hearings, testimony and oral argument are furnished by a nongovernmental contractor, and may be purchased directly from the reporting firm.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.43</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Fees for services.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Definitions.</E> The following definitions apply to the terms when used in this subpart:</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Search</E> means all time spent looking for material that is responsive to a request, including page-by-page or line-by-line identification of material within documents. Search for material will be done in the most efficient and least expensive manner so as to minimize costs for both the agency and the requester. Search is distinguished, moreover, from <E T="03">review</E> of material in order to determine whether the material is exempt from disclosure. Searches may be done manually or by computer using existing programming.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Duplication</E> means the process of making a copy of a document necessary to respond to a Freedom of Information Act or other request. Such copies can take the form of paper or machine readable documentation (e.g., magnetic tape or disk), among others.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">Review</E> means the process of examining documents located in response to a commercial use request to determine whether any portion of any document located is permitted to be withheld. It <PRTPAGE P="99"/>also includes processing any documents for disclosure, e.g., doing all that is necessary to excise them and otherwise prepare them for release. Review does not include time spent resolving general legal or policy issues regarding the application of exemptions.</P> <P>(4) <E T="03">Commercial use request</E> means a request from or on behalf of one who seeks information for a use or purpose that furthers the commercial, trade, or profit interests of the requester or the person on whose behalf the request is made. In determining whether a requester properly belongs in this category, the agency must determine the use to which a requester will put the documents requested. Where the agency has reasonable cause to doubt the use to which a requester will put the records sought, or where that use is not clear from the request itself, the agency will seek additional clarification before assigning the request to a specific category.</P> <P>(5) <E T="03">Educational institution</E> means a preschool, a public or private elementary or secondary school, an institution of graduate higher education, an institution of undergraduate higher education, an institution of professional education, and an institution of vocational education, which operates a program or programs of scholarly research.</P> <P>(6) <E T="03">Non-commercial scientific institution</E> means an institution that is not operated on a <E T="03">commercial</E> basis as that term is referenced in paragraph (a)(4) of this section, and which is operated solely for the purpose of conducting scientific research the results of which are not intended to promote any particular product or industry.</P> <P>(7) <E T="03">Representative of the news media</E> means any person actively gathering news for an entity that is organized and operated to publish or broadcast news to the public. The term <E T="03">news</E> means information that is about current events or that would be of current interest to the public. Examples of news media entities include television or radio stations broadcasting to the public at large, and publishers of periodicals (but only in those instances when they can qualify as disseminators of <E T="03">news</E>) who make their products available for purchase or subscription by the general public. These examples are not intended to be all-inclusive. As traditional methods of news delivery evolve (e.g., electronic dissemination of newspapers through telecommunications services), such alternative media would be included in this category. <E T="03">Freelance</E> journalists, may be regarded as working for a news organization if they can demonstrate a solid basis for expecting publication through that organization, even though not actually employed by it. A publication contract would be the clearest proof, but the agency may also look to the past publication record of a requester in making this determination.</P> <P>(8) <E T="03">Direct costs</E> means those expenditures which the agency actually incurs in searching for and duplicating (and in the case of commercial requester, reviewing) documents to respond to a Freedom of Information Act (“FOIA”) request. Direct costs include, for example, the salary of the employee performing the work (the basic rate of pay for the employee plus 17.5 percent of that rate to cover benefits) and the cost of operating duplicating machinery. Not included in direct costs are overhead expenses such as costs of space, and heating or lighting the facility in which the records are stored.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">General.</E> (1) The basic fees set forth in paragraph (c) of this section provide for documents to be mailed with postage prepaid. If copy is to be transmitted by registered, certified, air, or special delivery mail, postage therefor will be added to the basic fee. Also, if special handling or packaging is required, costs thereof will be added to the basic fee.</P> <P>(2) The fees for search, duplication and review set forth in paragraph (c) of this section reflect the full allowable direct costs expected to be incurred by the agency for the service. Costs of search and review may be assessed even if it is determined that disclosure of the records is to be withheld. Cost of search may be assessed even if the agency fails to locate the records. Requesters much reasonably describe the records sought. The following restrictions, limitations and guidelines apply to the assessment of such fees:</P> <P>(i) For commercial use requesters, charges recovering full direct costs for <PRTPAGE P="100"/>search, review and duplication of records will be assessed.</P> <P>(ii) For educational and non-commercial scientific institution requesters, no charge will be assessed for search or review of records. Charges recovering full direct costs for duplication of records will be assessed, excluding charges for the first 100 pages. To be eligible for inclusion in this category, requesters must show that the request is being made under the auspices of a qualifying institution and that the records are not sought for a commercial use, but are sought in furtherance of scholarly (if the request is from an educational institution) or scientific (if the request is from a non-commercial scientific institution) research.</P> <P>(iii) For representative of the news media requesters, no charge will be assessed for search or review of records. Charges recovering full direct costs for duplication of records will be assessed, excluding charges for the first 100 pages.</P> <P>(iv) For all other requesters, no charge will be assessed for review of records. Charges recovering full direct costs for search and duplication of records will be assessed excluding charges for the first 100 pages of duplication and the first two hours of search time. Requests from individuals for records about themselves, filed in a Commission system of records, will be treated under the fee provisions of the Privacy Act of 1984 which permit fees only for duplication.</P> <P>(v) No fee may be charged for search, review or duplication if the costs of routine collection and processing of the fee are likely to exceed the amount of the fee.</P> <P>(vi) Documents shall be furnished without any charge or at a reduced charge if disclosure of the information is in the public interest because it is likely to contribute significantly to public understanding of the operations or activities of the government and is not primarily in the commercial interest of the requester. In determining whether a waiver or reduction of charges is appropriate the following factors will be taken into consideration.</P> <P>(A) The subject of the request: Whether the subject of the requested records concerns the operations or activities of the government;</P> <P>(B) The informative value of the information to be disclosed: Whether the disclosure is likely to contribute to an understanding of government operations or activities;</P> <P>(C) The contribution to an understanding of the subject by the general public likely to result from disclosure: Whether disclosure of the requested information will contribute to public understanding;</P> <P>(D) The significance of the contribution to public understanding: Whether the disclosure is likely to contribute significantly to public understanding of government operations or activities;</P> <P>(E) The existence and magnitude of a commercial interest: Whether the requester has a commercial interest that would be furthered by the requested disclosure; and, if so</P> <P>(F) The primary interest in disclosure: Whether the magnitude of the identified commercial interest of the requester is sufficiently large, in comparison with the public interest in disclosure, that disclosure is primarily in the commercial interest of the requester.</P> <P>(vii) Whenever it is anticipated that fees chargeable under this section will exceed $25.00 and the requester has not indicated in advance a willingness to pay fees as high as anticipated, the requester will be notified of the amount of the anticipated fee. In such cases the requester will be given an opportunity to confer with Commission personnel with the object of reformulating the request to meet the needs of the requester at a lower cost.</P> <P>(viii) Interest may be charged record requesters who fail to pay fees assessed. Assessment of interest may begin on the amount billed starting on the 31st day following the day on which the billing was sent. Interest will be at the rate prescribed in section 3717 of title 31 U.S.C., and will accrue from the date of the billings. Receipt of payment by the agency will stay the accrual of interest.</P> <P>(ix) Whenever it reasonably appears that a requester of records or a group of requesters is attempting to break a request down into a series of requests <PRTPAGE P="101"/>for the purpose of evading the assessment of fees, such requests will be aggregated and fees assessed accordingly. Multiple requests on unrelated subjects will not be aggregated.</P> <P>(x) The agency may require a requester to make advance payment only when:</P> <P>(A) A requester has previously failed to pay a fee charged in a timely fashion (i.e., within 30 days of the date of the billing), in which case the requester will be required to pay the full amount owed plus any applicable interest as provided above, and to make an advance payment of the full amount of the estimated fee before the agency begins to process a new request or a pending request from that requester; or</P> <P>(B) The agency estimates or determines that allowable charges that a requester may be required to pay are likely to exceed $250, in which case, the agency will notify the requester of the likely cost and obtain satisfactory assurance of full payment where the requester has a history of prompt payment of FOIA fees, or will require an advance payment of an amount up to the full estimated charges in the case of requesters with no history of payment.</P> <P>(xi) Unless applicable fees are paid, the agency may use the authorities of the Debt Collection Act (Pub. L. 97-365), including disclosure to consumer reporting agencies and use of collection agencies where appropriate to encourage payment.</P> <P>(xii) Whenever action is taken under paragraphs (b)(2)(viii) and (b)(2)(ix) of this section, the administrative time limits prescribed in subsection (a)(6) of 5 U.S.C. 552 (i.e., 10 working days from receipt of initial requests and 20 working days from receipt of appeals from initial denial, plus permissible extensions of these time limits will begin only after the Commission has received fee payments described above.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Charges for search, review, duplication and certification.</E> (1) Records search will be performed by Commission personnel at the following rates:</P> <P>(i) Search will be performed by clerical/administrative personnel at a rate of $19 per hour and by professional/executive personnel at a rate of $48 per hour.</P> <P>(ii) Minimum charge for record search is $19.</P> <P>(2) Charges for review of records to determine whether they are exempt from disclosure under § 503.33 shall be assessed to recover full costs at the rate of $79 per hour. Charges for review will be assessed only for initial review to determine the applicability of a specific exemptions to a particular record. No charge will be assessed for review at the administrative appeal level.</P> <P>(3) Charges for duplication of records and documents will be assessed as follows, limited to size 8<FR>1/2</FR>″×14″ or smaller:</P> <P>(i) If performed by requesting party, at the rate of five cents per page (one side).</P> <P>(ii) By Commission personnel, at the rate of five cents per page (one side) plus $19 per hour.</P> <P>(iii) Minimum charge for copying is $4.75.</P> <P>(iv) No charge will be made by the Commission for notices, decisions, orders, etc., required by law to be served on a party to any proceeding or matter before the Commission. No charge will be made for single copies of such Commission issuances individually requested in person or by mail.</P> <P>(4) The certification and validation (with Federal Maritime Commission seal) of documents filed with or issued by the Commission will be available at $94 for each certification.</P> <P>(d) To have one's name and address placed on the mailing list of a specific docket as an interested party to receive all issuances pertaining to that docket: $9 per proceeding.</P> <P>(e) Applications for admission to practice before the Commission for persons not attorneys at law must be accompanied by a fee of $104 pursuant to § 502.27 of this chapter.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 52 FR 13683, Apr. 24, 1987; 59 FR 59170, Nov. 16, 1994; 63 FR 50535, Sept. 22, 1998; 67 FR 39859, June 11, 2002; 70 FR 10329, Mar. 3, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart F—Information Security Program</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.51</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Access</E> means the ability or opportunity to gain knowledge of classified information.<PRTPAGE P="102"/> </P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Classification</E> means the act or process by which information is determined to be classified information.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Classification guide</E> means a documentary form of instruction or source that prescribes the classification of specific information issued by an original classification authority that identifies the elements of information regarding a specific subject that must be classified and establishes the level and duration of classification for each such element.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Classified national security information (hereafter “classified information”)</E> means information that has been determined pursuant to Executive Order 12958 or any predecessor order in force to require protection against unauthorized disclosure and is marked to indicate its classified status when in documentary form.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Commission</E> means the Federal Maritime Commission.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Declassification</E> means the authorized change in the status of information from classified information to unclassified information.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Derivative classification</E> means the incorporating, paraphrasing, restating or generating in new form information that is already classified, and marking the newly developed material consistent with the classification markings that apply to the source information. Derivative classification includes the classification of information based on classification guidance. The duplication or reproduction of existing classified information is not derivative classification.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Downgrading</E> means a determination by a declassification authority that information classified and safeguarded at a specified level shall be classified and safeguarded at a lower level.</P> <P>(i) <E T="03">Foreign government information</E> means:</P> <P>(1) Information provided to the United States Government by a foreign government or governments, an international organization of governments, or any element thereof, with the expectation that the information, the source of the information, or both, are to be held in confidence;</P> <P>(2) Information produced by the United States pursuant to or as a result of a joint arrangement with a foreign government or governments, or an international organization of governments, or any element thereof, requiring that the information, the arrangement, or both, are to be held in confidence; or</P> <P>(3) information received and treated as “Foreign Government Information” under the terms of Executive Order 12958 or any predecessor order.</P> <P>(j) <E T="03">Mandatory declassification review</E> means the review for declassification of classified information in response to a request for declassification that meets the requirements under section 3.6 of Executive Order 12958.</P> <P>(k) <E T="03">Multiple sources</E> means two or more source documents, classification guides, or a combination of both.</P> <P>(l) <E T="03">National security</E> means the national defense or foreign relations of the United States.</P> <P>(m) <E T="03">Need to know</E> means a determination made by an authorized holder of classified information that a prospective recipient requires access to specific classified information in order to perform or assist in a lawful and authorized governmental function.</P> <P>(n) <E T="03">Original classification</E> means an initial determination that information requires, in the interest of national security, protection against unauthorized disclosure.</P> <P>(o) <E T="03">Original classification authority</E> means an individual authorized in writing, either by the President, or by agency heads or other officials designated by the President, to classify information in the first instance.</P> <P>(p) <E T="03">Self-inspection</E> means the internal review and evaluation of individual Commission activities and the Commission as a whole with respect to the implementation of the program established under Executive Order 12958 and its implementing directives.</P> <P>(q) <E T="03">Senior agency official (“security officer”)</E> means the official designated by the Chairman under section 5.6 of Executive Order 12958 to direct and administer the Commission's program under which classified information is safeguarded.<PRTPAGE P="103"/> </P> <P>(r) <E T="03">Source document</E> means an existing document that contains classified information that is incorporated, paraphrased, restated, or generated in new form into a new document.</P> <P>(s) <E T="03">Unauthorized disclosure</E> means a communication or physical transfer of classified information to an unauthorized recipient.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 23547, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.52</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Senior agency official.</SUBJECT> <P>The Chairman of the Commission shall designate a senior agency official to be the Security Officer for the Commission, who shall be responsible for directing, administering and reporting on the Commission's information security program, which includes oversight (self-inspection) and security information programs to ensure effective implementation of Executive Orders 12958 and 12968, and 32 CFR part 2001.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 23547, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.53</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Oversight Committee.</SUBJECT> <P>An Oversight Committee is established, under the chairmanship of the Security Officer with the following responsibilities:</P> <P>(a) Establish a Commission security education program to familiarize all personnel who have or may have access to classified information with the provisions of Executive Order 12958 and directives of the Information Security Oversight Office. The program shall include initial, refresher, and termination briefings;</P> <P>(b) Establish controls to ensure that classified information is used, processed, stored, reproduced, and transmitted only under conditions that will provide adequate protection and prevent access by unauthorized persons;</P> <P>(c) Act on all suggestions and complaints concerning the Commission's information security program;</P> <P>(d) Recommend appropriate administrative action to correct abuse or violations of any provision of Executive Order 12958; and</P> <P>(e) Consider and decide other questions concerning classification and declassification that may be brought before it.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23548, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.54</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Original classification.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) No Commission Member or employee has the authority to originally classify information.</P> <P>(b) If a Commission Member or employee develops information that appears to require classification, or receives any foreign government information as defined in section 1.1(d) of Executive Order 12958, the Member or employee shall immediately notify the Security Officer and appropriately protect the information.</P> <P>(c) If the Security Officer believes the information warrants classification, it shall be sent to the appropriate agency with original classification authority over the subject matter, or to the Information Security Oversight Office, for review and a classification determination.</P> <P>(d) If there is reasonable doubt about the need to classify information, it shall be safeguarded as if it were classified pending a determination by an original classification authority. If there is reasonable doubt about the appropriate level of classification, it shall be safeguarded at the higher level of classification pending a determination by an original classification authority.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23548, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.55</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Derivative classification.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) In accordance with Part 2 of Executive Order 12958 and directives of the Information Security Oversight Office, the incorporation, paraphrasing, restating or generation in new form of information that is already classified, and the marking of newly developed material consistent with the classification markings that apply to the source information, is derivative classification.</P> <P>(1) Derivative classification includes the classification of information based on classification guidance.</P> <P>(2) The duplication or reproduction of existing classified information is not derivative classification.</P> <P>(b) Members or employees applying derivative classification markings shall:</P> <P>(1) Observe and respect original classification decisions; and<PRTPAGE P="104"/> </P> <P>(2) Carry forward to any newly created documents the pertinent classification markings.</P> <P>(3) For information derivatively classified based on multiple sources, the Member or employee shall carry forward:</P> <P>(i) The date or event for declassification that corresponds to the longest period of classification among the sources; and</P> <P>(ii) A listing of these sources on or attached to the official file or record copy.</P> <P>(c) Documents classified derivatively shall bear all markings prescribed by 32 CFR 2001.20 through 2001.23 and shall otherwise conform to the requirements of 32 CFR 2001.20 through 2001.23.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 23548, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.56</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General declassification and downgrading policy.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The Commission exercises declassification and downgrading authority in accordance with section 3.1 of Executive Order 12958, only over that information originally classified by the Commission under previous Executive orders. Declassification and downgrading authority may be exercised by the Commission Chairman and the Commission Security Officer, and such others as the Chairman may designate. Commission personnel may not declassify information originally classified by other agencies.</P> <P>(b) The Commission does not now have original classification authority nor does it have in its possession any documents that it originally classified when it had such authority. The Commission has authorized the Archivist of the United States to automatically declassify information originally classified by the Commission and under its exclusive and final declassification jurisdiction at the end of 20 years from the date of original classification.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23548, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.57</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Mandatory review for declassification.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Information originally classified by the Commission but which has not been automatically declassified shall be subject to a review for declassification by the Commission, if:</P> <P>(1) A declassification request is made; and</P> <P>(2) A request describes the documents or material containing the information with sufficient specificity to enable the Commission to locate it with a reasonable amount of effort. Requests with insufficient description of the material will be returned to the requester for further information.</P> <P>(b) Requests for mandatory declassification reviews of documents originally classified by the Commission shall be in writing, and shall be sent to the Security Officer, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573.</P> <P>(c) If the request requires the provision of services by the Commission, fair and equitable fees may be charged pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 9701.</P> <P>(d) Requests for mandatory declassification reviews shall be acknowledged by the Commission within 15 days of the date of receipt of such requests.</P> <P>(e) If the information was originally classified by the Commission, the Commission Security Officer shall forward the request to the Chairman of the Commission for a determination of declassification. If the information was originated by another agency, the Commission Security Officer shall refer the review and the pertinent records to the originating agency. The final determination will be issued within 180 days of the receipt of the request.</P> <P>(f) If the document was derivatively classified by the Commission or originally classified by another agency, the request, the document, and a recommendation for action shall be forwarded to the agency with the original classification authority. The Commission may, after consultation with the originating agency, inform the requester of the referral.</P> <P>(g) If a document is declassified in its entirety, it may be released to the requester, unless withholding is otherwise warranted under applicable law. If a document or any part of it is not declassified, the Security Officer shall furnish the declassified portions to the requester unless withholding is otherwise warranted under applicable law, <PRTPAGE P="105"/>along with a brief statement concerning the reasons for the denial of the remainder, and the right to appeal that decision to the Commission within 60 days.</P> <P>(h) If a declassification determination cannot be made within 45 days, the requester shall be advised that additional time is needed to process the request. Final determination shall be made within one year from the date of receipt unless there are unusual circumstances.</P> <P>(i) In response to a request for information under the Freedom of Information Act, the Privacy Act of 1974, or the mandatory review provisions of Executive Order 12958, the Commission shall refuse to confirm or deny the existence or non-existence of requested information whenever the fact of its existence or non-existence is itself classifiable under Executive Order 12958.</P> <P>(j) When a request has been submitted both under mandatory review and the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), the requester must elect one process or the other. If the requester fails to so elect, the request will be treated as a FOIA request unless the requested materials are subject only to mandatory review.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23548, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.58</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Appeals of denials of mandatory declassification review requests.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Within 60 days after the receipt of denial of a request for mandatory declassification review, the requester may submit an appeal in writing to the Commission through the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573. The appeal shall:</P> <P>(1) Identify the document in the same manner in which it was identified in the original request;</P> <P>(2) Indicate the dates of the request and denial, and the expressed basis for the denial; and</P> <P>(3) State briefly why the document should be declassified.</P> <P>(b) The Commission shall rule on the appeal within 30 days of receiving it. If additional time is required to make a determination, the Commission shall notify the requester of the additional time needed and provide the requester with the reason for the extension. The Commission shall notify the requester in writing of the final determination and the reasons for any denial.</P> <P>(c) In accordance with section 5.4 of Executive Order 12598 and 32 CFR 2001.54, within 60 days of such issuance, the requester may appeal a final determination of the Commission under paragraph (b) of this section to the Interagency Security Classification Appeals Panel. The appeal should be addressed to, Executive Secretary, Interagency Security Classification Appeals Panel, Attn: Classification Challenge Appeals, c/o Information Security Oversight Office, National Archives and Records Administration, 7th and Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Room 5W, Washington DC 20408.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23548, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.59</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Safeguarding classified information.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) All classified information shall be afforded a level of protection against unauthorized disclosure commensurate with its level of classification.</P> <P>(b) Whenever classified material is removed from a storage facility, such material shall not be left unattended and shall be protected by attaching an appropriate classified document cover sheet to each classified document.</P> <P>(c) Classified information being transmitted from one Commission office to another shall be protected with a classified document cover sheet and hand delivered by an appropriately cleared person to another appropriately cleared person.</P> <P>(d) Classified information shall be made available to a recipient only when the authorized holder of the classified information has determined that:</P> <P>(1) The prospective recipient has a valid security clearance at least commensurate with the level of classification of the information; and</P> <P>(2) The prospective recipient requires access to the information in order to perform or assist in a lawful and authorized governmental function.</P> <P>(e) The requirement in paragraph (d)(2) of this section, that access to classified information may be granted only to individuals who have a need-to-<PRTPAGE P="106"/>know the information, may be waived for persons who:</P> <P>(1) Are engaged in historical research projects, or</P> <P>(2) Previously have occupied policy-making positions to which they were appointed by the President.</P> <P>(f) Waivers under paragraph (e) of this section may be granted when the Commission Security Officer:</P> <P>(1) Determines in writing that access is consistent with the interest of national security;</P> <P>(2) Takes appropriate steps to protect classified information from unauthorized disclosure or compromise, and ensures that the information is properly safeguarded; and</P> <P>(3) Limits the access granted to former presidential appointees to items that the person originated, reviewed, signed, or received while serving as a presidential appointee.</P> <P>(g) Persons seeking access to classified information in accordance with paragraphs (e) and (f) of this section must agree in writing:</P> <P>(1) To be subject to a national security check;</P> <P>(2) To protect the classified information in accordance with the provisions of Executive Order 12958; and</P> <P>(3) Not to publish or otherwise reveal to unauthorized persons any classified information.</P> <P>(h) Except as authorized by the originating agency, or otherwise provided for by directives issued by the President, the Commission shall not disclose information originally classified by another agency.</P> <P>(i) Only appropriately cleared personnel may receive, transmit, and maintain current access and accountability records for classified material.</P> <P>(j) Each office which has custody of classified material shall maintain:</P> <P>(1) A classified document register or log containing a listing of all classified holdings, and</P> <P>(2) A classified document destruction register or log containing the title and date of all classified documents that have been destroyed.</P> <P>(k) An inventory of all documents classified higher than confidential shall be made at least annually and whenever there is a change in classified document custodians. The Commission Security Officer shall be notified, in writing, of the results of each inventory.</P> <P>(l) Reproduced copies of classified documents are subject to the same accountability and controls as the original documents.</P> <P>(m) Combinations to dial-type locks shall be changed only by persons having an appropriate security clearance, and shall be changed whenever such equipment is placed in use; whenever a person knowing the combination no longer requires access to the combination; whenever a combination has been subject to possible compromise; whenever the equipment is taken out of service; and at least once each year. Records of combinations shall be classified no lower than the highest level of classified information to be stored in the security equipment concerned. One copy of the record of each combination shall be provided to the Commission Security Officer.</P> <P>(n) Individuals charged with the custody of classified information shall conduct the necessary inspections within their areas to insure adherence to procedural safeguards prescribed to protect classified information. The Commission Security Officer shall conduct periodic inspections to determine if the procedural safeguards prescribed in this subpart are in effect at all times.</P> <P>(o) Whenever classified material is to be transmitted outside the Commission, the custodian of the classified material shall contact the Commission Security Officer for preparation and receipting instructions. If the material is to be hand carried, the Security Officer shall ensure that the person who will carry the material has the appropriate security clearance, is knowledgeable of safeguarding requirements, and is briefed, if appropriate, concerning restrictions with respect to carrying classified material on commercial carriers.</P> <P>(p) Any person having access to and possession of classified information is responsible for protecting it from persons not authorized access to it, to include securing it in approved equipment or facilities, whenever it is not under the direct supervision of authorized persons.<PRTPAGE P="107"/> </P> <P>(q) Employees of the Commission shall be subject to appropriate sanctions, which may include reprimand, suspension without pay, removal, termination of classification authority, loss or denial of access to classified information, or other sanctions in accordance with applicable law and agency regulation, if they:</P> <P>(1) Knowingly, willfully, or negligently disclose to unauthorized persons information properly classified under Executive Order 12958 or predecessor orders in force;</P> <P>(2) Knowingly and willfully classify or continue the classification of information in violation of Executive Order 12958 or any implementing directive; or</P> <P>(3) Knowingly and willfully violate any other provision of Executive Order 12958 or implementing directive.</P> <P>(r) Any person who discovers or believes that a classified document is lost or compromised shall immediately report the circumstances to his or her supervisor and the Commission Security Officer, who shall conduct an immediate inquiry into the matter.</P> <P>(s) Questions with respect to the Commission Information Security Program, particularly those concerning the classification, declassification, downgrading, and safeguarding of classified information, shall be directed to the Commission Security Officer.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23548, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart G—Access to Any Record of Identifiable Personal Information</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.60</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <FP>For the purpose of this subpart:</FP> <P>(a) <E T="03">Agency</E> means each authority of the government of the United States as defined in 5 U.S.C. 551(1) and shall include any executive department, military department, government corporation, government controlled corporation or other establishment in the executive branch of the government (including the Executive Office of the President), or any independent regulatory agency.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Commission</E> means the Federal Maritime Commission.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Individual</E> means a citizen of the United States or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence to whom a record pertains.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Maintain</E> includes maintain, collect, use, or disseminate.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Person</E> means any person not an individual and shall include, but is not limited to, corporations, associations, partnerships, trustees, receivers, personal representatives, and public or private organizations.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Record</E> means any item, collection, or grouping of information about an individual that is maintained by the Federal Maritime Commission, including but not limited to a person's education, financial transactions, medical history, and criminal or employment history, and that contains the person's name, or the identifying number, symbol or other identifying particular assigned to the individual, such as a finger or voice print, or a photograph.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Routine use</E> means [with respect to the disclosure of a record], the use of such records for a purpose which is compatible with the purpose for which it was collected.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Statistical record</E> means a record in a system of records, maintained for statistical research or reporting purposes only and not used in whole or in part in making any determination about an identifiable individual, but shall not include matter pertaining to the Census as defined in 13 U.S.C. 8.</P> <P>(i) <E T="03">System of records</E> means a group of any records under the control of the Commission from which information is retrieved by the name of the individual or by some identifying number, symbol or other identifying particular assigned to the individual.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.61</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Conditions of disclosure.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Subject to the conditions of paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, the Commission shall not disclose any record which is contained in a system of records, by any means of communication, to any person or other agency who is not an individual to whom the record pertains.</P> <P>(b) Upon written request or with prior written consent of the individual <PRTPAGE P="108"/>to whom the record pertains, the Commission may disclose any such record to any person or other agency.</P> <P>(c) In the absence of a written consent from the individual to whom the record pertains, the Commission may disclose any such record, provided such disclosure is:</P> <P>(1) To those officers and employees of the Commission who have a need for the record in the performance of their duties;</P> <P>(2) Required under the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C 552);</P> <P>(3) For a routine use;</P> <P>(4) To the Bureau of Census for purposes of planning or carrying out a census or survey or related activity under the provisions of title 13 U.S.C.;</P> <P>(5) To a recipient who has provided the Commission with adequate advance written assurance that the record will be used solely as a statistical research or reporting record, and the record is to be transferred in a form that is not individually identifiable;</P> <P>(6) To the National Archives of the United States, as a record which has sufficient historical or other value to warrant its continued preservation by the United States government, or for evaluation by the Administrator of General Services or his designee to determine whether the record has such value;—</P> <P>(7) To another agency or to an instrumentality of any governmental jurisdiction within or under the control of the United States for a civil or criminal law enforcement activity authorized by law, provided the head of the agency or instrumentality has made a prior written request to the Secretary of the Commission specifying the particular record and the law enforcement activity for which it is sought;</P> <P>(8) To either House of Congress, and to the extent of a matter within its jurisdiction, any committee, subcommittee, or joint committee of Congress;</P> <P>(9) To the Comptroller General, or any authorized representative, thereof, in the course of the performance of the duties of the GAO; or</P> <P>(10) Under an order of a court of competent jurisdiction.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.62</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Accounting of disclosures.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The Secretary shall make an accounting of each disclosure of any record contained in a system of records in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(1) and 552a(c)(2).</P> <P>(b) Except for a disclosure made under § 503.61(c)(7), the Secretary shall make the accounting described in paragraph (a) of this section available to any individual upon written request made in accordance with § 503.63(b) or § 503.63(c).</P> <P>(c) The Secretary shall make reasonable efforts to notify the individual when any record which pertains to such individual is disclosed to any person under compulsory legal process, when such process becomes a matter of public record.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.63</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Request for information.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Upon request, in person or by mail, made in accordance with the provisions of paragraph (b) or (c) of this section, any individual shall be informed whether or not any Commission system of records contains a record pertaining to him or her.</P> <P>(b) Any individual requesting such information in person shall personally appear at the Office of the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington, DC 20573 and shall:</P> <P>(1) Provide information sufficient, in the opinion of the Secretary, to identify the record, e.g., the individual's own name, date of birth, place of birth, etc.;</P> <P>(2) Provide identification acceptable to the Secretary to verify the individual's identity, e.g., driver's license, employee identification card or medicare card;</P> <P>(3) Complete and sign the appropriate form provided by the Secretary.</P> <P>(c) Any individual requesting such information by mail shall address such request to the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington, DC 20573 and shall include in such request the following:</P> <P>(1) Information sufficient in the opinion of the Secretary to identify the record, e.g., the individual's own name, date of birth, place of birth, etc.;<PRTPAGE P="109"/> </P> <P>(2) A signed notarized statement to verify his or her identity.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 63 FR 50535, Sept. 22, 1998]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.64</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Commission procedure on request for information.</SUBJECT> <P>Upon request for information made in accordance with § 503.63, the Secretary or his or her delegate shall, within 10 days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal public holidays), furnish in writing to the requesting party notice of the existence or nonexistence of any records described in such request.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.65</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Request for access to records.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> Upon request by any individual made in accordance with the procedures set forth in paragraph (b) of this section, such individual shall be granted access to any record pertaining to him or her which is contained in a Commission system of records. However, nothing in this section shall allow an individual access to any information compiled by the Commission in reasonable anticipation of a civil or criminal action or proceeding.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Procedures for requests for access to records.</E> Any individual may request access to a record pertaining to him or her in person or by mail in accordance with paragraphs (b) (1) and (2) of this section:</P> <P>(1) Any individual making such request in person shall do so at the Office of the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington, DC 20573 and shall:</P> <P>(i) Provide identification acceptable to the Secretary to verify the individual's identity, e.g., driver's license, employee identification card, or medicare card; and</P> <P>(ii) Complete and sign the appropriate form provided by the Secretary.</P> <P>(2) Any individual making a request for access to records by mail shall address such request to the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington, DC 20573 and shall include therein a signed, notarized statement to verify his or her identity.</P> <P>(3) Any individual requesting access to records under this section in person may be accompanied by a person of his or her own choosing, while reviewing the record requested. If an individual elects to be so accompanied, he or she shall notify the Secretary of such election in the request and shall provide a written statement authorizing disclosure of the record in the presence of the accompanying person. Failure to so notify the Secretary in a request for access shall be deemed to be a decision by the individual not to be accompanied.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Commission determination of requests for access.</E> (1) Upon request made in accordance with this section, the Secretary or his or her delegate shall:</P> <P>(i) Determine whether or not such request shall be granted;</P> <P>(ii) Make such determination and provide notification within 10 days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal public holidays) after receipt of such request, and, if such request is granted shall:</P> <P>(iii) Notify the individual that fees for reproducing copies will be made in accordance with § 503.69.</P> <P>(2) If access to a record is denied because such information has been compiled by the Commission in reasonable anticipation of a civil or criminal action or proceeding, or for any other reason, the Secretary shall notify the individual of such determination and his or her right to judicial appeal under 5 U.S.C. 552a(g).</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Manner of providing access.</E> (1) If access is granted, the individual making such request shall notify the Secretary whether the records requested are to be copied and mailed to the individual.</P> <P>(2) If records are to be made available for personal inspection, the individual shall arrange with the Secretary a mutually agreeable time and place for inspection of the record.</P> <P>(3) Fees for reproducing and mailing copies of records will be made in accordance with § 503.69.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 63 FR 50535, Sept. 22, 1998]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.66</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Amendment of a record.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> Any individual may request amendment of a record pertaining to him or her according to the <PRTPAGE P="110"/>procedure in paragraph (b) of this section.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Procedures for requesting amendment of a record.</E> After inspection of a record pertaining to him or her, an individual may file with the Secretary a request, in person or by mail, for amendment of a record. Such request shall specify the particular portions of the record to be amended, the desired amendments and the reasons therefor.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Commission procedures on request for amendment of a record.</E> (1) Not later than ten (10) days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal public holidays) after the date of receipt of a request made in accordance with this section to amend a record in whole or in part, the Secretary or his or her delegate shall:</P> <P>(i) Make any correction of any portion of the record which the individual believes is not accurate, relevant, timely or complete and thereafter inform the individual of such correction; or</P> <P>(ii) Inform the individual, by certified mail, return receipt requested, of refusal to amend the record, setting out the reasons therefor, and notify the individual of his or her right to appeal that determination to the Chairman of the Commission under § 503.67.</P> <P>(2) The Secretary shall inform any person or other agency to whom a record has been disclosed of any correction or notation of dispute made by the Secretary with respect to such records, in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(4) referring to amendment of a record, if an accounting of such disclosure has been made.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.67</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Appeals from denial of request for amendment of a record.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> An individual whose request for amendment of a record pertaining to him or her is denied, may further request a review of such determination in accordance with paragraph (b) of this section.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Procedure for appeal.</E> Not later than thirty (30) days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal public holidays) following receipt of notification of refusal to amend, an individual may file an appeal to amend the record. Such appeal shall:</P> <P>(1) Be addressed to the Chairman, Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington, DC 20573; and</P> <P>(2) Specify the reasons for which the refusal to amend is challenged.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Commission procedure on appeal.</E> (1) Upon appeal from a denial to amend a record, the Chairman of the Commission or the officer designated by the Chairman to act in his or her absence, shall make a determination whether or not to amend the record and shall notify the individual of that determination by certified mail, return receipt requested, not later than thirty (30) days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal public holidays) after receipt of such appeal, unless extended pursuant to paragraph (d) of this section.</P> <P>(2) The Chairman shall also notify the individual of the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a(g)(1)(A) regarding judicial review of the Chairman's determination.</P> <P>(3) If, on appeal, the refusal to amend the record is upheld, the Commission shall permit the individual to file a statement setting forth the reasons for disagreement with the Commission's determination.</P> <P>(d) The Chairman, or his or her delegate in his or her absence, may extend up to thirty (30) days the time period prescribed in paragraph (c)(1) of this section within which to make a determination on an appeal from refusal to amend a record for the reasons that a fair and equitable review cannot be completed within the prescribed time period.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 63 FR 50536, Sept. 22, 1998]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.68</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exemptions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The system of records designated FMC-25 Inspector General File is exempt from the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a except subsections (b), (c) (1) and (2), (e)(4) (A) through (F), (e) (6), (7), (9), (10), and (11) and (i) to the extent it contains information meeting the criteria of 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) pertaining to the enforcement of criminal laws. Exemption is appropriate to avoid compromise of ongoing investigations, disclosure of the identity of confidential <PRTPAGE P="111"/>sources and unwarranted invasions of personal privacy of third parties.</P> <P>(b) The following systems of records are exempt from the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(1), (e)(4) (G), (H) and (I) and (f), which otherwise require the Commission, among other things, to provide the individual named in the records an accounting of disclosures and access to and opportunity to amend the records. The scope of the exemptions and the reasons therefor are described for each particular system of records.</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">FMC-1Personnel Security File.</E> All information about individuals that meets the criteria of 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5), regarding suitability, eligibility or qualifications for Federal civilian employment or for access to classified information, to the extent that disclosure would reveal the identity of a source who furnished information to the Commission under a promise of confidentiality. Exemption is required to honor promises of confidentiality.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">FMC-7Licensed Ocean Freight Forwarders File.</E> All information that meets the criteria of 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) regarding investigatory materials compiled for law enforcement purposes. Exemption is appropriate to avoid compromise of ongoing investigations, disclosure of the identity of confidential sources and unwarranted invasions of personal privacy of third parties.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">FMC-22Investigatory Files.</E> All information that meets the criteria of 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) regarding investigatory material compiled for law enforcement purposes. Exemption is appropriate to avoid compromise of ongoing investigations, disclosure of the identity of confidential sources and unwarranted invasions of personal privacy of third parties.</P> <P>(4) <E T="03">FMC-24Informal Inquiries and Complaint Files.</E> All information that meets the criteria of 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) regarding investigatory material compiled for law enforcement purposes. Exemption is appropriate to avoid compromise of ongoing investigations, disclosure of the identity of confidential sources and unwarranted invasion of personal privacy of third parties.</P> <P>(5) <E T="03">FMC-25Inspector General File.</E> (i) All information that meets the criteria of 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) regarding investigatory material compiled for law enforcement purposes. Exemption is appropriate to avoid compromise of ongoing investigations, disclosure of the identity of confidential sources and unwarranted invasions of personal privacy of third parties.</P> <P>(ii) All information about individuals that meets the criteria of 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5), regarding suitability, eligibility or qualifications for Federal civilian employment or for access to classified information, to the extent the disclosure would reveal the identity of a source who furnished information to the Commission under the promises of confidentiality. Exemption is required to honor promises of confidentiality.</P> <P>(6) <E T="03">FMC-26Administrative Grievance File.</E> (i) All information that meets the criteria of 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) regarding investigatory material compiled for law enforcement purposes, Exemption is appropriate to avoid compromise of ongoing investigations, disclosure of the identity of confidential sources and unwarranted invasions of personal privacy of third parties.</P> <P>(ii) All information about individuals that meets the criteria of 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5), regarding suitability, eligibility or qualification for Federal civilian employment or for access to classified information, to the extent that disclosure would reveal the identity of a source who furnished information to the Commission under a promise of confidentiality. Exemption is required to honor promises of confidentiality.</P> <CITA>[59 FR 15636, Apr. 4, 1994]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.69</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Fees.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> The following Commission services are available, with respect to requests made under the provisions of this subpart, for which fees will be charged as provided in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section:</P> <P>(1) Copying records/documents.</P> <P>(2) Certification of copies of documents.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Fees for services.</E> The fees set forth below provide for documents to be mailed with ordinary first-class postage prepaid. If a copy is to be transmitted by registered, certified, air, or special delivery mail, postage therefor will be added to the basic fee. Also, if <PRTPAGE P="112"/>special handling or packaging is required, costs thereof will be added to the basic fee.</P> <P>(1) The copying of records and documents will be available at the rate of five cents per page (one side), limited to size 8<FR>1/4</FR>″×14″ or smaller.</P> <P>(2) The certification and validation (with Federal Maritime Commission seal) of documents filed with or issued by the Commission will be available at $94 for each certification.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Payment of fees and charges.</E> The fees charged for special services may be paid by check, draft, or postal money order, payable to the Federal Maritime Commission.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 59 FR 59171, Nov. 16, 1994; 63 FR 50536, Sept. 22, 1998; 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002; 70 FR 10330, Mar. 3, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart H—Public Observation of Federal Maritime Commission Meetings and Public Access to Information Pertaining to Commission Meetings</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.70</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Policy.</SUBJECT> <P>It is the policy of the Federal Maritime Commission, under the Provisions of the “Government in the Sunshine Act” (5 U.S.C. 552b, Sept. 13, 1976) to entitle the public to the fullest practicable information regarding the decisional processes of the Commission. The provisions of this subpart set forth the procedural requirements designed to provide the public with such information while continuing to protect the rights of individuals and to maintain the capabilities of the Commission in carrying out its responsibilities under the shipping statutes administered by this Commission.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.71</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <P>The following definitions apply for purposes of this subpart:</P> <P>(a) <E T="03">Agency</E> means the Federal Maritime Commission;</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Information pertaining to a meeting</E> means, but is not limited to the following: the record of any agency vote taken under the provisions of this subpart, and the record of the vote of each member; a full written explanation of any agency action to close any portion of any meeting under this subpart; lists of persons expected to attend any meeting of the agency and their affiliation; public announcement by the agency under this subpart of the time, place, and subject matter of any meeting or portion of any meeting; announcement of whether any meeting or portion of any meeting shall be open to public observation or be closed; any announcement of any change regarding any meeting or portion of any meeting; and the name and telephone number of the Secretary of the agency who shall be designated by the agency to respond to requests for information concerning any meeting or portion of any meeting;</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Meeting</E> means the deliberations of a majority of the members serving on the agency which determine or result in the joint conduct of or disposition of official agency business, but does not include:</P> <P>(1) Individual member's consideration of official agency business circulated to the members in writing for disposition on notation;</P> <P>(2) Deliberations by the agency in determining whether or not to close a portion or portions of a meeting or series of meetings as provided in §§ 503.74 and 503.75;</P> <P>(3) Deliberations by the agency in determining whether or not to withhold from disclosure information pertaining to a portion or portions of a meeting or series of meetings as provided in § 503.80; or</P> <P>(4) Deliberations pertaining to any change in any meeting or to changes in the public announcement of such a meeting as provided in § 503.83;</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Member</E> means each individual Commissioner of the agency;</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Person</E> means any individual, partnership, corporation, association, or public or private organization, other than an agency as defined in 5 U.S.C. 551(1));</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Series f meetings</E> means more than one meeting involving the same particular matters and scheduled to be held no more than thirty (30) days after the initial meeting in such series.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23549, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <PRTPAGE P="113"/> <SECTNO>§ 503.72</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General rule—meetings.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Except as otherwise provided in §§ 503.73, 503.74, 503.75 and 503.76, every portion of every meeting and every portion of a series of meetings of the agency shall be open to public observation.</P> <P>(b) The opening of a portion or portions of a meeting or a portion or portions of a series of meetings to public observation shall not be construed to include any participation by the public in any manner in the meeting. Such an attempted participation or participation shall be cause for removal of any person so engaged at the discretion of the presiding member of the agency.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.73</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exceptions—meetings.</SUBJECT> <P>Except in a case where the agency finds that the public interest requires otherwise, the provisions of § 503.72(a) shall not apply to any portion or portions of an agency meeting or portion or portions of a series of meetings where the agency determined under the provisions of § 503.74 or § 503.75 that such portion or portions of such meeting or series of meetings is likely to:</P> <P>(a) Disclose matters that are (1) specifically authorized under criteria established by an Executive order to be kept secret in the interests of national defense or foreign policy and (2) in fact properly classified pursuant to such Executive order;</P> <P>(b) Relate solely to the internal personnel rules and practices of any agency;</P> <P>(c) Disclose matters specifically exempted from disclosure by any statute other than 5 U.S.C. 552 (FOIA), provided that such statute (1) requires that the matter be withheld from the public in such a manner as to leave no discretion on the issue, or (2) establishes particular criteria for withholding or refers to particular types of matters to be withheld;</P> <P>(d) Disclose trade secrets and commercial or financial information obtained from a person and privileged or confidential;</P> <P>(e) Involve accusing any person of a crime, or formally censuring any person;</P> <P>(f) Disclose information of a personal nature where disclosure would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy;</P> <P>(g) Disclose investigatory records compiled for law enforcement purposes, or information which, if written, would be contained in such records, but only to the extent that the production of such records or information would</P> <P>(1) Interfere with enforcement proceedings,</P> <P>(2) Deprive a person of a right to a fair trial or an impartial adjudication,</P> <P>(3) Constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy,</P> <P>(4) Disclose the identity of a confidential source and, in the case of a record compiled by a criminal law enforcement authority in the course of a criminal investigation, or by an agency conducting a lawful national security intelligence investigation, confidential information furnished only by the confidential source,</P> <P>(5) Disclose investigative techniques and procedures, or</P> <P>(6) Endanger the life or physical safety of law enforcement personnel;</P> <P>(h) Disclose information contained in or related to examination, operating, or condition reports prepared by, on behalf of, or for the use of an agency responsible for the regulation or supervision of financial institutions;</P> <P>(i) Disclose information, the premature disclosure of which would be likely to significantly frustrate implementation of a proposed agency action unless the agency has already disclosed to the public the content or nature of its proposed action, or where the agency is required by law to make such disclosure on its own initiative prior to taking final agency action on such proposal; or</P> <P>(j) Specifically concern the agency's issuance of a subpena, or the agency's participation in a civil action or proceeding, an action in a foreign court or international tribunal, or an arbitration, or the initiation, conduct, or disposition by the agency of a particular case of formal agency adjudication pursuant to the procedures in 5 U.S.C. 554 or otherwise involving a determination on the record after opportunity for a hearing.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <PRTPAGE P="114"/> <SECTNO>§ 503.74</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedures for closing a portion or portions of a meeting or a portion or portions of a series of meetings on agency initiated requests.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Any member of the agency, the Managing Director or the General Counsel of the agency may request that any portion or portions of a series of meetings be closed to public observation for any of the reasons provided in § 503.73 by submitting such request in writing to the Secretary of the agency in sufficient time to allow the Secretary to schedule a timely vote on the request pursuant to paragraph (b) of this section.</P> <P>(b) Upon receipt of any request made under paragraph (a) of this section, the Secretary of the agency shall schedule a time at which the members of the agency shall vote upon the request, which vote shall take place not later then eight (8) days prior to the scheduled meeting of the agency.</P> <P>(c) At the time the Secretary schedules a time for an agency vote as described in paragraph (b) of this section, he or she shall forward the request to the General Counsel of the agency who shall act upon such request as provided in § 503.77.</P> <P>(d) At the time schedule d by the Secretary as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, the members of the agency, upon consideration of the request submitted under paragraph (a) of this section and consideration of the certified opinion of the General Counsel of the agency provided to the members under § 503.77, shall vote upon that request. That vote shall determine whether or not any portion or portions of a meeting may be closed to public observation for any of the reasons provided in § 503.73, and whether or not the public interest requires that the portion or portions of the meeting or meetings remain open, notwithstanding the applicability of any of the reasons provided in § 503.73 permitting the closing of any meeting to public observation.</P> <P>(e) In the case of a vote on a request under this section to close to public observation a portion or portions of a meeting, no such portion or portions of any meeting may be closed unless, by a vote on the issues described in paragraph (d) of this section, a majority of the entire membership of the agency shall vote to close such portion or portions of a meeting by recorded vote.</P> <P>(f) In the case of a vote on a request under this section to close to public observation a portion or portions of a series of meetings as defined in § 503.71, no such portion or portions of a series of meetings may be closed unless, by a vote on the issues described in paragraph (d) of this section, a majority of the entire membership of the agency shall vote to close such portion or portions of a series of meetings. A determination to close to public observation a portion or portions of a series of meetings may be accomplished by a single vote on each of the issues described in paragraph (d) of this section, provided that the vote of each member of the agency shall be recorded and the vote shall be cast by each member and not by proxy vote.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 55 FR 38330, Sept. 18, 1990]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.75</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedures for closing a portion of a meeting on request initiated by an interested person.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Any person as defined in § 503.71, whose interests may be directly affected by a portion of a meeting of the agency, may request that the agency close that portion of a meeting for the reason that matters in deliberation at that portion of the meeting are such that public disclosure of that portion of a meeting is likely to:</P> <P>(1) Involve accusing any person of a crime, or formally censuring any person;</P> <P>(2) Disclose information of a personal nature where disclosure would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy; or</P> <P>(3) Disclose investigatory records compiled for law enforcement purposes, or information which if written would be contained in such records, but only to the extent that the production of such records or information would:</P> <P>(i) Interfere with enforcement proceedings;</P> <P>(ii) Deprive a person of a right to a fair trial or an impartial adjudication;</P> <P>(iii) Constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy;<PRTPAGE P="115"/> </P> <P>(iv) Disclose the identity of a confidential source and, in the case of a record compiled by a criminal law enforcement authority in the course of a criminal investigation, or by an agency conducting a lawful national security intelligence investigation, confidential information furnished only by the confidential source;</P> <P>(v) Disclose investigative techniques and procedures; or</P> <P>(vi) Endanger the life or physical safety of law enforcement personnel.</P> <P>(b) Any person described in paragraph (a) of this section who submits a request that a portion of a meeting be closed shall submit an original and 15 copies of that request to the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573, and shall state with particularity that portion of a meeting sought to be closed and the reasons therefor as described in paragraph (a) of this section.</P> <P>(c) Upon receipt of any request made under paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, the Secretary of the agency shall:</P> <P>(1) Furnish a copy of the request to each member of the agency; and</P> <P>(2) Furnish a copy of the request to the General Counsel of the agency.</P> <P>(d) Upon receipt of a request made under paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, any member of the agency may request agency action upon the request to close a portion of a meeting by notifying the Secretary of the agency of that request for agency action.</P> <P>(e) Upon receipt of a request for agency action under paragraph (d) of this section, the Secretary of the agency shall schedule a time for an agency vote upon the request of the person whose interests may be directly affected by a portion of a meeting, which vote shall take place prior to the scheduled meeting of the agency.</P> <P>(f) At the time the Secretary receives a request for agency action and schedules a time for an agency vote as described in paragraph (e) of this section, the request of the person whose interests may be directly affected by a portion of a meeting shall be forwarded to the General Counsel of the agency who shall act upon such request as provided in § 503.77.</P> <P>(g) At the time scheduled by the Secretary, as provided in paragraph (e) of this section, the members of the agency, upon consideration of the request of the person whose interests may be directly affected by a portion of a meeting submitted under paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, and consideration of the certified opinion of the General Counsel of the agency provided to the members under § 503.77, shall vote upon that request. That vote shall determine whether or not any portion or portions of a meeting or portion or portions of a series of meetings may be closed to public observation for any of the reasons provided in paragraph (a) of this section, and whether or not the public interest requires that the portion or portions of the meeting or meetings remain open, notwithstanding the applicability of any of the reasons provided in paragraph (a) of this section permitting the closing of any portion of any meeting to public observation.</P> <P>(h) In the case of a vote on a request under this section to close to public observation a portion of a meeting, no such portion of a meeting may be closed unless, by a vote on the issues described in paragraph (g) of this section, a majority of the entire membership of the agency shall vote to close such portion of a meeting by a recorded vote.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.76</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Effect of vote to close a portion or portions of a meeting or series of meetings.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Where the agency votes as provided in § 503.74 or § 503.75, to close to public observation a portion or portions of a meeting or a portion or portions of a series of meetings, the portion or portions of a meeting or the portion or portions of a series of meetings shall be closed.</P> <P>(b) Except as otherwise provided in §§ 503.80, 503.81 and 503.82, not later than the day following the day on which a vote is taken under § 503.74 or § 503.75, by which it is determined to close a portion or portions of a meeting or a portion or portions of a series of meetings to public observation, the Secretary shall make available to the public:<PRTPAGE P="116"/> </P> <P>(1) A written copy of the recorded vote reflecting the vote of each member of the agency;</P> <P>(2) A full written explanation of the agency action closing that portion or those portions to public observation; and</P> <P>(3) A list of the names and affiliations of all persons expected to attend the portion or portions of the meeting or the portion or portions of a series of meetings.</P> <P>(c) Except as otherwise provided in §§ 503.80, 503.81 and 503.82, not later than the day following the day on which a vote is taken under § 503.74, or § 503.75, by which it is determined that the portion or portions of a meeting or the portion or portions of a series of meetings shall remain open to public observation, the Secretary shall make available to the public a written copy of the recorded vote reflecting the vote of each member of the agency.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.77</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Responsibilities of the General Counsel of the agency upon a request to close any portion of any meeting.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Upon any request that the agency close a portion or portions of any meeting or any portion or portions of any series of meetings under the provisions of §§ 503.74 and 503.75, the General Counsel of the agency shall certify in writing to the agency, prior to an agency vote on that request, whether or not in his or her opinion the closing of any such portion or portions of a meeting or portion or portions of a series of meetings is proper under the provisions of this subpart and the terms of the Government in the Sunshine Act (5 U.S.C. 552b). If, in the opinion of the General Counsel, the closing of a portion or portions of a meeting or portion or portions of a series of meetings is proper under the provisions of this subpart and the terms of the Government in the Sunshine Act (5 U.S.C. 552b), his or her certification of that opinion shall cite each applicable, particular, exemptive provision of that Act and provision of this subpart.</P> <P>(b) A copy of the certification of the General Counsel as described in paragraph (a) of this section, together with a statement of the officer presiding over the portion or portions of any meeting or the portion or portions of a series of meetings setting forth the time and place of the relevant meeting or meetings, and the persons present, shall be maintained by the Secretary for public inspection.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.78</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General rule—information pertaining to meeting.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) As defined in § 503.71, all information pertaining to a portion or portions of a meeting or portion or portions of a series of meetings of the agency shall be disclosed to the public unless excepted from such disclosure under §§ 503.79, 503.80 and 503.81.</P> <P>(b) All inquiries as to the status of pending matters which were considered by the Commission in closed session should be directed to the Secretary of the Commission. Commission personnel who attend closed meetings of the Commission are prohibited from disclosing anything that occurs during those meetings. An employee's failure to respect the confidentiality of closed meetings constitutes a violation of Commission's General Standards of Conduct. The Commission can, of course, determine to make public the events or decisions occurring in a closed meeting, such information to be disseminated by the Office of the Secretary. An inquiry to the Office of the Secretary as to whether any information has been made public is not, therefore, improper. However, a request of or attempt to persuade a Commission employee to divulge the contents of a closed meeting constitutes a lack of proper professional conduct inappropriate to a person practicing before this agency, and requires that the employee file a report of such event so that a determination can be made whether disciplinary action should be initiated pursuant to § 502.30 of this chapter.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.79</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exceptions—information pertaining to meeting.</SUBJECT> <P>Except in a case where the agency finds that the public interest requires otherwise, information pertaining to a portion or portions of a meeting or portion or portions of a series of meetings need not be disclosed by the agency if <PRTPAGE P="117"/>the agency determines, under the provisions of §§ 503.80 and 503.81 that disclosure of that information is likely to disclose matters which are:</P> <P>(a) Specifically authorized under criteria established by an Executive order to be kept secret in the interests of national defense or foreign policy and in fact properly classified pursuant to such Executive order;</P> <P>(b) Related solely to the internal personnel rules and practices of an agency;</P> <P>(c) Specifically exempted from disclosure by any statute other than 5 U.S.C. 552 (FOIA), provided that such statute (1) requires that the matters be withheld from the public in such a manner as to leave no discretion on the issue, or (2) establishes particular criteria for withholding or refers to particular types of matters to be withheld;</P> <P>(d) Trade secrets and commercial or financial information, obtained from a person and privileged or confidential;</P> <P>(e) Involved with accusing any person of a crime, or formally censuring any person;</P> <P>(f) Of a personal nature, where disclosure would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy;</P> <P>(g) Investigatory records compiled for law enforcement purposes, or information which if written would be contained in such records, but only to the extent that the production of such record or information would</P> <P>(1) Interfere with enforcement proceedings,</P> <P>(2) Deprive a person of a right to a fair trial or an impartial adjudication,</P> <P>(3) Constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy,</P> <P>(4) Disclose the identity of a confidential source and, in the case of a record compiled by a criminal law enforcement authority in the course of a criminal investigation, or by an agency conducting a lawful national security intelligence investigation, confidential information furnished only by the confidential source,</P> <P>(5) Disclose investigative techniques and procedures, or</P> <P>(6) Endanger the life or physical safety of law enforcement personnel;</P> <P>(h) Contained in or related to examination, operation, or condition reports prepared by, on behalf of, or for the use of an agency responsible for the regulation or supervision of financial institutions;</P> <P>(i) Information, the premature disclosure of which would be likely to significantly frustrate implementation of a proposed agency action, unless the agency has already disclosed to the public the content or nature of its proposed action, or where the agency is required by law to make such disclosure on its own initiative prior to taking final agency action on such proposal; or</P> <P>(j) Specifically concerned with the agency's issuance of a subpena, the agency's participation in a civil action or proceeding, an action in a foreign court or international tribunal, or an arbitration, or the initiation, conduct, or disposition by the agency of a particular case of formal agency adjudication pursuant to the procedures in 5 U.S.C. 554 or otherwise involving a determination on the record after opportunity for a hearing.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.80</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Procedures for withholding information pertaining to meeting.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Any member of the agency, or the General Counsel of the agency may request that information pertaining to a portion or portions of a meeting or to a portion or portions of a series of meetings be withheld from public disclosure for any of the reasons set forth in § 503.79 by submitting such request in writing to the Secretary not later than two (2) weeks prior to the commencement of the first meeting in a series of meetings.</P> <P>(b) Upon receipt of any request made under paragraph (a) of this section, the Secretary shall schedule a time at which the members of the agency shall vote upon the request, which vote shall take place not later than eight (8) days prior to the scheduled meeting of the agency.</P> <P>(c) At the time scheduled by the Secretary in paragraph (b) of this section, the Members of the agency, upon consideration of the request submitted under paragraph (a) of this section, shall vote upon that request. That vote shall determine whether or not information pertaining to a meeting may be <PRTPAGE P="118"/>withheld from public disclosure for any of the reasons provided in § 503.79, and whether or not the public interest requires that the information be disclosed notwithstanding the applicability of the reasons provided in § 503.79 permitting the withholding from public disclosure of the information pertaining to a meeting.</P> <P>(d) In the case of a vote on a request under this section to withhold from public disclosure information pertaining to a portion or portions of a meeting, no such information shall be withheld from public disclosure unless, by a vote on the issues described in paragraph (c) of this section, a majority of the entire membership of the agency shall vote to withhold such information by recorded vote.</P> <P>(e) In the case of a vote on a request under this section to withhold information pertaining to a portion or portions of a series of meetings, no such information shall be withheld unless, by a vote on the issues described in paragraph (c) of this section, a majority of the entire membership of the agency shall vote to withhold such information. A determination to withhold information pertaining to a portion or portions of a series of meetings from public disclosure may be accomplished by a single vote on the issues described in paragraph (c) of this section, provided that the vote of each member of the agency shall be recorded and the vote shall be cast by each member and not by proxy vote.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.81</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Effect of vote to withhold information pertaining to meeting.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Where the agency votes as provided in § 503.80 to withhold from public disclosure information pertaining to a portion or portions of a meeting or portion or portions of a series of meetings, such information shall be excepted from the requirements of §§ 503.78, 503.82 and 503.83.</P> <P>(b) Where the agency votes as provided in § 503.80 to permit public disclosure of information pertaining to a portion of portions of a meeting or portion or portions of a series of meetings, such information shall be disclosed to the public as required by §§ 503.78, 503.82 and 503.83.</P> <P>(c) Not later than the day following the date on which a vote is taken under § 503.80, by which the information pertaining to a meeting is determined to be disclosed, the Secretary shall make available to the public a written copy of such vote reflecting the vote of each member of the agency on the question.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.82</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Public announcement of agency meeting.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Except as provided in §§ 503.80 and 503.81 regarding a determination to withhold from public disclosure any information pertaining to a portion or portions of a meeting or portion or portions of a series of meetings, or as otherwise provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the Secretary of the agency shall make public announcement of each meeting of the agency.</P> <P>(b) Except as otherwise provided in this section, public announcement of each meeting of the agency shall be accomplished not later than one week prior to commencement of a meeting or the commencement of the first meeting in a series of meetings, and shall disclose:</P> <P>(1) The time of the meeting;</P> <P>(2) The place of the meeting;</P> <P>(3) The subject matter of each portion of each meeting or series of meetings;</P> <P>(4) Whether any portion or portions of a meeting or portion or portions of any series of meetings shall be open or closed to public observation; and</P> <P>(5) The name and telephone number of the Secretary of the agency who shall respond to requests for information about a meeting.</P> <P>(c) The announcement described in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section may be accomplished less than one week prior to the commencement of any meeting or series of meetings, provided the agency determines by recorded vote that the agency business requires that any such meeting or series of meetings be held at an earlier date. In the event of such a determination by the agency, public announcement as described in paragraph (b) of <PRTPAGE P="119"/>this section shall be accomplished at the earliest practicable time.</P> <P>(d) Immediately following any public announcement accomplished under the provisions of this section, the Secretary of the agency shall submit a notice for publication in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> disclosing:</P> <P>(1) The time of the meeting;</P> <P>(2) The place of the meeting;</P> <P>(3) The subject matter of each portion of each meeting or series of meetings;</P> <P>(4) Whether any portion or portions of a meeting or portion or portions of any series of meetings is open or closed to public observation; and</P> <P>(5) The name and telephone number of the Secretary of the agency who shall respond to requests for information about any meeting.</P> <P>(e) No comments or further information relating to a particular item scheduled for an agency meeting will be accepted by the Secretary for consideration subsequent to public announcement of such meeting; except that the Commission, on its own initiative, or pursuant to a written request, may in its discretion, permit a departure from this limitation for exceptional circumstances.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 52 FR 27002, July 17, 1987]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.83</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Public announcement of changes in meeting.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Except as provided in §§ 503.80 and 503.81, under the provisions of paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, the time or place of a meeting or series of meetings may be changed by the agency following accomplishment of the announcement and notice required by § 503.82, provided the Secretary of the agency shall publicly announce such change at the earliest practicable time.</P> <P>(b) The subject matter of a portion or portions of a meeting or a portion or portions of a series of meetings, the time and place of such meeting, and the determination that the portion or portions of a series of meetings shall be open or closed to public observation may be changed following accomplishment of the announcement required by § 503.82, provided:</P> <P>(1) The agency, by recorded vote of the majority of the entire membership of the agency, determines that agency business so requires and that no earlier announcement of the change was possible; and</P> <P>(2) The Secretary of the agency publicly announces, at the earliest practicable time, the change made and the vote of each member upon such change.</P> <P>(c) Immediately following any public announcement of any change accomplished under the provisions of this section, the Secretary of the agency shall submit a notice for publication in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> disclosing:</P> <P>(1) The time of the meeting;</P> <P>(2) The place of the meeting;</P> <P>(3) The subject matter of each portion of each meeting or series of meetings;</P> <P>(4) Whether any portion or portions of any meeting or any portion or portions of any series of meetings is open or closed to public observation;</P> <P>(5) Any change in paragraphs (c) (1), (c) (2), (c) (3), or (c) (4) of this section; and</P> <P>(6) The name and telephone number of the Secretary of the agency who shall respond to requests for information about any meeting.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.84</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.85</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agency recordkeeping requirements.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) In the case of any portion or portions of a meeting or portion or portions of a series of meetings determined by the agency to be closed to public observation under the provisions of this subpart, the following records shall be maintained by the Secretary of the agency:</P> <P>(1) The certification of the General Counsel of the agency required by § 503.77;</P> <P>(2) A statement from the officer presiding over the portion or portions of the meeting or portion or portions of a series of meetings setting forth the time and place of the portion or portions of the meeting or portion or portions of the series of meetings, the persons present at those times; and</P> <P>(3) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, a complete transcript or electronic recording fully recording the proceedings at each portion of each meeting closed to public observation.<PRTPAGE P="120"/> </P> <P>(b) In case the agency determines to close to public observation any portion or portions of any meeting or portion or portions of any series of meetings because public observation of such portion or portions of any meeting is likely to specifically concern the agency's issuance of a subpena, or the agency's participation in a civil action or proceeding, an action in a foreign court or international tribunal, or an arbitration, or the initiation, conduct, or disposition by the agency of a particular case of formal agency adjudication pursuant to the procedures in 5 U.S.C. 554 or otherwise involving a determination on the record after opportunity for a hearing, the agency may maintain a set of minutes in lieu of the transcript or recording described in paragraph (a)(3) of this section. Such minutes shall contain:</P> <P>(1) A full and clear description of all matters discussed in the closed portion of any meeting;</P> <P>(2) A full and accurate summary of any action taken on any matter discussed in the closed portion of any meeting and the reasons therefor;</P> <P>(3) A description of each of the views expressed on any matter upon which action was taken as described in paragraph (b)(2) of this section;</P> <P>(4) The record of any rollcall vote which shall show the vote of each member on the question; and</P> <P>(5) An identification of all documents considered in connection with any action taken on a matter described in paragraph (b)(1) of this section.</P> <P>(c) All records maintained by the agency as described in this section shall be held by the agency for a period of not less than two (2) years following any meeting or not less than one (1) year following the conclusion of any agency proceeding with respect to which that meeting or portion of a meeting was held.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.86</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Public access to records.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) All transcripts, electronic recordings or minutes required to be maintained by the agency under the provisions of §§ 503.85(a)(3) and 503.85(b) shall be promptly made available to the public by the Secretary of the agency, except for any item of discussion or testimony of any witnesses which the agency determines to contain information which may be withheld from public disclosure because its disclosure is likely to disclose matters which are:</P> <P>(1)(i) specifically authorized under criteria established by an Executive order to be kept secret in the interest of national defense or foreign policy and (ii) in fact properly classified pursuant to such Executive order;</P> <P>(2) Related solely to the internal personnel rules and practices of an agency;</P> <P>(3) Specifically exempted from disclosure by any statute other than 5 U.S.C. 552 (FOIA), provided that such statute</P> <P>(i) Requires that the matters be withheld from the public in such a manner as to leave no discretion on the issue, or</P> <P>(ii) Establishes particular criteria for withholding or refers to particular types of matters to be withheld;</P> <P>(4) Trade secrets and commercial or financial information obtained from a person and privileged or confidential;</P> <P>(5) Involved with accusing any person of a crime, or formally censuring any person;</P> <P>(6) Of a personal nature where disclosure would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy;</P> <P>(7) Investigatory records compiled for law enforcement purposes, or information which, if written, would be contained in such records, but only to the extent that the production of such records or information would</P> <P>(i) Interfere with enforcement proceedings,</P> <P>(ii) Deprive a person of a right to a fair trial or an impartial adjudication,</P> <P>(iii) Constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy,</P> <P>(iv) Disclose the identity of a confidential source and, in the case of a record compiled by a criminal law enforcement authority in the course of a criminal investigation, or by an agency conducting a lawful national security intelligence investigation, confidential information furnished only by the confidential source,</P> <P>(v) Disclose investigative techniques and procedures or</P> <P>(vi) Endanger the life or physical safety of law enforcement personnel;<PRTPAGE P="121"/> </P> <P>(8) Contained in or related to examination, operating, or condition reports prepared by, on behalf of, or for the use of an agency responsible for the regulation or supervision of financial institutions;</P> <P>(9) Information, the premature disclosure of which would be likely to significantly frustrate implementation of a proposed agency action, unless the agency has already disclosed to the public the content or nature of its proposed action, or where the agency is required by law to make such disclosure on its own initiative prior to taking final agency action on such proposal; or</P> <P>(10) Specifically concerned with the agency's issuance of a subpena, or the agency's participation in a civil action or proceeding, an action in a foreign court or international tribunal, or an arbitration, or the initiation, conduct, or disposition by the agency of a particular case of formal agency adjudication pursuant to the procedures in 5 U.S.C. 554 or otherwise involving a determination on the record after opportunity for a hearing.</P> <P>(b) Requests for access to the records described in this section shall be made in accordance with procedures described in subparts C and D of this part.</P> <P>(c) Records disclosed to the public under this section shall be furnished at the expense of the party requesting such access at the actual cost of duplication or transcription.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23549, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 503.87</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Effect of provisions of this subpart on other subparts.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Nothing in this subpart shall limit or expand the ability of any person to seek access to agency records under subpart D (§§ 503.31 to 503.36) of this part except that the exceptions of § 503.86 shall govern requests to copy or inspect any portion of any transcript, electronic recordings or minutes required to be kept under this subpart.</P> <P>(b) Nothing in this subpart shall permit the withholding from any individual to whom a record pertains any record required by this subpart to be maintained by the agency which record is otherwise available to such an individual under the provisions of subpart G of this part.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44401, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> </PART> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 504</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 504—PROCEDURES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ANALYSIS</HD> <CONTENTS> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>504.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose and scope.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>504.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>504.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General information.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>504.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Categorical exclusions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>504.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Environmental assessments.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>504.6</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Finding of no significant impact.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>504.7</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Environmental impact statements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>504.8</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Record of decision.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>504.9</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Information required by the Commission.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>504.10</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Time constraints on final administrative actions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>504.91</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>5 U.S.C. 552, 553; 46 U.S.C. app. 1712 and 1716; 42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(b), and 42 U.S.C. 6362.</P> </AUTH> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>49 FR 44415, Nov. 6, 1984, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 504.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose and scope.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) This part implements the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) and Executive Order 12114 and incorporates and complies with the Regulations of the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) (40 CFR part 1500 <E T="03">et seq.</E>).</P> <P>(b) This part applies to all actions of the Federal Maritime Commission (Commission). To the extent possible, the Commission shall integrate the requirements of NEPA with its obligations under section 382(b) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975, 42 U.S.C. 6362.</P> <P>(c) Information obtained under this part is used by the Commission to assess potential environmental impacts of proposed Federal Maritime Commission actions. Compliance is voluntary but may be made mandatory by Commission order to produce the information pursuant to section 15 of the Shipping Act of 1984. The penalty for violation of a Commission order under section 13 of the Shipping Act of 1984 may not exceed $5,000 for each violation, unless the violation was willfully and knowingly committed, in which case the amount of the civil penalty may <PRTPAGE P="122"/>not exceed $25,000 for each violation, as adjusted by § 506.4 of this chapter. (Each day of a continuing violation constitutes a separate offense.)</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44415, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23549, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 504.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Shipping Act of 1984</E> means the Shipping Act of 1984 (46 U.S.C. app. 1701-1720).</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Common carrier</E> means any common carrier by water as defined in section 3 of the Shipping Act of 1984, including a conference of such carriers.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Environmental impact</E> means any alteration of existing environmental conditions or creation of a new set of environmental conditions, adverse or beneficial, caused or induced by the action under consideration.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Potential action</E> means the range of possible Commission actions that may result from a Commission proceeding in which the Commission has not yet formulated a proposal.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Proposed action</E> means that stage of activity where the Commission has determined to take a particular course of action and the effects of that course of action can be meaningfully evaluated.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Environmental assessment</E> means a concise document that serves to “provide sufficient evidence and analysis for determining whether to prepare an environmental impact statement or a finding of no significant impact” (40 CFR 1508.9).</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Recyclable</E> means any secondary material that can be used as a raw material in an industrial process in which it is transformed into a new product replacing the use of a depletable natural resource.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Marine Terminal Operator</E> means a person engaged in the United States in the business of furnishing wharfage, dock, warehouse or other terminal facilities in connection with a common carrier, or in connection with a common carrier and a water carrier subject to subchapter II of chapter 135 of Title 49, United States Code.</P> <P>(i) <E T="03">Commission</E> means the Federal Maritime Commission, including any office or bureau to which the Commission may delegate its environmental policy analysis responsibilities.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44415, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23549, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 504.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General information.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) All comments submitted pursuant to this part shall be addressed to the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20573-0001.</P> <P>(b) A list of recent Commission actions, if any, for which a finding of no significant impact has been made or for which an environmental impact statement is being prepared will be maintained by the Commission in the Office of the Secretary and will be available for public inspection.</P> <P>(c) Information or status reports on environmental statements and other elements of the NEPA process can be obtained from the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20573-0001.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 23549, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 504.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Categorical exclusions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) No environmental analyses need be undertaken or environmental documents prepared in connection with actions which do not individually or cumulatively have a significant effect on the quality of the human environment because they are purely ministerial actions or because they do not increase or decrease air, water or noise pollution or the use of fossil fuels, recyclables, or energy. The following Commission actions, and rulemakings related thereto, are therefore excluded:</P> <P>(1) Issuance, modification, denial and revocation of ocean transportation intermediary licenses.</P> <P>(2) Certification of financial responsibility of passenger vessels pursuant to 46 CFR part 540.</P> <P>(3) Receipt of surety bonds submitted by ocean transportation intermediaries.</P> <P>(4) Promulgation of procedural rules pursuant to 46 CFR part 502.</P> <P>(5) Receipt of service contracts.</P> <P>(6) Consideration of special permission applications pursuant to part 520 of this chapter.</P> <P>(7)-(8) [Reserved]<PRTPAGE P="123"/> </P> <P>(9) Consideration of amendments to agreements filed pursuant to section 5 of the Shipping Act of 1984, which do not increase the authority set forth in the effective agreement.</P> <P>(10) Consideration of agreements between common carriers which solely affect intraconference or inter-rate agreement relationships or pertain to administrative matters of conferences or rate agreements.</P> <P>(11) Consideration of agreements between common carriers to discuss, propose or plan future action, the implementation of which requires filing a further agreement.</P> <P>(12) Consideration of exclusive or non-exclusive equipment interchange or husbanding agreements.</P> <P>(13) Receipt of non-exclusive transshipment agreements.</P> <P>(14) Action relating to collective bargaining agreements.</P> <P>(15) Action pursuant to section 9 of the Shipping Act of 1984 concerning the justness and reasonableness of controlled carriers' rates, charges, classifications, rules or regulations.</P> <P>(16) Receipt of self-policing reports or shipper requests and complaints.</P> <P>(17) [Reserved]</P> <P>(18) Consideration of actions solely affecting the environment of a foreign country.</P> <P>(19) Action taken on special docket applications pursuant to § 502.271 of this chapter.</P> <P>(20) Consideration of matters related solely to the issue of Commission jurisdiction.</P> <P>(21) [Reserved]</P> <P>(22) Investigatory and adjudicatory proceedings, the purpose of which is to ascertain past violations of the Shipping Act of 1984.</P> <P>(23) [Reserved]</P> <P>(24) Action regarding access to public information pursuant to 46 CFR part 503.</P> <P>(25) Action regarding receipt and retention of minutes of conference meetings.</P> <P>(26) Administrative procurements (general supplies).</P> <P>(27) Contracts for personal services.</P> <P>(28) Personnel actions.</P> <P>(29) Requests for appropriations.</P> <P>(30) Consideration of all agreements involving marine terminal facilities and/or services except those requiring substantial levels of construction, dredging, land-fill, energy usage and other activities which may have a significant environmental effect.</P> <P>(31) Consideration of agreements regulating employee wages, hours of work, working conditions or labor exchanges.</P> <P>(32) Consideration of general agency agreements involving ministerial duties of a common carrier such as internal management, cargo solicitation, booking of cargo, or preparation of documents.</P> <P>(33) Consideration of agreements pertaining to credit rules.</P> <P>(34) Consideration of agreements involving performance bonds to a conference from a conference member guaranteeing compliance by the member with the rules and regulations of the conference.</P> <P>(35) Consideration of agreements between members of two or more conferences or other rate-fixing agreements to discuss and agree upon common self-policing systems and cargo inspection services.</P> <P>(b) If interested persons allege that a categorically-excluded action will have a significant environmental effect (e.g., increased or decreased air, water or noise pollution; use of recyclables; use of fossil fuels or energy), they shall, by written submission to the Secretary, explain in detail their reasons. The Secretary shall refer these submissions for determination by the appropriate Commission official, not later than ten (10) days after receipt, whether to prepare an environmental assessment. Upon a determination not to prepare an environmental assessment, such persons may petition the Commission for review of the decision within ten (10) days of receipt of notice of such determination.</P> <P>(c) If the individual or cumulative effect of a particular action otherwise categorically excluded offers a reasonable potential of having a significant environmental impact, an environmental assessment shall be prepared pursuant to § 504.5.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44415, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 56 FR 50662, Oct. 8, 1991; 60 FR 27229, May 23, 1995; 61 FR 66617, Dec. 18, 1996; 64 FR 23549, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <PRTPAGE P="124"/> <SECTNO>§ 504.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Environmental assessments.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Every Commission action not specifically excluded under § 504.4 shall be subject to an environmental assessment.</P> <P>(b) A notice of intent to prepare an environmental assessment briefly describing the nature of the potential or proposed action and inviting written comments to aid in the preparation of the environmental assessment and early identification of the significant environmental issues may be published in the <E T="04">Federal Register.</E> Such comments must be received by the Commission no later than ten (10) days from the date of publication of the notice in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E>.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44415, Nov. 6, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23549, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 504.6</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Finding of no significant impact.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) If upon completion of an environmental assessment, it is determined that a potential or proposed action will not have a significant impact on the quality of the human environment of the United States or of the global commons, a finding of no significant impact shall be prepared and notice of its availability published in the <E T="04">Federal Register.</E> This document shall include the environmental assessment or a summary of it, and shall briefly present the reasons why the potential or proposed action, not otherwise excluded under § 504.4, will not have a significant effect on the human environment and why, therefore, an environmental impact statement (EIS) will not be prepared.</P> <P>(b) Petitions for review of a finding of no significant impact must be received by the Commission within ten (10) days from the date of publication of the notice of its availability in the <E T="04">Federal Register.</E> The Commission shall review the petitions and either deny them or order prepared an EIS pursuant to § 504.7. The Commission shall, within ten (10) days of receipt of the petition, serve copies of its order upon all parties who filed comments concerning the potential or proposed action or who filed petitions for review.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 23549, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 504.7</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Environmental impact statements.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> (1) An environmental impact statement (EIS) shall be prepared when the environmental assessment indicates that a potential or proposed action may have a significant impact upon the environment of the United States or the global commons.</P> <P>(2) The EIS process will commence:</P> <P>(i) For adjudicatory proceedings, when the Commission issues an order of investigation or a complaint is filed;</P> <P>(ii) For rulemaking or legislative proposals, upon issuance of the proposal by the Commission; and</P> <P>(iii) For other actions, the time the action is noticed in the <E T="04">Federal Register.</E> </P> <P>(3) The major decision points in the EIS process are:</P> <P>(i) The issuance of an initial decision in those cases assigned to be heard by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ); and</P> <P>(ii) The issuance of the Commission's final decision or report on the action.</P> <P>(4) The EIS shall consider potentially significant impacts upon the quality of the human environment of the United States and, in appropriate cases, upon the environment of the global commons outside the jurisdiction of any nation.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Draft environmental impact statements.</E> (1) A draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) will initially be prepared in accordance with 40 CFR part 1502.</P> <P>(2) The DEIS shall be distributed to every party to a Commission proceeding for which it was prepared. There will be no fee charged to such parties. One copy per person will also be provided to interested persons at their request. The fee charged such persons shall be that provided in § 503.43 of this chapter.</P> <P>(3) Comments on the DEIS must be received by the Commission within ten (10) days of the date the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) publishes in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> notice that the DEIS was filed with it. Sixteen copies shall be submitted as provided in § 504.3(a). Comments shall be as specific as possible and may address the adequacy of the DEIS or the merits of the <PRTPAGE P="125"/>alternatives discussed in it. All comments received will be made available to the public. Extensions of time for commenting on the DEIS may be granted by the Commission for up to ten (10) days if good cause is shown.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Final environmental impact statements.</E> (1) After receipt of comments on the DEIS, a final environmental impact statement (FEIS) will be prepared pursuant to 40 CFR part 1502, which shall include a discussion of the possible alternative actions to a potential or proposed action. The FEIS will be distributed in the same manner as specified in paragraph (b)(2) of this section.</P> <P>(2) The FEIS shall be prepared prior to the Commission's final decision and shall be filed with the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission. Upon filing, it shall become part of the administrative record.</P> <P>(3) For any Commission action which has been assigned to an ALJ for evidentiary hearing:</P> <P>(i) The FEIS shall be submitted prior to the close of the record, and</P> <P>(ii) The ALJ shall consider the environmental impacts and alternatives contained in the FEIS in preparing the initial decision.</P> <P>(4)(i) For all proposed Commission actions, any party may, by petition to the Commission within ten (10) days following EPA's notice in the <E T="04">Federal Register,</E> assert that the FEIS contains a substantial and material error of fact which can only be properly resolved by conducting an evidentiary hearing, and expressly request that such a hearing be held. Other parties may submit replies to the petition within ten (10) days of its receipt.</P> <P>(ii) The Commission may delineate the issue(s) and refer them to an ALJ for expedited resolution or may elect to refer the petition to an ALJ for consideration.</P> <P>(iii) The ALJ shall make findings of fact on the issue(s) and shall certify such findings to the Commission as a supplement to the FEIS. To the extent that such findings differ from the FEIS, it shall be modified by the supplement.</P> <P>(iv) Discovery may be granted by the ALJ on a showing of good cause and, if granted, shall proceed on an expedited basis.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44415, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23550, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 504.8</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Record of decision.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission shall consider each alternative described in the FEIS in its decisionmaking and review process. At the time of its final report or order, the Commission shall prepare a record of decision pursuant to 40 CFR 1505.2.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 504.9</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Information required by the Commission.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Upon request, a person filing a complaint, protest, petition or agreement requesting Commission action shall submit, no later than ten (10) days from the date of the request, a statement setting forth, in detail, the impact of the requested Commission action on the quality of the human environment, if such requested action will:</P> <P>(1) Alter cargo routing patterns between ports or change modes of transportation;</P> <P>(2) Change rates or services for recyclables;</P> <P>(3) Change the type, capacity or number of vessels employed in a specific trade; or</P> <P>(4) Alter terminal or port facilities.</P> <P>(b) The statement submitted shall, to the fullest extent possible, include:</P> <P>(1) The probable impact of the requested Commission action on the environment (<E T="03">e.g.,</E> the use of energy or natural resources, the effect on air, noise, or water pollution), compared to the environmental impact created by existing uses in the area affected by it;</P> <P>(2) Any adverse environmental effects which cannot be avoided if the Commission were to take or adopt the requested action; and</P> <P>(3) Any alternatives to the requested Commission action.</P> <P>(c) If environmental impacts, either adverse or beneficial, are alleged, they should be sufficiently identified and quantified to permit meaningful review. Individuals may contact the Secretary of the Federal Maritime Commission for informal assistance in preparing this statement. The Commission <PRTPAGE P="126"/>shall independently evaluate the information submitted and shall be responsible for assuring its accuracy if used by it in the preparation of an environmental assessment or EIS.</P> <P>(d) In all cases, the Secretary may request every common carrier by water, or marine terminal operator, or any officer, agent or employee thereof, as well as all parties to proceedings before the Commission, to submit, within ten (10) days of such request, all material information necessary to comply with NEPA and this part. Information not produced in response to an informal request may be obtained by the Commission pursuant to section 15 of the Shipping Act of 1984.</P> <CITA>[49 FR 44415, Nov. 6, 1984; 49 FR 47395, Dec. 4, 1984, as amended at 64 FR 23550, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 504.10</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Time constraints on final administrative actions.</SUBJECT> <P>No decision on a proposed action shall be made or recorded by the Commission until the later of the following dates unless reduced pursuant to 40 CFR 1506.10(d), or unless required by a statutorily-prescribed deadline on the Commission action:</P> <P>(a) Forty (40) days after EPA's publication of the notice described in § 504.7(b) for a DEIS; or</P> <P>(b) Ten (10) days after publication of EPA's notice for an FEIS.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 504.91</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> <P>This section displays the control numbers assigned to information collection requirements of the Commission in this part by the Office of Management and Budget pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980, Public Law 96-511. The Commission intends that this section comply with the requirements of section 3507(f) of the Paperwork Reduction Act, which requires that agencies display a current control number assigned by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for each agency information collection requirement:</P> <GPOTABLE CDEF="s20,12" COLS="2" OPTS="L2"> <BOXHD> <CHED H="1">Section</CHED> <CHED H="1">Current OMB Control No.</CHED> </BOXHD> <ROW> <ENT I="01">504.4 through 504.7</ENT> <ENT>3072-0035</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">504.9</ENT> <ENT>3072-0035.</ENT> </ROW> </GPOTABLE> </SECTION> </PART> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 505</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 505—ADMINISTRATIVE OFFSET</HD> <CONTENTS> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>505.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope of regulations.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>505.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>505.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>505.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notification procedures.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>505.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agency review.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>505.6</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Written agreement for repayment.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>505.7</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Administrative offset.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>505.8</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Jeopardy procedure.</SUBJECT> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>31 U.S.C. 3701; 31 U.S.C. 3711; 31 U.S.C. 3716.</P> </AUTH> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>61 FR 50444, Sept. 26, 1996, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 505.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope of regulations.</SUBJECT> <P>These regulations apply to the collection of debts owed to the United States arising from transactions with the Commission, or where a request for an offset is received by the Commission from another agency. These regulations are consistent with the Federal Claims Collection Standards on administrative offset issued jointly by the Department of Justice and the General Accounting Office as set forth in 4 CFR 102.3.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 505.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Administrative offset,</E> as defined in 31 U.S.C. 3701(a)(1), means withholding money payable by the United States Government to, or held by the Government for, a person to satisfy a debt the person owes the Government.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Person</E> includes a natural person or persons, profit or non-profit corporation, partnership, association, trust, estate, consortium, or other entity which is capable of owing a debt to the United States Government except that agencies of the United States, or of any State or local government shall be excluded.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 505.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The Chairman or his or her designee, after attempting to collect a debt from a person under section 3(a) of the Federal Claims Collection Act of 1966, as assembled (31 U.S.C. 3711(a)), may collect the debt by administrative offset subject to the following:</P> <P>(1) The debt is certain in amount; and<PRTPAGE P="127"/> </P> <P>(2) It is in the best interests of the United States to collect the debt by administrative offset because of the decreased costs of collection and the acceleration in the payment of the debt.</P> <P>(b) The Chairman, or his or her designee, may initiate administrative offset with regard to debts owed by a person to another agency of the United States Government, upon receipt of a request from the head of another agency or his or her designee, and a certification that the debt exists and that the person has been afforded the necessary due process rights.</P> <P>(c) The Chairman, or his or her designee, may request another agency that holds funds payable to a Commission debtor to offset the debt against the funds held and will provide certification that:</P> <P>(1) The debt exists; and</P> <P>(2) The person has been afforded the necessary due process rights.</P> <P>(d) If the six-year period for bringing action on a debt provided in 28 U.S.C. 2415 has expired, then administrative offset may be used to collect the debt only if the costs of bringing such action are likely to be less than the amount of the debt.</P> <P>(e) No collection by administrative offset shall be made on any debt that has been outstanding for more than 10 years unless facts material to the Government's right to collect the debt were not known, and reasonably could not have been known, by the official or officials responsible for discovering and collecting such debt.</P> <P>(f) These regulations do not apply to:</P> <P>(1) A case in which administrative offset of the type of debt involved is explicitly provided for or prohibited by another statute; or</P> <P>(2) Debts owed by other agencies of the United States or by any State or local government.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 505.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notification procedures.</SUBJECT> <P>Before collecting any debt through administrative offset, a notice of intent to offset shall be sent to the debtor by certified mail, return receipt requested, at the most current address that is available to the Commission. The notice shall provide:</P> <P>(a) A description of the nature and amount of the debt and the intention of the Commission to collect the debt through administrative offset;</P> <P>(b) An opportunity to inspect and copy the records of the Commission with respect to the debt;</P> <P>(c) An opportunity for review within the Commission of the determination of the Commission with respect to the debt; and</P> <P>(d) An opportunity to enter into a written agreement for the repayment of the amount of the debt.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 505.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agency review.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) A debtor may dispute the existence of the debt, the amount of debt, or the terms of repayment. A request to review a disputed debt must be submitted to the Commission official who provided notification within 30 calendar days of the receipt of the written notice described in § 505.4.</P> <P>(b) If the debtor requests an opportunity to inspect or copy the Commission's records concerning the disputed claim, 10 business days will be granted for the review. The time period will be measured from the time the request for inspection is granted or from the time the copy of the records is received by the debtor.</P> <P>(c) Pending the resolution of a dispute by the debtor, transactions in any of the debtor's account(s) maintained in the Commission may be temporarily suspended. Depending on the type of transaction the suspension could preclude its payment, removal, or transfer, as well as prevent the payment of interest or discount due thereon. Should the dispute be resolved in the debtor's favor, the suspension will be immediately lifted.</P> <P>(d) During the review period, interest, penalties, and administrative costs authorized under the Federal Claims Collection Act of 1996, as amended, will continue to accrue.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 505.6</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Written agreement for repayment.</SUBJECT> <P>A debtor who admits liability but elects not to have the debt collected by administrative offset will be afforded an opportunity to negotiate a written agreement for the repayment of the debt. If the financial condition of the debtor does not support the ability to <PRTPAGE P="128"/>pay in one lump-sum, reasonable installments may be considered. No installment arrangement will be considered unless the debtor submits a financial statement, executed under penalty of perjury, reflecting the debtor's assets, liabilities, income, and expenses. The financial statement must be submitted within 10 business days of the Commission's request for the statement. At the Commission's option, a confess-judgment note or bond of indemnity with surety may be required for installment agreements. Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, any reduction or compromise of a claim will be governed by 4 CFR part 103.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 505.7</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Administrative offset.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) If the debtor does not exercise the right to request a review within the time specified in § 505.5 or if as a result of the review, it is determined that the debt is due and no written agreement is executed, then administrative offset shall be ordered in accordance with these regulations without further notice.</P> <P>(b) Requests for offset to other Federal agencies. The Chairman or his or her designee may request that funds due and payable to a debtor by another Federal agency be administratively offset in order to collect a debt owed to the Commission by that debtor. In requesting administrative offset, the Commission, as creditor, will certify in writing to the Federal agency holding funds of the debtor:</P> <P>(1) That the debtor owes the debt;</P> <P>(2) The amount and basis of the debt; and</P> <P>(3) That the agency has complied with the requirements of 31 U.S.C. 3716, its own administrative offset regulations and the applicable provisions of 4 CFR part 102 with respect to providing the debtor with due process.</P> <P>(c) Requests for offset from other Federal agencies. Any Federal agency may request that funds due and payable to its debtor by the Commission be administratively offset in order to collect a debt owed to such Federal agency by the debtor. The Commission shall initiate the requested offset only upon:</P> <P>(1) Receipt of written certification from the creditor agency:</P> <P>(i) That the debtor owes the debt;</P> <P>(ii) The amount and basis of the debt;</P> <P>(iii) That the agency has prescribed regulations for the exercise of administrative offset; and</P> <P>(iv) That the agency has complied with its own administrative offset regulations and with the applicable provisions of 4 CFR part 102, including providing any required hearing or review.</P> <P>(2) A determination by the Commission that collection by offset against funds payable by the Commission would be in the best interest of the United States as determined by the facts and circumstances of the particular case, and that such offset would not otherwise be contrary to law.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 505.8</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Jeopardy procedure.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission may effect an administrative offset against a payment to be made to the debtor prior to the completion of the procedures required by §§ 505.4 and 505.5 of this part if failure to take the offset would substantially jeopardize the Commission's ability to collect the debt, and the time before the payment is to be made does not reasonably permit the completion of those procedures. Such prior offset shall be promptly followed by the completion of those procedures. Amounts recovered by offset but later found not to be owed to the Commission shall be promptly refunded.</P> </SECTION> </PART> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 506</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 506—CIVIL MONETARY PENALTY INFLATION ADJUSTMENT</HD> <CONTENTS> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>506.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope and purpose.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>506.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>506.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Civil monetary penalty inflation adjustment.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>506.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Cost of living adjustments of civil monetary penalties.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>506.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Application of increase to violations.</SUBJECT> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>28 U.S.C. 2461.</P> </AUTH> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>61 FR 52705, Oct. 8, 1996, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SECTION> <PRTPAGE P="129"/> <SECTNO>§ 506.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope and purpose.</SUBJECT> <P>The purpose of this Part is to establish a mechanism for the regular adjustment for inflation of civil monetary penalties and to adjust such penalties in conformity with the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act of 1990, 46 U.S.C. 2461, as amended by the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996, Public Law 104-134, April 26, 1996, in order to maintain the deterrent effect of civil monetary penalties and to promote compliance with the law.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 506.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Commission</E> means the Federal Maritime Commission.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Civil Monetary Penalty</E> means any penalty, fine, or other sanction that:</P> <P>(1)(i) Is for a specific monetary amount as provided by Federal law; or</P> <P>(ii) Has a maximum amount provided by Federal law;</P> <P>(2) Is assessed or enforced by the Commission pursuant to Federal law; and</P> <P>(3) Is assessed or enforced pursuant to an administrative proceeding or a civil action in the Federal Courts.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Consumer Price Index</E> means the Consumer Price Index for all urban consumers published by the Department of Labor.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 506.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Civil monetary penalty inflation adjustment.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission shall, not later than October 23, 1996, and at least once every 4 years thereafter—</P> <P>(a) By regulation adjust each civil monetary penalty provided by law within the jurisdiction of the Commission by the inflation adjustment described in § 506.4; and</P> <P>(b) Publish each such regulation in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E>.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 506.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Cost of living adjustments of civil monetary penalties.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The inflation adjustment under § 506.3 shall be determined by increasing the maximum civil monetary penalty for each civil monetary penalty by the cost-of-living adjustment. Any increase determined under this subsection shall be rounded to the nearest:</P> <P>(1) Multiple of $10 in the case of penalties less than or equal to $100;</P> <P>(2) Multiple of $100 in the case of penalties greater than $100 but less than or equal to $1,000;</P> <P>(3) Multiple of $1,000 in the case of penalties greater than $1,000 but less than or equal to $10,000;</P> <P>(4) Multiple of $5,000 in the case of penalties greater than $10,000 but less than or equal to $100,000;</P> <P>(5) Multiple of $10,000 in the case of penalties greater than $100,000 but less than or equal to $200,000; and</P> <P>(6) Multiple of $25,000 in the case of penalties greater than $200,000.</P> <P>(b) For purposes of paragraph (a) of this section, the term ‘cost-of-living adjustment’ means the percentage (if any) for each civil monetary penalty by which the Consumer Price Index for the month of June of the calendar year preceding the adjustment, exceeds the Consumer Price Index for the month of June of the calendar year in which the amount of such civil monetary penalty was last set or adjusted pursuant to law.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Limitation on initial adjustment.</E> The first adjustment of civil monetary penalty pursuant to § 506.3 may not exceed 10 percent of such penalty.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Inflation adjustment.</E> Maximum civil monetary penalties within the jurisdiction of the Federal Maritime Commission are adjusted for inflation as follows:</P> <GPOTABLE CDEF="xs75,r130,12,13" COLS="4" OPTS="L2"> <BOXHD> <CHED H="1">United States Code Citation</CHED> <CHED H="1">Civil Monetary Penalty description</CHED> <CHED H="1">Current maximum penalty amount</CHED> <CHED H="1">New adjusted maximum penalty amount</CHED> </BOXHD> <ROW> <ENT I="01">46 U.S.C. app. sec. 817d</ENT> <ENT>Failure to establish financial responsibility for death or injury</ENT> <ENT>5,500<LI>220</LI> </ENT> <ENT>6,000 <LI> <SU>1</SU> 220</LI> </ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">46 U.S.C. app. sec. 817e</ENT> <ENT>Failure to establish financial responsibility for non-performance of transportation</ENT> <ENT>5,500<LI>220</LI> </ENT> <ENT>6,000 <LI> <SU>1</SU> 220</LI> </ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">46 U.S.C. app. sec. 876</ENT> <ENT>Failure to provide required reports, etc.—Merchant Marine Act of 1920</ENT> <ENT>5,500</ENT> <ENT>6,000</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">46 U.S.C. app. sec. 876</ENT> <ENT>Adverse shipping conditions/Merchant Marine Act of 1920</ENT> <ENT>1,100,000</ENT> <ENT>1,175,000</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">46 U.S.C. app. sec. 876</ENT> <ENT>Operating after tariff or service contract suspension/Merchant Marine Act of 1920</ENT> <ENT>55,000</ENT> <ENT>60,000</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">46 U.S.C. app. sec. 1710a</ENT> <ENT>Adverse impact on U.S. carriers by foreign shipping practices</ENT> <ENT>1,100,000</ENT> <ENT>1,175,000</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <PRTPAGE P="130"/> <ENT I="01">46 U.S.C. app. sec. 1712</ENT> <ENT>Operating in foreign commerce after tariff suspension</ENT> <ENT>55,000</ENT> <ENT>60,000</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">46 U.S.C. app. sec. 1712</ENT> <ENT>Knowing and willful violation/Shipping Act of 1984 or Commission regulation or order</ENT> <ENT>27,500</ENT> <ENT>30,000</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">46 U.S.C. app. sec. 1712</ENT> <ENT>Violation of Shipping Act of 1984, Commission regulation or order, not knowing or willful</ENT> <ENT>5,500</ENT> <ENT>6,000</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">31 U.S.C. sec. 3802(a)(1)</ENT> <ENT>Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act/giving false statement</ENT> <ENT>5,500</ENT> <ENT>6,000</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">31 U.S.C. sec. 3802(a)(2)</ENT> <ENT>Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act/giving false statement</ENT> <ENT>5,500</ENT> <ENT>6,000</ENT> </ROW> <TNOTE> <SU>1</SU> Application of the statutory rounding resulted in no increase to these penalties.</TNOTE> </GPOTABLE> <CITA>[61 FR 52705, Oct. 8, 1996, as amended at 64 FR 23550, May 3, 1999; 65 FR 49741, Aug. 15, 2000]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 506.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Application of increase to violations.</SUBJECT> <P>Any increase in a civil monetary penalty under this part shall apply only to violations which occur after the date the increase takes effect.</P> </SECTION> </PART> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 507</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 507—ENFORCEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF HANDICAP IN PROGRAMS OR ACTIVITIES CONDUCTED BY THE FEDERAL MARITIME COMMISSION</HD> <CONTENTS> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>507.101</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.102</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Application.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.103</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.104-507.109</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.110</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Self-evaluation.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.111</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notice.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.112-507.129</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.130</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General prohibitions against discrimination.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.131-507.139</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.140</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Employment.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.141-507.148</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.149</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Program accessibility: Discrimination prohibited.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.150</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Program accessibility: Existing facilities.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.151</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Program accessibility: New construction and alterations.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.152-507.159</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.160</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Communications.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.161-507.169</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.170</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Compliance procedures.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>507.171-507.999</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>29 U.S.C. 794.</P> </AUTH> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>51 FR 22895, 22896, June 23, 1986, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 507.101</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose.</SUBJECT> <P>This part effectuates section 119 of the Rehabilitation, Comprehensive Services, and Developmental Disabilities Amendments of 1978, which amended section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to prohibit discrimination on the basis of handicap in programs or activities conducted by Executive agencies or the United States Postal Service.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 507.102</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Application.</SUBJECT> <P>This part applies to all programs or activities conducted by the agency.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 507.103</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <P>For purposes of this part, the term—</P> <P> <E T="03">Assistant Attorney General</E> means the Assistant Attorney General, Civil Rights Division, United States Department of Justice.</P> <P> <E T="03">Auxiliary aids</E> means services or devices that enable persons with impaired sensory, manual, or speaking skills to have an equal opportunity to participate in, and enjoy the benefits of, programs or activities conducted by the agency. For example, auxiliary aids useful for persons with impaired vision include readers, brailled materials, audio recordings, telecommunications devices and other similar services and devices. Auxiliary aids useful for persons with impaired hearing include telephone handset amplifiers, telephones compatible with hearing aids, telecommunication devices for deaf persons (TDD's), interpreters, notetakers, written materials, and other similar services and devices.</P> <P> <E T="03">Complete complaint</E> means a written statement that contains the complainant's name and address and describes the agency's alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the agency of the nature and date of the alleged violation of section 504. It shall be signed by the complainant or by someone authorized to do so on his or <PRTPAGE P="131"/>her behalf. Complaints filed on behalf of classes or third parties shall describe or identify (by name, if possible) the alleged victims of discrimination.</P> <P> <E T="03">Facility</E> means all or any portion of buildings, structures, equipment, roads, walks, parking lots, rolling stock or other conveyances, or other real or personal property.</P> <P> <E T="03">Handicapped person</E> means any person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, has a record of such an impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment.</P> <P>As used in this definition, the phrase:</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Physical or mental impairment</E> includes—</P> <P>(i) Any physiological disorder or condition, cosmetic disfigurement, or anatomical loss affecting one or more of the following body systems: Neurological; musculoskeletal; special sense organs; respiratory, including speech organs; cardiovascular; reproductive; digestive; genitourinary; hemic and lymphatic; skin; and endocrine; or</P> <P>(ii) Any mental or psychological disorder, such as mental retardation, organic brain syndrome, emotional or mental illness, and specific learning disabilities. The term <E T="03">physical or mental impairment</E> includes, but is not limited to, such diseases and conditions as orthopedic, visual, speech, and hearing impairments, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, mental retardation, emotional illness, and drug addiction and alcoholism.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Major life activities</E> includes functions such as caring for one's self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">Has a record of such an impairment</E> means has a history of, or has been misclassified as having, a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.</P> <P>(4) <E T="03">Is regarded as having an impairment</E> means—</P> <P>(i) Has a physical or mental impairment that does not substantially limit major life activities but is treated by the agency as constituting such a limitation;</P> <P>(ii) Has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits major life activities only as a result of the attitudes of others toward such impairment; or</P> <P>(iii) Has none of the impairments defined in paragraph (1) of this definition but is treated by the agency as having such an impairment.</P> <P> <E T="03">Historic preservation programs</E> means programs conducted by the agency that have preservation of historic properties as a primary purpose.</P> <P> <E T="03">Historic properties</E> means those properties that are listed or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places or properties designated as historic under a statute of the appropriate State or local government body.</P> <P> <E T="03">Qualified handicapped person</E> means—</P> <P>(1) With respect to preschool, elementary, or secondary education services provided by the agency, a handicapped person who is a member of a class of persons otherwise entitled by statute, regulation, or agency policy to receive education services from the agency.</P> <P>(2) With respect to any other agency program or activity under which a person is required to perform services or to achieve a level of accomplishment, a handicapped person who meets the essential eligibility requirements and who can achieve the purpose of the program or activity without modifications in the program or activity that the agency can demonstrate would result in a fundamental alteration in its nature;</P> <P>(3) With respect to any other program or activity, a handicapped person who meets the essential eligibility requirements for participation in, or receipt of benefits from, that program or activity; and</P> <P>(4) <E T="03">Qualified handicapped person</E> is defined for purposes of employment in 29 CFR 1613.702(f), which is made applicable to this part by § 507.140.</P> <P> <E T="03">Section 504</E> means section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Pub. L. 93-112, 87 Stat. 394 (29 U.S.C. 794)), as amended by the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1974 (Pub. L. 93-516, 88 Stat. 1617), and the Rehabilitation, Comprehensive Services, and Developmental Disabilities Amendments of 1978 (Pub. L. 95-602, 92 Stat. 2955). As used in this part, section 504 applies <PRTPAGE P="132"/>only to programs or activities conducted by Executive agencies and not to federally assisted programs.</P> <P> <E T="03">Substantial impairment</E> means a significant loss of the integrity of finished materials, design quality, or special character resulting from a permanent alteration.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§§ 507.104-507.109</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 507.110</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Self-evaluation.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The agency shall, by August 24, 1987, evaluate its current policies and practices, and the effects thereof, that do not or may not meet the requirements of this part, and, to the extent modification of any such policies and practices is required, the agency shall proceed to make the necessary modifications.</P> <P>(b) The agency shall provide an opportunity to interested persons, including handicapped persons or organizations representing handicapped persons, to participate in the self-evaluation process by submitting comments (both oral and written).</P> <P>(c) The agency shall, until three years following the completion of the self-evaluation, maintain on file and make available for public inspection:</P> <P>(1) A description of areas examined and any problems identified, and</P> <P>(2) A description of any modifications made.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 507.111</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notice.</SUBJECT> <P>The agency shall make available to employees, applicants, participants, beneficiaries, and other interested persons such information regarding the provisions of this part and its applicability to the programs or activities conducted by the agency, and make such information available to them in such manner as the head of the agency finds necessary to apprise such persons of the protections against discrimination assured them by section 504 and this regulation.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§§ 507.112-507.129</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 507.130</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General prohibitions against discrimination.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) No qualified handicapped person shall, on the basis of handicap, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity conducted by the agency.</P> <P>(b)(1) The agency, in providing any aid, benefit, or service, may not, directly or through contractual, licensing, or other arrangements, on the basis of handicap—</P> <P>(i) Deny a qualified handicapped person the opportunity to participate in or benefit from the aid, benefit, or service;</P> <P>(ii) Afford a qualified handicapped person an opportunity to participate in or benefit from the aid, benefit, or service that is not equal to that afforded others;</P> <P>(iii) Provide a qualified handicapped person with an aid, benefit, or service that is not as effective in affording equal opportunity to obtain the same result, to gain the same benefit, or to reach the same level of achievement as that provided to others;</P> <P>(iv) Provide different or separate aid, benefits, or services to handicapped persons or to any class of handicapped persons than is provided to others unless such action is necessary to provide qualified handicapped persons with aid, benefits, or services that are as effective as those provided to others;</P> <P>(v) Deny a qualified handicapped person the opportunity to participate as a member of planning or advisory boards; or</P> <P>(vi) Otherwise limit a qualified handicapped person in the enjoyment of any right, privilege, advantage, or opportunity enjoyed by others receiving the aid, benefit, or service.</P> <P>(2) The agency may not deny a qualified handicapped person the opportunity to participate in programs or activities that are not separate or different, despite the existence of permissibly separate or different programs or activities.</P> <P>(3) The agency may not, directly or through contractual or other arrangments, utilize criteria or methods of administration the purpose or effect of which would—</P> <P>(i) Subject qualified handicapped persons to discrimination on the basis of handicap; or</P> <P>(ii) Defeat or substantially impair accomplishment of the objectives of a <PRTPAGE P="133"/>program activity with respect to handicapped persons.</P> <P>(4) The agency may not, in determining the site or location of a facility, make selections the purpose or effect of which would—</P> <P>(i) Exclude handicapped persons from, deny them the benefits of, or otherwise subject them to discrimination under any program or activity conducted by the agency; or</P> <P>(ii) Defeat or substantially impair the accomplishment of the objectives of a program or activity with respect to handicapped persons.</P> <P>(5) The agency, in the selection of procurement contractors, may not use criteria that subject qualified handicapped persons to discrimination on the basis of handicap.</P> <P>(6) The agency may not administer a licensing or certification program in a manner that subjects qualified handicapped persons to discrimination on the basis of handicap, nor may the agency establish requirements for the programs or activities of licensees or certified entities that subject qualified handicapped persons to discrimination on the basis of handicap. However, the programs or activities of entities that are licensed or certified by the agency are not, themselves, covered by this part.</P> <P>(c) The exclusion of nonhandicapped persons from the benefits of a program limited by Federal statute or Executive order to handicapped persons or the exclusion of a specific class of handicapped persons from a program limited by Federal statute or Executive order to a different class of handicapped persons is not prohibited by this part.</P> <P>(d) The agency shall administer programs and activities in the most integrated setting appropriate to the needs of qualified handicapped persons.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§§ 507.131-507.139</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 507.140</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Employment.</SUBJECT> <P>No qualified handicapped person shall, on the basis of handicap, be subjected to discrimination in employment under any program or activity conducted by the agency. The definitions, requirements, and procedures of section 501 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 791), as established by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in 29 CFR part 1613, shall apply to employment in federally conducted programs or activities.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§§ 507.141-507.148</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 507.149</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Program accessibility: Discrimination prohibited.</SUBJECT> <P>Except as otherwise provided in § 507.150, no qualified handicapped person shall, because the agency's facilities are inaccessible to or unusable by handicapped persons, be denied the benefits of, be excluded from participation in, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity conducted by the agency.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 507.150</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Program accessibility: Existing facilities.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> The agency shall operate each program or activity so that the program or activity, when viewed in its entirety, is readily accessible to and usable by handicapped persons. This paragraph does not—</P> <P>(1) Necessarily require the agency to make each of its existing facilities accessible to and usable by handicapped persons;</P> <P>(2) In the case of historic preservation programs, require the agency to take any action that would result in a substantial impairment of significant historic features of an historic property; or</P> <P>(3) Require the agency to take any action that it can demonstrate would result in a fundamental alteration in the nature of a program or activity or in undue financial and administrative burdens. In those circumstances where agency personnel believe that the proposed action would fundamentally alter the program or activity or would result in undue financial and administrative burdens, the agency has the burden of proving that compliance with § 507.150(a) would result in such alteration or burdens. The decision that compliance would result in such alteration or burdens must be made by the agency head or his or her designee after considering all agency resources available for use in the funding and operation of the conducted program or activity, and must be accompanied by <PRTPAGE P="134"/>a written statement of the reasons for reaching that conclusion. If an action would result in such an alteration or such burdens, the agency shall take any other action that would not result in such an alteration or such burdens but would nevertheless ensure that handicapped persons receive the benefits and services of the program or activity.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Methods</E>—(1) <E T="03">General.</E> The agency may comply with the requirements of this section through such means as redesign of equipment, reassignment of services to accessible buildings, assignment of aides to beneficiaries, home visits, delivery of services at alternate accessible sites, alteration of existing facilities and construction of new facilities, use of accessible rolling stock, or any other methods that result in making its programs or activities readily accessible to and usable by handicapped persons. The agency is not required to make structural changes in existing facilities where other methods are effective in achieving compliance with this section. The agency, in making alterations to existing buildings, shall meet accessibility requirements to the extent compelled by the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968, as amended (42 U.S.C. 4151-4157), and any regulations implementing it. In choosing among available methods for meeting the requirements of this section, the agency shall give priority to those methods that offer programs and activities to qualified handicapped persons in the most integrated setting appropriate.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Historic preservation programs.</E> In meeting the requirements of § 507.150(a) in historic preservation programs, the agency shall give priority to methods that provide physical access to handicapped persons. In cases where a physical alteration to an historic property is not required because of § 507.150 (a)(2) or (a)(3), alternative methods of achieving program accessibility include—</P> <P>(i) Using audio-visual materials and devices to depict those portions of an historic property that cannot otherwise be made accessible;</P> <P>(ii) Assigning persons to guide handicapped persons into or through portions of historic properties that cannot otherwise be made accessible; or</P> <P>(iii) Adopting other innovative methods.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Time period for compliance.</E> The agency shall comply with the obligations established under this section by October 21, 1986, except that where structural changes in facilities are undertaken, such changes shall be made by August 22, 1989, but in any event as expeditiously as possible.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Transition plan.</E> In the event that structural changes to facilities will be undertaken to achieve program accessibility, the agency shall develop, by February 23, 1987, a transition plan setting forth the steps necessary to complete such changes. The agency shall provide an opportunity to interested persons, including handicapped persons or organizations representing handicapped persons, to participate in the development of the transition plan by submitting comments (both oral and written). A copy of the transition plan shall be made available for public inspection. The plan shall, at a minimum—</P> <P>(1) Identify physical obstacles in the agency's facilities that limit the accessibility of its programs or activities to handicapped persons;</P> <P>(2) Describe in detail the methods that will be used to make the facilities accessible;</P> <P>(3) Specify the schedule for taking the steps necessary to achieve compliance with this section and, if the time period of the transition plan is longer than one year, identify steps that will be taken during each year of the transition period; and</P> <P>(4) Indicate the official responsible for implementation of the plan.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 507.151</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Program accessibility: New construction and alterations.</SUBJECT> <P>Each building or part of a building that is constructed or altered by, on behalf of, or for the use of the agency shall be designed, constructed, or altered so as to be readily accessible to and usable by handicapped persons. The definitions, requirements, and standards of the Architectural Barriers Act (42 U.S.C. 4151-4157), as established in 41 CFR 101-19.600 to 101-19.607, apply to buildings covered by this section.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <PRTPAGE P="135"/> <SECTNO>§§ 507.152-507.159</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 507.160</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Communications.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The agency shall take appropriate steps to ensure effective communication with applicants, participants, personnel of other Federal entities, and members of the public.</P> <P>(1) The agency shall furnish appropriate auxiliary aids where necessary to afford a handicapped person an equal opportunity to participate in, and enjoy the benefits of, a program or activity conducted by the agency.</P> <P>(i) In determining what type of auxiliary aid is necessary, the agency shall give primary consideration to the requests of the handicapped person.</P> <P>(ii) The agency need not provide individually prescribed devices, readers for personal use or study, or other devices of a personal nature.</P> <P>(2) Where the agency communicates with applicants and beneficiaries by telephone, telecommunication devices for deaf person (TDD's) or equally effective telecommunication systems shall be used.</P> <P>(b) The agency shall ensure that interested persons, including persons with impaired vision or hearing, can obtain information as to the existence and location of accessible services, activities, and facilities.</P> <P>(c) The agency shall provide signage at a primary entrance to each of its inaccessible facilities, directing users to a location at which they can obtain information about accessible facilities. The international symbol for accessibility shall be used at each primary entrance of an accessible facility.</P> <P>(d) This section does not require the agency to take any action that it can demonstrate would result in a fundamental alteration in the nature of a program or activity or in undue financial and administrative burdens. In those circumstances where agency personnel believe that the proposed action would fundamentally alter the program or activity or would result in undue financial and administrative burdens, the agency has the burden of proving that compliance with § 507.160 would result in such alteration or burdens. The decision that compliance would result in such alteration or burdens must be made by the agency head or his or her designee after considering all agency resources available for use in the funding and operation of the conducted program or activity, and must be accompanied by a written statement of the reasons for reaching that conclusion. If an action required to comply with this section would result in such an alteration or such burdens, the agency shall take any other action that would not result in such an alteration or such burdens but would nevertheless ensure that, to the maximum extent possible, handicapped persons receive the benefits and services of the program or activity.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§§ 507.161-507.169</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 507.170</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Compliance procedures.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, this section applies to all allegations of discrimination on the basis of handicap in programs or activities conducted by the agency.</P> <P>(b) The agency shall process complaints alleging violations of section 504 with respect to employment according to the procedures established by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in 29 CFR part 1614 pursuant to section 501 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 791).</P> <P>(c) The Director, Bureau of Administration shall be responsible for coordinating implementation of this section. Complaints may be sent to the Director, Bureau of Administration, Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20573.</P> <P>(d) The agency shall accept and investigate all complete complaints for which it has jurisdiction. All complete complaints must be filed within 180 days of the alleged act of discrimination. The agency may extend this time period for good cause.</P> <P>(e) If the agency receives a complaint over which it does not have jurisdiction, it shall promptly notify the complainant and shall make reasonable efforts to refer the complaint to the appropriate government entity.</P> <P>(f) The agency shall notify the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board upon receipt of any complaint alleging that a building or <PRTPAGE P="136"/>facility that is subject to the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968, as amended (42 U.S.C. 4151-4157), or section 502 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (29 U.S.C. 792), is not readily accessible to and usable by handicapped persons.</P> <P>(g) Within 180 days of the receipt of a complete complaint for which it has jurisdiction, the agency shall notify the complainant of the results of the investigation in a letter containing—</P> <P>(1) Findings of fact and conclusions of law;</P> <P>(2) A description of a remedy for each violation found; and</P> <P>(3) A notice of the right to appeal.</P> <P>(h) Appeals of the findings of fact and conclusions of law or remedies must be filed by the complainant within 90 days of receipt from the agency of the letter required by § 507.170(g). The agency may extend this time for good cause.</P> <P>(i) Timely appeals shall be accepted and processed by the head of the agency.</P> <P>(j) The head of the agency shall notify the complainant of the results of the appeal within 60 days of the receipt of the request. If the head of the agency determines that additional information is needed from the complainant, he or she shall have 60 days from the date of receipt of the additional information to make his or her determination on the appeal.</P> <P>(k) The time limits cited in paragraphs (g) and (j) of this section may be extended with the permission of the Assistant Attorney General.</P> <P>(l) The agency may delegate its authority for conducting complaint investigations to other Federal agencies, except that the authority for making the final determination may not be delegated to another agency.</P> <CITA>[51 FR 22895, June 23, 1986, as amended at 51 FR 22896, June 23, 1986; 64 FR 23551, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§§ 507.171-507.999</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> </PART> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 508</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 508—EMPLOYEE ETHICAL CONDUCT STANDARDS AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE REGULATIONS</HD> <CONTENTS> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>508.101</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Cross-referrence to employee ethical conduct standards and financial disclosure regulations.</SUBJECT> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>5 U.S.C. 553; 5 U.S.C. 7301; 46 U.S.C. app. 1716.</P> </AUTH> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 508.101</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Cross-referrence to employee ethical conduct standards and financial disclosure regulations.</SUBJECT> <P>Employees of the Federal Maritime Commission (“FMC”) should refer to the executive branch-wide Standards of Ethical Conduct at 5 CFR part 2635, and the executive branch-wide financial disclosure regulation at 5 CFR part 2634.</P> <CITA>[60 FR 9787, Feb. 22, 1995. Redesignated at 64 FR 23546, May 3, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> </PART> </SUBCHAP> <SUBCHAP TYPE="P"> <PRTPAGE P="137"/> <HD SOURCE="HED">SUBCHAPTER B—REGULATIONS AFFECTING OCEAN SHIPPING IN FOREIGN COMMERCE</HD> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 515</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 515—LICENSING, FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS, AND GENERAL DUTIES FOR OCEAN TRANSPORTATION INTERMEDIARIES</HD> <CONTENTS> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—General</HD> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>515.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>License; when required.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>License; when not required.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Forms and fees.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Eligibility and Procedure for Licensing</HD> <SECTNO>515.11</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Basic requirements for licensing; eligibility.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.12</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Application for license.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.13</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Investigation of applicants.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.14</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Issuance and use of license.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.15</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Denial of license.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.16</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Revocation or suspension of license.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.17</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Application after revocation or denial.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.18</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Changes in organization.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Financial Responsibility Requirements; Claims Against Ocean Transportation Intermediaries</HD> <SECTNO>515.21</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Financial responsibility requirements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.22</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Proof of financial responsibility.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.23</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Claims against an ocean transportation intermediary.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.24</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agent for service of process.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.25</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Filing of proof of financial responsibility.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.26</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Termination of financial responsibility.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.27</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Proof of compliance.</SUBJECT> <APP>Appendix A to Subpart C—Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Bond Form [Form-48]</APP> <APP>Appendix B to Subpart C—Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Insurance Form [Form-67]</APP> <APP>Appendix C to Subpart C—Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Guaranty Form [Form-68]</APP> <APP>Appendix D to Subpart C—Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Group Bond Form [FMC-69]</APP> <APP>Appendix E to Subpart C of Part 515—Optional Rider for Additional NVOCC Financial Responsibility (Optional Rider to Form FMC-48] [FORM 48A]</APP> <APP>Appendix F to Subpart C of Part 515—Optional Rider for Additional NVOCC Financial Responsibility for Group Bonds(Optional Rider to Form FMC-69]</APP> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Duties and Responsibilities of Ocean Transportation Intermediaries; Reports to Commission</HD> <SECTNO>515.31</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General duties.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.32</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Freight forwarder duties.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.33</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Records required to be kept.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.34</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Regulated Persons Index.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart E—Freight Forwarding Fees and Compensation</HD> <SECTNO>515.41</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Forwarder and principal; fees.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.42</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Forwarder and carrier; compensation.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>515.91</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control number assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>5 U.S.C. 553; 31 U.S.C. 9701; 46 U.S.C. app. 1702, 1707, 1709, 1710, 1712, 1714, 1716, and 1718; Pub. L. 105-383, 112 Stat. 3411; 21 U.S.C. 862.</P> </AUTH> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <EDNOTE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Editorial Note:</HD> <P>Nomenclature changes to part 515 appear at 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002, and 70 FR 7669, Feb. 15, 2005.</P> </EDNOTE> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—General</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) This part sets forth regulations providing for the licensing as ocean transportation intermediaries of persons who wish to carry on the business of providing intermediary services, including the grounds and procedures for revocation and suspension of licenses. This part also prescribes the financial responsibility requirements and the duties and responsibilities of ocean transportation intermediaries, and regulations concerning practices of ocean transportation intermediaries with respect to common carriers.</P> <P>(b) Information obtained under this part is used to determine the qualifications of ocean transportation intermediaries and their compliance with shipping statutes and regulations. Failure to follow the provisions of this part may result in denial, revocation or suspension of an ocean transportation <PRTPAGE P="138"/>intermediary license. Persons operating without the proper license may be subject to civil penalties not to exceed $5,500 for each such violation unless the violation is willfully and knowingly committed, in which case the amount of the civil penalty may not exceed $27,500 for each violation; for other violations of the provisions of this part, the civil penalties range from $5,500 to $27,500 for each violation (46 U.S.C. app. 1712). Each day of a continuing violation shall constitute a separate violation.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <P>The terms used in this part are defined as follows:</P> <P>(a) <E T="03">Act</E> means the Shipping Act of 1984, as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 and the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1998.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Beneficial interest</E> includes a lien or interest in or right to use, enjoy, profit, benefit, or receive any advantage, either proprietary or financial, from the whole or any part of a shipment of cargo where such interest arises from the financing of the shipment or by operation of law, or by agreement, express or implied. The term “beneficial interest” shall not include any obligation in favor of an ocean transportation intermediary arising solely by reason of the advance of out-of-pocket expenses incurred in dispatching a shipment.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Branch office</E> means any office in the United States established by or maintained by or under the control of a licensee for the purpose of rendering intermediary services, which office is located at an address different from that of the licensee's designated home office.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Brokerage</E> refers to payment by a common carrier to an ocean freight broker for the performance of services as specified in paragraph (n) of this section.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Commission</E> means the Federal Maritime Commission.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Common carrier</E> means any person holding itself out to the general public to provide transportation by water of passengers or cargo between the United States and a foreign country for compensation that:</P> <P>(1) Assumes responsibility for the transportation from the port or point of receipt to the port or point of destination, and</P> <P>(2) Utilizes, for all or part of that transportation, a vessel operating on the high seas or the Great Lakes between a port in the United States and a port in a foreign country, except that the term does not include a common carrier engaged in ocean transportation by ferry boat, ocean tramp, chemical parcel tanker, or by a vessel when primarily engaged in the carriage of perishable agricultural commodities.</P> <P>(i) if the common carrier and the owner of those commodities are wholly-owned, directly or indirectly, by a person primarily engaged in the marketing and distribution of those commodities, and</P> <P>(ii) only with respect to those commodities.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Compensation</E> means payment by a common carrier to a freight forwarder for the performance of services as specified in § 515.42(c).</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Freight forwarding fee</E> means charges billed by a freight forwarder to a shipper, consignee, seller, purchaser, or any agent thereof, for the performance of freight forwarding services.</P> <P>(i) <E T="03">Freight forwarding services</E> refers to the dispatching of shipments on behalf of others, in order to facilitate shipment by a common carrier, which may include, but are not limited to, the following:</P> <P>(1) Ordering cargo to port;</P> <P>(2) Preparing and/or processing export declarations;</P> <P>(3) Booking, arranging for or confirming cargo space;</P> <P>(4) Preparing or processing delivery orders or dock receipts;</P> <P>(5) Preparing and/or processing ocean bills of lading;</P> <P>(6) Preparing or processing consular documents or arranging for their certification;</P> <P>(7) Arranging for warehouse storage;</P> <P>(8) Arranging for cargo insurance;</P> <P>(9) Clearing shipments in accordance with United States Government export regulations;</P> <P>(10) Preparing and/or sending advance notifications of shipments or other documents to banks, shippers, or consignees, as required;<PRTPAGE P="139"/> </P> <P>(11) Handling freight or other monies advanced by shippers, or remitting or advancing freight or other monies or credit in connection with the dispatching of shipments;</P> <P>(12) Coordinating the movement of shipments from origin to vessel; and</P> <P>(13) Giving expert advice to exporters concerning letters of credit, other documents, licenses or inspections, or on problems germane to the cargoes' dispatch.</P> <P>(j) <E T="03">From the United States</E> means oceanborne export commerce from the United States, its territories, or possessions, to foreign countries.</P> <P>(k) <E T="03">Licensee</E> is any person licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission as an ocean transportation intermediary.</P> <P>(l) <E T="03">Non-vessel-operating common carrier services</E> refers to the provision of transportation by water of cargo between the United States and a foreign country for compensation without operating the vessels by which the transportation is provided, and may include, but are not limited to, the following:</P> <P>(1) Purchasing transportation services from a VOCC and offering such services for resale to other persons;</P> <P>(2) Payment of port-to-port or multimodal transportation charges;</P> <P>(3) Entering into affreightment agreements with underlying shippers;</P> <P>(4) Issuing bills of lading or equivalent documents;</P> <P>(5) Arranging for inland transportation and paying for inland freight charges on through transportation movements;</P> <P>(6) Paying lawful compensation to ocean freight forwarders;</P> <P>(7) Leasing containers; or</P> <P>(8) Entering into arrangements with origin or destination agents.</P> <P>(m) <E T="03">Ocean common carrier</E> means a common carrier that operates, for all or part of its common carrier service, a vessel on the high seas or the Great Lakes between a port in the United States and a port in a foreign country, except that the term does not include a common carrier engaged in ocean transportation by ferry boat, ocean tramp, or chemical parcel-tanker.</P> <P>(n) <E T="03">Ocean freight broker</E> is an entity which is engaged by a carrier to secure cargo for such carrier and/or to sell or offer for sale ocean transportation services and which holds itself out to the public as one who negotiates between shipper or consignee and carrier for the purchase, sale, conditions and terms of transportation.</P> <P>(o) <E T="03">Ocean transportation intermediary</E> means an ocean freight forwarder or a non-vessel-operating common carrier. For the purposes of this part, the term</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Ocean freight forwarder</E> means a person that—</P> <P>(i) in the United States, dispatches shipments from the United States via a common carrier and books or otherwise arranges space for those shipments on behalf of shippers; and</P> <P>(ii) processes the documentation or performs related activities incident to those shipments; and</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Non-vessel-operating common carrier (“NVOCC”)</E> means a common carrier that does not operate the vessels by which the ocean transportation is provided, and is a shipper in its relationship with an ocean common carrier.</P> <P>(p) <E T="03">Person</E> includes individuals, corporations, partnerships and associations existing under or authorized by the laws of the United States or of a foreign country.</P> <P>(q) <E T="03">Principal,</E> except as used in Surety Bond Form FMC-48, and Group Bond Form FMC-69, refers to the shipper, consignee, seller, or purchaser of property, and to anyone acting on behalf of such shipper, consignee, seller, or purchaser of property, who employs the services of a licensed freight forwarder to facilitate the ocean transportation of such property.</P> <P>(r) <E T="03">Reduced forwarding fees</E> means charges to a principal for forwarding services that are below the licensed freight forwarder's usual charges for such services.</P> <P>(s) <E T="03">Shipment</E> means all of the cargo carried under the terms of a single bill of lading.</P> <P>(t) <E T="03">Shipper</E> means:</P> <P>(1) A cargo owner;</P> <P>(2) The person for whose account the ocean transportation is provided;</P> <P>(3) The person to whom delivery is to be made;</P> <P>(4) A shippers' association; or</P> <P>(5) a non-vessel-operating common carrier that accepts responsibility for payment of all charges applicable under the tariff or service contract.<PRTPAGE P="140"/> </P> <P>(u) <E T="03">Small shipment</E> refers to a single shipment sent by one consignor to one consignee on one bill of lading which does not exceed the underlying common carrier's minimum charge rule.</P> <P>(v) <E T="03">Special contract</E> is a contract for freight forwarding services which provides for a periodic lump sum fee.</P> <P>(w) <E T="03">Transportation-related activities</E> which are covered by the financial responsibility obtained pursuant to this part include, to the extent involved in the foreign commerce of the United States, any activity performed by an ocean transportation intermediary that is necessary or customary in the provision of transportation services to a customer, but are not limited to the following:</P> <P>(1) For an ocean transportation intermediary operating as a Freight forwarder, the freight forwarding services enumerated in § 515.2(i), and</P> <P>(2) For an ocean transportation intermediary operating as a non-vessel-operating common carrier, the non-vessel-operating common carriers services enumerated in § 515.2(l).</P> <P>(x) <E T="03">United States</E> includes the several States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas, and all other United States territories and possessions.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 65 FR 15254, Mar. 22, 2000; 65 FR 26512, May 8, 2000]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>License; when required.</SUBJECT> <P>Except as otherwise provided in this part, no person in the United States may act as an ocean transportation intermediary unless that person holds a valid license issued by the Commission. A separate license is required for each branch office that is separately incorporated. For purposes of this part, a person is considered to be “in the United States” if such person is resident in, or incorporated or established under, the laws of the United States. Only persons licensed under this part may furnish or contract to furnish ocean transportation intermediary services in the United States on behalf of an unlicensed ocean transportation intermediary.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>License; when not required.</SUBJECT> <P>A license is not required in the following circumstances:</P> <P>(a) <E T="03">Shipper.</E> Any person whose primary business is the sale of merchandise may, without a license, dispatch and perform freight forwarding services on behalf of its own shipments, or on behalf of shipments or consolidated shipments of a parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or associated company. Such person shall not receive compensation from the common carrier for any services rendered in connection with such shipments.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Employee or branch office of licensed ocean transportation intermediary.</E> (1) An individual employee or unincorporated branch office of a licensed ocean transportation intermediary is not required to be licensed in order to act solely for such licensee, provided that such branch offices:</P> <P>(i) Have been reported to the Commission in writing; and</P> <P>(ii) Are covered by increased financial responsibility in accordance with § 515.21(a)(4).</P> <P>(2) Each licensed ocean transportation intermediary will be held strictly responsible for the acts or omissions of any of its employees or agents rendered in connection with the conduct of its business.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Common carrier.</E> A common carrier, or agent thereof, may perform ocean freight forwarding services without a license only with respect to cargo carried under such carrier's own bill of lading. Charges for such forwarding services shall be assessed in conformance with the carrier's published tariffs.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Ocean freight brokers.</E> An ocean freight broker is not required to be licensed to perform those services specified in § 515.2(n).</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Federal military and civilian household goods.</E> Any person which exclusively transports used household goods and personal effects for the account of the Department of Defense, or for the account of the federal civilian executive agencies shipping under the International Household Goods Program administered by the General Services Administration, or both, is not subject to the requirements of subpart B of this <PRTPAGE P="141"/>part, but may be subject to other requirements, such as alternative surety bonding, imposed by the Department of Defense, or the General Services Administration.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Forms and Fees.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Forms.</E> License form FMC-18 Rev., and financial responsibility forms FMC-48, FMC-67, FMC-68, FMC-69 may be obtained from the Commission's Web site at <E T="03">http://www.fmc.gov,</E> the Director, Bureau of Certification and Licensing, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573, or from any of the Commission's area representatives.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Fees.</E> All fees shall be payable by money order, certified check, cashier's check, or personal check to the “Federal Maritime Commission.” Should a personal check not be honored when presented for payment, the processing of an application under this section shall be suspended until the processing fee is paid. In any instance where an application has been processed in whole or in part, the fee will not be refunded. Such fees are:</P> <P>(1) Application for license as required by § 515.12(a): $825;</P> <P>(2) Application for status change or license transfer as required by §§ 515.18(a) and 515.18(b): $525; and</P> <P>(3) Supplementary investigations required by § 515.25(a): $225.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002; 70 FR 10330, Mar. 3, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Eligibility and Procedure for Licensing</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.11</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Basic requirements for licensing; eligibility.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Necessary qualifications.</E> To be eligible for an ocean transportation intermediary license, the applicant must demonstrate to the Commission that:</P> <P>(1) It possesses the necessary experience, that is, its qualifying individual has a minimum of three (3) years experience in ocean transportation intermediary activities in the United States, and the necessary character to render ocean transportation intermediary services. A foreign NVOCC seeking to be licensed under this part must demonstrate that its qualifying individual has a minimum 3 years' experience in ocean transportation intermediary activities, and the necessary character to render ocean transportation intermediary services; and</P> <P>(2) It has obtained and filed with the Commission a valid bond, proof of insurance, or other surety in conformance with § 515.21.</P> <P>(3) An NVOCC with a tariff and proof of financial responsibility in effect as of April 30, 1999, may continue to operate as an NVOCC without the requisite three years' experience and necessary character to render ocean transportation intermediary services and will be provisionally licensed while the Commission reviews its application. Such person designated as the qualifying individual for a provisionally licensed NVOCC may not act as a qualifying individual for another ocean transportation intermediary until it has obtained the necessary three years' experience in ocean transportation intermediary services.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Qualifying individual.</E> The following individuals must qualify the applicant for a license:</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Sole proprietorship.</E> The applicant sole proprietor.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Partnership.</E> At least one of the active managing partners, but all partners must execute the application.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">Corporation.</E> At least one of the active corporate officers.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Affiliates of intermediaries.</E> An independently qualified applicant may be granted a separate license to carry on the business of providing ocean transportation intermediary services even though it is associated with, under common control with, or otherwise related to another ocean transportation intermediary through stock ownership or common directors or officers, if such applicant submits: a separate application and fee, and a valid instrument of financial responsibility in the form and amount prescribed under § 515.21. The qualifying individual of one active licensee shall not also be designated as the qualifying individual of an applicant for another ocean transportation intermediary license, unless both entities are commonly owned or where one directly controls the other.<PRTPAGE P="142"/> </P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Common carrier.</E> A common carrier or agent thereof which meets the requirements of this part may be licensed to dispatch shipments moving on other than such carrier's own bills of lading subject to the provisions of § 515.42(g).</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999; 64 FR 23020, Apr. 29, 1999, as amended at 65 FR 15254, Mar. 22, 2000]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.12</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Application for license.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Application and forms.</E> (1) Any person who wishes to obtain a license to operate as an ocean transportation intermediary shall submit, in duplicate, to the Director of the Commission's Bureau of Certification and Licensing, a completed application Form FMC-18 Rev. (“Application for a License as an Ocean Transportation Intermediary”) accompanied by the fee required under § 515.5(b). All applicants will be assigned an application number, and each applicant will be notified of the number assigned to its application. Notice of filing of such application shall be published in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> and shall state the name and address of the applicant and the name and address of the qualifying individual. If the applicant is a corporation or partnership, the names of the officers or partners thereof shall be published.</P> <P>(2) An individual who is applying for a license in his or her own name must complete the following certification: </P> <EXTRACT> <P>I, ___ (Name), ___, certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States, that I have not been convicted, after September 1, 1989, of any Federal or state offense involving the distribution or possession of a controlled substance, or that if I have been so convicted, I am not ineligible to receive Federal benefits, either by court order or operation of law, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 862.</P> </EXTRACT> <P>(b) <E T="03">Rejection.</E> Any application which appears upon its face to be incomplete or to indicate that the applicant fails to meet the licensing requirements of the Act, or the Commission's regulations, shall be returned by certified U.S. mail or other method reasonably calculated to provide actual notice to the applicant without further processing, together with an explanation of the reason(s) for rejection, and the application fee shall be refunded in full. Persons who have had their applications returned may reapply for a license at any time thereafter by submitting a new application, together with the full application fee.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Investigation.</E> Each applicant shall be investigated in accordance with § 515.13.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Changes in fact.</E> Each applicant and each licensee shall submit to the Commission, in duplicate, an amended Form FMC-18 Rev. advising of any changes in the facts submitted in the original application, within thirty (30) days after such change(s) occur. In the case of an application for a license, any unreported change may delay the processing and investigation of the application and may result in rejection or denial of the application. No fee is required when reporting changes to an application for initial license under this section.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Optional method of filing Form FMC-18.</E> In lieu of completing and filing Form FMC-18 in paper format, applications and amendments thereto may be completed and submitted to the Bureau of Certification and Licensing by using the automated FMC-18 filing system in accordance with the instructions found on the Commission's home page, <E T="03">http://www.fmc.gov.</E> A $250 fee for filing a new application and a $125 fee for filing an amended application will be assessed for filers using the automated FMC-18 filing system instead of the fees listed at § 515.5(b)(1), (2).</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 65 FR 15254, Mar. 22, 2000; 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002; 72 FR 44978, Aug. 10, 2007]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.13</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Investigation of applicants.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission shall conduct an investigation of the applicant's qualifications for a license. Such investigations may address:</P> <P>(a) The accuracy of the information submitted in the application;</P> <P>(b) The integrity and financial responsibility of the applicant;</P> <P>(c) The character of the applicant and its qualifying individual; and</P> <P>(d) The length and nature of the qualifying individual's experience in handling ocean transportation intermediary duties.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.14</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Issuance and use of license.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Qualification necessary for issuance.</E> The Commission will issue a license if <PRTPAGE P="143"/>it determines, as a result of its investigation, that the applicant possesses the necessary experience and character to render ocean transportation intermediary services and has filed the required bond, insurance or other surety.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">To whom issued.</E> The Commission will issue a license only in the name of the applicant, whether the applicant is a sole proprietorship, a partnership, or a corporation. A license issued to a sole proprietor doing business under a trade name shall be in the name of the sole proprietor, indicating the trade name under which the licensee will be conducting business. Only one license shall be issued to any applicant regardless of the number of names under which such applicant may be doing business, and except as otherwise provided in this part, such license is limited exclusively to use by the named licensee and shall not be transferred without prior Commission approval to another person.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.15</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Denial of license.</SUBJECT> <P>If the Commission determines, as a result of its investigation, that the applicant:</P> <P>(a) Does not possess the necessary experience or character to render intermediary services;</P> <P>(b) Has failed to respond to any lawful inquiry of the Commission; or</P> <P>(c) Has made any materially false or misleading statement to the Commission in connection with its application; then, a letter of intent to deny the application shall be sent to the applicant by certified U.S. mail or other method reasonably calculated to provide actual notice, stating the reason(s) why the Commission intends to deny the application. If the applicant submits a written request for hearing on the proposed denial within twenty (20) days after receipt of notification, such hearing shall be granted by the Commission pursuant to its Rules of Practice and Procedure contained in part 502 of this chapter. Otherwise, denial of the application will become effective and the applicant shall be so notified by certified U.S. mail or other method reasonably calculated to provide actual notice.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.16</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Revocation or suspension of license.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Grounds for revocation.</E> Except for the automatic revocation for termination of proof of financial responsibility under § 515.26, or as provided in § 515.25(b), a license may be revoked or suspended after notice and an opportunity for a hearing for any of the following reasons:</P> <P>(1) Violation of any provision of the Act, or any other statute or Commission order or regulation related to carrying on the business of an ocean transportation intermediary;</P> <P>(2) Failure to respond to any lawful order or inquiry by the Commission;</P> <P>(3) Making a materially false or misleading statement to the Commission in connection with an application for a license or an amendment to an existing license;</P> <P>(4) Where the Commission determines that the licensee is not qualified to render intermediary services; or</P> <P>(5) Failure to honor the licensee's financial obligations to the Commission.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Notice of revocation.</E> The Commission shall publish in the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> a notice of each revocation.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.17</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Application after revocation or denial.</SUBJECT> <P>Whenever a license has been revoked or an application has been denied because the Commission has found the licensee or applicant to be not qualified to render ocean transportation intermediary services, any further application within 3 years of the Commission's notice of revocation or denial, made by such former licensee or applicant or by another applicant employing the same qualifying individual or controlled by persons on whose conduct the Commission based its determination for revocation or denial, shall be reviewed directly by the Commission.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.18</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Changes in organization.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The following changes in an existing licensee's organization require prior approval of the Commission, and application for such status change or license transfer shall be made on Form FMC-18 Rev., filed in duplicate with the Commission's Bureau of Certification and Licensing, and accompanied by the fee required under § 515.5(b)(2):<PRTPAGE P="144"/> </P> <P>(1) Transfer of a corporate license to another person;</P> <P>(2) Change in ownership of a sole proprietorship;</P> <P>(3) Addition of one or more partners to a licensed partnership;</P> <P>(4) Any change in the business structure of a licensee from or to a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation, whether or not such change involves a change in ownership;</P> <P>(5) Any change in a licensee's name; or</P> <P>(6) Change in the identity or status of the designated qualifying individual, except as described in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Operation after death of sole proprietor.</E> In the event the owner of a licensed sole proprietorship dies, the licensee's executor, administrator, heir(s), or assign(s) may continue operation of such proprietorship solely with respect to shipments for which the deceased sole proprietor had undertaken to act as an ocean transportation intermediary pursuant to the existing license, if the death is reported within 30 days to the Commission and to all principals and shippers for whom services on such shipments are to be rendered. The acceptance or solicitation of any other shipments is expressly prohibited until a new license has been issued. Applications for a new license by the executor, administrator, heir(s), or assign(s) shall be made on Form FMC-18 Rev., and shall be accompanied by the transfer fee required under § 515.5(b)(2).</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Operation after retirement, resignation, or death of qualifying individual.</E> When a partnership or corporation has been licensed on the basis of the qualifications of one or more of the partners or officers thereof, and such qualifying individual(s) no longer serve in a full-time, active capacity with the firm, the licensee shall report such change to the Commission within 30 days. Within the same 30-day period, the licensee shall furnish to the Commission the name(s) and detailed intermediary experience of any other active managing partner(s) or officer(s) who may qualify the licensee. Such qualifying individual(s) must meet the applicable requirements set forth in § 515.11(a). The licensee may continue to operate as an ocean transportation intermediary while the Commission investigates the qualifications of the newly designated partner or officer.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Incorporation of branch office.</E> In the event a licensee's validly operating branch office becomes incorporated as a separate entity, the licensee may continue to operate such office pending receipt of a separate license, provided that:</P> <P>(1) The separately incorporated entity applies to the Commission for its own license within ten (10) days after incorporation, and</P> <P>(2) While the application is pending, the continued operation of the office is carried on as a <E T="03">bona fide</E> branch office of the licensee, under its full control and responsibility, and not as an operation of the separately incorporated entity.</P> <P>(e) Acquisition of one or more additional licensees. In the event a licensee acquires one or more additional licensees, for the purpose of merger, consolidation, or control, the acquiring licensee shall advise the Commission of such change within 30 days after such change occurs by submitting in duplicate, an amended Form FMC-18, Rev. No application fee is required when reporting this change.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Optional method of filing Form FMC-18.</E> In lieu of completing and filing Form FMC-18 in paper format, applications for approval of changes in organization, transfer of license, or changes in the identity or status of the designated qualifying individual required under this section may be completed and submitted to the Bureau of Certification and Licensing by using the automated FMC-18 filing system in accordance with the instructions found on the Commission's home page, <E T="03">http://www.fmc.gov.</E> A $250 fee for filing a new application and a $125 fee for filing an amended application will be assessed for filers using the automated FMC-18 filing system instead of the fees listed at § 515.5(b)(1), (2).</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002; 72 FR 44978, Aug. 10, 2007]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <PRTPAGE P="145"/> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Financial Responsibility Requirements; Claims Against Ocean Transportation Intermediaries</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.21</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Financial responsibility requirements.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Form and amount.</E> Except as otherwise provided in this part, no person may operate as an ocean transportation intermediary unless that person furnishes a bond, proof of insurance, or other surety in a form and amount determined by the Commission to insure financial responsibility. The bond, insurance or other surety covers the transportation-related activities of an ocean transportation intermediary only when acting as an ocean transportation intermediary.</P> <P>(1) Any person operating in the United States as an ocean freight forwarder as defined by § 515.2(o)(1) shall furnish evidence of financial responsibility in the amount of $50,000.</P> <P>(2) Any person operating in the United States as an NVOCC as defined by § 515.2(o)(2) shall furnish evidence of financial responsibility in the amount of $75,000.</P> <P>(3) Any unlicensed foreign-based entity, not operating in the United States as defined in § 515.3, providing ocean transportation intermediary services for transportation to or from the United States, shall furnish evidence of financial responsibility in the amount of $150,000. Such foreign entity will be held strictly responsible hereunder for the acts or omissions of its agent in the United States.</P> <P>(4) The amount of the financial responsibility required to be furnished by any entity pursuant to paragraphs (a)(1) or (a)(2) of this section shall be increased by $10,000 for each of the applicant's unincorporated branch offices.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Group financial responsibility.</E> Where a group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries accepts liability for an ocean transportation intermediary's financial responsibility for such ocean transportation intermediary's transportation-related activities under the Act, the group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries must file either a group supplemental coverage bond form, insurance form or guaranty form, clearly identifying each ocean transportation intermediary covered, before a covered ocean transportation intermediary may provide ocean transportation intermediary services. In such cases a group or association must establish financial responsibility in an amount equal to the lesser of the amount required by paragraph (a) of this section for each member or $3,000,000 in aggregate. A group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries may also file an optional bond rider as provided for by § 515.25(c).</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Common trade name.</E> Where more than one person operates under a common trade name, separate proof of financial responsibility is required covering each corporation or person separately providing ocean transportation intermediary services.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Federal military and civilian household goods.</E> Any person which exclusively transports used household goods and personal effects for the account of the Department of Defense, or for the account of the federal civilian executive agencies shipping under the International Household Goods Program administered by the General Services Administration, or both, is not subject to the requirements of subpart C of this part, but may be subject to other requirements, such as alternative surety bonding, imposed by the Department of Defense, or the General Services Administration.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 69 FR 17945, Apr. 6, 2004]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.22</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Proof of financial responsibility.</SUBJECT> <P>Prior to the date it commences furnishing ocean transportation intermediary services, every ocean transportation intermediary shall establish its financial responsibility for the purpose of this part by one of the following methods:</P> <P>(a) Surety bond, by filing with the Commission a valid bond on Form FMC-48. Bonds must be issued by a surety company found acceptable by the Secretary of the Treasury;</P> <P>(b) Insurance, by filing with the Commission evidence of insurance on Form FMC-67. The insurance must provide coverage for damages, reparations or <PRTPAGE P="146"/>penalties arising from any transportation-related activities under the Act of the insured ocean transportation intermediary. This evidence of financial responsibility shall be accompanied by: in the case of a financial rating, the Insurer's financial rating on the rating organization's letterhead or designated form; in the case of insurance provided by Underwriters at Lloyd's, documentation verifying membership in Lloyd's; and in the case of insurance provided by surplus lines insurers, documentation verifying inclusion on a current “white list” issued by the Non-Admitted Insurers' Information Office of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. The Insurer must certify that it has sufficient and acceptable assets located in the United States to cover all damages arising from the transportation-related activities of the insured ocean transportation intermediary as specified under the Act. The insurance must be placed with:</P> <P>(1) An Insurer having a financial rating of Class V or higher under the Financial Size Categories of A.M. Best & Company, or equivalent from an acceptable international rating organization;</P> <P>(2) Underwriters at Lloyd's; or</P> <P>(3) Surplus lines insurers named on a current “white list” issued by the Non-Admitted Insurers' Information Office of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners; or</P> <P>(c) Guaranty, by filing with the Commission evidence of guaranty on Form FMC-68. The guaranty must provide coverage for damages, reparations or penalties arising from any transportation-related activities under the Act of the covered ocean transportation intermediary. This evidence of financial responsibility shall be accompanied by: in the case of a financial rating, the Guarantor's financial rating on the rating organization's letterhead or designated form; in the case of a guaranty provided by Underwriters at Lloyd's, documentation verifying membership in Lloyd's; and in the case of a guaranty provided by surplus lines insurers, documentation verifying inclusion on a current “white list” issued by the Non-Admitted Insurers' Information Office of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. The Guarantor must certify that it has sufficient and acceptable assets located in the United States to cover all damages arising from the transportation-related activities of the covered ocean transportation intermediary as specified under the Act. The guaranty must be placed with:</P> <P>(1) A Guarantor having a financial rating of Class V or higher under the Financial Size Categories of A.M. Best & Company, or equivalent from an acceptable international rating organization;</P> <P>(2) Underwriters at Lloyd's; or</P> <P>(3) Surplus lines insurers named on a current “white list” issued by the Non-Admitted Insurers' Information Office of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners; or</P> <P>(d) Evidence of financial responsibility of the type provided for in paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of this section established through and filed with the Commission by a group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries on behalf of its members, subject to the following conditions and procedures:</P> <P>(1) Each group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries shall notify the Commission of its intention to participate in such a program and furnish documentation as will demonstrate its authenticity and authority to represent its members, such as articles of incorporation, bylaws, etc.;</P> <P>(2) Each group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries shall provide the Commission with a list certified by its Chief Executive Officer containing the names of those ocean transportation intermediaries to which it will provide coverage; the manner and amount of existing coverage each covered ocean transportation intermediary has; an indication that the existing coverage provided each ocean transportation intermediary is provided by a surety bond issued by a surety company found acceptable to the Secretary of the Treasury, or by insurance or guaranty issued by a firm meeting the requirements of paragraphs (b) or (c) of this section with coverage limits specified above in § 515.21; and the name, address and facsimile number of each surety, insurer <PRTPAGE P="147"/>or guarantor providing coverage pursuant to this section. Each group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries or its financial responsibility provider shall notify the Commission within 30 days of any changes to its list;</P> <P>(3) The group or association shall provide the Commission with a sample copy of each type of existing financial responsibility coverage used by member ocean transportation intermediaries;</P> <P>(4) Each group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries shall be responsible for ensuring that each member's financial responsibility coverage allows for claims to be made in the United States against the Surety, Insurer or Guarantor for any judgment for damages against the ocean transportation intermediary arising from its transportation-related activities under the Act, or order for reparations issued pursuant to section 11 of the Act, or any penalty assessed against the ocean transportation intermediary pursuant to section 13 of the Act. Each group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries shall be responsible for requiring each member ocean transportation intermediary to provide it with valid proof of financial responsibility annually;</P> <P>(5) Where the group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries determines to secure on behalf of its members other forms of financial responsibility, as specified by this section, for damages, reparations or penalties not covered by a member's individual financial responsibility coverage, such additional coverage must:</P> <P>(i) Allow claims to be made in the United States directly against the group or association's Surety, Insurer or Guarantor for damages against each covered member ocean transportation intermediary arising from each covered member ocean transportation intermediary's transportation-related activities under the Act, or order for reparations issued pursuant to section 11 of the Act, or any penalty assessed against each covered member ocean transportation intermediary pursuant to section 13 of the Act; and</P> <P>(ii) Be for an amount up to the amount determined in accordance with § 515.21(b), taking into account a member's individual financial responsibility coverage already in place. In the event of a claim against a group bond, the bond must be replenished up to the original amount of coverage within 30 days of payment of the claim; and</P> <P>(iii) be in excess of a member's individual financial responsibility coverage already in place; and</P> <P>(6) The coverage provided by the group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries on behalf of its members shall be provided by:</P> <P>(i) in the case of a surety bond, a surety company found acceptable to the Secretary of the Treasury and issued by such a surety company on Form FMC-69; and</P> <P>(ii) in the case of insurance and guaranty, a firm having a financial rating of Class V or higher under the Financial Size Categories of A.M. Best & Company or equivalent from an acceptable international rating organization, Underwriters at Lloyd's, or surplus line insurers named on a current “white list” issued by the Non-Admitted Insurers' Information Office of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners and issued by such firms on Form FMC-67 and Form FMC-68, respectively.</P> <P>(e) All forms and documents for establishing financial responsibility of ocean transportation intermediaries prescribed in this section shall be submitted to the Director, Bureau of Certification and Licensing, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573. Such forms and documents must clearly identify the name; trade name, if any; and the address of each ocean transportation intermediary.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.23</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Claims against an ocean transportation intermediary.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission or another party may seek payment from the bond, insurance, or other surety that is obtained by an ocean transportation intermediary pursuant to this section. (<E T="03">See also</E> § 545.3 of this chapter.)</P> <P>(a) <E T="03">Payment pursuant to Commission order.</E> If the Commission issues an order for reparation pursuant to sections 11 or 14 of the Act, or assesses a <PRTPAGE P="148"/>penalty pursuant to section 13 of the Act, a bond, insurance, or other surety shall be available to pay such order or penalty.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Payment pursuant to a claim.</E> (1) If a party does not file a complaint with the Commission pursuant to section 11 of the Act, but otherwise seeks to pursue a claim against an ocean transportation intermediary bond, insurance or other surety for damages arising from its transportation-related activities, it shall attempt to resolve its claim with the financial responsibility provider prior to seeking payment on any judgment for damages obtained. When a claimant seeks payment under this section, it simultaneously shall notify both the financial responsibility provider and the ocean transportation intermediary of the claim by certified mail, return receipt requested. The bond, insurance, or other surety may be available to pay such claim if:</P> <P>(i) The ocean transportation intermediary consents to payment, subject to review by the financial responsibility provider; or</P> <P>(ii) The ocean transportation intermediary fails to respond within forty-five (45) days from the date of the notice of the claim to address the validity of the claim, and the financial responsibility provider deems the claim valid.</P> <P>(2) If the parties fail to reach an agreement in accordance with paragraph (b)(1) of this section within ninety (90) days of the date of the initial notification of the claim, the bond, insurance, or other surety shall be available to pay any final judgment for damages obtained from an appropriate court. The financial responsibility provider shall pay such judgment for damages only to the extent they arise from the transportation-related activities of the ocean transportation intermediary ordinarily within 30 days, without requiring further evidence related to the validity of the claim; it may, however, inquire into the extent to which the judgment for damages arises from the ocean transportation intermediary's transportation-related activities.</P> <P>(c) The Federal Maritime Commission shall not serve as depository or distributor to third parties of bond, guaranty, or insurance funds in the event of any claim, judgment, or order for reparation.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Optional bond riders.</E> The Federal Maritime Commission shall not serve as a depository or distributor to third parties of funds payable pursuant to optional bond riders described in § 515.25(c).</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 65 FR 26512, May 8, 2000; 65 FR 33480, May 24, 2000; 69 FR 17945, Apr. 6, 2004]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.24</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agent for service of process.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Every ocean transportation intermediary not located in the United States and every group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries not located in the United States which provides financial coverage for the financial responsibility of a member ocean transportation intermediary shall designate and maintain a person in the United States as legal agent for the receipt of judicial and administrative process, including subpoenas.</P> <P>(b) If the designated legal agent cannot be served because of death, disability, or unavailability, the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, will be deemed to be the legal agent for service of process. Any person serving the Secretary must also send to the ocean transportation intermediary, or group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries which provide financial coverage for the financial responsibilities of a member ocean transportation intermediary, by registered mail, return receipt requested, at its address published in its tariff, a copy of each document served upon the Secretary, and shall attest to that mailing at the time service is made upon the Secretary.</P> <P>(c) Service of administrative process, other than subpoenas, may be effected upon the legal agent by mailing a copy of the document to be served by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested. Administrative subpoenas shall be served in accordance with § 502.134 of this chapter.</P> <P>(d) Designations of resident agent under paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section and provisions relating to service of process under paragraph (c) of this section shall be published in the ocean transportation intermediary's tariff, <PRTPAGE P="149"/>when required, in accordance with part 520 of this chapter.</P> <P>(e) Every ocean transportation intermediary using a group or association of ocean transportation intermediaries to cover its financial responsibility requirement under § 515.21(b) shall publish the name and address of the group or association's resident agent for receipt of judicial and administrative process, including subpoenas, in its tariff, when required, in accordance with part 520 of this chapter.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.25</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Filing of proof of financial responsibility.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Filing of proof of financial responsibility.</E> Upon notification by the Commission by certified U.S. mail or other method reasonably calculated to provide actual notice that the applicant has been approved for licensing, the applicant shall file with the Director of the Commission's Bureau of Certification and Licensing, proof of financial responsibility in the form and amount prescribed in § 515.21. No tariff shall be published until a license is issued, if applicable, and proof of financial responsibility is provided. No license will be issued until the Commission is in receipt of valid proof of financial responsibility from the applicant. If more than six (6) months elapse between issuance of the notification of qualification and receipt of the proof of financial responsibility, the Commission may, at its discretion, undertake a supplementary investigation to determine the applicant's continued qualification, for which a fee is required under § 515.5(b)(3). Should the applicant not file the requisite proof of financial responsibility within two (2) years of notification, the Commission will consider the application to be invalid.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Branch offices.</E> New proof of financial responsibility, or a rider to the existing proof of financial responsibility, increasing the amount of the financial responsibility in accordance with § 515.21(a)(4), shall be filed with the Commission prior to the date the licensee commences operation of any branch office. Failure to adhere to this requirement may result in revocation of the license.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Optional bond rider.</E> Any NVOCC as defined by § 515.2(o)(2), in addition to a bond meeting the requirements of § 515.21(a)(2), may obtain and file with the Commission proof of an optional bond rider, as provided for in appendix E or appendix F of this part.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002; 69 FR 17945, Apr. 6, 2004]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.26</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Termination of financial responsibility.</SUBJECT> <P>No license shall remain in effect unless valid proof of financial responsibility is maintained on file with the Commission. Upon receipt of notice of termination of such financial responsibility, the Commission shall notify the concerned licensee by certified U.S. mail or other method reasonably calculated to provide actual notice, at its last known address, that the Commission shall, without hearing or other proceeding, revoke the license as of the termination date of the financial responsibility, unless the licensee shall have submitted valid replacement proof of financial responsibility before such termination date. Replacement financial responsibility must bear an effective date no later than the termination date of the expiring financial responsibility.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.27</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Proof of compliance.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) No common carrier may transport cargo for the account of a shipper known by the carrier to be an NVOCC unless the carrier has determined that the NVOCC has a tariff and financial responsibility as required by sections 8 and 19 of the Act.</P> <P>(b) A common carrier can obtain proof of an NVOCC's compliance with the tariff and financial responsibility requirements by:</P> <P>(1) Reviewing a copy of the tariff published by the NVOCC and in effect under part 520 of this chapter;</P> <P>(2) Consulting the Commission to verify that the NVOCC has filed evidence of its financial responsibility; or</P> <P>(3) Any other appropriate procedure, provided that such procedure is set forth in the carrier's tariff.</P> <P>(c) A common carrier that has employed the procedure prescribed in either paragraphs (b)(1) or (b)(2) of this section shall be deemed to have met its obligations under section 10(b)(11) of <PRTPAGE P="150"/>the Act, unless the common carrier knew that such NVOCC was not in compliance with the tariff and financial responsibility requirements.</P> <P>(d) The Commission will publish at its website, <E T="03">www.fmc.gov,</E> a list of the locations of all carrier and conference tariffs, and a list of ocean transportation intermediaries who have furnished the Commission with evidence of financial responsibility, current as of the last date on which the list is updated. The Commission will update this list on a periodic basis.</P> </SECTION> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 515, Subpart C, App. A</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Appendix A to Subpart C of Part 515—Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Bond Form [Form 48]</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Form FMC-48</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Federal Maritime Commission</HD> <P>Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Bond (Section 19, Shipping Act of 1984, as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 and the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1998) __________[indicate whether <E T="03">NVOCC</E> or <E T="03">Freight Forwarder</E>], as Principal (hereinafter “Principal”), and __________, as Surety (hereinafter “Surety”) are held and firmly bound unto the United States of America in the sum of $__________ for the payment of which sum we bind ourselves, our heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns, jointly and severally.</P> <P> <E T="03">Whereas,</E> Principal operates as an OTI in the waterborne foreign commerce of the United States in accordance with the Shipping Act of 1984, as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 and the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1998 (“1984 Act”), 46 U.S.C. app 1702, and, if necessary, has a valid tariff published pursuant to 46 CFR part 515 and 520, and pursuant to section 19 of the 1984 Act, files this bond with the Commission;</P> <P>Now, Therefore, The condition of this obligation is that the penalty amount of this bond shall be available to pay any judgment or any settlement made pursuant to a claim under 46 CFR § 515.23(b) for damages against the Principal arising from the Principal's transportation-related activities or order for reparations issued pursuant to section 11 of the 1984 Act, 46 U.S.C. app. 1710, or any penalty assessed against the Principal pursuant to section 13 of the 1984 Act, 46 U.S.C. app. 1712.</P> <P>This bond shall inure to the benefit of any and all persons who have obtained a judgment or a settlement made pursuant to a claim under 46 CFR § 515.23(b) for damages against the Principal arising from its transportation-related activities or order of reparation issued pursuant to section 11 of the 1984 Act, and to the benefit of the Federal Maritime Commission for any penalty assessed against the Principal pursuant to section 13 of the 1984 Act. However, the bond shall not apply to shipments of used household goods and personal effects for the account of the Department of Defense or the account of federal civilian executive agencies shipping under the International Household Goods Program administered by the General Services Administration.</P> <P>The liability of the Surety shall not be discharged by any payment or succession of payments hereunder, unless and until such payment or payments shall aggregate the penalty of this bond, and in no event shall the Surety's total obligation hereunder exceed said penalty regardless of the number of claims or claimants.</P> <P>This bond is effective the ___ day of __________, _____ and shall continue in effect until discharged or terminated as herein provided. The Principal or the Surety may at any time terminate this bond by written notice to the Federal Maritime Commission at its office in Washington, DC. Such termination shall become effective thirty (30) days after receipt of said notice by the Commission. The Surety shall not be liable for any transportation-related activities of the Principal after the expiration of the 30-day period but such termination shall not affect the liability of the Principal and Surety for any event occurring prior to the date when said termination becomes effective.</P> <P>The Surety consents to be sued directly in respect of any <E T="03">bona fide</E> claim owed by Principal for damages, reparations or penalties arising from the transportation-related activities under the 1984 Act of Principal in the event that such legal liability has not been discharged by the Principal or Surety after a claimant has obtained a final judgment (after appeal, if any) against the Principal from a United States Federal or State Court of competent jurisdiction and has complied with the procedures for collecting on such a judgment pursuant to 46 CFR § 515.23(b), the Federal Maritime Commission, or where all parties and claimants otherwise mutually consent, from a foreign court, or where such claimant has become entitled to payment of a specified sum by virtue of a compromise settlement agreement made with the Principal and/or Surety pursuant to 46 CFR § 515.23(b), whereby, upon payment of the agreed sum, the Surety is to be fully, irrevocably and unconditionally discharged from all further liability to such claimant; provided, however, that Surety's total obligation hereunder shall not exceed the amount set forth in 46 CFR § 515.21, as applicable.</P> <P>The underwriting Surety will promptly notify the Director, Bureau of Certification and <PRTPAGE P="151"/>Licensing, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573, of any claim(s) against this bond.</P> <P>Signed and sealed this ___ day of __________, _____.</P> <FP>(Please type name of signer under each signature.)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Individual Principal or Partner</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Business Address</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Individual Principal or Partner</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Business Address</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Individual Principal or Partner</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Business Address</FP> <P>Trade Name, If Any </P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Corporate Principal</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>State of Incorporation</FP> <P>Trade Name, If Any </P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Business Address</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>By</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Title</FP> <FP>(Affix Corporate Seal)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Corporate Surety</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Business Address</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>By</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Title</FP> <FP>(Affix Corporate Seal)</FP> <CITA>[64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002]</CITA> </APPENDIX> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 515, Subpart C, App. B</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Appendix B to Subpart C of Part 515—Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Insurance Form [Form 67]</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Form FMC-67</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Federal Maritime Commission</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Insurance</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Form Furnished as Evidence of Financial Responsibility</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Under 46 U.S.C. app. 1718</HD> <P>This is to certify, that the (<E T="03">Name of Insurance Company</E>), (hereinafter “Insurer”) of (<E T="03">Home Office Address of Company</E>) has issued to (<E T="03">OTI or Group or Association of OTIs [indicate whether NVOCC(s) or Freight Forwarder(s)]</E>) (hereinafter “Insured”) of (<E T="03">Address of OTI or Group or Association of OTIs</E>) a policy or policies of insurance for purposes of complying with the provisions of 46 U.S.C. app. 1718 and the rules and regulations, as amended, of the Federal Maritime Commission, which provide compensation for damages, reparations or penalties arising from the transportation-related activities of Insured, and made pursuant to the Shipping Act of 1984, as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 and the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1998 (“1984 Act”).</P> <P> <E T="03">Whereas,</E> the Insured is or may become an OTI subject to the 1984 Act, 46 U.S.C. app. 1701 <E T="03">et seq.,</E> and the rules and regulations of the Federal Maritime Commission, or is or may become a group or association of OTIs, and desires to establish financial responsibility in accordance with section 19 of the 1984 Act, files with the Commission this Insurance Form as evidence of its financial responsibility and evidence of a financial rating for the Insurer of Class V or higher under the Financial Size Categories of A.M. Best & Company or equivalent from an acceptable international rating organization on such organization's letterhead or designated form, or, in the case of insurance provided by Underwriters at Lloyd's, documentation verifying membership in Lloyd's, or, in the case of surplus lines insurers, documentation verifying inclusion on a current “white list” issued by the Non-Admitted Insurers' Information Office of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.</P> <P> <E T="03">Whereas,</E> the Insurance is written to assure compliance by the Insured with section 19 of the 1984 Act, 46 U.S.C. app. 1718, and the rules and regulations of the Federal Maritime Commission relating to evidence of financial responsibility for OTIs, this Insurance shall be available to pay any judgment obtained or any settlement made pursuant to a claim under 46 CFR § 515.23(b) for damages against the Insured arising from the Insured's transportation-related activities under the 1984 Act, or order for reparations issued pursuant to section 11 of the 1984 Act, 46 U.S.C. app. 1710, or any penalty assessed against the Insured pursuant to section 13 of the 1984 Act, 46 U.S.C. app. 1712; provided, however, that Insurer's obligation for a group or association of OTIs shall extend only to such damages, reparations or penalties described herein as are not covered by another insurance policy, guaranty or surety bond held by the OTI(s) against which a claim or final judgment has been brought and that Insurer's total obligation hereunder shall not exceed the amount per OTI set forth in 46 CFR § 515.21 or the amount per group or association of OTIs set forth in 46 CFR § 515.21 in aggregate.<PRTPAGE P="152"/> </P> <P> <E T="03">Whereas,</E> the Insurer certifies that it has sufficient and acceptable assets located in the United States to cover all liabilities of Insured herein described, this Insurance shall inure to the benefit of any and all persons who have a <E T="03">bona fide</E> claim against the Insured pursuant to 46 CFR § 515.23(b) arising from its transportation-related activities under the 1984 Act, or order of reparation issued pursuant to section 11 of the 1984 Act, and to the benefit of the Federal Maritime Commission for any penalty assessed against the Insured pursuant to section 13 of the 1984 Act.</P> <P>The Insurer consents to be sued directly in respect of any <E T="03">bona fide</E> claim owed by Insured for damages, reparations or penalties arising from the transportation-related activities under the 1984 Act, of Insured in the event that such legal liability has not been discharged by the Insured or Insurer after a claimant has obtained a final judgment (after appeal, if any) against the Insured from a United States Federal or State Court of competent jurisdiction and has complied with the procedures for collecting on such a judgment pursuant to 46 CFR § 515.23(b), the Federal Maritime Commission, or where all parties and claimants otherwise mutually consent, from a foreign court, or where such claimant has become entitled to payment of a specified sum by virtue of a compromise settlement agreement made with the Insured and/or Insurer pursuant to 46 CFR § 515.23(b), whereby, upon payment of the agreed sum, the Insurer is to be fully, irrevocably and unconditionally discharged from all further liability to such claimant; provided, however, that Insurer's total obligation hereunder shall not exceed the amount per OTI set forth in 46 CFR § 515.21 or the amount per group or association of OTIs set forth in 46 CFR § 515.21.</P> <P>The liability of the Insurer shall not be discharged by any payment or succession of payments hereunder, unless and until such payment or payments shall aggregate the penalty of the Insurance in the amount per member OTI set forth in 46 CFR § 515.21 or the amount per group or association of OTIs set forth in 46 CFR § 515.21, regardless of the financial responsibility or lack thereof, or the solvency or bankruptcy, of Insured.</P> <P>The insurance evidenced by this undertaking shall be applicable only in relation to incidents occurring on or after the effective date and before the date termination of this undertaking becomes effective. The effective date of this undertaking shall be ___ day of __________, _____, and shall continue in effect until discharged or terminated as herein provided. The Insured or the Insurer may at any time terminate the Insurance by filing a notice in writing with the Federal Maritime Commission at its office in Washington, D.C. Such termination shall become effective thirty (30) days after receipt of said notice by the Commission. The Insurer shall not be liable for any transportation-related activities under the 1984 Act of the Insured after the expiration of the 30-day period but such termination shall not affect the liability of the Insured and Insurer for such activities occurring prior to the date when said termination becomes effective.</P> <P>Insurer or Insured shall immediately give notice to the Federal Maritime Commission of all lawsuits filed, judgments rendered, and payments made under the insurance policy.</P> <P>(Name of Agent) __________ domiciled in the United States, with offices located in the United States, at __________ is hereby designated as the Insurer's agent for service of process for the purposes of enforcing the Insurance certified to herein.</P> <P>If more than one insurer joins in executing this document, that action constitutes joint and several liability on the part of the insurers.</P> <P>The Insurer will promptly notify the Director, Bureau of Certification and Licensing, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, D.C. 20573, of any claim(s) against the Insurance.</P> <P>Signed and sealed this _____ day of __________, _____.</P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Signature of Official signing on behalf of Insurer</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Type Name and Title of signer</FP> <P>This Insurance Form has been filed with the Federal Maritime Commission.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002]</CITA> </APPENDIX> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 515, Subpart C, App. C</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Appendix C to Subpart C of Part 515—Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Guaranty Form [Form 68]</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Form FMC-68</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Federal Maritime Commission</HD> <P>Guaranty in Respect of Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Liability for Damages, Reparations or Penalties Arising from Transportation-Related Activities Under the Shipping Act of 1984, as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 and the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1998</P> <P>1. <E T="03">Whereas</E> ___________________ (Name of Applicant [indicate whether <E T="03">NVOCC</E> or <E T="03">Freight Forwarder</E>]) (hereinafter “Applicant”) is or may become an Ocean Transportation Intermediary (“OTI”) subject to the Shipping Act of 1984, as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 and the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1998 (“1984 Act”), 46 U.S.C. app. 1701 <E T="03">et seq.,</E> and the rules and <PRTPAGE P="153"/>regulations of the Federal Maritime Commission (“FMC”), or is or may become a group or association of OTIs, and desires to establish its financial responsibility in accordance with section 19 of the 1984 Act, then, provided that the FMC shall have accepted, as sufficient for that purpose, the Applicant's application, supported by evidence of a financial rating for the Guarantor of Class V or higher under the Financial Size Categories of A.M. Best & Company or equivalent from an acceptable international rating organization on such rating organization's letterhead or designated form, or, in the case of Guaranty provided by Underwriters at Lloyd's, documentation verifying membership in Lloyd's, or, in the case of surplus lines insurers, documentation verifying inclusion on a current “white list” issued by the Non-Admitted Insurers' Information Office of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, the undersigned Guarantor certifies that it has sufficient and acceptable assets located in the United States to cover all damages arising from the transportation-related activities of the covered OTI as specified under the 1984 Act.</P> <P>2. <E T="03">Now, Therefore,</E> The condition of this obligation is that the penalty amount of this Guaranty shall be available to pay any judgment obtained or any settlement made pursuant to a claim under 46 CFR § 515.23(b) for damages against the Applicant arising from the Applicant's transportation-related activities or order for reparations issued pursuant to section 11 of the 1984 Act, 46 U.S.C. app. 1710, or any penalty assessed against the Principal pursuant to section 13 of the 1984 Act, 46 U.S.C. app. 1712.</P> <P>3. The undersigned Guarantor hereby consents to be sued directly in respect of any <E T="03">bona fide</E> claim owed by Applicant for damages, reparations or penalties arising from Applicant's transportation-related activities under the 1984 Act, in the event that such legal liability has not been discharged by the Applicant after any such claimant has obtained a final judgment (after appeal, if any) against the Applicant from a United States Federal or State Court of competent jurisdiction and has complied with the procedures for collecting on such a judgment pursuant to 46 CFR § 515.23(b), the FMC, or where all parties and claimants otherwise mutually consent, from a foreign court, or where such claimant has become entitled to payment of a specified sum by virtue of a compromise settlement agreement made with the Applicant and/or Guarantor pursuant to 46 CFR § 515.23(b), whereby, upon payment of the agreed sum, the Guarantor is to be fully, irrevocably and unconditionally discharged from all further liability to such claimant. In the case of a guaranty covering the liability of a group or association of OTIs, Guarantor's obligation extends only to such damages, reparations or penalties described herein as are not covered by another insurance policy, guaranty or surety bond held by the OTI(s) against which a claim or final judgment has been brought.</P> <P>4. The Guarantor's liability under this Guaranty in respect to any claimant shall not exceed the amount of the guaranty; and the aggregate amount of the Guarantor's liability under this Guaranty shall not exceed the amount per OTI set forth in 46 CFR § 515.21 or the amount per group or association of OTIs set forth in 46 CFR § 515.21 in aggregate.</P> <P>5. The Guarantor's liability under this Guaranty shall attach only in respect of such activities giving rise to a cause of action against the Applicant, in respect of any of its transportation-related activities under the 1984 Act, occurring after the Guaranty has become effective, and before the expiration date of this Guaranty, which shall be the date thirty (30) days after the date of receipt by FMC of notice in writing that either Applicant or the Guarantor has elected to terminate this Guaranty. The Guarantor and/or Applicant specifically agree to file such written notice of cancellation.</P> <P>6. Guarantor shall not be liable for payments of any of the damages, reparations or penalties hereinbefore described which arise as the result of any transportation-related activities of Applicant after the cancellation of the Guaranty, as herein provided, but such cancellation shall not affect the liability of the Guarantor for the payment of any such damages, reparations or penalties prior to the date such cancellation becomes effective.</P> <P>7. Guarantor shall pay, subject to the limit of the amount per OTI set forth in 46 CFR § 515.21, directly to a claimant any sum or sums which Guarantor, in good faith, determines that the Applicant has failed to pay and would be held legally liable by reason of Applicant's transportation-related activities, or its legal responsibilities under the 1984 Act and the rules and regulations of the FMC, made by Applicant while this agreement is in effect, regardless of the financial responsibility or lack thereof, or the solvency or bankruptcy, of Applicant.</P> <P>8. Applicant or Guarantor shall immediately give written notice to the FMC of all lawsuits filed, judgments rendered, and payments made under the Guaranty.</P> <P>9. Applicant and Guarantor agree to handle the processing and adjudication of claims by claimants under the Guaranty established herein in the United States, unless by mutual consent of all parties and claimants another country is agreed upon. Guarantor agrees to appoint an agent for service of process in the United States.</P> <P>10. This Guaranty shall be governed by the laws in the State of _ to the extent not inconsistent with the rules and regulations of the FMC.<PRTPAGE P="154"/> </P> <P>11. This Guaranty is effective the day of ___ ,__________ ,_____ 12:01 a.m., standard time at the address of the Guarantor as stated herein and shall continue in force until terminated as herein provided.</P> <P>12. The Guarantor hereby designates as the Guarantor's legal agent for service of process domiciled in the United States __________, with offices located in the United States at __________ , for the purposes of enforcing the Guaranty described herein. </P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>(Place and Date of Execution)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>(Type Name of Guarantor)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>(Type Address of Guarantor)</FP> <FP>By</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>(Signature and Title)</FP> </APPENDIX> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 515, Subpt. C, App. D</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Appendix D to Subpart C of Part 515—Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Group Bond Form [FMC-69]</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Form FMC-69</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Federal Maritime Commission</HD> <P>Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Group Supplemental Coverage Bond Form (Section 19, Shipping Act of 1984, as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 and the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1998)</P> <P>__________[indicate whether <E T="03">NVOCC</E> or <E T="03">Freight Forwarder</E>], as Principal (hereinafter “Principal”), and ____________________ as Surety (hereinafter “Surety”) are held and firmly bound unto the United States of America in the sum of $_____________ for the payment of which sum we bind ourselves, our heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns, jointly and severally.</P> <P> <E T="03">Whereas,</E> (Principal) __________ operates as a group or association of OTIs in the waterborne foreign commerce of the United States and pursuant to section 19 of the Shipping Act of 1984, as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 and the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1998 (“1984 Act”), files this bond with the Federal Maritime Commission;</P> <P> <E T="03">Now, therefore,</E> the conditions of this obligation are that the penalty amount of this bond shall be available to pay any judgment obtained or any settlement made pursuant to a claim under 46 CFR § 515.23(b) against the OTIs enumerated in Appendix A of this bond for damages arising from any or all of the identified OTIs' transportation-related activities under the 1984 Act, 46 U.S.C. app. 1701 <E T="03">et seq.,</E> or order for reparations issued pursuant to section 11 of the 1984 Act, 46 U.S.C. app. 1710, or any penalty assessed pursuant to section 13 of the 1984 Act, 46 U.S.C. app. 1712, that are not covered by the identified OTIs' individual insurance policy(ies), guaranty(ies) or surety bond(s).</P> <P>This bond shall inure to the benefit of any and all persons who have obtained a judgment or made a settlement pursuant to a claim under 46 CFR § 515.23(b) for damages against any or all of the OTIs identified in Appendix A not covered by said OTIs' insurance policy(ies), guaranty(ies) or surety bond(s) arising from said OTIs' transportation-related activities under the 1984 Act, or order for reparation issued pursuant to section 11 of the 1984 Act, and to the benefit of the Federal Maritime Commission for any penalty assessed against said OTIs pursuant to section 13 of the 1984 Act. However, the bond shall not apply to shipments of used household goods and personal effects for the account of the Department of Defense or the account of federal civilian executive agencies shipping under the International Household Goods Program administered by the General Services Administration.</P> <P>The Surety consents to be sued directly in respect of any <E T="03">bona fide</E> claim owed by any or all of the OTIs identified in Appendix A for damages, reparations or penalties arising from the transportation-related activities under the 1984 Act of the OTIs in the event that such legal liability has not been discharged by the OTIs or Surety after a claimant has obtained a final judgment (after appeal, if any) against the OTIs from a United States Federal or State Court of competent jurisdiction and has complied with the procedures for collecting on such a judgment pursuant to 46 CFR § 515.23(b), the Federal Maritime Commission, or where all parties and claimants otherwise mutually consent, from a foreign court, or where such claimant has become entitled to payment of a specified sum by virtue of a compromise settlement agreement made with the OTIs and/or Surety pursuant to 46 CFR § 515.23(b), whereby, upon payment of the agreed sum, the Surety is to be fully, irrevocably and unconditionally discharged from all further liability to such claimant.</P> <P>The liability of the Surety shall not be discharged by any payment or succession of payments hereunder, unless and until such payment or payments shall aggregate the penalty of this bond, and in no event shall the Surety's total obligation hereunder exceed the amount per member OTI set forth in 46 CFR § 515.21 identified in Appendix A, or the amount per group or association of OTIs set forth in 46 CFR § 515.21, regardless of the number of OTIs, claims or claimants.<PRTPAGE P="155"/> </P> <P>This bond is effective the ___ day of __________, _____, and shall continue in effect until discharged or terminated as herein provided. The Principal or the Surety may at any time terminate this bond by written notice to the Federal Maritime Commission at its office in Washington, DC. Such termination shall become effective thirty (30) days after receipt of said notice by the Commission. The Surety shall not be liable for any transportation-related activities of the OTIs identified in Appendix A as covered by the Principal after the expiration of the 30-day period, but such termination shall not affect the liability of the Principal and Surety for any transportation-related activities occurring prior to the date when said termination becomes effective.</P> <P>The Principal or financial responsibility provider will promptly notify the underwriting Surety and the Director, Bureau of Certification and Licensing, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573, of any additions, deletions or changes to the OTIs enumerated in Appendix A. In the event of additions to Appendix A, coverage will be effective upon receipt of such notice, in writing, by the Commission at its office in Washington, DC. In the event of deletions to Appendix A, termination of coverage for such OTI(s) shall become effective 30 days after receipt of written notice by the Commission. Neither the Principal nor the Surety shall be liable for any transportation-related activities of the OTI(s) deleted from Appendix A after the expiration of the 30-day period, but such termination shall not affect the liability of the Principal and Surety for any transportation-related activities of said OTI(s) occurring prior to the date when said termination becomes effective.</P> <P>The underwriting Surety will promptly notify the Director, Bureau of Certification and Licensing, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573, of any claim(s) against this bond.</P> <P>Signed and sealed this ___ day of __________, _____,</P> <FP>(Please type name of signer under each signature).</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Individual Principal or Partner</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Business Address</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Individual Principal or Partner</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Business Address</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Individual Principal or Partner</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Business Address</FP> <P>Trade Name, if Any </P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Corporate Principal</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Place of Incorporation</FP> <P>Trade Name, if Any </P> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Business Address (Affix Corporate Seal)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>By</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Title</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Principal's Agent for Service of Process (Required if Principal is not a U.S. Corporation)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Agent's Address</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Corporate Surety</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Business Address (Affix Corporate Seal)</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>By</FP> <FP SOURCE="FP-DASH"/> <FP>Title</FP> <CITA>[64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002]</CITA> </APPENDIX> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 515, Subpt. C, App. E</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Appendix E to Subpart C of Part 515—Optional Rider for Additional NVOCC Financial Responsibility (Optional Rider to Form FMC-48) [FORM 48A]</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">FMC-48A, OMB No. 3072-0018, (04/06/04)</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Optional Rider for Additional NVOCC Financial Responsibility [Optional Rider to Form FMC-48]</HD> </APPENDIX> <SUBJGRP> <HD SOURCE="HED">RIDER</HD> <P>The undersigned [______], as Principal and [______], as Surety do hereby agree that the existing Bond No. [______] to the United States of America and filed with the Federal Maritime Commission pursuant to section 19 of the Shipping Act of 1984 is modified as follows:</P> <P>1. The following condition is added to this Bond:</P> <P>a. An additional condition of this Bond is that $21,000 (payable in U.S. Dollars or Renminbi Yuan at the option of the Surety) shall be available to pay any fines and penalties for activities in the U.S.-China trades imposed by the Ministry of Communications of the People's Republic of China (“MOC”) or its authorized competent communications department of the people's government of the province, autonomous region or municipality directly under the Central Government or the State Administration of Industry and Commerce pursuant to the Regulations of the People's Republic of China on International Maritime Transportation and the Implementing Rules of the Regulations <PRTPAGE P="156"/>of the PRC on International Maritime Transportation promulgated by MOC Decree No. 1, January 20, 2003. Such amount is separate and distinct from the bond amount set forth in the first paragraph of this Bond. Payment under this Rider shall not reduce the bond amount in the first paragraph of this Bond or affect its availability.</P> <P>b. The liability of the Surety shall not be discharged by any payment or succession of payments pursuant to section 1 of this Rider, unless and until the payment or payments shall aggregate the amount set forth in section 1a of this Rider. In no event shall the Surety's obligation under this Rider exceed the amount set forth in section 1a regardless of the number of claims.</P> <P>c. This Rider is effective the [______] day of [______], 200 [______], and shall continue in effect until discharged, terminated as herein provided, or upon termination of the Bond in accordance with the sixth paragraph of the Bond. The Principal or the Surety may at any time terminate this Rider by written notice to the Federal Maritime Commission at its offices in Washington, D.C., accompanied by proof of transmission of notice to MOC. Such termination shall become effective thirty (30) days after receipt of said notice and proof of transmission by the Federal Maritime Commission. The Surety shall not be liable for fines or penalties imposed on the Principal after the expiration of the 30-day period but such termination shall not affect the liability of the Principal and Surety for any fine or penalty imposed prior to the date when said termination becomes effective.</P> <P>2. This Bond remains in full force and effect according to its terms except as modified above.</P> <P>In witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals on this [______] day of [______], 200 [______],</P> </SUBJGRP> </SUBPART> <FP>[Principal], By:</FP> <FP>[Surety], By:</FP> <SUBJGRP> <HD SOURCE="HED">Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice</HD> <P>The collection of this information is authorized generally by section 19 of the Shipping Act of 1984, 46 U.S.C. app. 1718.</P> <P>This is an optional form. Submission is completely voluntary. Failure to submit this form will in no way impact the Federal Maritime Commission's assessment of your firm's financial responsibility.</P> <P>You are not required to provide the information requested on a form that is subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act unless the form displays a valid OMB control number. Copies of this form will be maintained until the corresponding license has been revoked.</P> <P>The time needed to complete and file this form will vary depending on individual circumstances. The estimated average time is: Recordkeeping, 20 minutes; Learning about the form, 20 minutes; Preparing and sending the form to the FMC, 20 minutes.</P> <P>If you have comments concerning the accuracy of these time estimates or suggestions for making this form simpler, we would be happy to hear from you. You can write to the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Washington, DC 20573-0001 or e-mail: <E T="03">secretary@fmc.gov</E>.</P> </SUBJGRP> <CITA>[69 FR 17945, Apr. 6, 2004]</CITA> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 515, Subpt. C, App. F</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Appendix F to Subpart C of Part 515—Optional Rider for Additional NVOCC Financial Responsibility for Group Bonds [Optional Rider to Form FMC-69]</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">FMC-69A, OMB No. 3072-0018 (04/06/04)</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD3">Optional Rider for Additional NVOCC Financial Responsibility for Group Bonds [Optional Rider to Form FMC-69]</HD> </APPENDIX> <SUBJGRP> <HD SOURCE="HED">RIDER</HD> <P>The undersigned [______], as Principal and [______], as Surety do hereby agree that the existing Bond No. [______] to the United States of America and filed with the Federal Maritime Commission pursuant to section 19 of the Shipping Act of 1984 is modified as follows:</P> <P>1. The following condition is added to this Bond:</P> <P>a. An additional condition of this Bond is that $ [______](payable in U.S. Dollars or Renminbi Yuan at the option of the Surety) shall be available to any NVOCC enumerated in an Appendix to this Rider to pay any fines and penalties for activities in the U.S.-China trades imposed by the Ministry of Communications of the People's Republic of China (“MOC”) or its authorized competent communications department of the people's government of the province, autonomous region or municipality directly under the Central Government or the State Administration of Industry and Commerce pursuant to the Regulations of the People's Republic of China on International Maritime Transportation and the Implementing Rules of the Regulations of the PRC on International Maritime Transportation promulgated by MOC Decree No. 1, January 20, 2003. Such amount is separate and distinct from the bond amount set forth in the first paragraph of this Bond. Payment under this Rider shall not reduce the bond amount in the first paragraph of this Bond or affect its availability. The Surety shall indicate that $21,000 is available to pay such fines and penalties for each NVOCC listed on appendix A to this Rider wishing to exercise this option.</P> <P>b. The liability of the Surety shall not be discharged by any payment or succession of payments pursuant to section 1 of this Rider, <PRTPAGE P="157"/>unless and until the payment or payments shall aggregate the amount set forth in section 1a of this Rider. In no event shall the Surety's obligation under this Rider exceed the amount set forth in section 1a regardless of the number of claims.</P> <P>c. This Rider is effective the [______] day of [______], 200[______], and shall continue in effect until discharged, terminated as herein provided, or upon termination of the Bond in accordance with the sixth paragraph of the Bond. The Principal or the Surety may at any time terminate this Rider by written notice to the Federal Maritime Commission at its offices in Washington, DC., accompanied by proof of transmission of notice to MOC. Such termination shall become effective thirty (30) days after receipt of said notice and proof of transmission by the Federal Maritime Commission. The Surety shall not be liable for fines or penalties imposed on the Principal after the expiration of the 30-day period but such termination shall not affect the liability of the Principal and Surety for any fine or penalty imposed prior to the date when said termination becomes effective.</P> <P>2. This Bond remains in full force and effect according to its terms except as modified above.</P> <P>In witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals on this [______] day of [______], 200 [______],</P> </SUBJGRP> <FP>[Principal], :By</FP> <FP>[Surety], By:</FP> <SUBJGRP> <HD SOURCE="HED">Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice</HD> <P>The collection of this information is authorized generally by Section 19 of the Shipping Act of 1984, 46 U.S.C. app. 1718.</P> <P>This is an optional form. Submission is completely voluntary. Failure to submit this form will in no way impact the Federal Maritime Commission's assessment of your firm's financial responsibility.</P> <P>You are not required to provide the information requested on a form that is subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act unless the form displays a valid OMB control number. Copies of this form will be maintained until the corresponding license has been revoked.</P> <P>The time needed to complete and file this form will vary depending on individual circumstances. The estimated average time is: Recordkeeping, 20 minutes; Learning about the form, 20 minutes; Preparing and sending the form to the FMC, 20 minutes.</P> <P>If you have comments concerning the accuracy of these time estimates or suggestions for making this form simpler, we would be happy to hear from you. You can write to the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Washington, DC 20573-0001 or e-mail: <E T="03">secretary@fmc.gov</E>.</P> </SUBJGRP> <CITA>[69 FR 17946, Apr. 6, 2004]</CITA> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Duties and Responsibilities of Ocean Transportation Intermediaries; Reports to Commission</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.31</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General duties.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">License; name and number.</E> Each licensee shall carry on its business only under the name in which its license is issued and only under its license number as assigned by the Commission. When the licensee's name appears on shipping documents, its Commission license number shall also be included.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Stationery and billing forms.</E> The name and license number of each licensee shall be permanently imprinted on the licensee's office stationery and billing forms. The Commission may temporarily waive this requirement for good cause shown if the licensee rubber stamps or types its name and Commission license number on all papers and invoices concerned with any ocean transportation intermediary transaction.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Use of license by others; prohibition.</E> No licensee shall permit its license or name to be used by any person who is not a <E T="03">bona fide</E> individual employee of the licensee. Unincorporated branch offices of the licensee may use the license number and name of the licensee if such branch offices:</P> <P>(1) have been reported to the Commission in writing; and</P> <P>(2) are covered by increased financial responsibility in accordance with § 515.21(a)(4).</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Arrangements with ocean transportation intermediaries whose licenses have been revoked.</E> Unless prior written approval from the Commission has been obtained, no licensee shall, directly or indirectly:</P> <P>(1) Agree to perform ocean transportation intermediary services on shipments as an associate, correspondent, officer, employee, agent, or sub-agent of any person whose license has been revoked or suspended pursuant to § 515.16;<PRTPAGE P="158"/> </P> <P>(2) Assist in the furtherance of any ocean transportation intermediary business of such person;</P> <P>(3) Share forwarding fees or freight compensation with any such person; or</P> <P>(4) Permit any such person, directly or indirectly, to participate, through ownership or otherwise, in the control or direction of the ocean transportation intermediary business of the licensee.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">False or fraudulent claims, false information.</E> No licensee shall prepare or file or assist in the preparation or filing of any claim, affidavit, letter of indemnity, or other paper or document concerning an ocean transportation intermediary transaction which it has reason to believe is false or fraudulent, nor shall any such licensee knowingly impart to a principal, shipper, common carrier or other person, false information relative to any ocean transportation intermediary transaction.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Errors and omissions of the principal or shipper.</E> A licensee who has reason to believe that its principal or shipper has not, with respect to a shipment to be handled by such licensee, complied with the laws of the United States, or has made any error or misrepresentation in, or omission from, any export declaration, bill of lading, affidavit, or other document which the principal or shipper executes in connection with such shipment, shall advise its principal or shipper promptly of the suspected noncompliance, error, misrepresentation or omission, and shall decline to participate in any transaction involving such document until the matter is properly and lawfully resolved.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Response to requests of Commission.</E> Upon the request of any authorized representative of the Commission, a licensee shall make available promptly for inspection or reproduction all records and books of account in connection with its ocean transportation intermediary business, and shall respond promptly to any lawful inquiries by such representative.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Express written authority.</E> No licensee shall endorse or negotiate any draft, check, or warrant drawn to the order of its principal or shipper without the express written authority of such principal or shipper.</P> <P>(i) <E T="03">Accounting to principal or shipper.</E> Each licensee shall account to its principal(s) or shipper(s) for overpayments, adjustments of charges, reductions in rates, insurance refunds, insurance monies received for claims, proceeds of C.O.D. shipments, drafts, letters of credit, and any other sums due such principal(s) or shipper(s).</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.32</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Freight forwarder duties.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Notice of shipper affiliation.</E> When a licensed freight forwarder is a shipper or seller of goods in international commerce or affiliated with such an entity, the licensed freight forwarder shall have the option of:</P> <P>(1) Identifying itself as such and/or, where applicable, listing its affiliates on its office stationery and billing forms, or</P> <P>(2) Including the following notice on such items: </P> <EXTRACT> <P>This company is a shipper or seller of goods in international commerce or is affiliated with such an entity. Upon request, a general statement of its business activities and those of its affiliates, along with a written list of the names of such affiliates, will be provided.</P> </EXTRACT> <P>(b) <E T="03">Arrangements with unauthorized persons.</E> No licensed freight forwarder shall enter into an agreement or other arrangement (excluding sales agency arrangements not prohibited by law or this part) with an unlicensed person that bestows any fee, compensation, or other benefit upon the unlicensed person. When a licensed freight forwarder is employed to perform forwarding services by the agent of the person responsible for paying for such services, the licensed freight forwarder shall also transmit a copy of its invoice for services rendered to the person paying those charges.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Information provided to the principal.</E> No licensed freight forwarder shall withhold any information concerning a forwarding transaction from its principal, and each licensed freight forwarder shall comply with the laws of the United States and shall exercise due diligence to assure that all information provided to its principal or provided in any export declaration, bill of lading, affidavit, or other document which the licensed freight forwarder <PRTPAGE P="159"/>executes in connection with a shipment is accurate.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Invoices; documents available upon request.</E> Upon the request of its principal(s), each licensed freight forwarder shall provide a complete breakout of its charges and a true copy of any underlying document or bill of charges pertaining to the licensed freight forwarder's invoice. The following notice shall appear on each invoice to a principal: </P> <EXTRACT> <P>Upon request, we shall provide a detailed breakout of the components of all charges assessed and a true copy of each pertinent document relating to these charges.</P> </EXTRACT> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.33</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Records required to be kept.</SUBJECT> <P>Each licensed freight forwarder shall maintain in an orderly and systematic manner, and keep current and correct, all records and books of account in connection with its forwarding business. These records must be kept in the United States in such manner as to enable authorized Commission personnel to readily determine the licensed freight forwarder's cash position, accounts receivable and accounts payable. The licensed freight forwarder may maintain these records in either paper or electronic form, which shall be readily available in usable form to the Commission; the electronically maintained records shall be no less accessible than if they were maintained in paper form. These recordkeeping requirements are independent of the retention requirements of other federal agencies. The licensed freight forwarder must maintain the following records for a period of five years:</P> <P>(a) <E T="03">General financial data.</E> A current running account of all receipts and disbursements, accounts receivable and payable, and daily cash balances, supported by appropriate books of account, bank deposit slips, canceled checks, and monthly reconciliation of bank statements.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Types of services by shipment.</E> A separate file shall be maintained for each shipment. Each file shall include a copy of each document prepared, processed, or obtained by the licensee, including each invoice for any service arranged by the licensee and performed by others, with respect to such shipment.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Receipts and disbursements by shipment.</E> A record of all sums received and/or disbursed by the licensee for services rendered and out-of-pocket expenses advanced in connection with each shipment, including specific dates and amounts.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Special contracts.</E> A true copy, or if oral, a true and complete memorandum, of every special arrangement or contract between a licensed freight forwarder and a principal, or modification or cancellation thereof. <E T="03">Bona fide</E> shippers shall also have access to such records upon reasonable request.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.34</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Regulated Persons Index.</SUBJECT> <P>The Regulated Persons Index is a database containing the names, addresses, phone/fax numbers and financial responsibility information, where applicable, of Commission-regulated entities. The database may be purchased for $108 by contacting the Bureau of Certification and Licensing, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573. Contact information is listed on the Commission's website at <E T="03">www.fmc.gov.</E> </P> <CITA>[64 FR 11171, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002; 70 FR 10330, Mar. 3, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart E—Freight Forwarding Fees and Compensation</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.41</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Forwarder and principal; fees.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Compensation or fee sharing.</E> No licensed freight forwarder shall share, directly or indirectly, any compensation or freight forwarding fee with a shipper, consignee, seller, or purchaser, or an agent, affiliate, or employee thereof; nor with any person advancing the purchase price of the property or guaranteeing payment therefor; nor with any person having a beneficial interest in the shipment.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Receipt for cargo.</E> Each receipt for cargo issued by a licensed freight forwarder shall be clearly identified as “Receipt for Cargo” and be readily distinguishable from a bill of lading.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Special contracts.</E> To the extent that special arrangements or contracts are entered into by a licensed freight forwarder, the forwarder shall not deny <PRTPAGE P="160"/>equal terms to other shippers similarly situated.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Reduced forwarding fees.</E> No licensed freight forwarder shall render, or offer to render, any freight forwarding service free of charge or at a reduced fee in consideration of receiving compensation from a common carrier or for any other reason. <E T="03">Exception:</E> A licensed freight forwarder may perform freight forwarding services for recognized relief agencies or charitable organizations, which are designated as such in the tariff of the common carrier, free of charge or at reduced fees.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">In-plant arrangements.</E> A licensed freight forwarder may place an employee or employees on the premises of its principal as part of the services rendered to such principal, provided:</P> <P>(1) The in-plant forwarder arrangement is reduced to writing in the manner of a special contract under § 515.33(d), which shall identify all services provided by either party (whether or not constituting a freight forwarding service); state the amount of compensation to be received by either party for such services; set forth all details concerning the procurement, maintenance or sharing of office facilities, personnel, furnishings, equipment and supplies; describe all powers of supervision or oversight of the licensee's employee(s) to be exercised by the principal; and detail all procedures for the administration or management of in-plant arrangements between the parties; and</P> <P>(2) The arrangement is not an artifice for a payment or other unlawful benefit to the principal.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.42</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Forwarder and carrier; compensation.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Disclosure of principal.</E> The identity of the shipper must always be disclosed in the shipper identification box on the bill of lading. The licensed freight forwarder's name may appear with the name of the shipper, but the forwarder must be identified as the shipper's agent.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Certification required for compensation.</E> A common carrier may pay compensation to a licensed freight forwarder only pursuant to such common carrier's tariff provisions. Where a common carrier's tariff provides for the payment of compensation, such compensation shall be paid on any shipment forwarded on behalf of others where the forwarder has provided a written certification as prescribed in paragraph (c) of this section and the shipper has been disclosed on the bill of lading as provided for in paragraph (a) of this section. The common carrier shall be entitled to rely on such certification unless it knows that the certification is incorrect. The common carrier shall retain such certifications for a period of five (5) years.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Form of certification.</E> Where a licensed freight forwarder is entitled to compensation, the forwarder shall provide the common carrier with a signed certification which indicates that the forwarder has performed the required services that entitle it to compensation. The required certification may be placed on one copy of the relevant bill of lading, a summary statement from the forwarder, the forwarder's compensation invoice, or as an endorsement on the carrier's compensation check. Each forwarder shall retain evidence in its shipment files that the forwarder, in fact, has performed the required services enumerated on the certification. The certification shall read as follows: </P> <EXTRACT> <P>The undersigned hereby certifies that neither it nor any holding company, subsidiary, affiliate, officer, director, agent or executive of the undersigned has a beneficial interest in this shipment; that it is the holder of valid FMC License No., issued by the Federal Maritime Commission and has performed the following services:</P> <P>(1) Engaged, booked, secured, reserved, or contracted directly with the carrier or its agent for space aboard a vessel or confirmed the availability of that space; and</P> <P>(2) Prepared and processed the ocean bill of lading, dock receipt, or other similar document with respect to the shipment.</P> </EXTRACT> <P>(d) <E T="03">Compensation pursuant to tariff provisions.</E> No licensed freight forwarder, or employee thereof, shall accept compensation from a common carrier which is different from that specifically provided for in the carrier's effective tariff(s). No conference or group of common carriers shall deny in the export commerce of the United States compensation to an ocean <PRTPAGE P="161"/>freight forwarder or limit that compensation, as provided for by section 19(e)(4) of the Act and 46 CFR part 535.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Electronic data interchange.</E> A licensed freight forwarder may own, operate, or otherwise maintain or supervise an electronic data interchange-based computer system in its forwarding business; however, the forwarder must directly perform value-added services as described in paragraph (c) of this section in order to be entitled to carrier compensation.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Compensation; services performed by underlying carrier; exemptions.</E> No licensed freight forwarder shall charge or collect compensation in the event the underlying common carrier, or its agent, has, at the request of such forwarder, performed any of the forwarding services set forth in § 515.2(i), unless such carrier or agent is also a licensed freight forwarder, or unless no other licensed freight forwarder is willing and able to perform such services.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Duplicative compensation.</E> A common carrier shall not pay compensation for the services described in paragraph (c) of this section more than once on the same shipment.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Non-vessel-operating common carriers; compensation.</E> (1) A licensee operating as an NVOCC and a freight forwarder, or a person related thereto, may collect compensation when, and only when, the following certification is made together with the certification required under paragraph (c) of this section: </P> <EXTRACT> <P>The undersigned certifies that neither it nor any related person has issued a bill of lading or otherwise undertaken common carrier responsibility as a non-vessel-operating common carrier for the ocean transportation of the shipment covered by this bill of lading.</P> </EXTRACT> <P>(2) Whenever a person acts in the capacity of an NVOCC as to any shipment, such person shall not collect compensation, nor shall any underlying ocean common carrier pay compensation to such person, for such shipment.</P> <P>(i) <E T="03">Compensation; beneficial interest.</E> A licensed freight forwarder may not receive compensation from a common carrier with respect to any shipment in which the forwarder has a beneficial interest or with respect to any shipment in which any holding company, subsidiary, affiliate, officer, director, agent, or executive of such forwarder has a beneficial interest.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 515.91</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control number assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission has received OMB approval for this collection of information pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, as amended. In accordance with that Act, agencies are required to display a currently valid control number. The valid control number for this collection of information is 3072-0012.</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> </PART> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 520</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 520—CARRIER AUTOMATED TARIFFS</HD> <CONTENTS> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>520.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope and purpose.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Publication responsibilities.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Tariff contents.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Standard tariff terminology.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.6</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Retrieval of information.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.7</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Tariff limitations.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.8</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Effective dates.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.9</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Access to tariffs.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.10</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Integrity of tariffs.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.11</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Non-vessel-operating common carriers.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.12</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Time/Volume rates.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.13</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exemptions and exceptions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.14</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Special permission.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>520.91</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control number assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> <APP>Appendix A to Part 520—Standard Terminology and Codes</APP> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>5 U.S.C. 553; 46 U.S.C. app. 1701-1702, 1707-1709, 1712, 1716; and sec. 424 of Pub. L. 105-383, 112 Stat. 3411.</P> </AUTH> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>64 FR 11225, Mar. 8, 1999, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope and purpose.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Scope.</E> The regulations of this part govern the publication of tariffs in automated systems by common carriers and conferences in the waterborne foreign commerce of the United States. They cover the transportation of property by such carriers, including through transportation with inland carriers. They implement the tariff publication requirements of section 8 of the Shipping Act of 1984 (“Act”), as <PRTPAGE P="162"/>modified by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 and section 424 of Public Law 105-258.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Purpose.</E> The requirements of this part are intended to permit:</P> <P>(1) Shippers and other members of the public to obtain reliable and useful information concerning the rates and charges that will be assessed by common carriers and conferences for their transportation services;</P> <P>(2) Carriers and conferences to meet their publication requirements pursuant to section 8 of the Act;</P> <P>(3) The Commission to ensure that carrier tariff publications are accurate and accessible and to protect the public from violations by carriers of section 10 of the Act; and</P> <P>(4) The Commission to review and monitor the activities of controlled carriers pursuant to section 9 of the Act.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <P>The following definitions shall apply to this part:</P> <P> <E T="03">Act</E> means the Shipping Act of 1984, as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998.</P> <P> <E T="03">Amendment</E> means any change, alteration, correction or modification of an existing tariff.</P> <P> <E T="03">Assessorial charge</E> means the amount that is added to the basic ocean freight rate.</P> <P> <E T="03">BTA</E> means the Commission's Bureau of Trade Analysis or its successor bureau.</P> <P> <E T="03">Bulk cargo</E> means cargo that is loaded and carried in bulk without mark or count in a loose unpackaged form, having homogeneous characteristics. Bulk cargo loaded into intermodal equipment, except LASH or Seabee barges, is subject to mark and count and is, therefore, subject to the requirements of this part.</P> <P> <E T="03">Co-loading</E> means the combining of cargo by two or more NVOCCs for tendering to an ocean common carrier under the name of one or more of the NVOCCs.</P> <P> <E T="03">Combination rate</E> means a rate for a shipment moving under intermodal transportation which is computed by the addition of a TRI, and an inland rate applicable from/to inland points not covered by the TRI.</P> <P> <E T="03">Commission</E> means the Federal Maritime Commission.</P> <P> <E T="03">Commodity description</E> means a comprehensive description of a commodity listed in a tariff, including a brief definition of the commodity.</P> <P> <E T="03">Commodity description number</E> means a number that may be used to identify a commodity description.</P> <P> <E T="03">Commodity index</E> means an index of the commodity descriptions contained in a tariff.</P> <P> <E T="03">Commodity rate</E> means a rate for shipping to or from specific locations a commodity or commodities specifically named or described in the tariff in which the rate or rates are published.</P> <P> <E T="03">Common carrier</E> means a person holding itself out to the general public to provide transportation by water of cargo between the United States and a foreign country for compensation that:</P> <P>(1) Assumes responsibility for the transportation from port or point of receipt to the port or point of destination; and</P> <P>(2) Utilizes, for all or part of that transportation, a vessel operating on the high seas or the Great Lakes between a port in the United States and a port in a foreign country, except that the term does not include a common carrier engaged in ocean transportation by ferry boat, ocean tramp, or chemical parcel tanker or by a vessel when primarily engaged in the carriage of perishable agricultural commodities:</P> <P>(i) If the common carrier and the owner of those commodities are wholly-owned, directly or indirectly, by a person primarily engaged in the marketing and distribution of those commodities and</P> <P>(ii) Only with respect to the carriage of those commodities.</P> <P> <E T="03">Conference</E> means an agreement between or among two or more ocean common carriers which provides for the fixing of and adherence to uniform tariff rates, charges, practices and conditions of service relating to the receipt, carriage, handling and/or delivery of passengers or cargo for all members, but the term does not include joint service, consortium, pooling, sailing, or transshipment agreements.</P> <P> <E T="03">Consignee</E> means the recipient of cargo from a shipper; the person to <PRTPAGE P="163"/>whom a transported commodity is to be delivered.</P> <P> <E T="03">Container</E> means a demountable and reusable freight-carrying unit designed to be transported by different modes of transportation and having construction, fittings, and fastenings able to withstand, without permanent distortion or additional exterior packaging or containment, the normal stresses that apply on continuous all-water and intermodal transportation. The term includes dry cargo, ventilated, insulated, refrigerated, flat rack, vehicle rack, liquid tank, and open-top containers without chassis, but does not include crates, boxes or pallets.</P> <P> <E T="03">Controlled carrier</E> means an ocean common carrier that is, or whose operating assets are, directly or indirectly owned or controlled by a government; ownership or control by a government shall be deemed to exist with respect to any common carrier if:</P> <P>(1) A majority portion of the interest in the common carrier is owned or controlled in any manner by that government, by an agency thereof, or by any public or private person controlled in any manner by that government, by any agency thereof, or by any public or private person controlled by that government; or</P> <P>(2) That government has the right to appoint or disapprove the appointment of a majority of the directors, the chief operating officer or the chief executive officer of the common carrier.</P> <P> <E T="03">Effective date</E> means the date upon which a published tariff or tariff element is scheduled to go into effect. Where there are multiple publications to a tariff element on the same day, the last element published with the same effective date is the one effective for that day.</P> <P> <E T="03">Expiration date</E> means the last day after which the entire tariff or tariff element is no longer in effect.</P> <P> <E T="03">Foreign commerce</E> means that commerce under the jurisdiction of the Act.</P> <P> <E T="03">Forest products</E> means forest products including, but not limited to, lumber in bundles, rough timber, ties, poles, piling, laminated beams, bundled siding, bundled plywood, bundled core stock or veneers, bundled particle or fiber boards, bundled hardwood, wood pulp in rolls, wood pulp in unitized bales, paper and paper board in rolls or in pallet or skid-sized sheets, liquid or granular by-products derived from pulping and papermaking, and engineered wood products.</P> <P> <E T="03">Harmonized Code</E> means the coding provisions of the Harmonized System.</P> <P> <E T="03">Harmonized System</E> means the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (“U.S. HTS”), based on the international Harmonized System, administered by the U.S. Customs Service for the U.S. International Trade Commission, and Schedule B, administered by the U.S. Census Bureau.</P> <P> <E T="03">Inland point</E> means any city and associated state/province, country, U.S. ZIP code, or U.S. ZIP code range, which lies beyond port terminal areas. (A city may share the name of a port: the immediate ship-side and terminal area is the port, but the rest of the city is considered an inland point.)</P> <P> <E T="03">Inland rate</E> means a rate specified from/to an ocean port to/from an inland point, for specified modes of overland transportation.</P> <P> <E T="03">Inland rate table</E> means a structured matrix of geographic inland locations (points, postal codes/postal code ranges, etc.) on one axis and transportation modes (truck, rail, etc.) on the other axis, with the inland rates specified at the matrix row and column intersections.</P> <P> <E T="03">Intermodal transportation</E> means continuous through transportation involving more than one mode of service (e.g., ship, rail, motor, air), for pickup and/or delivery at a point beyond the area of the port at which the vessel calls. The term “intermodal transportation” can apply to “through transportation (at through rates)” or transportation on through routes using combination rates.</P> <P> <E T="03">Joint rates</E> means rates or charges established by two or more common carriers for ocean transportation over the combined routes of such common carriers.</P> <P> <E T="03">Local rates</E> means rates or charges for transportation over the route of a single common carrier (or any one common carrier participating in a conference tariff), the application of which is not contingent upon a prior or subsequent movement.<PRTPAGE P="164"/> </P> <P> <E T="03">Location group</E> means a logical collection of geographic points, ports, states/provinces, countries, or combinations thereof, which is primarily used to identify, by location group name, a group that may represent tariff origin and/or destination scope and TRI origin and/or destination.</P> <P> <E T="03">Loyalty contract</E> means a contract with an ocean common carrier or agreement by which a shipper obtains lower rates by committing all or a fixed portion of its cargo to that carrier or agreement and the contract provides for a deferred rebate arrangement.</P> <P> <E T="03">Motor vehicle</E> means a wheeled vehicle whose primary purpose is ordinarily the non-commercial transportation of passengers, including an automobile, pickup truck, minivan, or sport utility vehicle.</P> <P> <E T="03">Ocean common carrier</E> means a common carrier that operates, for all or part of its common carrier service, a vessel on the high seas or the Great Lakes between a port in the United States and a port in a foreign country, except that the term does not include a common carrier engaged in ocean transportation by ferry boat, ocean tramp, or chemical parcel-tanker.</P> <P> <E T="03">Ocean transportation intermediary</E> means an ocean freight forwarder or a non-vessel-operating common carrier. For purposes of this part,</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Ocean freight forwarder</E> means a person that—</P> <P>(i) In the United States, dispatches shipments from the United States via a common carrier and books or otherwise arranges space for those shipments on behalf of shippers; and</P> <P>(ii) Processes the documentation or performs related activities incident to those shipments; and</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Non-vessel-operating common carrier</E> (“NVOCC”) means a common carrier that does not operate the vessels by which the ocean transportation is provided, and is a shipper in its relationship with an ocean common carrier.</P> <P> <E T="03">Open rate</E> means a rate on a specified commodity or commodities over which a conference relinquishes or suspends its ratemaking authority in whole or in part, thereby permitting each individual ocean common carrier member of the conference to fix its own rate on such commodity or commodities.</P> <P> <E T="03">Organization name</E> means an entity's name on file with the Commission and for which the Commission assigns an organization number.</P> <P> <E T="03">Organization record</E> means information regarding an entity, including its name, address, and organization type.</P> <P> <E T="03">Origin scope</E> means a location group defining the geographic range of cargo origins covered by a tariff.</P> <P> <E T="03">Person</E> includes individuals, firms, partnerships, associations, companies, corporations, joint stock associations, trustees, receivers, agents, assignees and personal representatives.</P> <P> <E T="03">Point of rest</E> means that area on the terminal facility which is assigned for the receipt of inbound cargo from the ship and from which inbound cargo may be delivered to the consignee, and that area which is assigned for the receipt of outbound cargo from shippers for vessel loading.</P> <P> <E T="03">Port</E> means a place at which a common carrier originates or terminates (by transshipment or otherwise) its actual ocean carriage of cargo or passengers as to any particular transportation movement.</P> <P> <E T="03">Project rates</E> means rates applicable to the transportation of materials and equipment to be employed in the construction or development of a named facility used for a major governmental, charitable, manufacturing, resource exploitation and public utility or public service purpose, including disaster relief projects.</P> <P> <E T="03">Proportional rates</E> means rates or charges assessed by a common carrier for transportation services, the application of which is conditioned upon a prior or subsequent movement.</P> <P> <E T="03">Publication date</E> means the date a tariff or tariff element is published in a carrier's or conference's tariff.</P> <P> <E T="03">Publisher</E> means an organization authorized to publish or amend tariff information.</P> <P> <E T="03">Rate</E> means a price stated in a tariff for providing a specified level of transportation service for a stated cargo quantity, from origin to destination, on and after a stated effective date or within a defined time frame.</P> <P> <E T="03">Retrieval</E> means the process by which a person accesses a tariff via dial-up <PRTPAGE P="165"/>telecommunications or a network link and interacts with the carrier's or publisher's system on a transaction-by-transaction basis to retrieve published tariff matter.</P> <P> <E T="03">Rules</E> means the stated terms and conditions set by the tariff owner which govern the application of tariff rates, charges and other matters.</P> <P> <E T="03">Scope</E> means the location group(s) (geographic groupings(s)) listing the ports or ranges of ports to and from which the tariff's rates apply.</P> <P> <E T="03">Shipment</E> means all of the cargo carried under the terms of a single bill of lading.</P> <P> <E T="03">Shipper</E> means:</P> <P>(1) A cargo owner;</P> <P>(2) The person for whose account the ocean transportation is provided;</P> <P>(3) The person to whom delivery is to be made;</P> <P>(4) A shipper's association; or</P> <P>(5) An NVOCC that accepts responsibility for payment of all charges applicable under the tariff or service contract.</P> <P> <E T="03">Shippers' association</E> means a group of shippers that consolidates or distributes freight on a nonprofit basis for the members of the group in order to secure carload, truckload, or other volume rates or service contracts.</P> <P> <E T="03">Special permission</E> means permission, authorized by the Commission, for certain tariff publications that do not conform with applicable regulations, usually involving effectiveness on less than statutory notice.</P> <P> <E T="03">Tariff</E> means a publication containing the actual rates, charges, classifications, rules, regulations and practices of a common carrier or a conference of common carriers. The term “practices” refers to those usages, customs or modes of operation which in any way affect, determine or change the transportation rates, charges or services provided by a common carrier or conference and, in the case of conferences, must be restricted to activities authorized by the basic conference agreement.</P> <P> <E T="03">Tariff number</E> means a unique 3-digit number assigned by the publisher to distinguish it from other tariffs. Tariffs may be identified by the 6-digit organization number plus the user-assigned tariff number (<E T="03">e.g.,</E> 999999-001) or a Standard Carrier Alpha Code (“SCAC”) plus the user-assigned tariff number.</P> <P> <E T="03">Tariff rate item (“TRI”)</E> means a single freight rate, in effect on and after a specific date or for a specific time period, for the transportation of a stated cargo quantity, which may move from origin to destination under a single specified set of transportation conditions, such as container size or temperature.</P> <P> <E T="03">TRI number</E> means a number that consists of the numeric commodity code, if any, and a unique numeric suffix used to differentiate TRIs within the same commodity description. TRI numbers are not required in systems that do not use numeric commodity coding.</P> <P> <E T="03">Through rate</E> means the single amount charged by a common carrier in connection with through transportation.</P> <P> <E T="03">Through transportation</E> means continuous transportation between points of origin and destination, either or both of which lie beyond port terminal areas, for which a through rate is assessed and which is offered or performed by one or more carriers, at least one of which is a common carrier, between a United States point or port and a foreign point or port.</P> <P> <E T="03">Thru date</E> means the date after which an amendment to a tariff element is designated by the publisher to be unavailable for use and the previously effective tariff element automatically goes back into effect.</P> <P> <E T="03">Time/volume rate</E> means a rate published in a tariff which is conditioned upon receipt of a specified aggregate volume of cargo or aggregate freight revenue over a specified period of time.</P> <P> <E T="03">Trade name</E> means a name used for conducting business, but which is not necessarily its legal name. This is also known as a “d/b/a” (doing business as) name.</P> <P> <E T="03">Transshipment</E> means the physical transfer of cargo from a vessel of one carrier to a vessel of another in the course of all-water or through transportation, where at least one of the exchanging carriers is an ocean common <PRTPAGE P="166"/>carrier subject to the Commission's jurisdiction.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11225, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 64 FR 23022, Apr. 29, 1999; 65 FR 26512, May 8, 2000; 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Publication responsibilities.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> Unless otherwise exempted by § 520.13, all common carriers and conferences shall keep open for public inspection, in automated tariff systems, tariffs showing all rates, charges, classifications, rules, and practices between all points or ports on their own routes and on any through transportation route that has been established.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Conferences.</E> Conferences shall publish, in their automated tariff systems, rates offered pursuant to independent action by their members and may publish any open rates offered by their members. Alternatively, open rates may be published in individual tariffs of conference members.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Agents.</E> Common carriers or conferences may use agents to meet their publication requirements under this part.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Notification.</E> Each common carrier and conference shall notify BTA, prior to the commencement of common carrier service pursuant to a published tariff, of its organization name, organization number, home office address, name and telephone number of firm's representative, the location of its tariffs, and the publisher, if any, used to maintain its tariffs, by electronically submitting Form FMC-1 via the Commission's website at <E T="03">www.fmc.gov.</E> Any changes to the above information shall be immediately transmitted to BTA. The Commission will provide a unique organization number to new entities operating as common carriers or conferences in the U.S. foreign commerce.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Location of tariffs.</E> The Commission will publish on its website, <E T="03">www.fmc.gov,</E> a list of the locations of all carrier and conference tariffs. The Commission will update this list on a periodic basis.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11225, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Tariff contents.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> Tariffs published pursuant to this part shall:</P> <P>(1) State the places between which cargo will be carried;</P> <P>(2) List each classification of cargo in use;</P> <P>(3) State the level of ocean transportation intermediary, as defined by section 3(17)(A) of the Act, compensation, if any, to be paid by a carrier or conference;</P> <P>(4) State separately each terminal or other charge, privilege, or facility under the control of the carrier or conference and any rules or regulations that in any way change, affect, or determine any part of the aggregate of the rates or charges;</P> <P>(5) Include sample copies of any bill of lading, contract of affreightment or other document evidencing the transportation agreement;</P> <P>(6) Include copies of any loyalty contract, omitting the shipper's name;</P> <P>(7) Contain an organization record, tariff record, and tariff rules; and</P> <P>(8) For commodity tariffs, also contain commodity descriptions and tariff rate items.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Organization record.</E> Common carriers' and conferences' organization records shall include:</P> <P>(1) Organization name;</P> <P>(2) Organization number assigned by the Commission;</P> <P>(3) Agreement number, where applicable;</P> <P>(4) Organization type (e.g., ocean common carrier (VOCC), conference (CONF), non-vessel-operating common carrier (NVOCC) or agent);</P> <P>(5) Home office address and telephone number of firm's representative;</P> <P>(6) Names and organization numbers of all affiliates to conferences or agreements, including trade names; and</P> <P>(7) The publisher, if any, used to maintain the organization's tariffs.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Tariff record.</E> The tariff record for each tariff shall include:</P> <P>(1) Organization number and name, including any trade name;</P> <P>(2) Tariff number;</P> <P>(3) Tariff title;</P> <P>(4) Tariff type (<E T="03">e.g.,</E> commodity, rules, equipment interchange, or bill of lading);</P> <P>(5) Contact person and address;</P> <P>(6) Default measurement and currency units;<PRTPAGE P="167"/> </P> <P>(7) Origination and destination scope; and</P> <P>(8) A statement certifying that all information contained in the tariff is true and accurate and no unlawful alterations will be permitted.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Tariff rules.</E> Carriers and conferences shall publish in their tariffs any rule that affects the application of the tariff.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Commodity descriptions.</E> (1) For each separate commodity in a tariff, a distinct numeric code may be used. Tariff publishers are not required to use any numeric code to identify commodities, but should they choose to do so, they are encouraged to use the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (“U.S. HTS”) for both the commodity coding and associated terminology (definitions).</P> <P>(2) If a tariff publisher uses a numeric code to identify commodities, the following commodity types shall be preceded by their associated 2-digit prefixes, with the remaining digits at the publisher's option:</P> <P>(i) Mixed commodities—“99”;</P> <P>(ii) Projects—“98”; and</P> <P>(iii) non-commodities, <E T="03">e.g.,</E> “cargo, n.o.s.,” “general cargo,” or “freight-all kinds”—“00”.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">Commodity index.</E> (i) Each commodity description created under this section shall have at least one similar index entry which will logically represent the commodity within the alphabetical index. Publishers are encouraged, however, to create multiple entries in the index for articles with equally valid common use names, such as, “Sodium Chloride,” “Salt, common,” etc.</P> <P>(ii) If a commodity description includes two or more commodities, each included commodity shall be shown in the index.</P> <P>(iii) Items, such as “mixed commodities,” “projects” or “project rates,” “n.o.s.” descriptions, and “FAK,” shall be included in the commodity index.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Tariff rate items.</E> A tariff rate item (“TRI”) is the single freight rate in effect for the transportation of cargo under a specified set of transportation conditions. TRIs must contain the following:</P> <P>(1) Brief commodity description;</P> <P>(2) TRI number (optional);</P> <P>(3) Publication date;</P> <P>(4) Effective date;</P> <P>(5) Origin and destination locations or location groups;</P> <P>(6) Rate and rate basis; and</P> <P>(7) Service code.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Location groups.</E> In the primary tariff, or in a governing tariff, a publisher may define and create groups of cities, states, provinces and countries (<E T="03">e.g.,</E> location groups) or groups of ports (<E T="03">e.g.,</E> port groups), which may be used in the construction of TRIs and other tariff objects, in lieu of specifying particular place names in each tariff item, or creating multiple tariff items which are identical in all ways except for place names.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Inland rate tables.</E> If a carrier or conference desires to provide intermodal transportation to or from named points/postal regions at combination rates, it shall clearly and accurately set forth the applicable charges in an “Inland Rate Tables” section. An inland rate table may be constructed to provide an inland distance which is applied to a per mile rate to calculate the inland rate.</P> <P>(i) <E T="03">Shipper requests.</E> Conference tariffs shall contain clear and complete instructions, in accordance with the agreement's provisions, stating where and by what method shippers may file requests and complaints and how they may engage in consultation pursuant to section 5(b)(6) of the Act, together with a sample rate request form or a description of the information necessary for processing the request or complaint.</P> <P>(j) <E T="03">Inland divisions.</E> Common carriers are not required to state separately or otherwise reveal in tariffs the inland division of a through rate.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Standard tariff terminology.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Approved codes.</E> The Standard Terminology Appendix contains codes for rate bases, container sizes, service, etc., and units for weight, measure and distance. They are intended to provide a standard terminology baseline for tariffs to facilitate retriever efficiency. Tariff publishers may use additional codes, if they are clearly defined in their tariffs.<PRTPAGE P="168"/> </P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Geographic names.</E> Tariffs should employ locations (points) that are published in the National Imagery and Mapping Agency (“NIMA”) gazetteer or the Geographic Names Information System (“GNIS”) developed by the U.S. Geological Survey. Ports published or approved for publication in the World Port Index (Pub. No. 150) should also be used in tariffs. Tariff publishers may use geographic names that are currently in use and have not yet been included in these publications.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.6</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Retrieval of information.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> Tariffs systems shall present retrievers with the ability to:</P> <P>(1) Search for commonly understood tariff objects (<E T="03">e.g.,</E> commodities, origins, destinations, etc.) without restricting such search to a specific tariff;</P> <P>(2) Search a tariff for a rate on the basis of origin, destination and commodity;</P> <P>(3) Employ a tariff selection option; or</P> <P>(4) Select an object group (<E T="03">e.g.,</E> rules, locations, groups, etc.) within a particular tariff.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Search capability.</E> Tariffs shall provide the capability to search for tariff matter by non-case sensitive text search. Text search matches for commodity descriptions should result in a commodity or commodity index list.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Commodities and TRIs.</E> Retriever selection of a specific commodity from a commodity index list shall display the commodity description and provide an option for searching for a rate (<E T="03">e.g.,</E> on the basis of origin/destination) or a TRI list, if multiple TRIs are in effect for the commodity.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Object groups.</E> Retriever selection of a specific object group shall result in a list of the objects within the group or present a text search mechanism to allow location of an object within the group. For example, selection of the rules object group would present a list of the rules or a text search mechanism for locating specific terms or phrases within the rules.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Basic ocean freight.</E> The minimum rate display for tariffs shall consist of the basic ocean freight rate and a list of all assessorial charges that apply for the retriever-entered shipment parameters. If other rules or charges may be applicable to a shipment under certain circumstances, the tariff shall so indicate.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Displays.</E> All displays of individual tariff matter shall include the publication date, effective date, amendment code (as contained in appendix A of this part) and object name or number. When applicable, a thru date or expiration date shall also be displayed. Use of “S” as an amendment code shall be accompanied by a Commission issued special use number.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.7</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Tariff limitations.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> Tariffs published pursuant to this part shall:</P> <P>(1) Be clear and definite;</P> <P>(2) Use English as the primary textual language;</P> <P>(3) Not contain cross-references to any other rate tariffs, except:</P> <P>(i) A tariff of general applicability maintained by that same carrier or conference,</P> <P>(ii) The individual tariffs of members of a non-conference agreement to enter into time/volume rates may cross-reference the tariffs of other members for purposes of said time/volume rates, and</P> <P>(iii) Multiple common tariffs of a conference agreement to enter into time/volume rates may cross-reference their own multiple conference tariffs for purposes of said time/volume rates; and</P> <P>(4) Not duplicate or conflict with any other tariff publication.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Notice of cancellation.</E> Carriers and conferences shall inform BTA, in writing, whenever a tariff is canceled and the effective date of that cancellation.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Applicable rates.</E> The rates, charges, and rules applicable to any given shipment shall be those in effect on the date the cargo is received by the common carrier or its agent including originating carriers in the case of rates for through transportation.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Minimum quantity rates.</E> When two or more TRIs are stated for the same commodity over the same route and under similar conditions, and the application is dependent upon the quantity of the commodity shipped, the total freight charges assessed against the shipment may not exceed the total <PRTPAGE P="169"/>charges computed for a larger quantity, if the TRI specifying a required minimum quantity (either weight or measurement; per container or in containers) will be applicable to the contents of the container(s), and if the minimum set forth is met or exceeded. At the shipper's option, a quantity less than the minimum level may be freighted at the lower TRI if the weight or measurement declared for rating purposes is increased to the minimum level.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Green salted hides.</E> The shipping weight for green salted hides shall be either a scale weight or a scale weight minus a deduction, which amount and method of computation are specified in the commodity description. The shipper must furnish the carrier a weight certificate or dock receipt from an inland common carrier for each shipment at or before the time the shipment is tendered for ocean transportation.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Conference situations.</E> (1) New members of a conference shall cancel any independent tariffs applicable to the trades served by the conference, within ninety (90) days of membership in the conference. Individual conference members may publish their own separate open rate tariffs. Admission to the conference may be effective on the date notice is published in the conference tariff.</P> <P>(2) New conference agreements have ninety (90) days within which to publish a new tariff.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Overcharge claims.</E> (1) No tariff may limit the filing of overcharge claims with a common carrier to a period of less than three (3) years from the accrual of the cause of action.</P> <P>(2) The acceptance of any overcharge claim may not be conditioned upon the payment of a fee or charge.</P> <P>(3) No tariff may require that overcharge claims based on alleged errors in weight, measurement or description of cargo be filed before the cargo has left the custody of the common carrier.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Returned cargo.</E> When a carrier or conference offers the return shipment of refused, damaged or rejected shipments, or exhibits at trade fairs, shows or expositions, to port of origin at the TRI assessed on the original movement, and such TRI is lower than the prevailing TRI:</P> <P>(1) The return shipment must occur within one (1) year;</P> <P>(2) The return movement must be made over the line of the same common carrier performing the original movement, except in the use of a conference tariff, where return may be made by any member line when the original shipment was carried under the conference tariff; and</P> <P>(3) A copy of the original bill of lading showing the rate assessed must be presented to the return common carrier.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11225, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.8</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Effective dates.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> (1) No new or initial rate, charge, or change in an existing rate, that results in an increased cost to a shipper may become effective earlier than thirty (30) calendar days after publication.</P> <P>(2) An amendment which deletes a specific commodity and applicable rate from a tariff, thereby resulting in a higher “cargo n.o.s.” or similar general cargo rate, is a rate increase requiring a 30-day notice period.</P> <P>(3) Rates for the transportation of cargo for the U.S. Department of Defense may be effective upon publication.</P> <P>(4) Changes in rates, charges, rules, regulations or other tariff provisions resulting in a decrease in cost to a shipper may become effective upon publication.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Amendments.</E> The following amendments may take effect upon publication:</P> <P>(1) Those resulting in no change in cost to a shipper;</P> <P>(2) The canceling of a tariff due to cessation of all service by the carrier between the ports or points covered by the tariff;</P> <P>(3) The addition of a port or point to a previously existing origin or destination grouping; or</P> <P>(4) Changes in charges for terminal services, canal tolls, additional charges, or other provisions not under the control of the common carriers or conferences, which merely acts as a collection agent for such charges and the agency making such changes does so without notifying the tariff owner.<PRTPAGE P="170"/> </P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Controlled carriers.</E> Published rates by or for controlled carriers shall be governed by the procedures set forth in part 565 of this chapter.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.9</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Access to tariffs.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Methods to access.</E> Carriers and conferences shall provide access to their published tariffs, via a personal computer (“PC”), by:</P> <P>(1) Dial-up connection via public switched telephone networks (“PSTN”); or</P> <P>(2) The Internet (Web) by:</P> <P>(i) Web browser; or</P> <P>(ii) Telnet session.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Dial-up connection via PSTN.</E> (1) This connection option requires that tariffs provide:</P> <P>(i) A minimum of a 14.4Kbps modem capable of receiving incoming calls;</P> <P>(ii) Smart terminal capability for VT-100 terminal or terminal emulation access; and</P> <P>(iii) Telephone line quality for data transmission.</P> <P>(2) The modem may be included in a collection (bank) of modems as long as all modems in the bank meet the minimum speed.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Internet connection.</E> (1) This connection option requires that systems provide:</P> <P>(i) A universal resource locator (“URL”) Internet address (<E T="03">e.g.,</E> <E T="03">http://www.tariffsrus.com</E> or <E T="03">http://1.2.3.4</E>); and/or</P> <P>(ii) A URL Internet address (<E T="03">e.g.,</E> <E T="03">telnet://tariffsrus</E> or <E T="03">telnet://1.2.3.4</E>), for Telnet session access over the Internet.</P> <P>(2) Carriers or conferences shall ensure that their Internet service providers provide static Internet addresses.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Commission access.</E> Commission telecommunications access to systems must include connectivity via a dial-up connection over PSTNs or a connection over the Internet. Connectivity will be provided at the expense of the publishers. Any recurring connection fees, hardware rental fees, usage fees or any other charges associated with the availability of the system are the responsibility of the publisher. The Commission shall only be responsible for the long-haul charges for PSTN calls to a tariff initiated by the FMC.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Limitations.</E> (1) Tariffs must be made available to any person without time, quantity, or other limitations.</P> <P>(2) Carriers are not required to provide remote terminals for access under this section.</P> <P>(3) Carriers and conferences may assess a reasonable fee for access to their tariff publication systems and such fees shall not be discriminatory.</P> <P>(4) Tariff publication systems shall provide user instructions for access to tariff information.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Federal agencies.</E> Carriers and conferences may not assess any access charges against the Commission or any other Federal agency.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">User identifications.</E> Carriers and conferences shall provide the Commission with the documentation it requires and the number of user identifications and passwords it requests to facilitate the Commission's access to their systems, if they require such identifications and passwords.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.10</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Integrity of tariffs.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Historical data.</E> Carriers and conferences shall maintain the data that appeared in their tariff publication systems for a period of five (5) years from the date such information is superseded, canceled or withdrawn, and shall provide on-line access to such data for two (2) years. After two (2) years, such data may be retained on-line or in other electronic form, and shall be made available to any person or the Commission upon request in a reasonable period of time. Carriers and conferences may charge a reasonable fee for the provision of historical data, not to exceed the fees for obtaining such data on-line. No fee shall apply to federal agencies.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Access date capability.</E> Each tariff shall provide the capability for a retriever to enter an access date, <E T="03">i.e.,</E> a specific date for the retrieval of tariff data, so that only data in effect on that date would be directly retrievable. This capability would also align any rate adjustments and assessorial charges that were effective on the access date for rate calculations and designation of applicable surcharges. The access date shall also apply to the alignment of tariff objects for any governing tariffs.<PRTPAGE P="171"/> </P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Periodic review.</E> The Commission will periodically review published tariff systems and will prohibit the use of any system that fails to meet the requirements of this part.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Access to systems.</E> Carriers and conferences shall provide the Commission reasonable access to their automated systems and records in order to conduct reviews.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.11</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Non-vessel-operating common carriers.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Financial responsibility.</E> An ocean transportation intermediary that operates as a non-vessel-operating common carrier shall state in its tariff publication:</P> <P>(1) That it has furnished the Commission proof of its financial responsibility in the manner and amount required by part 515 of this chapter;</P> <P>(2) The manner of its financial responsibility;</P> <P>(3) Whether it is relying on coverage provided by a group or association to which it is a member;</P> <P>(4) The name and address of the surety company, insurance company or guarantor issuing the bond, insurance policy, or guaranty;</P> <P>(5) The number of the bond, insurance policy or guaranty; and</P> <P>(6) Where applicable, the name and address of the group or association providing coverage.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Agent for service.</E> Every NVOCC not in the United States shall state the name and address of the person in the United States designated under part 515 of this chapter as its legal agent for service of process, including subpoenas. The NVOCC shall further state that in any instance in which the designated legal agent cannot be served because of death, disability or unavailability, the Commission's Secretary will be deemed to be its legal agent for service of process.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Co-Loading.</E> (1) NVOCCs shall address the following situations in their tariffs:</P> <P>(i) If an NVOCC does not tender cargo for co-loading, this shall be noted in its tariff.</P> <P>(ii) If two or more NVOCCs enter into an agreement which establishes a carrier-to-carrier relationship for the co-loading of cargo, then the existence of such agreement shall be noted in the tariff.</P> <P>(iii) If two NVOCCs enter into a co-loading arrangement which results in a shipper-to-carrier relationship, the tendering NVOCC shall describe its co-loading practices and specify its responsibility to pay any charges for the transportation of the cargo. A shipper-to-carrier relationship shall be presumed to exist where the receiving NVOCC issues a bill of lading to the tendering NVOCC for carriage of the co-loaded cargo.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Documentation requirements.</E> An NVOCC which tenders cargo to another NVOCC for co-loading, whether under a shipper-to-carrier or carrier-to-carrier relationship, shall annotate each applicable bill of lading with the identity of any other NVOCC to which the shipment has been tendered for co-loading. Such annotation shall be shown on the face of the bill of lading in a clear and legible manner.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">Co-loading rates.</E> No NVOCC may offer special co-loading rates for the exclusive use of other NVOCCs. If cargo is accepted by an NVOCC from another NVOCC which tenders that cargo in the capacity of a shipper, it must be rated and carried under tariff provisions which are available to all shippers.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.12</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Time/Volume rates.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> Common carriers or conferences may publish in their tariffs rates which are conditioned upon the receipt of a specified aggregate volume of cargo or aggregate freight revenue over a specified period of time.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Publication requirements.</E> (1) All rates, charges, classifications rules and practices concerning time/volume rates must be set forth in the carrier's or conference's tariff.</P> <P>(2) The tariff shall identify:</P> <P>(i) The shipment records that will be maintained to support the rate; and</P> <P>(ii) The method to be used by shippers giving notice of their intention to use a time/volume rate prior to tendering any shipments under the time/volume arrangement.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Accepted rates.</E> Once a time/volume rate is accepted by one shipper, it shall remain in effect for the time specified, without amendment. If no shipper <PRTPAGE P="172"/>gives notice within 30 days of publication, the time/volume rate may be canceled.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Records.</E> Shipper notices and shipment records supporting a time/volume rate shall be maintained by the offering carrier or conference for at least 5 years after a shipper's use of a time/volume rate has ended.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Liquidated damages.</E> Time/volume rates may not impose or attempt to impose liquidated damages on any shipper that moves cargo under the rate. Carriers and agreements shall rerate cargo moved at the applicable tariff rate, if a shipper fails to meet the requirements of the time/volume offer.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.13</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exemptions and exceptions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> Exemptions from the requirements of this part are governed by section 16 of the Act and Rule 67 of the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure, § 502.67 of this chapter.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Services.</E> The following services are exempt from the requirements of this part:</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Equipment interchange agreements.</E> Equipment-interchange agreements between common carriers subject to this part and inland carriers, where such agreements are not referred to in the carriers' tariffs and do not affect the tariff rates, charges or practices of the carriers.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Controlled carriers in foreign commerce.</E> A controlled common carrier shall be exempt from the provisions of this part exclusively applicable to controlled carriers when:</P> <P>(i) The vessels of the controlling state are entitled by a treaty of the United States to receive national or most-favored-nation treatment; or</P> <P>(ii) The controlled carrier operates in a trade served exclusively by controlled carriers.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">Terminal barge operators in Pacific Slope states.</E> Transportation provided by terminal barge operators in Pacific Slope states barging containers and containerized cargo by barge between points in the United States are exempt from the tariff publication requirements of Act and the rules of this part, where:</P> <P>(i) The cargo is moving between a point in a foreign country or a non-contiguous State, territory, or possession and a point in the United States;</P> <P>(ii) The transportation by barge between points in the United States is furnished by a terminal operator as a service substitute in lieu of a direct vessel call by the common carrier by water transporting the containers or containerized cargo under a through bill of lading; and</P> <P>(iii) Such terminal operator is a Pacific Slope state, municipality, or other public body or agency subject to the jurisdiction of the Commission, and the only one furnishing the particular circumscribed barge service in question as of January 2, 1975.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Cargo types.</E> The following cargo types are not subject to the requirements of this part:</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Bulk cargo, forest products, etc.</E> This part does not apply to bulk cargo, forest products, recycled metal scrap, new assembled motor vehicles, waste paper and paper waste. Carriers or conferences which voluntarily publish tariff provisions covering otherwise exempt transportation thereby subject themselves to the requirements of this part, including the requirement to adhere to the tariff provisions.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Mail in foreign commerce.</E> Transportation of mail between the United States and foreign countries.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">Used military household goods.</E> Transportation of used military household goods and personal effects by ocean transportation intermediaries.</P> <P>(4) <E T="03">Department of Defense cargo.</E> Transportation of U.S. Department of Defense cargo moving in foreign commerce under terms and conditions negotiated and approved by the Military Transportation Management Command (“MTMC”) and published in a universal service contract. An exact copy of the universal service contract, including any amendments thereto, shall be filed in paper format with the Commission as soon as it becomes available.</P> <P>(5) <E T="03">Used household goods—General Services Administration.</E> Transportation of used household goods and personal effects by ocean transportation intermediaries shipped for federal civilian executive agencies under the International Household Goods Program administered by the General Services Administration.<PRTPAGE P="173"/> </P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Services involving foreign countries.</E> The following transportation services involving foreign countries are not subject to the requirements of this part:</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Between foreign countries.</E> This part does not apply to transportation of cargo between foreign countries, including that which is transshipped from one ocean common carrier to another (or between vessels of the same common carrier) at a U.S. port or transferred between an ocean common carrier and another transportation mode at a U.S. port for overland carriage through the United States, where the ocean common carrier accepts custody of the cargo in a foreign country and issues a through bill of lading covering its transportation to a foreign point of destination.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Between Canada and U.S.</E> The following services are exempt from the filing requirements of the Act and the rules of this part:</P> <P>(i) <E T="03">Prince Rupert and Alaska.</E> (A) <E T="03">Vehicles.</E> Transportation by vessels operated by the State of Alaska between Prince Rupert, Canada and ports in southeastern Alaska, if all the following conditions are met:</P> <P>(<E T="03">1</E>) Carriage of property is limited to vehicles;</P> <P>(<E T="03">2</E>) Tolls levied for vehicles are based solely on space utilized rather than the weight or contents of the vehicle and are the same whether the vehicle is loaded or empty;</P> <P>(<E T="03">3</E>) The vessel operator does not move the vehicles on or off the ship; and</P> <P>(<E T="03">4</E>) The common carrier does not participate in any joint rate establishing through routes or in any other type of agreement with any other common carrier.</P> <P>(B) <E T="03">Passengers.</E> Transportation of passengers, commercial buses carrying passengers, personal vehicles and personal effects by vessels operated by the State of Alaska between Seattle, Washington and Prince Rupert, Canada, only if such vehicles and personal effects are the accompanying personal property of the passengers and are not transported for the purpose of sale.</P> <P>(ii) <E T="03">British Columbia and Puget Sound Ports; rail cars.</E>—(A) <E T="03">Through rates.</E> Transportation by water of cargo moving in rail cars between British Columbia, Canada and United States ports on Puget Sound, and between British Columbia, Canada and ports or points in Alaska, only if the cargo does not originate in or is not destined to foreign countries other than Canada, but only if:</P> <P>(<E T="03">1</E>) The through rates are filed with the Surface Transportation Board and/or the Canadian Transport Commission; and</P> <P>(<E T="03">2</E>) Certified copies of the rate divisions and of all agreements, arrangements or concurrences, entered into in connection with the transportation of such cargo, are filed with the Commission within 30 days of the effectiveness of such rate divisions, agreements, arrangements or concurrences.</P> <P>(B) <E T="03">Bulk; port-to-port.</E> Transportation by water of cargo moving in bulk without mark or count in rail cars on a local port-to-port rate basis between ports in British Columbia, Canada and United States ports on Puget Sound, only if the rates charged for any particular bulk type commodity on any one sailing are identical for all shippers, except that:</P> <P>(<E T="03">1</E>) This exemption shall not apply to cargo originating in or destined to foreign countries other than Canada; and</P> <P>(<E T="03">2</E>) The carrier will remain subject to all other provisions of the Act.</P> <P>(iii) <E T="03">Incan Superior, Ltd.</E> Transportation by Incan Superior, Ltd. of cargo moving in railroad cars between Thunder Bay, Ontario, and Superior, Wisconsin, only if the cargo does not originate in or is not destined to foreign countries other than Canada, and if:</P> <P>(A) The through rates are filed with the Surface Transportation Board and/or the Canadian Transport Commission; and</P> <P>(B) Certified copies of the rate divisions and all agreements, arrangements or concurrences entered into in connection with the transportation of such cargo are filed with the Commission within 30 days of the effectiveness of such rate divisions, agreements, arrangements or concurrences.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.14</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Special permission.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">General.</E> Section 8(d) of the Act authorizes the Commission, in its discretion and for good cause shown, to permit increases or decreases in rates, or the issuance of new or initial rates, <PRTPAGE P="174"/>on less than the statutory notice. Section 9(c) of the Act authorizes the Commission to permit a controlled carrier's rates, charges, classifications, rules or regulations to become effective on less than 30 days' notice. The Commission may also in its discretion and for good cause shown, permit departures from the requirements of this part.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Clerical errors.</E> Typographical and/or clerical errors constitute good cause for the exercise of special permission authority but every application based thereon must plainly specify the error and present clear evidence of its existence, together with a full statement of the attending circumstances, and shall be submitted with reasonable promptness after publishing the defective tariff material.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Application.</E> (1) Applications for special permission to establish rate increases or decreases on less than statutory notice or for waiver of the provisions of this part, shall be made by the common carrier, conference or agent for publishing. Every such application shall be submitted to the Bureau of Trade Analysis and be accompanied by a filing fee of $195.</P> <P>(2) Applications for special permission shall be made only by letter, except that in emergency situations, application may be made by telephone or facsimile if the communication is promptly followed by a letter and the filing fee.</P> <P>(3) Applications for special permission shall contain the following information:</P> <P>(i) Organization name, number and trade name of the conference or carrier;</P> <P>(ii) Tariff number and title; and</P> <P>(iii) The rate, commodity, or rules related to the application, and the special circumstances which the applicant believes constitute good cause to depart from the requirements of this part or to warrant a tariff change upon less than the statutory notice period.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Implementation.</E> The authority granted by the Commission shall be used in its entirety, including the prompt publishing of the material for which permission was requested. Applicants shall use the special case number assigned by the Commission with the symbol “S”.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11225, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002; 70 FR 10330, Mar. 3, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 520.91</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control number assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission has received OMB approval for this collection of information pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, as amended. In accordance with the Act, agencies are required to display a currently valid control number. The valid control number for this collection of information is 3072-0064.</P> </SECTION> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 520, App. A</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Appendix A to Part 520—Standard Terminology and Codes</HD> <GPOTABLE CDEF="xs24,r100" COLS="2" OPTS="L2"> <TTITLE>I—Publishing/Amendment Type Codes</TTITLE> <BOXHD> <CHED H="1">Code</CHED> <CHED H="1">Definition</CHED> </BOXHD> <ROW> <ENT I="01">A</ENT> <ENT>Increase.</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">C</ENT> <ENT>Change resulting in neither increase nor decrease in rate or charges.</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">E</ENT> <ENT>Expiration (also use “A” if the deletion results in the application of a higher “cargo, n.o.s.” or similar rate).</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">I</ENT> <ENT>New or initial matter.</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">K</ENT> <ENT>Rate or change filed by a controlled common carrier member of a conference under independent action.</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">M</ENT> <ENT>Transportation of U.S. Department of Defense cargo by American-flag common carriers.</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">P</ENT> <ENT>Addition of a port or point.</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">R</ENT> <ENT>Reduction.</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">S</ENT> <ENT>Special Case matter filed pursuant to Special Permission, Special Docket or other Commission direction, including filing of tariff data after suspension, such as for controlled carriers. Requires “Special Case Number.”</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">T</ENT> <ENT>Terminal Rates, charges or provisions or canal tolls over which the carrier has no control.</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">W</ENT> <ENT>Withdrawal of an erroneous publication on the same publication date.</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="01">X</ENT> <ENT>Exemption for controlled carrier data in trades served exclusively by controlled carriers or by controlled carriers of states receiving most-favored-nation treatment.</ENT> </ROW> </GPOTABLE> <GPOTABLE CDEF="s50,xs25" COLS="2" OPTS="L2"> <TTITLE>II—Unit Codes</TTITLE> <ROW> <ENT I="22">A. Weight Units:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Kilograms</ENT> <ENT>KGS</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">1000 Kgs (Metric Ton)</ENT> <ENT>KT</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Pounds</ENT> <ENT>LBS</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Long Ton (2240 LBS)</ENT> <ENT>LT</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Short Ton (2000 LBS)</ENT> <ENT>ST</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">B. Volume Units:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Cubic meter</ENT> <ENT>CBM</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Cubic feet</ENT> <ENT>CFT</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">C. Length Units:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Centimeters</ENT> <ENT>CM</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Feet</ENT> <ENT>FT</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Inches</ENT> <ENT>IN</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <PRTPAGE P="175"/> <ENT I="02">Meters</ENT> <ENT>M</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">D. Measure Board Feet:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Thousand Board Feet</ENT> <ENT>MBF</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">E. Distance Units:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Kilometers</ENT> <ENT>KM</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Miles</ENT> <ENT>MI</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">F. Rate Basis:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Ad Valorem</ENT> <ENT>AV</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Each</ENT> <ENT>EA</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Lump Sum</ENT> <ENT>LS</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Measure</ENT> <ENT>M</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Thousand Board Feet</ENT> <ENT>MBF</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Per Container</ENT> <ENT>PC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Weight</ENT> <ENT>W</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Weight/Measure</ENT> <ENT>WM</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">G. Container Size Codes:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Not Applicable</ENT> <ENT>N/A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Less Than Load</ENT> <ENT>LTL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">10 FT Any Height</ENT> <ENT>10X</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">20 FT 8′6″</ENT> <ENT>20</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">20 FT 9′0″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>20A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">20 FT 9′6″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>20B</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">20 FT 8′0″</ENT> <ENT>20S</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">20 FT Any Height</ENT> <ENT>20X</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">24 FT 8′6″</ENT> <ENT>24</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">24 FT 9′0″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>24A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">24 FT 9′6″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>24B</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">24 FT 8′0″</ENT> <ENT>24S</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">24 FT Any Height</ENT> <ENT>24X</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">35 FT 8′6″</ENT> <ENT>35</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">35 FT 9′0″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>35A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">35 FT 9′6″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>35B</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">35 FT 8′0″</ENT> <ENT>35S</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">35 FT Any Height</ENT> <ENT>35X</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">40 FT 8′6″</ENT> <ENT>40</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">40 FT 9′0″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>40A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">40 FT 9′6″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>40B</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">40 FT 8′0″</ENT> <ENT>40S</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">40 FT Any Height</ENT> <ENT>40X</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">42 FT 8′6″</ENT> <ENT>42</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">42 FT 9′0″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>42A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">42 FT 9′6″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>42B</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">42 FT 8′0″</ENT> <ENT>42S</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">42 FT Any Height</ENT> <ENT>42X</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">43 FT 8′6″</ENT> <ENT>43</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">43 FT 9′0″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>43A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">43 FT 9′6″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>43B</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">43 FT 8′0″</ENT> <ENT>43S</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">43 FT Any Height</ENT> <ENT>43X</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">45 FT 8′6″</ENT> <ENT>45</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">45 FT 9′0″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>45A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">45 FT 9′6″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>45B</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">45 FT 8′0″</ENT> <ENT>45S</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">45 FT Any Height</ENT> <ENT>45X</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">48 FT 8′6″</ENT> <ENT>48</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">48 FT 9′0″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>48A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">48 FT 9′6″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>48B</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">48 FT 8′0″</ENT> <ENT>48S</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">48 FT Any Height</ENT> <ENT>48X</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">53 FT 8′6″</ENT> <ENT>53</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">53 FT 9′0″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>53A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">53 FT 9′6″ High Cube</ENT> <ENT>53B</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">53 FT 8′0″</ENT> <ENT>53S</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">53 FT Any Height</ENT> <ENT>53X</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">H. Container Type Codes:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Not Applicable</ENT> <ENT>N/A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Atmosphere Control</ENT> <ENT>AC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Collapsible Flatrack</ENT> <ENT>CF</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Drop Frame</ENT> <ENT>DF</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Flat Bed</ENT> <ENT>FB</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Flat Rack</ENT> <ENT>FR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Garment Container</ENT> <ENT>GC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Half-Height</ENT> <ENT>HH</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Hardtop</ENT> <ENT>HT</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Insulated</ENT> <ENT>IN</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Open Top</ENT> <ENT>OT</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Dry</ENT> <ENT>PC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Platform</ENT> <ENT>PL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Reefer</ENT> <ENT>RE</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Tank</ENT> <ENT>TC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Top Loader</ENT> <ENT>TL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Trailer</ENT> <ENT>TR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Vehicle Racks</ENT> <ENT>VR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">I. Container Temperature Codes:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Not Appl/Operating</ENT> <ENT>N/A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Artificial Atmo Ctrl</ENT> <ENT>AC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Chilled</ENT> <ENT>CLD</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Frozen</ENT> <ENT>FRZ</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Heated</ENT> <ENT>HTD</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Refrigerated</ENT> <ENT>RE</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Ventilated</ENT> <ENT>VEN</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">J. Packaging Codes:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Bag</ENT> <ENT>BAG</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Bale</ENT> <ENT>BAL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Bar</ENT> <ENT>BAR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Barrel</ENT> <ENT>BBL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Bundle</ENT> <ENT>BDL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Beam</ENT> <ENT>BEM</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Bing Chest</ENT> <ENT>BIC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Bin</ENT> <ENT>BIN</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Bulk</ENT> <ENT>BLK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Bobbin</ENT> <ENT>BOB</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Box</ENT> <ENT>BOX</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Barge</ENT> <ENT>BRG</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Basket/Hamper</ENT> <ENT>BSK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Bushel</ENT> <ENT>BUS</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Box, with Inner Cntn</ENT> <ENT>BXI</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Bucket</ENT> <ENT>BXT</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Cabinet</ENT> <ENT>CAB</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Cage</ENT> <ENT>CAG</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Can</ENT> <ENT>CAN</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Carrier</ENT> <ENT>CAR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Case</ENT> <ENT>CAS</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Cntnrs of Bulk Cargo</ENT> <ENT>CBC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Carboy</ENT> <ENT>CBY</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Can Case</ENT> <ENT>CCS</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Cheeses</ENT> <ENT>CHE</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Core</ENT> <ENT>COR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Cradle</ENT> <ENT>CRD</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Crate</ENT> <ENT>CRT</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Cask</ENT> <ENT>CSK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Carton</ENT> <ENT>CTN</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Cylinder</ENT> <ENT>CYL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Dry Bulk</ENT> <ENT>DBK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Double-length Rack</ENT> <ENT>DRK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Drum</ENT> <ENT>DRM</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Double-length Skid</ENT> <ENT>DSK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Double-length</ENT> <ENT>DTB</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Firkin</ENT> <ENT>FIR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Flo-Bin</ENT> <ENT>FLO</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Frame</ENT> <ENT>FRM</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Flask</ENT> <ENT>FSK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Forward Reel</ENT> <ENT>FWR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Garment on Hanger</ENT> <ENT>GOH</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Heads of Beef</ENT> <ENT>HED</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Hogshead</ENT> <ENT>HGH</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Hopper Car</ENT> <ENT>HPC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Hopper Truck</ENT> <ENT>HPT</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">On Hanger/Rack in bx</ENT> <ENT>HRB</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Half-Standard Rack</ENT> <ENT>HRK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Half-Stand. Tote Bin</ENT> <ENT>HTB</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Jar</ENT> <ENT>JAR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Keg</ENT> <ENT>KEG</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Kit</ENT> <ENT>KIT</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Knockdown Rack</ENT> <ENT>KRK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Knockdown Wood Crates</ENT> <ENT>KWC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Knockdown Tote Bin</ENT> <ENT>KTB</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Liquid Bulk</ENT> <ENT>LBK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <PRTPAGE P="176"/> <ENT I="02">Lifts</ENT> <ENT>LIF</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Log</ENT> <ENT>LOG</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Loose</ENT> <ENT>LSE</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Lug</ENT> <ENT>LUG</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Lift Van</ENT> <ENT>LVN</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Multi-roll Pak</ENT> <ENT>MRP</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Noil</ENT> <ENT>NOL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Nested</ENT> <ENT>NST</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Pail</ENT> <ENT>PAL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Packed—NOS</ENT> <ENT>PCK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Pieces</ENT> <ENT>PCS</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Pirns</ENT> <ENT>PIR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Package</ENT> <ENT>PKG</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Platform</ENT> <ENT>PLF</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Pipe Line</ENT> <ENT>PLN</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Pallet</ENT> <ENT>PLT</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Private Vehicle</ENT> <ENT>POV</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Pipe Rack</ENT> <ENT>PRK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Quarters of Beef</ENT> <ENT>QTR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Rail (semiconductor)</ENT> <ENT>RAL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Rack</ENT> <ENT>RCK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Reel</ENT> <ENT>REL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Roll</ENT> <ENT>ROL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Reverse Reel</ENT> <ENT>RVR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Sack</ENT> <ENT>SAK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Shook</ENT> <ENT>SHK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Sides of Beef</ENT> <ENT>SID</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Skid</ENT> <ENT>SKD</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Skid, Elev, Lift Trk</ENT> <ENT>SKE</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Sleeve</ENT> <ENT>SLV</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Spin Cylinders</ENT> <ENT>SPI</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Spool</ENT> <ENT>SPL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Tube</ENT> <ENT>TBE</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Tote Bin</ENT> <ENT>TBN</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Tank Car Rail</ENT> <ENT>TKR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Tank Truck</ENT> <ENT>TKT</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Intermdl Trlr/Cntnr</ENT> <ENT>TLD</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Tank</ENT> <ENT>TNK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Tierce</ENT> <ENT>TRC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Trunk and Chest</ENT> <ENT>TRK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Tray</ENT> <ENT>TRY</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Trunk, Salesmen Samp</ENT> <ENT>TSS</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Tub</ENT> <ENT>TUB</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Unpacked</ENT> <ENT>UNP</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Unit</ENT> <ENT>UNT</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Vehicles</ENT> <ENT>VEH</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Van Pack</ENT> <ENT>VPK</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">On Own Wheels</ENT> <ENT>WHE</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Wheeled Carrier</ENT> <ENT>WLC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Wood Crates</ENT> <ENT>WC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Wrapped</ENT> <ENT>WRP</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Not Applicable</ENT> <ENT>N/A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">K. Shipment Stowage Location Codes:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Not Applicable</ENT> <ENT>N/A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">On Deck</ENT> <ENT>OD</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Bottom Stowage</ENT> <ENT>BS</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">L. Hazard Codes:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Not Applicable</ENT> <ENT>N/A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">IMD Stow Category A</ENT> <ENT>A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">IMD Stow Category B</ENT> <ENT>B</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">IMD Stow Category C</ENT> <ENT>C</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">IMD Stow Category D</ENT> <ENT>D</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">IMD Stow Category E</ENT> <ENT>E</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Hazardous</ENT> <ENT>HAZ</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Non-Hazardous</ENT> <ENT>NHZ</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">M. Stuffing/Stripping Modes:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Not Applicable</ENT> <ENT>N/A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Mechanical</ENT> <ENT>MECH</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Hand Loading</ENT> <ENT>HAND</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">N. Inland Transportation Modes:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Not Applicable</ENT> <ENT>N/A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Motor</ENT> <ENT>M</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Rail</ENT> <ENT>R</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Barge</ENT> <ENT>B</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Motor/Rail</ENT> <ENT>MR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Rail/Motor</ENT> <ENT>RM</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Motor/Barge</ENT> <ENT>MB</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Barge/Motor</ENT> <ENT>BM</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Rail/Barge</ENT> <ENT>RB</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Barge/Rail</ENT> <ENT>BR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">O. Shipment Service Types:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Barge</ENT> <ENT>B</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Door</ENT> <ENT>D</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">House</ENT> <ENT>H</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Motor</ENT> <ENT>M</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Ocean Port</ENT> <ENT>O</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Pier</ENT> <ENT>P</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Rail Yard</ENT> <ENT>R</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Container Station</ENT> <ENT>S</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Terminal</ENT> <ENT>T</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Container Yard</ENT> <ENT>Y</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Rail Siding</ENT> <ENT>U</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Team Tracks</ENT> <ENT>X</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">P. Freight Forwarder/Broker Type Codes:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Not Applicable</ENT> <ENT>N/A</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Freight Forwarder</ENT> <ENT>FF</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Customs House Broker</ENT> <ENT>CB</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Other</ENT> <ENT>OTH</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="22">Q. Tariff Type Codes:</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02"> Bill of Lading Tariff</ENT> <ENT>BL</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Equipment Interchange Agreement Tariff</ENT> <ENT>EI</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Essential Terms Publication</ENT> <ENT>ET</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Foreign Commodity Tariff</ENT> <ENT>FC</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Foreign Rules Tariff</ENT> <ENT>FR</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Terminal Tariff</ENT> <ENT>TM</ENT> </ROW> <ROW> <ENT I="02">Service Contracts</ENT> <ENT>SC</ENT> </ROW> </GPOTABLE> </APPENDIX> </PART> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 525</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 525—MARINE TERMINAL OPERATOR SCHEDULES</HD> <CONTENTS> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>525.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose and scope.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>525.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Terminal schedules.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>525.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Availability of marine terminal operator schedules.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>525.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB Control number assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>46 U.S.C. app. 1702, 1707, 1709, as amended by Pub. L. 105-258, 112 Stat. 1902, and Pub. L. 105-383, 112 Stat. 3411.</P> </AUTH> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>64 FR 9283, Feb. 25, 1999, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 525.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose and scope.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Purpose.</E> This part implements the Shipping Act of 1984, as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 and the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1998. The form and manner requirements of this part are necessary to enable the Commission to meet its responsibilities with regard to identifying and preventing unreasonable preference or prejudice and unjust discrimination pursuant to section 10 of the Act.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Scope.</E> This part sets forth the regulations for the publication of terminal <PRTPAGE P="177"/>schedules by marine terminal operators. Information made available under this part may be used to determine marine terminal operators' compliance with shipping statutes and regulations.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Definitions.</E> The following definitions apply to the regulations of this part:</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Act</E> means the Shipping Act of 1984, as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 and the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1998.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Bulk cargo</E> means cargo that is loaded and carried in bulk without mark or count, in a loose unpackaged form, having homogenous characteristics. Bulk cargo loaded into intermodal equipment, except LASH or Seabee barges, is subject to mark and count and is, therefore, subject to the requirements of this part.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">Checking</E> means the service of counting and checking cargo against appropriate documents for the account of the cargo or the vessel, or other person requesting same.</P> <P>(4) <E T="03">Commission</E> means the Federal Maritime Commission.</P> <P>(5) <E T="03">Dockage</E> means the charge assessed against a vessel for berthing at a wharf, pier, bulkhead structure, or bank or for mooring to a vessel so berthed.</P> <P>(6) <E T="03">Effective date</E> means the date a schedule or an element of a schedule becomes effective. Where there are multiple publications on the same day, the last schedule or element of a schedule published with the same effective date is the one effective for that day.</P> <P>(7) <E T="03">Expiration date</E> means the last day, after which the entire schedule or a single element of the schedule, is no longer in effect.</P> <P>(8) <E T="03">Forest products</E> means forest products including, but not limited to, lumber in bundles, rough timber, ties, poles, piling, laminated beams, bundled siding, bundled plywood, bundled core stock or veneers, bundled particle or fiber boards, bundled hardwood, wood pulp in rolls, wood pulp in unitized bales, paper and paper board in rolls or in pallet or skid-sized sheets, liquid or granular by-products derived from pulping and papermaking, and engineering wood products.</P> <P>(9) <E T="03">Free time</E> means the period specified in the terminal schedule during which cargo may occupy space assigned to it on terminal property, including off-dock facilities, free of wharf demurrage or terminal storage charges immediately prior to the loading or subsequent to the discharge of such cargo on or off the vessel.</P> <P>(10) <E T="03">Handling</E> means the service of physically moving cargo between point of rest and any place on the terminal facility, other than the end of ship's tackle.</P> <P>(11) <E T="03">Heavy lift</E> means the service of providing heavy lift cranes and equipment for lifting cargo.</P> <P>(12) <E T="03">Loading and unloading</E> means the service of loading or unloading cargo between any place on the terminal and railroad cars, trucks, lighters or barges or any other means of conveyance to or from the terminal facility.</P> <P>(13) <E T="03">Marine terminal operator</E> means a person engaged in the United States or a commonwealth, territory, or possession thereof, in the business of furnishing wharfage, dock, warehouse or other terminal facilities in connection with a common carrier, or in connection with a common carrier and a water carrier subject to Subchapter II of Chapter 135 of Title 49, United States Code. A marine terminal operator includes, but is not limited to, terminals owned or operated by states and their political subdivisions; railroads who perform port terminal services not covered by their line haul rates; common carriers who perform port terminal services; and warehousemen who operate port terminal facilities. For the purposes of this part, marine terminal operator includes conferences of marine terminal operators.</P> <P>(14) <E T="03">Organization name</E> means an entity's name on file with the Commission and for which the Commission assigns an organizational number.</P> <P>(15) <E T="03">Person</E> includes individuals, firms, partnerships, associations, companies, corporations, joint stock associations, trustees, receivers, agents, assignees and personal representatives.</P> <P>(16) <E T="03">Rate</E> means a price quoted in a schedule for providing a specified level of marine terminal service or facility for a stated cargo quantity, on and after a stated effective date or within a defined time frame.<PRTPAGE P="178"/> </P> <P>(17) <E T="03">Schedule</E> means a publication containing the actual rates, charges, classifications, regulations and practices of a marine terminal operator. The term “practices” refers to those usages, customs or modes of operation which in any way affect, determine or change the rates, charges or services provided by a marine terminal operator.</P> <P>(18) <E T="03">Terminal facilities</E> means one or more structures comprising a terminal unit, which include, but are not limited to, wharves, warehouses, covered and/or open storage spaces, cold storage plants, cranes, grain elevators and/or bulk cargo loading and/or unloading structures, landings, and receiving stations, used for the transmission, care and convenience of cargo and/or passengers in the interchange of same between land and water carriers or between two water carriers.</P> <P>(19) <E T="03">Terminal services</E> includes checking, dockage, free time, handling, heavy lift, loading and unloading, terminal storage, usage, wharfage, and wharf demurrage, as defined in this section. The definitions of terminal services set forth in this section shall be set forth in terminal schedules, except that other definitions of terminal services may be used if they are correlated by footnote, or other appropriate method, to the definitions set forth herein. Any additional services which are offered shall be listed and charges therefor shall be shown in the terminal schedule.</P> <P>(20) <E T="03">Terminal storage</E> means the service of providing warehouse or other terminal facilities for the storage of inbound or outbound cargo after the expiration of free time, including wharf storage, shipside storage, closed or covered storage, open or ground storage, bonded storage and refrigerated storage.</P> <P>(21) <E T="03">Usage</E> means the use of a terminal facility by any rail carrier, lighter operator, trucker, shipper or consignee, its agents, servants, and/or employees, when it performs its own car, lighter or truck loading or unloading, or the use of said facilities for any other gainful purpose for which a charge is not otherwise specified.</P> <P>(22) <E T="03">Wharf demurrage</E> means a charge assessed against cargo remaining in or on terminal facilities after the expiration of free time, unless arrangements have been made for storage.</P> <P>(23) <E T="03">Wharfage</E> means a charge assessed against the cargo or vessel on all cargo passing or conveyed over, onto, or under wharves or between vessels (to or from barge, lighter, or water), when berthed at wharf or when moored in slip adjacent to a wharf. Wharfage is solely the charge for use of a wharf and does not include charges for any other service.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 525.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Terminal schedules.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Marine terminal operator schedules.</E> A marine terminal operator, at its discretion, may make available to the public, subject to section 10(d) of the Act, a schedule of its rates, regulations, and practices.</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Limitations of liability.</E> Any limitations of liability for cargo loss or damage pertaining to receiving, delivering, handling, or storing property at the marine terminal contained in a terminal schedule must be consistent with domestic law and international conventions and agreements adopted by the United States; such terminal schedules cannot contain provisions that exculpate or relieve marine terminal operators from liability for their own negligence, or that impose upon others the obligation to indemnify or hold-harmless the terminals from liability for their own negligence.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Enforcement of terminal schedules.</E> Any schedule that is made available to the public by the marine terminal operator shall be enforceable by an appropriate court as an implied contract between the marine terminal operator and the party receiving the services rendered by the marine terminal operator, without proof that such party has actual knowledge of the provisions of the applicable terminal schedule.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">Contracts for terminal services.</E> If the marine terminal operator has an actual contract with a party covering the services rendered by the marine terminal operator to that party, an existing terminal schedule covering those same services shall not be enforceable as an implied contract.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Cargo types not subject to this part.</E> (1) Except as set forth in paragraph (b)(2) of this section, this part does not <PRTPAGE P="179"/>apply to bulk cargo, forest products, recycled metal scrap, new assembled motor vehicles, waste paper and paper waste in terminal schedules.</P> <P>(2) Marine terminal operators which voluntarily make available terminal schedules covering any of the commodities identified in paragraph (b)(1) of this section thereby subject their services with respect to those commodities to the requirements of this part.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Marine terminal operator agreements.</E> The regulations relating to agreements to which a marine terminal operator is a party are located at part 535 of this chapter.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 525.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Availability of marine terminal operator schedules.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Availability of terminal schedules</E>—(1) <E T="03">Availability to the Commission.</E> A complete and current set of terminal schedules used by a marine terminal operator, or to which it is a party, shall be maintained in its office(s) for a period of five (5) years, whether or not made available to the public, and shall promptly be made available to the Commission upon request.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Availability to the public.</E> Any terminal schedule that is made available to the public shall be available during normal business hours and in electronic form. The public may be assessed a reasonable nondiscriminatory charge for access to the terminal schedules; no charge will be assessed against the Commission.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Access to electronically published schedules.</E> Marine terminal operators shall provide access to their terminal schedules via a personal computer (PC) by:</P> <P>(1) Dial-up connection via public switched telephone networks (PSTN); or</P> <P>(2) The Internet (Web) by:</P> <P>(i) Web browser; or</P> <P>(ii) Telnet session.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Dial-up connection via PSTN.</E> (1) This connection option requires that terminal schedules provide:</P> <P>(i) A minimum of a 14.4Kbps modem capable of receiving incoming calls,</P> <P>(ii) Smart terminal capability for VT-100 terminal or terminal emulation access, and</P> <P>(iii) Telephone line(s) quality for data transmission.</P> <P>(2) The modem may be included in a collection (bank) of modems as long as all modems in the bank meet the minimum speed. Smart terminal emulation provides for features such as bold, blinking, underlining and positioning to specific locations on the display screen.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Internet connection.</E> (1) This connection option requires that systems provide:</P> <P>(i) A universal resource locator (URL) Internet address (<E T="03">e.g.,</E> <E T="03">http://www.tariffsrus.com</E> or <E T="03">http://1.2.3.4</E>), and/or</P> <P>(ii) A universal resource locator (URL) Internet address (<E T="03">e.g.,</E> <E T="03">telnet://tariffsrus</E> or <E T="03">telnet://1.2.3.4</E>), for Telnet session access over the Internet.</P> <P>(2) Marine terminal operators shall ensure that their Internet service providers shall provide static Internet addresses.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Commission access.</E> Commission telecommunications access to systems must include connectivity via a dial-up connection over public switched telephone networks (PSTN) or a connection over the Internet. Connectivity will be provided at the expense of the publishers. Any recurring connection fees, hardware rental fees, usage fees or any other charges associated with the availability of the system are the responsibility of the publisher. The Commission shall only be responsible for the long-haul charges for PSTN calls to a terminal schedule initiated by the Commission.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Notification.</E> Each marine terminal operator shall notify the Commission's Bureau of Tariffs, Certification and Licensing (“BTCL”), prior to the commencement of marine terminal operations, of its organization name, organization number, home office address, name and telephone number of firm's representative, the location of its terminal schedule(s), and the publisher, if any, used to maintain its terminal schedule, by electronically submitting Form FMC-1 via the Commission's website at <E T="03">www.fmc.gov.</E> Any changes to the above information shall be immediately transmitted to BTCL. The Commission will publish a list on its website of the location of any terminal schedule made available to the public.<PRTPAGE P="180"/> </P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Form and manner.</E> Each terminal schedule made available by a marine terminal operator shall contain an individual identification number, effective date, expiration date, if any, and the complete terminal schedule in full text and/or data format showing all its rates, charges, and regulations relating to or connected with the receiving, handling, storing, and/or delivering of property at its terminal facilities.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 525.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control number assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission has received Office of Management and Budget approval for this collection of information pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, as amended. In accordance with that Act, agencies are required to display a currently valid control number. In this regard, the valid control number for this collection of information is 3072-0061.</P> </SECTION> </PART> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 530</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 530—SERVICE CONTRACTS</HD> <CONTENTS> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—General Provisions</HD> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>530.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>530.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope and applicability.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>530.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>530.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Confidentiality.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>530.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Duty to file.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>530.6</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Certification of shipper status.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>530.7</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Duty to labor organizations.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Filing Requirements</HD> <SECTNO>530.8</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service contracts.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>530.9</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notices.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>530.10</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Amendment, correction, cancellation, and electronic transmission errors.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>530.11</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Publication of Essential Terms</HD> <SECTNO>530.12</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Publication.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Exceptions and Implementation</HD> <SECTNO>530.13</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exceptions and exemptions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>530.14</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Implementation.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart E—Recordkeeping and Audit</HD> <SECTNO>530.15</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Recordkeeping and audit.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>530.91</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> <APP>Appendix A to Part 530—Instructions for the Filing of Service Contracts</APP> <APP>Exhibit 1 to Part 530—Service Contract Registration [Form FMC-83]</APP> </SUBPART> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>5 U.S.C. 553; 46 U.S.C. App. 1704, 1705, 1707, 1716.</P> </AUTH> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>64 FR 11206, Mar. 8, 1999, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—General Provisions</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose.</SUBJECT> <P>The purpose of this part is to facilitate the filing of service contracts and the publication of certain essential terms of those service contracts as required by section 8(c) of the Shipping Act of 1984 (“Act”). This part enables the Commission to review service contracts to ensure that these contracts and the parties to them comport with the requirements of the Act. This part also implements electronic filing provisions for service contracts to facilitate compliance and minimize the filing burdens on the oceanborne commerce of the United States.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope and applicability.</SUBJECT> <P>An individual ocean common carrier or an agreement between or among ocean common carriers may enter into a service contract with one or more shippers subject to the requirements of the Act.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <P>When used in this part:</P> <P>(a) <E T="03">Act</E> means the Shipping Act of 1984 as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Agreement</E> means an understanding, arrangement, or association (written or oral) and any modification or cancellation thereof which has been filed and effective under part 535 of this chapter with the Commission. The term does not include a maritime labor agreement.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Authorized person</E> means a carrier or a duly appointed agent who is authorized to file service contracts on behalf of the carrier party to a service contract and to publish the corresponding statement of essential terms and is registered by the Commission to file under § 530.5(d) and appendix A to this part.<PRTPAGE P="181"/> </P> <P>(d) <E T="03">BTCL</E> means the Commission's Bureau of Tariffs, Certification and Licensing or its successor bureau.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Commission</E> means the Federal Maritime Commission.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Common carrier</E> means a person holding itself out to the general public to provide transportation by water of passengers or cargo between the United States and a foreign country for compensation that:</P> <P>(1) Assumes responsibility for the transportation from the port or point of receipt to the port or point of destination; and</P> <P>(2) Utilizes, for all or part of that transportation, a vessel operating on the high seas or the Great Lakes between a port in the United States and a port in a foreign country, except that the term does not include a common carrier engaged in ocean transportation by ferry boat, ocean tramp, or chemical parcel tanker, or by a vessel when primarily engaged in the carriage of perishable agricultural commodities:</P> <P>(i) If the common carrier and the owner of those commodities are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by a person primarily engaged in the marketing and distribution of those commodities and</P> <P>(ii) Only with respect to those commodities.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Conference</E> means an agreement between or among two or more ocean common carriers which provides for the fixing of and adherence to uniform rates, charges, practices and conditions of service relating to the receipt, carriage, handling and/or delivery of passengers or cargo for all members. The term does not include joint service, pooling, sailing, space charter, or transshipment agreements.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Controlled carrier</E> means an ocean common carrier that is, or whose operating assets are, directly or indirectly owned or controlled by a government. Ownership or control by a government shall be deemed to exist with respect to any ocean common carrier if:</P> <P>(1) A majority portion of the interest in the carrier is owned or controlled in any manner by that government, by any agency thereof, or by any public or private person controlled by that government; or</P> <P>(2) That government has the right to appoint or disapprove the appointment of a majority of the directors, the chief operating officer or the chief executive officer of the carrier.</P> <P>(i) <E T="03">Effective date</E> means the date upon which a service contract or amendment is scheduled to go into effect by the parties to the contract. A service contract or amendment becomes effective at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on the beginning of the effective date. The effective date cannot be prior to the filing date of the service contract or amendment with the Commission.</P> <P>(j) <E T="03">Expiration date</E> means the last day after which the entire service contract is no longer in effect.</P> <P>(k) <E T="03">File</E> or <E T="03">filing</E> (of service contracts or amendments thereto) means the use of the Commission's electronic filing system for receipt of a service contract or an amendment thereto by the Commission, consistent with the method set forth in appendix A of this part, and the recording of its receipt by the Commission.</P> <P>(l) <E T="03">Labor agreement</E> means a collective-bargaining agreement between an employer subject to the Act, or group of such employers, and a labor organization or an agreement preparatory to such a collective-bargaining agreement among members of a multi-employer bargaining group, or an agreement specifically implementing provisions of such a collective-bargaining agreement or providing for the formation, financing, or administration of a multi-employer bargaining group, but the term does not include an assessment agreement.</P> <P>(m) <E T="03">Motor vehicle</E> means a wheeled vehicle whose primary purpose is ordinarily the non-commercial transportation of passengers, including an automobile, pickup truck, minivan or sport utility vehicle.</P> <P>(n) <E T="03">Ocean common carrier</E> means a common carrier that operates, for all or part of its common carrier service, a vessel on the high seas or the Great Lakes between a port in the United States and a port in a foreign country, except that the term does not include a common carrier engaged in ocean transportation by ferry boat, ocean tramp, or chemical parcel-tanker.<PRTPAGE P="182"/> </P> <P>(o) <E T="03">OIRM</E> means the Commission's Office of Information and Resources Management.</P> <P>(p) <E T="03">Non-vessel-operating common carrier (“NVOCC”)</E> means an ocean transportation intermediary as defined by section 3(17)(B) of the Act.</P> <P>(q) <E T="03">Service contract</E> means a written contract, other than a bill of lading or receipt, between one or more shippers and an individual ocean common carrier or an agreement between or among ocean common carriers in which the shipper makes a commitment to provide a certain minimum quantity or portion of its cargo or freight revenue over a fixed time period, and the individual ocean common carrier or the agreement commits to a certain rate or rate schedule and a defined service level, such as, assured space, transit time, port rotation, or similar service features. The contract may also specify provisions in the event of nonperformance on the part of any party.</P> <P>(r) <E T="03">Shipper</E> means a cargo owner; the person for whose account the ocean transportation is provided; the person to whom delivery is to be made; a shippers' association; or an NVOCC that accepts responsibility for payment of all applicable charges under the service contract.</P> <P>(s) <E T="03">Statement of essential terms</E> means a concise statement of the essential terms of a service contract required to be published under § 530.12 of this part.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11206, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 64 FR 23792, May 4, 1999; 64 FR 41042, July 29, 1999; 65 FR 26513, May 8, 2000]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Confidentiality.</SUBJECT> <P>All service contracts and amendments to service contracts filed with the Commission shall, to the full extent permitted by law, be held in confidence. Nothing contained in this part shall preclude the Commission from providing certain information from or access to service contracts to another agency of the Federal government of the United States.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Duty to file.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The duty under this part to file service contracts, amendments and notices, and to publish statements of essential terms shall be upon the individual carrier party or parties participating or eligible to participate in the service contract.</P> <P>(b) Filing may be accomplished by any duly agreed-upon agent, as the parties to the service contract may designate, and subject to conditions as the parties may agree.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Registration</E>—(1) <E T="03">Application.</E> Authority to file or delegate the authority to file must be requested by a responsible official of the service contract carrier in writing by submitting to BTCL the Registration Form (FMC-83) in Exhibit 1 to this part.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Approved registrations.</E> OIRM shall provide approved Registrants a log-on ID and password for filing and amending service contracts and so notify Registrants via U.S. mail.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11206, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 64 FR 41042, July 29, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.6</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Certification of shipper status.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Certification.</E> The shipper contract party shall sign and certify on the signature page of the service contract its shipper status (e.g., owner of the cargo, shippers' association, NVOCC, or specified other designation), and the status of every affiliate of such contract party or member of a shippers' association entitled to receive service under the contract.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Proof of tariff and financial responsibility.</E> If the certification completed by the contract party under paragraph (a) of this section identifies the contract party or an affiliate or member of a shippers' association as an NVOCC, the ocean common carrier, conference or agreement shall obtain proof that such NVOCC has a published tariff and proof of financial responsibility as required under sections 8 and 19 of the Act before signing the service contract. An ocean common carrier, conference or agreement can obtain such proof by the same methods prescribed in § 515.27 of this chapter.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Joining shippers' association during term of contract.</E> If an NVOCC joins a shippers' association during the term of a service contract and is thereby entitled to receive service under the contract, the NVOCC shall provide to the ocean common carrier, agreement or conference the proof of compliance required by paragraph (b) of this section <PRTPAGE P="183"/>prior to making any shipments under the contract.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Reliance on NVOCC proof; independent knowledge.</E> An ocean common carrier, agreement or conference executing a service contract shall be deemed to have complied with section 10(b)(12) of the Act upon meeting the requirements of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, unless the carrier party had reason to know such certification or documentation of NVOCC tariff and bonding was false.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.7</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Duty to labor organizations.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Terms.</E> When used in this section, the following terms will have these meanings:</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Dock area</E> and <E T="03">within the port area</E> shall have the same meaning and scope as defined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Reasonable period of time</E> ordinarily means:</P> <P>(i) If the cargo in question is due to arrive in less than five (5) days from the date of receipt of the request as defined in paragraph (b) of this section, two (2) days from the date of receipt of the request; but</P> <P>(ii) If cargo in question is due to arrive in more than five (5) days from the date of receipt of the request as defined in paragraph (b) of this section, four (4) days from the date of receipt of the request.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">Movement</E> includes, but is not necessarily limited to, the normal and usual aspects of the loading and discharging of cargo in containers; placement, positioning and re-positioning of cargo or of containers; the insertion and removal of cargo into and from containers; and the storage and warehousing of cargo.</P> <P>(4) <E T="03">Assignment</E> includes, but is not limited to, the carrier's direct or indirect control over the parties which, the manner by which, or the means by which the shipper's cargo is moved, regardless of whether such movement is completed within or outside of containers.</P> <P>(5) <E T="03">Transmit</E> means communication by first-class mail, facsimile, telegram, hand-delivery, or electronic mail (“e-mail”).</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Procedure.</E> In response to a written request transmitted from a labor organization with which it is a party or is subject to the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement with a labor organization, an ocean common carrier shall state, within a reasonable period of time, whether it is responsible for the following work at dock areas and within port areas in the United States with respect to cargo transported under a service contract:</P> <P>(1) The movement of the shipper's cargo on a dock area or within the port area or to or from railroad cars on a dock area or within a port area;</P> <P>(2) The assignment of intraport carriage of the shipper's cargo between areas on a dock or within the port area;</P> <P>(3) The assignment of the carriage of the shipper's cargo between a container yard on a dock area or within the port area and a rail yard adjacent to such container yard; or</P> <P>(4) The assignment of container freight station work and maintenance and repair work performed at a dock area or within the port area.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Applicability.</E> This section requires the disclosure of information by an ocean common carrier only if there exists an applicable and otherwise lawful collective bargaining agreement which pertains to that carrier.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Disclosure not deemed admission or agreement.</E> No disclosure made by an ocean common carrier shall be deemed to be an admission or agreement that any work is covered by a collective bargaining agreement.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Dispute resolution.</E> Any dispute regarding whether any work is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and the responsibility of the ocean common carrier under such agreement shall be resolved solely in accordance with the dispute resolution procedures contained in the collective bargaining agreement and the National Labor Relations Act, and without reference to this section.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Jurisdiction and lawfulness.</E> Nothing in this section has any effect on the lawfulness or unlawfulness under the Shipping Act of 1984, the National Labor Relations Act, the Taft-Hartley Act, the Federal Trade Commission Act, the antitrust laws, or any other federal or state law, or any revisions or amendments thereto, of any collective <PRTPAGE P="184"/>bargaining agreement or element thereof, including any element that constitutes an essential term of a service contract under section 8(c) of the Act.</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Filing Requirements</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.8</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service Contracts.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Authorized persons shall file with BTCL, in the manner set forth in appendix A of this part, a true and complete copy of every service contract or amendment to a filed service contract before any cargo moves pursuant to that service contract or amendment.</P> <P>(b) Every service contract filed with the Commission shall include the complete terms of the service contract including, but not limited to, the following:</P> <P>(1) The origin port ranges in the case of port-to-port movements and geographic areas in the case of through intermodal movements;</P> <P>(2) The destination port ranges in the case of port-to-port movements and geographic areas in the case of through intermodal movements;</P> <P>(3) The commodity or commodities involved;</P> <P>(4) The minimum volume or portion;</P> <P>(5) The service commitments;</P> <P>(6) The line-haul rate;</P> <P>(7) Liquidated damages for non-performance (if any);</P> <P>(8) Duration, including the</P> <P>(i) Effective date; and</P> <P>(ii) Expiration date;</P> <P>(9) The legal names and business addresses of the contract parties; the legal names of affiliates entitled to access the contract; the names, titles and addresses of the representatives signing the contract for the parties; and the date upon which the service contract was signed, except that in the case of a contract entered under the authority of an agreement or by a shippers' association, individual members need not be named unless the contract includes or excludes specific members. Subsequent references in the contract to the contract parties shall be consistent with the first reference (e.g., (exact name), “carrier,” “shipper,” or “association,” etc.). Carrier parties which enter into contracts that include affiliates must either:</P> <P>(i) List the affiliates' business addresses; or</P> <P>(ii) Certify that this information will be provided to the Commission upon request within ten (10) business days of such request. However, the requirements of this section do not apply to amendments to contracts that have been filed in accordance with the requirements of this section unless the amendment adds new parties or affiliates;</P> <P>(10) A certification of shipper status;</P> <P>(11) A description of the shipment records which will be maintained to support the service contract and the address, telephone number, and title of the person who will respond to a request by making shipment records available to the Commission for inspection under § 530.15 of this part; and</P> <P>(12) All other provisions of the contract.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Certainty of terms.</E> The terms described in paragraph (b) of this section may not:</P> <P>(1) Be uncertain, vague or ambiguous; or</P> <P>(2) Make reference to terms not explicitly contained in the service contract itself unless those terms are contained in a publication widely available to the public and well known within the industry.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Other requirements.</E> Every service contract filed with BTCL shall include, as set forth in appendix A to this part by:</P> <P>(1) A unique service contract number of more than one (1) but less than ten (10) alphanumeric characters in length (“SC Number”); and</P> <P>(2) A consecutively numbered amendment number no more than three digits in length, with initial service contracts using “0”(“Amendment number”);</P> <P>(3) The filed FMC Agreement Number(s) assigned by the Commission under 46 CFR part 535 (if applicable); and</P> <P>(4) An indication of the method by which the statement of essential terms will be published.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Exception in case of malfunction of Commission filing system.</E> (1) In the event that the Commission's filing systems are not functioning and cannot receive service contract filings for twenty-four (24) continuous hours or more, affected <PRTPAGE P="185"/>parties will not be subject to the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section and § 530.14(a) that a service contract be filed before cargo is shipped under it.</P> <P>(2) However, service contracts which go into effect before they are filed, pursuant to paragraph (e)(1) of this section, must be filed within twenty-four (24) hours of the Commission's filing systems' return to service.</P> <P>(3) Failure to file a service contract that goes into effect before it is filed, pursuant to paragraph (e)(1) of this section, within twenty-four (24) hours of the Commission's filing systems' return to service will be considered a violation of Commission regulations.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11206, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 64 FR 23793, May 4, 1999; 64 FR 41042, July 29, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.9</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notices.</SUBJECT> <P>Within thirty (30) days of the occurrence of any event listed below, there shall be filed with the Commission, pursuant to the same procedures as those followed for the filing of an amendment pursuant to § 530.10 and appendix A to this part, a detailed notice of:</P> <P>(a) Correction (clerical or administrative errors);</P> <P>(b) Cancellation (as defined in § 530.10(a)(3));</P> <P>(c) Adjustment of accounts, by re-rating, liquidated damages, or otherwise;</P> <P>(d) Final settlement of any account adjusted as described in paragraph (c) of this section; and</P> <P>(e) Any change to:</P> <P>(1) The name of a basic contract party; or</P> <P>(2) The list of affiliates under § 530.8(b)(9), including changes to legal names and business addresses, of any contract party entitled to receive or authorized to offer services under the contract.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.10</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Amendment, correction, cancellation, and electronic transmission errors.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Terms.</E> When used in this section, the following terms will have these meanings:</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Amendment</E> means any change to a service contract which has prospective effect and which is mutually agreed upon by the service contract parties.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Correction</E> means any change to a service contract which has retroactive effect.</P> <P>(3) <E T="03">Cancellation</E> means an event which is unanticipated by the service contract, in liquidated damages or otherwise, and is due to the failure of the shipper party to tender minimum cargo as set forth in the contract, unless such tender was made impossible by an action of the carrier party.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Amendment.</E> Service contracts may be amended by mutual agreement of the parties to the contract. Amendments shall be filed electronically with the Commission in the manner set forth in § 530.8 and appendix A to this part.</P> <P>(1) Where feasible, service contracts should be amended by amending only the affected specific term(s) or subterms.</P> <P>(2) Each time any part of a service contract is amended, the filer shall assign a consecutive amendment number (up to three digits), beginning with the number “1.”</P> <P>(3) Each time any part of the service contract is amended, the “Filing Date” will be the date of filing of the amendment.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Corrections.</E> Requests shall be filed, in duplicate, with the Commission's Office of the Secretary within forty-five (45) days of the contract's filing with the Commission, accompanied by remittance of a $315 service fee, and shall include:</P> <P>(1) A letter of transmittal explaining the purpose of the submission, and providing specific information to identify the initial or amended service contract to be corrected;</P> <P>(2) A paper copy of the proposed correct terms. Corrections shall be indicated as follows:</P> <P>(i) Matter being deleted shall be struck through; and</P> <P>(ii) Matter to be added shall immediately follow the language being deleted and be underscored;</P> <P>(3) An affidavit from the filing party attesting with specificity to the factual circumstances surrounding the clerical or administrative error, with reference to any supporting documentation;<PRTPAGE P="186"/> </P> <P>(4) Documents supporting the clerical or administrative error; and</P> <P>(5) A brief statement from the other party to the contract concurring in the request for correction.</P> <P>(6) If the request for correction is granted, the carrier, agreement or conference shall file the corrected contract provisions using a special case number as described in appendix A to this part.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Electronic transmission errors.</E> An authorized person who experiences a purely technical electronic transmission error or a data conversion error in transmitting a service contract filing or an amendment thereto is permitted to file a Corrected Transmission (“CT”) of that filing within 48 hours of the date and time of receipt recorded in SERVCON (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal public holidays). This time-limited permission to correct an initial defective service contract filing is not to be used to make changes in the original service contract rates, terms or conditions that are otherwise provided for in paragraphs 530.10(b) and (c) of this section. The CT tab box in SERVCON must be checked at the time of resubmitting a previously filed service contract, and a description of the corrections made must be stated at the beginning of the corrected service contract in a comment box. Failure to check the CT box and enter a description of the correction will result in the rejection of a file with the same name, since documents with duplicate file names or service contract and amendment numbers are not accepted by SERVCON.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Cancellation.</E> (1) An account may be adjusted for events and damages covered by the service contract. This shall include adjustment necessitated by either liability for liquidated damages appearing in the service contract as filed with the Commission under § 530.8(b)(7), or the occurrence of an event described below in paragraph (d)(2) of this section.</P> <P>(2) In the event of cancellation as defined in § 530.10(a)(3):</P> <P>(i) Further or continued implementation of the service contract is prohibited; and</P> <P>(ii) The cargo previously carried under the contract shall be re-rated according to the otherwise applicable tariff provisions.</P> <P>(f) If the amendment, correction or cancellation affects an essential term required to be published under § 530.12 of this part, the statement of essential terms shall be changed as soon as possible after the filing of the amendment to accurately reflect the change to the contract terms.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11206, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 64 FR 23793, May 4, 1999; 67 FR 39860, June 11, 2002; 68 FR 43327, July 22, 2003; 70 FR 10330, Mar. 3, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.11</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Publication of Essential Terms</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.12</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Publication.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Contents.</E> All authorized persons who have a duty to file service contracts under § 530.5 are also required to make available to the public, contemporaneously with the filing of each service contract with the Commission, and in tariff format, a concise statement of the following essential terms:</P> <P>(1) The port ranges:</P> <P>(i) Origin; and</P> <P>(ii) Destination;</P> <P>(2) The commodity or commodities involved;</P> <P>(3) The minimum volume or portion; and</P> <P>(4) The duration.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Certainty of terms.</E> The terms described in paragraph (a) of this section may not:</P> <P>(1) Be uncertain, vague or ambiguous; or</P> <P>(2) Make reference to terms not explicitly detailed in the statement of essential terms, unless those terms are contained in a publication widely available to the public and well known within the industry.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Location</E>—(1) <E T="03">Generally.</E> The statement of essential terms shall be published as a separate part of the individual carrier's automated tariff system.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Multi-party service contracts.</E> For service contracts in which more than one carrier participates or is eligible to participate, the statement of essential terms shall be published:<PRTPAGE P="187"/> </P> <P>(i) If the service contract is entered into under the authority of a conference agreement, then in that conference's automated tariff system;</P> <P>(ii) If the service contract is entered into under the authority of a non-conference agreement, then in each of the participating or eligible-to-participate carriers' individual automated tariff systems, clearly indicating the relevant FMC-assigned agreement number.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">References.</E> The statement of essential terms shall contain a reference to the “SC Number” as described in § 530.8(d)(1).</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Terms.</E> (1) The publication of the statement of essential terms shall accurately reflect the terms as filed confidentially with the Commission.</P> <P>(2) If any of the published essential terms include information not required to be filed with the Commission but filed voluntarily, the statement of essential terms shall so note.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Agents.</E> Common carriers, conferences, or agreements may use agents to meet their publication requirements under this part.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Commission listing.</E> The Commission will publish on its website, <E T="03">www.fmc.gov,</E> a listing of the locations of all service contract essential terms publications.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Updating statements of essential terms.</E> To ensure that the information contained in a published statement of essential terms is current and accurate, the statement of essential terms publication shall include a prominent notice indicating the date of its most recent publication or revision. When the published statement of essential terms is affected by filed amendments, corrections, or cancellations, the current terms shall be changed and published as soon as possible in the relevant statement of essential terms.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 11206, Mar. 8, 1999, as amended at 64 FR 23793, May 4, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Exceptions and Implementation</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.13</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exceptions and exemptions.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Statutory exceptions.</E> Service contracts for the movement of the following, as defined in section 3 of the Act, § 530.3 or § 520.1 of this chapter, are excepted by section 8(c) of the Act from the requirements of that section, and are therefore not subject to the requirements of this part:</P> <P>(1) Bulk cargo;</P> <P>(2) Forest products;</P> <P>(3) Recycled metal scrap;</P> <P>(4) New assembled motor vehicles; and</P> <P>(5) Waste paper or paper waste.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Commission exemptions.</E> Exemptions from the requirements of this part are governed by section 16 of the Act and Rule 67 of the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure, § 502.67 of this chapter. The following commodities and/or services are exempt from the requirements of this part:</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Mail in foreign commerce.</E> Transportation of mail between the United States and foreign countries.</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Department of Defense cargo.</E> Transportation of U.S. Department of Defense cargo moving in foreign commerce under terms and conditions negotiated and approved by the Military Transportation Management Command and published in a universal service contract. An exact copy of the universal service contract, including any amendments thereto, shall be filed with the Commission as soon as it becomes available.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Inclusion of excepted or exempted matter.</E> (1) The Commission will not accept for filing service contracts which exclusively concern the commodities or services listed in paragraph (a) or (b) of this section.</P> <P>(2) Service contracts filed with the Commission may include the commodities or services listed in paragraph (a) or (b) of this section only if:</P> <P>(i) There is a tariff of general applicability for the transportation, which contains a specific commodity rate for the commodity or service in question; or</P> <P>(ii) The service contract itself sets forth a rate or charge which will be applied if the contract is canceled, as defined in § 530.10(a)(3).</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Waiver.</E> Upon filing a service contract pursuant to paragraph (c) of this section, the service contract shall be <PRTPAGE P="188"/>subject to the same requirements as those for service contracts generally.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 23793, May 4, 1999]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.14</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Implementation</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Generally.</E> Performance under a service contract or amendment thereto may not begin before the day it is effective and filed with the Commission.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Prohibition or suspension.</E> When the filing parties receive notice that an initial or amended service contract has been prohibited under section 9(d) or suspended under section 11a(e)(1)(B) of the Act:</P> <P>(1) Further or continued implementation of the service contract is prohibited;</P> <P>(2) All services performed under the contract shall be re-rated in accordance with the otherwise applicable tariff provisions for such services with notice to the shipper within five (5) days of the date of prohibition or suspension; and</P> <P>(3) Detailed notice shall be given to the Commission under § 530.9 within thirty (30) days of:</P> <P>(i) The re-rating or other account adjustment resulting from prohibition or suspension under paragraph (b)(2) of this section; or</P> <P>(ii) Final settlement of the account adjusted under § 530.10.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Agreements.</E> If the prohibited or suspended service contract was that of an agreement with no common tariff, the re-rating shall be in accordance with the published tariff rates of the carrier which transported the cargo in effect at the time.</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart E—Recordkeeping and Audit</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.15</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Recordkeeping and audit.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Records retention for five years.</E> Every common carrier, conference or agreement shall maintain original signed service contracts, amendments, and their associated records in an organized, readily accessible or retrievable manner for a period of five (5) years from the termination of each contract.</P> <P>(b) (paragraph (b) is stayed until further notice.) <E T="03">Where maintained.</E> (1) Service contract records shall be maintained in the United States, except that service contract records may be maintained outside the United States if the Chairman or Secretary of an agreement or President or Chief Executive Officer of the carrier certifies annually by January 1, on a form to be supplied by the Commission, that service contract records will be made available as provided in paragraph (c) of this section.</P> <P>(2) Penalty. If service contract records are not made available to the Commission as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the Commission may cancel any carrier's or agreement's right to maintain records outside the United States pursuant to the certification procedure of paragraph (b) of this section.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Production for audit within 30 days of request.</E> Every carrier or agreement shall, upon written request of the FMC's Director, Bureau of Enforcement, any Area Representative or the Director, Bureau of Economics and Agreements Analysis, submit copies of requested original service contracts or their associated records within thirty (30) days of the date of the request.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Agreement service contracts.</E> In the case of service contracts made by agreements, the penalties for a failure to maintain records pursuant to this section shall attach jointly and severally on all of the agreement members participating in the service contract in question.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 530.91</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission has received OMB approval for this collection of information pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, as amended. In accordance with that Act, agencies are required to display a currently valid control number. The valid control number for this collection of information is 3072-0065.</P> </SECTION> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 530, App. A</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Appendix A to Part 530—Instructions for the Filing of Service Contracts</HD> <P>Service contracts shall be filed in accordance with the instructions found on the Commission's home page, <E T="03">http://www.fmc.gov.</E> <PRTPAGE P="189"/> </P> <HD SOURCE="HD2">A. Registration, Log-on ID and Password</HD> <P>To register for filing, a carrier, conference, agreement or publisher must submit the Service Contract Registration Form (Form FMC-83) to BTCL. A separate Service Contract Registration Form is required for each individual that will file service contracts. BTCL will direct OIRM to provide approved filers with a log-on ID and password. Filers who wish a third party (publisher) to file their service contracts must so indicate on Form FMC-83. Authority for organizational filing can be transferred by submitting an amended registration form requesting the assignment of a new log-on ID and password. The original log-on ID will be canceled when a replacement log-on ID is issued. Log-on IDs and passwords may not be shared with, loaned to or used by any individual other than the individual registrant. The Commission reserves the right to disable any log-on ID that is shared with, loaned to or used by parties other than the registrant.</P> <HD SOURCE="HD2">B. Filing</HD> <P>After receiving a log-on ID and a password, a filer may log-on to the service contract filing area on the Commission's home page and file service contracts. The filing screen will request such information as: filer name, Registered Persons Index (“RPI”) number and carrier RPI number (if different); Service Contract and amendment number; and effective date. The filer will attach the entire service contract file and submit it into the system. When the service contract has been submitted for filing, the system will assign a filing date and an FMC control number, both of which will be included in the acknowledgment/confirmation message.</P> <CITA>[64 FR 41042, July 29, 1999]</CITA> </APPENDIX> <APPENDIX> <PRTPAGE P="190"/> <EAR>Pt. 530, Exh. 1</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Exhibit 1 to Part 530—Service Contract Registration [Form FMC-83]</HD> <GPH DEEP="457" SPAN="2"> <GID>ER08MR99.023</GID> </GPH> <PRTPAGE P="191"/> <HD SOURCE="HD1">Instructions for Form FMC-83</HD> <HD SOURCE="HD2">Instructions</HD> <P> <E T="03">Line 1. Registration.</E> Indicate whether this is the initial (first time) registration or an amendment to an existing Service Contract Registration.</P> <P> <E T="03">Line 2. Registrant.</E> This must be the full legal name of the firm or individual registering for the FMC's Service Contract Filing System and any trade names. The registrant name should match the corporate charter or business license, conference membership, etc. It should be noted that the registrant name cannot be changed by the registrant after the registration without submission of an amended registration fee.</P> <P> <E T="03">Line 3. Address of Home Office.</E> The complete street address should be shown in addition to the post office box. Also, provide the registrant's Federal Taxpayer Identification Number (“TIN” Number).</P> <P> <E T="03">Line 4. Billing Address if Different.</E> This should be completed if the billing address differs from the home office address. Show the firm name (if different from the registrant), street address and post office box (if applicable).</P> <P> <E T="03">Line 5. Organization Number.</E> Complete if known. (Regulated Persons Index or “RPI” number.)</P> <P> <E T="03">Line 6. Registrant Type.</E> Indicate the type of organization. A registrant cannot be more than one type. This data cannot be changed by the registrant after registration without submission of an amended registration form.</P> <P> <E T="03">Line 7. Permissions Requested and Person Granted These Permissions.</E> Delegation of the authority to file should be noted here.</P> <P> <E T="03">Maintenance of Organization Record</E>—The person listed in line 8 is authorized to access the organization maintenance functions (i.e., modify organization information, assign publishers, affiliations, and d/b/as).</P> <P> <E T="03">Service Contract Filing</E>—The person listed in line 8 is authorized only to submit filings.</P> <P> <E T="03">Line 8. Certified for Batch Filing.</E> Indicate whether the registrant was registered with software certified to perform batch filings prior to May 1, 1999. Otherwise, the registrant must first be certified for batch filing as outlined in 46 CFR part 530. After certification, the registrant can submit an amended registration form to request permission for a person in their organization to perform the batch filing. If the person already has an existing log-on, the log-on (not the password) should be listed on the registration form. Also, the certification date received from the FMC should be listed on the registration form.</P> </APPENDIX> </SUBPART> </PART> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 531</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 531—NVOCC SERVICE ARRANGEMENTS</HD> <CONTENTS> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—General Provisions</HD> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>531.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>531.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope and applicability.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>531.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>531.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Confidentiality.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>531.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Duty to file.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Filing Requirements</HD> <SECTNO>531.6</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>NVOCC Service Arrangements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>531.7</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notices.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>531.8</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Amendment, correction, cancellation, and electronic transmission errors.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Publication of Essential Terms</HD> <SECTNO>531.9</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Publication.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Exceptions and Implementation</HD> <SECTNO>531.10</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Excepted and exempted commodities.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>531.11</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Implementation.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart E—Recordkeeping and Audit</HD> <SECTNO>531.12</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Recordkeeping and audit.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>531.13-531.98</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>[Reserved]</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>531.99</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> <APP>Appendix A to Part 531—Instructions for the Filing of NVOCC Service Arrangements</APP> <APP>Exhibit 1 to Part 531—NVOCC Service Arrangement Registration [FORM FMC-78]</APP> </SUBPART> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>46 U.S.C. app. 1715.</P> </AUTH> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>69 FR 75853, Dec. 20, 2004, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—General Provisions</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 531.1</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose.</SUBJECT> <P>This part exempts NVOCCs from certain provisions of the Shipping Act. The purpose of this part is to facilitate the filing of NVOCC Service Arrangements (“NSAs”) and the publication of certain essential terms of those NSAs as they are exempt from the otherwise applicable provisions of the Shipping Act of 1984 (“Act”). This part enables the Commission to review NSAs to ensure that they and the parties to them comport with the conditions of the exemption as set forth below.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <PRTPAGE P="192"/> <SECTNO>§ 531.2</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Scope and applicability.</SUBJECT> <P>Only individual NVOCCs compliant with the requirements of section 19 of the Act and the Commission's regulations at 46 CFR part 515 may enter into an NSA with one or more NSA shippers subject to the requirements of these rules. Any NVOCC who has failed to maintain its bond or license or had its tariff suspended or cancelled by the Commission is ineligible to offer and file NSAs.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 531.3</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <P>When used in this part:</P> <P>(a) <E T="03">Act</E> means the Shipping Act of 1984 as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998;</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Affiliate</E> means two or more entities which are under common ownership or control by reason of being parent and subsidiary or entities associated with, under common control with, or otherwise related to each other through common stock ownership or common directors or officers.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Amendment</E> means any change to a filed NSA which has prospective effect and which is mutually agreed upon by all parties to the NSA.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Authorized person</E> means an NVOCC or duly appointed agent who is authorized to file NSAs on behalf of the NVOCC and to publish the corresponding statement of essential terms and is registered by the Commission to file under § 531.5 and Appendix A to this part.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">BTA</E> means the Commission's Bureau of Trade Analysis, or its successor bureau.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">BCL</E> means the Commission's Bureau of Certification and Licensing, or its successor bureau.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Cancellation</E> means an event which is unanticipated by the NSA, in liquidated damages or otherwise, and is due to the failure of the NSA shipper to tender minimum cargo as set forth in the contract, unless such tender was made impossible by an action of the NVOCC.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Commission</E> or <E T="03">FMC</E> means the Federal Maritime Commission.</P> <P>(i) <E T="03">Common carrier</E> means a person holding itself out to the general public to provide transportation by water of passengers or cargo between the United States and a foreign country for compensation that:</P> <P>(1) Assumes responsibility for the transportation from the port or point of receipt to the port or point of destination; and</P> <P>(2) Utilizes, for all or part of that transportation, a vessel operating on the high seas or the Great Lakes between a port in the United States and a port in a foreign country, except that the term does not include a common carrier engaged in ocean transportation by ferry boat, ocean tramp, or chemical parcel tanker, or by a vessel when primarily engaged in the carriage of perishable agricultural commodities:</P> <P>(i) If the common carrier and the owner of those commodities are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by a person primarily engaged in the marketing and distribution of those commodities and</P> <P>(ii) Only with respect to those commodities.</P> <P>(j) <E T="03">Correction</E> means any change to a filed NSA that has retroactive effect.</P> <P>(k) <E T="03">Effective date</E> means the date upon which an NSA or amendment is scheduled to go into effect by the parties to the NSA. An NSA or amendment becomes effective at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on the beginning of the effective date. The effective date cannot be prior to the filing date of the NSA or amendment with the Commission.</P> <P>(l) <E T="03">Expiration date</E> means the last day after which the entire NSA is no longer in effect.</P> <P>(m) <E T="03">File</E> or <E T="03">filing</E> (of NSAs or amendments thereto) means the use of the Commission's electronic filing system for receipt of an NSA or an amendment thereto by the Commission, consistent with the method set forth in Appendix A of this part, and the recording of its receipt by the Commission.</P> <P>(n) <E T="03">OIT</E> means the Commission's Office of Information Technology, or its successor office.</P> <P>(o) <E T="03">NSA shipper</E> means a cargo owner, the person for whose account the ocean transportation is provided, the person <PRTPAGE P="193"/>to whom delivery is to be made, a shippers' association, or an ocean transportation intermediary, as defined in section 3(17)(B) of the Act, that accepts responsibility for payment of all applicable charges under the NSA.</P> <P>(p) <E T="03">NVOCC Service Arrangement</E> (“NSA”) means a written contract, other than a bill of lading or receipt, between one or more NSA shippers and an individual NVOCC or two or more affiliated NVOCCs, in which the NSA shipper makes a commitment to provide a certain minimum quantity or portion of its cargo or freight revenue over a fixed time period, and the NVOCC commits to a certain rate or rate schedule and a defined service level. The NSA may also specify provisions in the event of nonperformance on the part of any party.</P> <P>(q) <E T="03">Statement of essential terms</E> means a concise statement of the essential terms of an NSA required to be published under this part.</P> <CITA>[69 FR 75853, Dec. 20, 2004, as amended at 70 FR 56580, Sept. 28, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 531.4</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Confidentiality.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) All NSAs and amendments to NSAs filed with the Commission shall, to the fullest extent permitted by law, be held in confidence by the Commission.</P> <P>(b) Nothing contained in this part shall preclude the Commission from providing certain information from or access to NSAs to another agency of the Federal government of the United States.</P> <P>(c) Parties to a filed NSA may agree to disclose information contained in it. Breach of any confidentiality agreement contained in an NSA by either party will not, on its own, be considered a violation of these rules.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 531.5</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Duty to file.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The duty under this part to file NSAs, amendments and notices, and to publish statements of essential terms, shall be upon the NVOCC acting as carrier party to the NSA.</P> <P>(b) The Commission shall not order any person to pay the difference between the amount billed and agreed upon in writing with a common carrier or its agent and the amount set forth in an NSA by that common carrier for the transportation service provided.</P> <P>(c) Filing may be accomplished by any duly agreed-upon agent, as the parties to the NSA may designate, and subject to conditions as the parties may agree.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Registration</E>—(1) <E T="03">Application.</E> Authority to file or delegate the authority to file must be requested by a responsible official of the NVOCC in writing by submitting to BTA, either by mail to 800 N. Capitol Street, NW., Washington, DC 20573, or by facsimile to (202) 523-5867, a completed NSA Registration Form (FMC-78)(Exhibit 1 to this part).</P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Approved registrations.</E> OIT shall provide approved Registrants a log-on identification number (“I.D.”) and password for filing and amending NSAs, and notify Registrants of such approval via U.S. mail.</P> <CITA>[69 FR 75853, Dec. 20, 2004, as amended at 70 FR 56580, Sept. 28, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Filing Requirements</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 531.6</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>NVOCC Service Arrangements.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Authorized persons shall file with BTA, in the manner set forth in Appendix A of this part, a true and complete copy of every NSA or amendment before any cargo moves pursuant to that NSA or amendment.</P> <P>(b) Every NSA filed with the Commission shall include the complete terms of the NSA including, but not limited to, the following:</P> <P>(1) The origin port ranges in the case of port-to-port movements and geographic areas in the case of through intermodal movements;</P> <P>(2) The destination port ranges in the case of port-to-port movements and geographic areas in the case of through intermodal movements;</P> <P>(3) The commodity or commodities involved;</P> <P>(4) The minimum volume or portion;</P> <P>(5) The service commitments;</P> <P>(6) The line-haul rate;</P> <P>(7) Liquidated damages for non-performance (if any);</P> <P>(8) Duration, including the</P> <P>(i) Effective date; and</P> <P>(ii) Expiration date;</P> <P>(9) The legal names and business addresses of the NSA parties; the legal <PRTPAGE P="194"/>names of all affiliates of the NSA shipper entitled to access the NSA; the names, titles and addresses of the representatives signing the NSA for the parties, except that in the case of an NSA entered into by a shippers' association, individual members need not be named unless the contract includes or excludes specific members; and the date upon which the NSA was signed. Subsequent references in the NSA to the signatory parties shall be consistent with the first reference. An NVOCC party which enters into an NSA that includes affiliates must either:</P> <P>(i) list the affiliates' business addresses; or</P> <P>(ii) certify that this information will be provided to the Commission upon request within ten (10) business days of such request.</P> <P>(10) A description of the shipment records which will be maintained to support the NSA and the address, telephone number, and title of the person who will respond to a request by making shipment records available to the Commission for inspection under § 531.12 of this part; and</P> <P>(11) All other provisions of the NSA.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Certainty of terms.</E> The terms described in paragraph (b) of this section may not:</P> <P>(1) Be uncertain, vague or ambiguous; or</P> <P>(2) Make reference to terms not explicitly contained in the NSA itself unless those terms are contained in a publication widely available to the public and well known within the industry. Reference may not be made to a tariff of a common carrier other than the NVOCC acting as carrier party to the NSA.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Other requirements.</E> (1) For service pursuant to an NSA, no NVOCC may, either alone or in conjunction with any other person, directly or indirectly, provide service in the liner trade that is not in accordance with the rates, charges, classifications, rules and practices contained in a filed NSA.</P> <P>(2) For service pursuant to an NSA, no NVOCC, may, either alone or in conjunction with any other person, directly or indirectly, engage in any unfair or unjustly discriminatory practice in the matter of rates or charges with respect to any port; and</P> <P>(3) For service under an NSA, no NVOCC may, either alone or in conjunction with any other person, directly or indirectly, give any undue or unreasonable preference or advantage or impose any undue or unreasonable prejudice or disadvantage with respect to any port.</P> <P>(4) No NVOCC may knowingly and willfully enter into an NSA with an ocean transportation intermediary that does not have a tariff and a bond, insurance, or other surety as required by sections 8 and 19 of the Act.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Format requirements.</E> Every NSA filed with BTA shall include, as set forth in Appendix A to this part:</P> <P>(1) A unique NSA number of more than one (1) but less than ten (10) alphanumeric characters in length (“NSA Number”); and</P> <P>(2) A consecutively numbered amendment number no more than three digits in length, with initial NSAs using “0” (“Amendment number”); and</P> <P>(3) An indication of the method by which the statement of essential terms will be published.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Exception in case of malfunction of Commission electronic filing system.</E> (1) In the event that the Commission's electronic filing system is not functioning and cannot receive NSAs filings for twenty-four (24) continuous hours or more, affected parties will not be subject to the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section and § 531.11 that an NSA be filed before cargo is shipped under it.</P> <P>(2) However, NSAs which go into effect before they are filed due to a malfunction of the Commission's electronic filing system pursuant to paragraph (f)(1) of this section, must be filed within twenty-four (24) hours of the Commission's electronic filing system's return to service.</P> <P>(3) For an NSA that is effective without filing due to a malfunction of the Commission's filing system, failure to file that NSA within twenty-four (24) hours of the Commission's electronic filing system's return to service will be considered a violation of these regulations.</P> <P>(g) Failure to comply with the provisions of this section shall result in the <PRTPAGE P="195"/>application of the terms of the otherwise applicable tariff.</P> <CITA>[69 FR 75853, Dec. 20, 2004, as amended at 70 FR 56580, Sept. 28, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 531.7</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Notices.</SUBJECT> <P>Within thirty (30) days of the occurrence of any event listed below, there shall be filed with the Commission, pursuant to the same procedures as those followed for the filing of an amendment pursuant to § 531.5 and Appendix A to this part, a detailed notice of:</P> <P>(a) Correction;</P> <P>(b) Cancellation;</P> <P>(c) Adjustment of accounts, by re-rating, liquidated damages, or otherwise;</P> <P>(d) Final settlement of any account adjusted as described in paragraph (c) of this section; and</P> <P>(e) Any change to the name, legal name and/or business address of any NSA party.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 531.8</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Amendment, correction, cancellation, and electronic transmission errors.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Amendment</E>. (1) NSAs may be amended by mutual agreement of the parties. Amendments shall be filed electronically with the Commission in the manner set forth in § 531.5 and Appendix A to this part.</P> <P>(i) Where feasible, NSAs should be amended by amending only the affected specific term(s) or subterms.</P> <P>(ii) Each time any part of an NSA is amended, the filer shall assign a consecutive amendment number (up to three digits), beginning with the number “1.”</P> <P>(iii) Each time any part of a filed NSA is amended, the “Filing Date” will be the date of filing of the amendment.</P> <P>(2) [Reserved]</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Correction.</E> (1) Requests shall be filed, in duplicate, with the Commission's Office of the Secretary within forty-five (45) days of the NSA's filing with the Commission, accompanied by remittance of a $276 service fee.</P> <P>(2) Requests shall include:</P> <P>(i) A letter of transmittal explaining the purpose of the submission, and providing specific information to identify the initial or amended NSA to be corrected;</P> <P>(ii) A paper copy of the proposed correct terms. Matter to be deleted shall be struck through and matter to be added shall immediately follow the language being deleted and underscored;</P> <P>(iii) An affidavit from the filing party attesting with specificity to the factual circumstances surrounding the clerical or administrative error, with reference to any supporting documentation;</P> <P>(iv) Documents supporting the clerical or administrative error; and</P> <P>(v) A brief statement from the other party to the NSA concurring in the request for correction.</P> <P>(3) If the request for correction is granted, the carrier party shall file the corrected provisions using a special case number as described in Appendix A to this part.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Electronic transmission errors.</E> (1) An authorized person who experiences a purely technical electronic transmission error or a data conversion error in transmitting an NSA filing or an amendment thereto is permitted to file a Corrected Transmission (“CT”) of that filing within 48 hours of the date and time of receipt recorded in the Commission's electronic filing system (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal public holidays). This time-limited permission to correct an initial defective NSA filing is not to be used to make changes in the original NSA rates, terms or conditions that are otherwise provided for in § 531.6(b). The CT tab box in the Commission's electronic filing system must be checked at the time of resubmitting a previously filed NSA, and a description of the corrections made must be stated at the beginning of the corrected NSA in a comment box. Failure to check the CT box and enter a description of the correction will result in the rejection of a file with the same name, as documents with duplicate file names or NSA and amendment numbers are not accepted by the FMC's electronic filing system.</P> <P>(2) [Reserved]</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Cancellation.</E> (1) An account may be adjusted for events and damages covered by the NSA. This shall include <PRTPAGE P="196"/>adjustment necessitated by either liability for liquidated damages appearing in the NSA as filed with the Commission under § 531.6(b)(7), or the occurrence of an event described below in paragraph (d)(2) of this section.</P> <P>(2) In the event of cancellation as defined in § 531.3(g):</P> <P>(i) Further or continued implementation of the NSA is prohibited; and</P> <P>(ii) The cargo previously carried under the NSA shall be re-rated according to the otherwise applicable tariff provisions.</P> <P>(e) If the amendment, correction or cancellation affects an essential term required to be published under § 531.9, the statement of essential terms shall be changed as soon as possible after the filing of the amendment to accurately reflect the change to the NSA terms.</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Publication of Essential Terms</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 531.9</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Publication.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Contents.</E> All authorized persons who choose to file NSAs under this part are also required to make available to the public, contemporaneously with the filing of each NSA with the Commission, and in tariff format, a concise statement of the following essential terms:</P> <P>(1) The port ranges:</P> <P>(i) origin; and</P> <P>(ii) destination;</P> <P>(2) The commodity or commodities involved;</P> <P>(3) The minimum volume or portion; and</P> <P>(4) The duration.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Certainty of terms.</E> The terms described in paragraph (a) of this section may not:</P> <P>(1) Be uncertain, vague or ambiguous; or</P> <P>(2) Make reference to terms not explicitly detailed in the statement of essential terms, unless those terms are contained in a publication widely available to the public and well known within the industry. Reference may not be made to a tariff of a common carrier other than the NVOCC party to the NSA.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Location.</E> The statement of essential terms shall be published as a separate part of the individual NVOCC's automated tariff system.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">References.</E> The statement of essential terms shall contain a reference to the “NSA Number” as described in § 531.6(e)(1).</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Terms.</E> (1) The publication of the statement of essential terms shall accurately reflect the terms as filed with the Commission.</P> <P>(2) If any of the published essential terms include information not required to be filed with the Commission but filed voluntarily, the statement of essential terms shall so note.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Commission listing.</E> The Commission will publish on its website, <E T="03">www.fmc.gov</E>, a listing of the locations of all NSA essential terms publications.</P> <P>(g) Updating statements of essential terms. To ensure that the information contained in a published statement of essential terms is current and accurate, the statement of essential terms publication shall include a prominent notice indicating the date of its most recent publication or revision. When the published statement of essential terms is affected by filed amendments, corrections, or cancellations, the current terms shall be changed and published as soon as possible in the relevant statement of essential terms.</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Exceptions and Implementation</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 531.10</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Excepted and exempted commodities.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Statutory exceptions.</E> NSAs for the movement of the following, as defined in section 3 of the Act, the Commission's rules at 46 CFR 530.3 or 46 CFR 520.1, are not subject to the conditions of this exemption:</P> <P>(1) Bulk cargo;</P> <P>(2) Forest products;</P> <P>(3) Recycled metal scrap;</P> <P>(4) New assembled motor vehicles; and</P> <P>(5) Waste paper or paper waste.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Commission exemptions.</E> The following commodities and/or services are not subject to the conditions of this exemption:</P> <P>(1) <E T="03">Mail in foreign commerce.</E> Transportation of mail between the United States and foreign countries.<PRTPAGE P="197"/> </P> <P>(2) <E T="03">Department of Defense cargo.</E> Transportation of U.S. Department of Defense cargo moving in foreign commerce under terms and conditions approved by the Military Transportation Management Command and published in a universal service contract. An exact copy of the universal service contract, including any amendments thereto, shall be filed with the Commission as soon as it becomes available.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Inclusion of excepted or exempted matter.</E> (1) The Commission will not accept for filing NSAs which exclusively concern the commodities or services listed in paragraph (a) or (b) of this section.</P> <P>(2) NSAs filed with the Commission may include the commodities or services listed in paragraph (a) or (b) of this section only if:</P> <P>(i) There is a tariff of general applicability for the transportation, which contains a specific commodity rate for the commodity or service in question; or</P> <P>(ii) The NSA itself sets forth a rate or charge which will be applied if the NSA is canceled, as defined in § 531.3(e) and § 531.8(d).</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Waiver.</E> Upon filing an NSA pursuant to paragraph (c) of this section, the NSA shall be subject to the same requirements as those for NSAs generally.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 531.11</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Implementation.</SUBJECT> <P> <E T="03">Generally.</E> Performance under an NSA or amendment thereto may not begin before the day it is effective and filed with the Commission.</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart E—Recordkeeping and Audit</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 531.12</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Recordkeeping and audit.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Records retention for five years.</E> Every NVOCC shall maintain original signed NSAs, amendments, and their associated records in an organized, readily accessible or retrievable manner for a period of five (5) years from the termination of each NSA. These records must be kept in a form that is readily available and usable to the Commission; electronically maintained records shall be no less accessible than if they were maintained in paper form.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Production for audit within 30 days of request.</E> Every NVOCC shall, upon written request of the FMC's Director, Bureau of Enforcement, any Area Representative or the Director, Bureau of Trade Analysis, submit copies of requested original NSAs or their associated records within thirty (30) days of the date of the request.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 531.13-531.98</SECTNO> <RESERVED>[Reserved]</RESERVED> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 531.99</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> <P>The Commission has received OMB approval for this collection of information pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, as amended. In accordance with that Act, agencies are required to display a currently valid control number. The valid control number for this collection of information is 3072-0070. The valid control number for form FMC-78 is 3072-0070.</P> <CITA>[69 FR 75853, Dec. 20, 2004, as amended at 70 FR 31370, June 1, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <APPENDIX> <EAR>Pt. 531, App. A</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">Appendix A to Part 531—Instructions for the Filing of NSAs</HD> <P>NSAs shall be filed in accordance with the instructions found on the Commission's home page, <E T="03">http://www.fmc.gov.</E> </P> <HD SOURCE="HD1">A. Registration, Log-on I.D. and Password</HD> <P>To register for filing, an NVOCC or authorized agent must submit the NSA Registration Form (Form FMC-78) to BTA. A separate NSA Registration Form is required for each individual that will file NSAs. BTA will direct OIT to provide approved filers with a log-on identification number (“I.D.”) and password. Filers who would like a third party (agent/publisher) to file their NSAs must so indicate on Form FMC-78. Authority for filing can be transferred by submitting an amended registration form requesting the assignment of a new log-on I.D. and password. The original log-on ID will be canceled when a replacement log-on I.D. is issued. Log-on I.D.s and passwords may not be shared with, loaned to or used by any individual other than the individual registrant. The Commission reserves the right to disable any log-on I.D. that is shared with, loaned to or used by parties other than the registrant.</P> <HD SOURCE="HD1">B. Filing</HD> <P>After receiving a log-on I.D. and a password, a filer may log-on to the NSA filing area on the Commission's home page and file <PRTPAGE P="198"/>NSAs. The filing screen will request such information as: filer name, organization number (“Registered Persons Index” or “RPI” number); NSA and amendment number; effective date and file name. The filer will attach the entire NSA file and submit it into the system. When the NSA has been submitted for filing, the system will assign a filing date and an FMC control number, both of which will be included in the acknowledgment/confirmation message.</P> <GPH DEEP="470" SPAN="2"> <PRTPAGE P="199"/> <GID>ER20DE04.117</GID> </GPH> <GPH DEEP="404" SPAN="2"> <PRTPAGE P="200"/> <GID>ER20DE04.118</GID> </GPH> <GPH DEEP="470" SPAN="2"> <PRTPAGE P="201"/> <GID>ER01JN05.637</GID> </GPH> <PRTPAGE P="202"/> <CITA>[69 FR 75853, Dec. 20, 2004, as amended at 70 FR 31370, June 1, 2005]</CITA> </APPENDIX> </SUBPART> </PART> <PART> <EAR>Pt. 535</EAR> <HD SOURCE="HED">PART 535—OCEAN COMMON CARRIER AND MARINE TERMINAL OPERATOR AGREEMENTS SUBJECT TO THE SHIPPING ACT OF 1984</HD> <CONTENTS> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—General Provisions</HD> <SECHD>Sec.</SECHD> <SECTNO>535.101</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Authority.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.102</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.103</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Policies.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.104</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Scope</HD> <SECTNO>535.201</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Subject agreements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.202</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Non-subject agreements.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Exemptions</HD> <SECTNO>535.301</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exemption procedures.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.302</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exemptions for certain modifications of effective agreements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.303</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Husbanding agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.304</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agency agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.305</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Equipment interchange agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.306</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Nonexclusive transshipment agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.307</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agreements between or among wholly-owned subsidiaries and/or their parent—exemption.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.308</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Marine terminal agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.309</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Marine terminal services agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.310</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Marine terminal facilities agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.311</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Low market share agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.312</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Vessel charter party—exemption.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Filing of Agreements</HD> <SECTNO>535.401</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General requirements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.402</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Complete and definite agreements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.403</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Form of agreements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.404</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agreement provisions.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.405</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Organization of conference agreements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.406</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Modification of agreements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.407</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Application for waiver.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.408</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Activities that may be conducted without further filings.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart E—Information Form Requirements</HD> <SECTNO>535.501</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General requirements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.502</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agreements subject to the Information Form requirements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.503</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Information Form.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.504</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Application for waiver.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart F—Action on Agreements</HD> <SECTNO>535.601</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Preliminary review—rejection of agreements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.602</SECTNO> <SUBJECT> <E T="04">Federal Register</E> notice.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.603</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Comment.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.604</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Waiting period.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.605</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Requests for expedited review.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.606</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Requests for additional information.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.607</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Failure to comply with requests for additional information.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.608</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Confidentiality of submitted material.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.609</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Negotiations.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart G—Reporting Requirements</HD> <SECTNO>535.701</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General requirements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.702</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agreements subject to Monitoring Report and alternative periodic reporting requirements.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.703</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Monitoring Report form.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.704</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Filing of minutes.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.705</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Application for waiver.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart H—Mandatory and Prohibited Provisions</HD> <SECTNO>535.801</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Independent action.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.802</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Service contracts.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.803</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Ocean freight forwarder compensation.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart I—Penalties</HD> <SECTNO>535.901</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Failure to file.</SUBJECT> <SECTNO>535.902</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Falsification of reports.</SUBJECT> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart J—Paperwork Reduction</HD> <SECTNO>535.991</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>OMB control numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.</SUBJECT> <APP>Appendix A to Part 535—Information Form and Instructions</APP> <APP>Appendix B to Part 535—Monitoring Report and Instructions</APP> </SUBPART> </CONTENTS> <AUTH> <HD SOURCE="HED">Authority:</HD> <P>5 U.S.C. 553; 46 U.S.C. 1701-1707, 1709-1710, 1712 and 1714-1718; Pub. L. 105-258, 112 Stat. 1902 (46 U.S.C. 1701 note); Sec. 424, Pub. L. 105-383, 112 Stat. 3440.</P> </AUTH> <SOURCE> <HD SOURCE="HED">Source:</HD> <P>69 FR 64414, Nov. 4, 2004, unless otherwise noted.</P> </SOURCE> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart A—General Provisions</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.101</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Authority.</SUBJECT> <P>The rules in this part are issued pursuant to the authority of section 4 of the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553), sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 16, 17, and 19 of the Shipping Act of 1984 (“the Act”), and the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998, Pub. L. 105-258, 112 Stat. 1902.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <PRTPAGE P="203"/> <SECTNO>§ 535.102</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Purpose.</SUBJECT> <P>This part implements those provisions of the Act that govern agreements by or among ocean common carriers and agreements among marine terminal operators and among one or more marine terminal operators and one or more ocean common carriers. This part also sets forth more specifically certain procedures provided for in the Act.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.103</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Policies.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) The Act requires that agreements be processed and reviewed, upon their initial filing, according to strict statutory deadlines. This part is intended to establish procedures for the orderly and expeditious review of filed agreements in accordance with the statutory requirements.</P> <P>(b) The Act requires that agreements be reviewed, upon their initial filing, to ensure compliance with all applicable provisions of the Act and empowers the Commission to obtain information to conduct that review. This part identifies those types of agreements that must be accompanied by information submissions when they are first filed, and sets forth the kind of information for certain agreements that the Commission believes relevant to that review. Only information that is relevant to such a review is requested. It is the policy of the Commission to keep the costs of regulation to a minimum and at the same time obtain information needed to fulfill its statutory responsibility.</P> <P>(c) To further the goal of expedited processing and review of agreements upon their initial filing, agreements are required to meet certain minimum requirements as to form. These requirements are intended to ensure expedited review and should assist parties in preparing agreements. These requirements as to form do not affect the substance of an agreement and are intended to allow parties the freedom to develop innovative commercial relationships and provide efficient and economic transportation systems.</P> <P>(d) The Act itself excludes certain agreements from the filing requirements and authorizes the Commission to exempt other classes of agreements from any requirement of the Act or this part. To minimize delay in the implementation of routine agreements and to avoid the private and public cost of unnecessary regulation, certain classes of agreements are exempt from the filing requirements of this part.</P> <P>(e) Under the regulatory framework established by the Act, the role of the Commission as a monitoring agency has been enhanced. The Act favors greater freedom in allowing parties to form their commercial arrangements. This, however, requires greater monitoring of agreements after they have become effective to assure their continued compliance with all applicable provisions of the Act. The Act empowers the Commission to impose certain recordkeeping and reporting requirements. This part identifies those agreements that require specific record retention and reporting to the Commission and prescribes the applicable period of record retention, the form and content of such reporting, and the applicable time periods for filing with the Commission. Only information that is necessary to assure that the Commission's monitoring responsibilities will be fulfilled is requested.</P> <P>(f) The Act requires that conference agreements contain certain mandatory provisions. Each conference agreement must:</P> <P>(1) State its purpose;</P> <P>(2) Provide reasonable and equal terms and conditions for admission and readmission to membership;</P> <P>(3) Allow for withdrawal from membership upon reasonable notice without penalty;</P> <P>(4) Require an independent neutral body to police the conference, if requested by a member;</P> <P>(5) Prohibit conduct specified in sections 10(c)(1) or 10(c)(3) of the Act;</P> <P>(6) Provide for a consultation process;</P> <P>(7) Establish procedures for considering shippers' requests and complaints; and</P> <P>(8) Provide for independent action.</P> <P>(g) To promote competitive and efficient transportation and a greater reliance on the marketplace, the Act places limits on carriers' agreements regarding service contracts. Carriers may not enter into an agreement to <PRTPAGE P="204"/>prohibit or restrict members from engaging in contract negotiations, may not require members to disclose service contract negotiations or terms and conditions (other than those required to be published), and may not adopt mandatory rules or requirements affecting the right of an agreement member or agreement members to negotiate and enter into contracts. However, agreement members may adopt voluntary guidelines covering the terms and procedures of members' contracts.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.104</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Definitions.</SUBJECT> <P>When used in this part:</P> <P>(a) <E T="03">Agreement</E> means an understanding, arrangement, or association, written or oral (including any modification, cancellation or appendix) entered into by or among ocean common carriers and/or marine terminal operators, but does not include a maritime labor agreement.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Antitrust laws</E> means the Act of July 2, 1890 (ch. 647, 26 Stat. 209), 15 U.S.C. 1, as amended; the Act of October 15, 1914 (ch. 323, 38 Stat. 730), 15 U.S.C. 12, as amended; the Federal Trade Commission Act (38 Stat. 717), 15 U.S.C. 41, as amended; sections 73 and 74 of the Act of August 27, 1894 (28 Stat. 570), 15 U.S.C. 8, 9, as amended; the Act of June 19, 1936 (ch. 592, 49 Stat. 1526), 15 U.S.C. 13, as amended; the Antitrust Civil Process Act (76 Stat. 548), 15 U.S.C. 1311, note as amended; and amendments and Acts supplementary thereto.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Appendix</E> means a document containing additional material of limited application and appended to an agreement, distinctly differentiated from the main body of the basic agreement.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Assessment agreement</E> means an agreement, whether part of a collective bargaining agreement or negotiated separately, that provides for collectively bargained fringe benefit obligations on other than a uniform man-hour basis regardless of the cargo handled or type of vessel or equipment utilized.</P> <P>(e) <E T="03">Capacity rationalization</E> means a concerted reduction, stabilization, withholding, or other limitation in any manner whatsoever by ocean common carriers on the size or number of vessels or available space offered collectively or individually to shippers in any trade or service.</P> <P>(f) <E T="03">Common carrier</E> means a person holding itself out to the general public to provide transportation by water of passengers or cargo between the United States and a foreign country for compensation that:</P> <P>(1) Assumes responsibility for the transportation from the port or point of receipt to the port or point of destination; and</P> <P>(2) Utilizes, for all or part of that transportation, a vessel operating on the high seas or the Great Lakes between a port in the United States and a port in a foreign country, except that the term does not include a common carrier engaged in ocean transportation by ferry boat, ocean tramp, or chemical parcel tanker, or by a vessel when primarily engaged in the carriage of perishable agricultural commodities:</P> <P>(i) If the common carrier and the owner of those commodities are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by a person primarily engaged in the marketing and distribution of those commodities; and</P> <P>(ii) Only with respect to those commodities.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Conference agreement</E> means an agreement between or among two or more ocean common carriers that provides for the fixing of and adherence to uniform tariff rates, charges, practices, and conditions of service relating to the receipt, carriage, handling and/or delivery of passengers or cargo for all members. The term does not include joint service, pooling, sailing, space charter, or transshipment agreements.</P> <P>(h) <E T="03">Consultation</E> means a process whereby a conference and a shipper confer for the purpose of promoting the commercial resolution of disputes and/or the prevention and elimination of the occurrence of malpractices.</P> <P>(i) <E T="03">Cooperative working agreement</E> means an agreement that establishes exclusive, preferential, or cooperative working relationships that are subject to the Act, but that do not fall precisely within the parameters of any specifically defined agreement.</P> <P>(j) <E T="03">Effective agreement</E> means an agreement effective under the Act.<PRTPAGE P="205"/> </P> <P>(k) <E T="03">Equal access agreement</E> means an agreement between ocean common carriers of different nationalities, as determined by the incorporation or domicile of the carriers' operating companies, whereby such ocean common carriers associate for the purpose of gaining reciprocal access to cargo that is otherwise reserved by national decree, legislation, statute or regulation to carriage by the merchant marine of the carriers' respective nations.</P> <P>(l) <E T="03">Independent neutral body</E> means a disinterested third party, authorized by a conference and its members to review, examine, and investigate alleged breaches or violations of the conference agreement and/or the conference's properly promulgated tariffs, rules, or regulations by any member of the conference.</P> <P>(m) <E T="03">Information Form</E> means the form containing economic information that must accompany the filing of certain agreements and modifications.</P> <P>(n) <E T="03">Interconference agreement</E> means an agreement between conferences.</P> <P>(o)(1) <E T="03">Joint service agreement</E> means an agreement between ocean common carriers operating as a joint venture whereby a separate service is established that:</P> <P>(i) Holds itself out in its own distinct operating name;</P> <P>(ii) Independently fixes its own rates, charges, practices, and conditions of service or chooses to participate under its operating name in another agreement that is duly authorized to determine and implement such activities;</P> <P>(iii) Independently publishes its own tariff or chooses to participate under its operating name in an otherwise established tariff;</P> <P>(iv) Issues its own bills of lading; and</P> <P>(v) Acts generally as a single carrier.</P> <P>(2) The common use of facilities in a joint service may occur, and there is no competition between members for cargo in the agreement trade; but they otherwise maintain their separate identities.</P> <P>(p) <E T="03">Marine terminal facilities</E> means one or more structures (and services connected therewith) comprising a terminal unit, including, but not limited to docks, berths, piers, aprons, wharves, warehouses, covered and/or open storage space, cold storage plants, grain elevators and/or bulk cargo loading and/or unloading structures, landings, and receiving stations, used for the transmission, care and convenience of cargo and/or passengers or the interchange of same between land and ocean common carriers or between two ocean common carriers. This term is not limited to waterfront or port facilities and includes so-called off-dock container freight stations at inland locations and any other facility from which inbound waterborne cargo may be tendered to the consignee or outbound cargo may be received from shippers for vessel or container loading.</P> <P>(q) <E T="03">Marine terminal operator</E> means a person engaged in the United States in the business of furnishing wharfage, dock, warehouse, or other terminal facilities in connection with a common carrier, or in connection with a common carrier and a water carrier subject to subchapter II of chapter 135 of title 49 U.S.C. This term does not include shippers or consignees who exclusively furnish marine terminal facilities or services in connection with tendering or receiving proprietary cargo from a common carrier or water carrier.</P> <P>(r) <E T="03">Maritime labor agreement</E> means a collective-bargaining agreement between an employer subject to the Act or group of such employers, and a labor organization representing employees in the maritime or stevedoring industry, or an agreement preparatory to such a collective-bargaining agreement among members of a multi-employer bargaining group, or an agreement specifically implementing provisions of such a collective-bargaining agreement or providing for the formation, financing or administration of a multi-employer bargaining group; but the term does not include an assessment agreement.</P> <P>(s) <E T="03">Modification</E> means any change, alteration, correction, addition, deletion, or revision of an existing effective agreement or to any appendix to such an agreement.</P> <P>(t) <E T="03">Monitoring Report</E> means the report containing economic information that must be filed at defined intervals with regard to certain agreements that are effective under the Act.</P> <P>(u) <E T="03">Ocean common carrier</E> means a common carrier that operates, for all <PRTPAGE P="206"/>or part of its common carrier service, a vessel on the high seas or the Great Lakes between a port in the United States and a port in a foreign country, except that the term does not include a common carrier engaged in ocean transportation by ferry boat, ocean tramp, or chemical parcel-tanker.</P> <P>(v) <E T="03">Ocean freight forwarder</E> means a person in the United States that dispatches shipments from the United States via common carriers and books or otherwise arranges space for those shipments on behalf of shippers; and processes the documentation or performs related activities incident to those shipments.</P> <P>(w) <E T="03">Person</E> means individuals, corporations, partnerships and associations existing under or authorized by the laws of the United States or of a foreign country.</P> <P>(x) <E T="03">Pooling agreement</E> means an agreement between ocean common carriers that provides for the division of cargo carryings, earnings, or revenue and/or losses between the members in accordance with an established formula or scheme.</P> <P>(y) <E T="03">Port</E> means the place at which an ocean common carrier originates or terminates (and/or transships) its actual ocean carriage of cargo or passengers as to any particular transportation movement.</P> <P>(z) <E T="03">Rate,</E> for purposes of this part, includes both the basic price paid by a shipper to an ocean common carrier for a specified level of transportation service for a stated quantity of a particular commodity, from origin to destination, on or after a stated effective date or within a defined time frame, and also any accessorial charges or allowances that increase or decrease the total transportation cost to the shipper.</P> <P>(aa) <E T="03">Rate agreement</E> means an agreement between ocean common carriers that authorizes the discussion of or agreement on, either on a binding basis under a common tariff or on a non-binding basis, any kind of rate or charge.</P> <P>(bb) <E T="03">Sailing agreement</E> means an agreement between ocean common carriers to provide service by establishing a schedule of ports that each carrier will serve, the frequency of each carrier's calls at those ports, and/or the size and capacity of the vessels to be deployed by the parties. The term does not include joint service agreements, or capacity rationalization agreements.</P> <P>(cc) <E T="03">Service contract</E> means a written contract, other than a bill of lading or a receipt, between one or more shippers and an individual ocean common carrier or an agreement between or among ocean common carriers in which the shipper or shippers makes a commitment to provide a certain volume or portion of cargo over a fixed time period, and the ocean common carrier or the agreement commits to a certain rate or rate schedule and a defined service level, such as assured space, transit time, port rotation, or similar service features. The contract may also specify provisions in the event of nonperformance on the part of any party.</P> <P>(dd) <E T="03">Shipper</E> means:</P> <P>(1) A cargo owner;</P> <P>(2) The person for whose account the ocean transportation is provided;</P> <P>(3) The person to whom delivery is to be made;</P> <P>(4) A shippers' association; or</P> <P>(5) A non-vessel-operating common carrier (<E T="03">i.e.</E>, a common carrier that does not operate the vessels by which the ocean transportation is provided and is a shipper in its relationship with an ocean common carrier) that accepts responsibility for payment of all charges applicable under the tariff or service contract.</P> <P>(ee) <E T="03">Shippers' association</E> means a group of shippers that consolidates or distributes freight on a nonprofit basis for the members of the group in order to secure carload, truckload, or other volume rates or service contracts.</P> <P>(ff) <E T="03">Shippers' requests and complaints</E> means a communication from a shipper to a conference requesting a change in tariff rates, rules, regulations, or service; protesting or objecting to existing rates, rules, regulations or service; objecting to rate increases or other tariff changes; protesting allegedly erroneous service contract or tariff implementation or application, and/or requesting to enter into a service contract. Routine information requests are not included in the term.<PRTPAGE P="207"/> </P> <P>(gg) <E T="03">Space charter agreement</E> means an agreement between ocean common carriers whereby a carrier (or carriers) agrees to provide vessel space for use by another carrier (or carriers) in exchange for compensation or services. The arrangement may include arrangements for equipment interchange and receipt/delivery of cargo, but may not include capacity rationalization as defined in this subpart.</P> <P>(hh) <E T="03">Sub-trade</E> means the scope of ocean liner cargo carried between each U.S. port range and each foreign country within the scope of the agreement. U.S. port ranges are defined as follows:</P> <P>(1) Atlantic and Gulf shall encompass ports along the eastern seaboard and the Gulf of Mexico from the northern boundary of Maine to Brownsville, Texas. It also includes all ports bordering on the Great Lakes and their connecting waterways, all ports in the State of New York on the St. Lawrence River, and all ports in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands; and</P> <P>(2) Pacific shall encompass all ports in the States of Alaska, Hawaii, California, Oregon, and Washington. It also includes all ports in Guam, American Samoa, Northern Marianas, Johnston Island, Midway Island, and Wake Island.</P> <P>(ii) <E T="03">Through transportation</E> means continuous transportation between origin and destination for which a through rate is assessed and which is offered or performed by one or more carriers, at least one of which is an ocean common carrier, between a United States point or port and a foreign point or port.</P> <P>(jj) <E T="03">Transshipment agreement</E> means an agreement between an ocean common carrier serving a port or point of origin and another such carrier serving a port or point of destination, whereby cargo is transferred from one carrier to another carrier at an intermediate port served by direct vessel call of both such carriers in the conduct of through transportation and the publishing carrier performs the transportation on one leg of the through transportation on its own vessel or on a vessel on which it has rights to space under a filed and effective agreement. Such an agreement does not provide for the concerted discussion, publication or otherwise fixing of rates for the account of the cargo interests, conditions of service or other tariff matters other than the tariff description of the transshipment service offered, the port of transshipment and the participation of the nonpublishing carrier. An agreement that involves the movement of cargo in a domestic offshore trade as part of a through movement of cargo via transshipment involving the foreign commerce of the United States shall be considered to be in the foreign commerce of the United States and, therefore, subject to the Act and this part.</P> <P>(kk) <E T="03">Vessel-operating costs</E> means any of the following expenses incurred by an ocean common carrier: salaries and wages of officers and unlicensed crew, including relief crews and others regularly employed aboard the vessel; fringe benefits; expenses associated with consumable stores, supplies and equipment; vessel fuel and incidental costs; vessel maintenance and repair expense; hull and machinery insurance costs; protection and indemnity insurance costs; costs for other marine risk insurance not properly chargeable to hull and machinery insurance or to protection and indemnity insurance accounts; and charter hire expenses.</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart B—Scope</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.201</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Subject agreements.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Ocean common carrier agreements.</E> This part applies to agreements by or among ocean common carriers to:</P> <P>(1) Discuss, fix, or regulate transportation rates, including through rates, cargo space accommodations, and other conditions of service;</P> <P>(2) Pool or apportion traffic, revenues, earnings, or losses;</P> <P>(3) Allot ports or restrict or otherwise regulate the number and character of sailings between ports;</P> <P>(4) Limit or regulate the volume or character of cargo or passenger traffic to be carried;</P> <P>(5) Engage in exclusive, preferential, or cooperative working arrangements among themselves or with one or more marine terminal operators;</P> <P>(6) Control, regulate, or prevent competition in international ocean transportation; or<PRTPAGE P="208"/> </P> <P>(7) Discuss and agree on any matter related to service contracts.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Marine terminal operator agreements.</E> This part applies to agreements among marine terminal operators and among one or more marine terminal operators and one or more ocean carriers to:</P> <P>(1) Discuss, fix, or regulate rates or other conditions of service; or</P> <P>(2) Engage in exclusive, preferential, or cooperative working arrangements, to the extent that such agreements involve ocean transportation in the foreign commerce of the United States.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.202</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Non-subject agreements.</SUBJECT> <P>This part does not apply to the following agreements:</P> <P>(a) Any acquisition by any person, directly or indirectly, of any voting security or assets of any other person;</P> <P>(b) Any maritime labor agreement;</P> <P>(c) Any agreement related to transportation to be performed within or between foreign countries;</P> <P>(d) Any agreement among common carriers to establish, operate, or maintain a marine terminal in the United States; and</P> <P>(e) Any agreement among marine terminal operators that exclusively and solely involves transportation in the interstate commerce of the United States.</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart C—Exemptions</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.301</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exemption procedures.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Authority.</E> The Commission, upon application or its own motion, may by order or rule exempt for the future any class of agreement involving ocean common carriers and/or marine terminal operators from any requirement of the Act if it finds that the exemption will not result in substantial reduction in competition or be detrimental to commerce.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Optional filing.</E> Notwithstanding any exemption from filing, or other requirements of the Act and this part, any party to an exempt agreement may file such an agreement with the Commission.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Application for exemption.</E> Applications for exemptions shall conform to the general filing requirements for exemptions set forth at § 502.67 of this title.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Retention of agreement by parties.</E> Any agreement that has been exempted by the Commission pursuant to section 16 of the Act shall be retained by the parties and shall be available upon request by the Bureau of Trade Analysis for inspection during the term of the agreement and for a period of three years after its termination.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.302</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Exemptions for certain modifications of effective agreements.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Non-substantive modifications to effective agreements. A non-substantive modification to an effective agreement between ocean common carriers and/or marine terminal operators, acting individually or through approved agreements, is one which:</P> <P>(1) Reflects changes in the name of any geographic locality stated therein, the name of the agreement or the name of a party to the agreement, the names and/or numbers of any other section 4 agreement or designated provisions thereof referred to in an agreement;</P> <P>(2) Corrects typographical and grammatical errors in the text of the agreement or renumbers or reletters articles or sub-articles of agreements and references thereto in the text; or</P> <P>(3) Reflects changes in the titles of persons or committees designated therein or transfers the functions of such persons or committees to other designated persons or committees or which merely establishes a committee.</P> <P>(b) Other Miscellaneous Modifications to effective agreements. A miscellaneous modification to an effective agreement is one that:</P> <P>(1) Cancels the agreement or a portion thereof;</P> <P>(2) Deletes an agreement party;</P> <P>(3) Changes the parties to a conference agreement or a discussion agreement among passenger vessel operating common carriers that is open to all ocean common carriers operating passenger vessels of a class defined in the agreements and that does not contain ratemaking, pooling, joint service, sailing or space chartering authority; or</P> <P>(4) Changes the officials of the agreement and delegations of authority.<PRTPAGE P="209"/> </P> <P>(c) A copy of a modification described in (a) or (b) of this section shall be submitted to the Commission but is otherwise exempt from the waiting period requirement of the Act and this part.</P> <P>(d) Parties to agreements may seek a determination from the Director of the Bureau of Trade Analysis as to whether a particular modification is a non-substantive or other miscellaneous modification within the meaning of this section.</P> <P>(e) The filing fee for non-substantive or other miscellaneous modifications is provided in § 535.401(g).</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.303</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Husbanding agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) A husbanding agreement is an agreement between an ocean common carrier and another ocean common carrier or marine terminal operator, acting as the former's agent, under which the agent handles routine vessel operating activities in port, such as notifying port officials of vessel arrivals and departures; ordering pilots, tugs, and linehandlers; delivering mail; transmitting reports and requests from the Master to the owner/operator; dealing with passenger and crew matters; and providing similar services related to the above activities. The term does not include an agreement that provides for the solicitation or booking of cargoes, signing contracts or bills of lading and other related matters, nor does it include an agreement that prohibits the agent from entering into similar agreements with other carriers.</P> <P>(b) A husbanding agreement is exempt from the filing requirements of the Act and of this part.</P> <P>(c) The filing fee for optional filing of husbanding agreements is provided in § 535.401(g).</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.304</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agency agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) An agency agreement is an agreement between an ocean common carrier and another ocean common carrier or marine terminal operator, acting as the former's agent, under which the agent solicits and books cargoes and signs contracts of affreightment and bills of lading on behalf of the ocean common carrier. Such an agreement may or may not also include husbanding service functions and other functions incidental to the performance of duties by agents, including processing of claims, maintenance of a container equipment inventory control system, collection and remittance of freight and reporting functions.</P> <P>(b) An agency agreement as defined above is exempt from the filing requirements of the Act and of this part, except those:</P> <P>(1) Where a common carrier is to be the agent for a competing ocean common carrier in the same trade; or</P> <P>(2) That permit an agent to enter into similar agreements with more than one ocean common carrier in a trade.</P> <P>(c) The filing fee for optional filing of agency agreements is provided in § 535.401(g).</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.305</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Equipment interchange agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) An equipment interchange agreement is an agreement between two or more ocean common carriers for:</P> <P>(1) The exchange of empty containers, chassis, empty LASH/SEABEE barges, and related equipment; and</P> <P>(2) The transportation of the equipment as required, payment therefor, management of the logistics of transferring, handling and positioning equipment, its use by the receiving carrier, its repair and maintenance, damages thereto, and liability incidental to the interchange of equipment.</P> <P>(b) An equipment interchange agreement is exempt from the filing requirements of the Act and of this part.</P> <P>(c) The filing fee for optional filing of equipment interchange agreements is provided in § 535.401(g).</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.306</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Nonexclusive transshipment agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) A nonexclusive transshipment agreement is a transshipment agreement by which one ocean common carrier serving a port of origin by direct vessel call and another such carrier serving a port of destination by direct vessel call provide transportation between such ports via an intermediate port served by direct vessel call of both such carriers and at which cargo will be transferred from one to the other and which agreement does not:<PRTPAGE P="210"/> </P> <P>(1) Prohibit either carrier from entering into similar agreements with other carriers;</P> <P>(2) Guarantee any particular volume of traffic or available capacity; or</P> <P>(3) Provide for the discussion or fixing of rates for the account of the cargo interests, conditions of service or other tariff matters other than the tariff description of the service offered as being by means of transshipment, the port of transshipment and the participation of the nonpublishing carrier.</P> <P>(b) A nonexclusive transshipment agreement is exempt from the filing requirements of the Act and of this part, provided that the tariff provisions set forth in paragraph (c) of this section and the content requirements of paragraph (d) of this section are met.</P> <P>(c) The applicable tariff or tariffs shall provide:</P> <P>(1) The through rate;</P> <P>(2) The routings (origin, transshipment and destination ports); additional charges, if any (<E T="03">i.e.</E> port arbitrary and/or additional transshipment charges); and participating carriers; and</P> <P>(3) A tariff provision substantially as follows:</P> <P>The rules, regulations, and rates in this tariff apply to all transshipment arrangements between the publishing carrier or carriers and the participating, connecting or feeder carrier. Every participating connecting or feeder carrier which is a party to transshipment arrangements has agreed to observe the rules, regulations, rates, and routings established herein as evidenced by a connecting carrier agreement between the parties.</P> <P>(d) Nonexclusive transshipment agreements must contain the entire arrangement between the parties, must contain a declaration of the nonexclusive character of the arrangement and may provide for:</P> <P>(1) The identification of the parties and the specification of their respective roles in the arrangement;</P> <P>(2) A specification of the governed cargo;</P> <P>(3) The specification of responsibility for the issuance of bills of lading (and the assumption of common carriage-associated liabilities) to the cargo interests;</P> <P>(4) The specification of the origin, transshipment and destination ports;</P> <P>(5) The specification of the governing tariff(s) and provision for their succession;</P> <P>(6) The specification of the particulars of the nonpublishing carrier's concurrence/participation in the tariff of the publishing carrier;</P> <P>(7) The division of revenues earned as a consequence of the described carriage;</P> <P>(8) The division of expenses incurred as a consequence of the described carriage;</P> <P>(9) Termination and/or duration of the agreement;</P> <P>(10) Intercarrier indemnification or provision for intercarrier liabilities consequential to the contemplated carriage and such documentation as may be necessary to evidence the involved obligations;</P> <P>(11) The care, handling and liabilities for the interchange of such carrier equipment as may be consequential to the involved carriage;</P> <P>(12) Such rationalization of services as may be necessary to ensure the cost effective performance of the contemplated carriage; and</P> <P>(13) Such agency relationships as may be necessary to provide for the pickup and/or delivery of the cargo.</P> <P>(e) No subject other than as listed in paragraph (d) of this section may be included in exempted nonexclusive transshipment agreements.</P> <P>(f) The filing fee for optional filing of nonexclusive transshipment agreements is provided in § 535.401(g).</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.307</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agreements between or among wholly-owned subsidiaries and/or their parent'exemption.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) An agreement between or among wholly-owned subsidiaries and/or their parent means an agreement under section 4 of the Act between or among an ocean common carrier or marine terminal operator subject to the Act and any one or more ocean common carriers or marine terminal operators which are ultimately owned 100 percent by that ocean common carrier or marine terminal operator, or an agreement between or among such wholly-owned carriers or terminal operators.<PRTPAGE P="211"/> </P> <P>(b) All agreements between or among wholly-owned subsidiaries and/or their parent are exempt from the filing requirements of the Act and this part.</P> <P>(c) Ocean common carriers are exempt from section 10(c) of the Act to the extent that the concerted activities proscribed by that section result solely from agreements between or among wholly-owned subsidiaries and/or their parent.</P> <P>(d) The filing fee for optional filing of these agreements is provided in § 535.401(g).</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.308</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Marine terminal agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Marine terminal agreement</E> means an agreement, understanding, or association written or oral (including any modification or appendix) that applies to future, prospective activities between or among the parties and that relates solely to marine terminal facilities and/or services among marine terminal operators and among one or more marine terminal operators and one or more ocean common carriers that completely sets forth the applicable rates, charges, terms and conditions agreed to by the parties for the facilities and/or services provided for under the agreement. The term does not include a joint venture arrangement among marine terminal operators to establish a separate, distinct entity that fixes its own rates and publishes its own tariff.</P> <P>(b) <E T="03">Marine terminal conference agreement</E> means an agreement between or among two or more marine terminal operators and/or ocean common carriers for the conduct or facilitation of marine terminal operations that provides for the fixing of and adherence to uniform maritime terminal rates, charges, practices and conditions of service relating to the receipt, handling, and/or delivery of passengers or cargo for all members.</P> <P>(c) <E T="03">Marine terminal discussion agreement</E> means an agreement between or among two or more marine terminal operators and/or marine terminal conferences and/or ocean common carriers solely for the discussion of subjects including marine terminal rates, charges, practices, and conditions of service relating to the receipt, handling and/or delivery of passengers or cargo.</P> <P>(d) <E T="03">Marine terminal interconference agreement</E> means an agreement between or among two or more marine terminal conference and/or marine terminal discussion agreements.</P> <P>(e) All marine terminal agreements, as defined in § 535.308(a), with the exception of marine terminal conference, marine terminal interconference, and marine terminal discussion agreements as defined in § 535.308(b), (c), and (d), are exempt from the waiting period requirements of the Act and this part and will, accordingly, be effective on filing with the Commission.</P> <P>(f) The filing fee for marine terminal agreements is provided in § 535.401(g).</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.309</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Marine terminal services agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Marine terminal services agreement</E> means an agreement, contract, understanding, arrangement, or association, written or oral, (including any modification or appendix) between a marine terminal operator and an ocean common carrier that applies to marine terminal services that are provided to and paid for by an ocean common carrier. These services include: checking, dockage, free time, handling, heavy lift, loading and unloading, terminal storage, usage, wharfage, and wharf demurrage and including any marine terminal facilities that may be provided incidentally to such marine terminal services. The term <E T="03">marine terminal services agreement</E> does not include any agreement that conveys to the involved carrier any rights to operate any marine terminal facility by means of a lease, license, permit, assignment, land rental, or similar other arrangement for the use of marine terminal facilities or property.</P> <P>(b) All marine terminal services agreements as defined in § 535.309(a) are exempt from the filing and waiting period requirements of the Act and this part on condition that:</P> <P>(1) They do not include rates, charges, rules, and regulations that are determined through a marine terminal conference agreement, as defined in § 535.308(b); and<PRTPAGE P="212"/> </P> <P>(2) No antitrust immunity is conferred under the Act with regard to terminal services provided to an ocean common carrier under a marine terminal services agreement that is not filed with the Commission.</P> <P>(c) The filing fee for optional filing of terminal services agreements is provided in § 535.401(g).</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.310</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Marine terminal facilities agreement—exemption.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) <E T="03">Marine terminal facilities agreement</E> means any agreement between or among two or more marine terminal operators, or between one or more marine terminal operators and one or more ocean common carriers, to the extent that the agreement involves ocean transportation in the foreign commerce of the United States, that conveys to any of the involved parties any rights to operate any marine terminal facility by means of lease, license, permit, assignment, land rental, or other similar arrangement for the use of marine terminal facilities or property.</P> <P>(b) All marine terminal facilities agreements as defined in § 535.310(a) are exempt from the filing and waiting period requirements of the Act and this part.</P> <P>(c) Parties to marine terminal facilities agreements currently in effect shall provide copies to any requesting party for a reasonable copying and mailing fee.</P> <P>(d) The filing fee for optional filing of terminal facilities agreements is provided in § 535.401(g).</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.311</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Low market share agreements—exemption.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Low market share agreement means any agreement among ocean common carriers which contains none of the authorities listed in § 535.502(b) and for which the combined market share, based on cargo volume, of the parties in any of the agreement's sub-trades is either:</P> <P>(1) Less than 30 percent, if all parties are members of another agreement in the same trade or sub-trade containing any of the authorities listed in § 535.502(b); or</P> <P>(2) Less than 35 percent, if at least one party is not a member of another agreement in the same trade or sub-trade containing any of the authorities listed in § 535.502(b).</P> <P>(b) Low market share agreements are exempt from the waiting period requirement of the Act and this part, and are effective on filing.</P> <P>(c) Parties to agreements may seek a determination from the Director, Bureau of Trade Analysis, as to whether a proposed agreement meets the general definition of a low market share agreement.</P> <P>(d) The filing fee for low market share agreements is provided in § 535.401(g).</P> <CITA>[69 FR 64414, Nov. 4, 2004, as amended at 70 FR 20303, Apr. 19, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.312</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Vessel charter party-exemption.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) For purposes of this section, vessel charter party shall mean a contractual agreement between two ocean common carriers for the charter of the full reach of a vessel, which agreement sets forth the entire terms and conditions (including duration, charter hire, and geographical or operational limitations, if any) under which the vessel will be employed.</P> <P>(b) Vessel charter parties, as defined in paragraph (a) of this section, are exempt from the filing requirements of the Act and this part.</P> <P>(c) The filing fee for optional filing of vessel charter parties is provided in § 535.401(g).</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart D—Filing of Agreements</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.401</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General requirements.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) All agreements (including oral agreements reduced to writing in accordance with the Act) subject to this part and filed with the Commission for review and disposition pursuant to section 6 of the Act, shall be submitted during regular business hours to the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, Washington, DC 20573. Such filing shall consist of:</P> <P>(1) A true copy and seven additional copies of the executed agreement;</P> <P>(2) Where required by this part, an original and five copies of the completed Information Form referenced at subpart E of this part; and<PRTPAGE P="213"/> </P> <P>(3) A letter of transmittal as described in paragraph (b) of this section.</P> <P>(b) The letter of transmittal shall:</P> <P>(1) Identify all of the documents being transmitted including, in the instance of a modification to an effective agreement, the full name of the effective agreement, the Commission-assigned agreement number of the effective agreement and the revision, page and/or appendix number of the modification being filed;</P> <P>(2) Provide a concise, succinct summary of the filed agreement or modification separate and apart from any narrative intended to provide support for the acceptability of the agreement or modification;</P> <P>(3) Clearly provide the typewritten or otherwise imprinted name, position, business address, and telephone number of the filing party; and</P> <P>(4) Be signed in the original by the filing party or on the filing party's behalf by an authorized employee or agent of the filing party.</P> <P>(c) To facilitate the timely and accurate publication of the <E T="04">Federal Register</E> Notice, the letter of transmittal shall also provide a current list of the agreement's participants where such information is not provided elsewhere in the transmitted documents.</P> <P>(d) Any agreement that does not meet the filing requirements of this section, including any applicable Information Form requirements, shall be rejected in accordance with § 535.601(b).</P> <P>(e) Assessment agreements shall be filed and shall be effective upon filing.</P> <P>(f) Parties to agreements with expiration dates shall file any modification seeking renewal for a specific term or elimination of a termination date in sufficient time to accommodate the 45-day waiting period required under the Act.</P> <P>(g) <E T="03">Fees.</E> The filing fee is $1,780 for new agreements requiring Commission review and action; $851 for agreement modifications requiring Commission review and action; $397 for agreements processed under delegated authority (for types of agreements that can be processed under delegated authority, see § 501.26(e) of this chapter); $138 for carrier exempt agreements; and $75 for terminal exempt agreements.</P> <P>(h) The fee for the Commission's agreement database report is $6.</P> <CITA>[69 FR 64414, Nov. 4, 2004, as amended at 70 FR 10330, Mar. 3, 2005]</CITA> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.402</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Complete and definite agreements.</SUBJECT> <P>An agreement filed under the Act must be clear and definite in its terms, must embody the complete, present understanding of the parties, and must set forth the specific authorities and conditions under which the parties to the agreement will conduct their operations and regulate the relationships among the agreement members, unless those details are matters specifically enumerated as exempt from the filing requirements of this part.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.403</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Form of agreements.</SUBJECT> <P>The requirements of this section apply to all agreements except marine terminal agreements and assessment agreements.</P> <P>(a) Agreements shall be clearly and legibly written. Agreements in a language other than English shall be accompanied by an English translation.</P> <P>(b) Every agreement shall include a Title Page indicating:</P> <P>(1) The full name of the agreement;</P> <P>(2) Once assigned, the Commission-assigned agreement number;</P> <P>(3) If applicable, the expiration date of the agreement; and</P> <P>(4) The original effective date of the agreement whenever the Title Page is revised.</P> <P>(c) Each agreement page (including modifications and appendices) shall be identified by printing the agreement name (as shown on the agreement title page) and, once assigned, the applicable Commission-assigned agreement number at the top of each page. For agreement modifications, the appropriate amendment number for each modification should also appear on the page along with the basic agreement number.</P> <P>(d) Each agreement and/or modification filed will be signed in the original by an official or authorized representative of each of the parties and shall indicate the typewritten full name of the signing party and his or her position, including organizational affiliation. Faxed or photocopied signatures will <PRTPAGE P="214"/>be accepted if replaced with an original signature as soon as practicable before the effective date.</P> <P>(e) Every agreement shall include a Table of Contents indicating the location of all agreement provisions.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.404</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Agreement provisions.</SUBJECT> <P>Generally, each agreement should:</P> <P>(a) Indicate the full legal name of each party, including any FMC-assigned agreement number associated with that name, and the address of its principal office (not the address of any agent or representative not an employee of the participating party);</P> <P>(b) State the ports or port ranges to which the agreement applies as well as any inland points or areas to which it also applies; and</P> <P>(c) Specify, by organizational title, the administrative and executive officials determined by the agreement parties to be responsible for designated affairs of the agreement and the respective duties and authorities delegated to those officials. At a minimum, the agreement should specify:</P> <P>(1) The official(s) with authority to file the agreement and any modification thereto and to submit associated supporting materials; and</P> <P>(2) A statement as to any designated U.S. representative of the agreement required by this chapter.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.405</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Organization of conference agreements.</SUBJECT> <P>Each conference agreement shall:</P> <P>(a) State that, at the request of any member, the conference shall engage the services of an independent neutral body to fully police the obligations of the conference and its members. The agreement must include a description of any such neutral body authority and procedures related thereto.</P> <P>(b) State affirmatively that the conference parties shall not engage in conduct prohibited by sections 10(c)(1) or 10(c)(3) of the Act.</P> <P>(c) Specify the procedures for consultation with shippers and for handling shippers' requests and complaints.</P> <P>(d) Include provisions for independent action in accordance with § 535.801 of this part.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.406</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Modification of agreements.</SUBJECT> <P>The requirements of this section apply to all agreements except marine terminal agreements and assessment agreements.</P> <P>(a) Agreement modifications shall be filed in accordance with the provisions of §§ 535.401, 535.402, and 535.403.</P> <P>(b) Agreement modifications shall be made by reprinting the entire page on which the matter being changed is published (“revised page”). The revised page shall indicate the consecutive denomination of the revision (<E T="03">e.g.</E>, “1st Revised Page 7”). Additional material may be published on a new original page. New original pages inserted between existing effective pages shall be numbered with an alpha suffix (<E T="03">e.g.</E>, a page inserted between page 7 and page 8 shall be numbered 7a).</P> <P>(c) Each revised page shall be accompanied by a duplicate page, submitted for illustrative purposes only, indicating the language being modified in the following manner:</P> <P>(1) Language being deleted or superseded shall be struck through; and,</P> <P>(2) New and initial or replacement language shall immediately follow the language being superseded and be underlined.</P> <P>(d) If a modification requires the relocation of the provisions of the agreement, such modification shall be accompanied by a revised Table of Contents page that shall indicate the new location of the provisions.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.407</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Application for waiver.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Upon a showing of good cause, the Commission may waive the requirements of §§ 535.401, 535.403, 535.404, 535.405, and 535.406.</P> <P>(b) Requests for such a waiver shall be submitted in advance of the filing of the agreement to which the requested waiver would apply and shall state:</P> <P>(1) The specific provisions from which relief is sought;</P> <P>(2) The special circumstances requiring the requested relief; and</P> <P>(3) Why granting the requested waiver will not substantially impair effective review of the agreement.</P> </SECTION> <SECTION> <PRTPAGE P="215"/> <SECTNO>§ 535.408</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>Activities that may be conducted without further filings.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Agreements that arise from authority of an effective agreement but whose terms are not fully set forth in the effective agreement to the extent required by § 535.402 are permitted without further filing only if they:</P> <P>(1) Are themselves exempt from the filing requirements of this part (pursuant to subpart C—Exemptions of this part); or</P> <P>(2) Are listed in paragraph (b) of this section.</P> <P>(b) Unless otherwise exempt in subpart C of this part, only the following technical or operational matters of an agreement's affairs established pursuant to express enabling authority in an agreement are considered part of the effective agreement and do not require further filing under section 5 of the Act:</P> <P>(1) Establishment of tariff rates, rules and regulations and their joint publication;</P> <P>(2) The terms and conditions of space allocation and slot sales, the procedures for allocating space, the establishment of space charter rates, and the terms and conditions of charter parties;</P> <P>(3) Stevedoring, terminal, and related services including the operation of tonnage centers or other joint container marshaling facilities;</P> <P>(4) The following administrative matters:</P> <P>(i) Scheduling of agreement meetings;</P> <P>(ii) Collection, collation and circulation of data and reports from or to members;</P> <P>(iii) Procurement, maintenance, or sharing of office facilities, furnishings, equipment and supplies, the allocation and assessment of costs thereof, or the provisions for the administration and management of such agreements by duly appointed individuals;</P> <P>(iv) Procedures for anticipating parties' space requirements;</P> <P>(v) Maintenance of books and records; and</P> <P>(vi) Details as to the following matters as between parties to the agreement: insurance, procedures for resolutions of disputes relating to loss and/or damage of cargo, and force majeure clauses;</P> <P>(5) The following operational matters:</P> <P>(i) Port rotations and schedule adjustments; and</P> <P>(ii) Changes in vessel size, number of vessels, or vessel substitution or replacement, if the resulting change is within a capacity range specified in the agreement; and</P> <P>(6) Neutral body policing (limited to the description of neutral body authority and procedures related thereto).</P> </SECTION> </SUBPART> <SUBPART> <HD SOURCE="HED">Subpart E—Information Form Requirements</HD> <SECTION> <SECTNO>§ 535.501</SECTNO> <SUBJECT>General requirements.</SUBJECT> <P>(a) Agreements and modifications to agreements identified in § 535.502 shall be accompanied by an Information Form containing information and data on the agreement and the parties' authority under the agreement.</P> <P>(b) Parties to an agreement subject to this subpart shall complete and submit an original and five copies of the Information Form at the time the agreement is filed. A copy of the Form in <E T="03">Microsoft Word</E> and <E T="03">Excel</E> format may be downloaded from the Commission's home page at <E T="03">http://www.fmc.gov,</E> or a paper copy of the Form may be obtained from the Bureau of Trade Analysis. In lieu of submitting paper copies, parties may complete and submit their Information Form in the Commission's prescribed electronic format, either on diskette or CD-ROM.</P> <P>(c) A complete response in accordance with the instructions on the Information Form shall be supplied to each item. If a party to the agreement is unable to supply a complete response, that party shall provide either estimated data (with an explanation of why precise data are not available) or a detailed statement of reasons for noncompliance and the efforts made to obtain the required information.</P> <P>(d) Agreement parties may supplement the Information Form with any additional information or material to assist the Commission's review of an agreement.</P> <P>(e) The Information