[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 4 (Tuesday, January 7, 2014)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 1112-1121]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-29628]
[[Page 1111]]
Vol. 79
Tuesday,
No. 4
January 7, 2014
Part III
Department of Agriculture
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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda
Federal Register / Vol. 79 , No. 4 / Tuesday, January 7, 2014 /
Unified Agenda
[[Page 1112]]
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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Office of the Secretary
2 CFR Subtitle B, Ch. IV
5 CFR Ch. LXXIII
7 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I-XI, XIV-XVIII, XX, XXV-
XXXVIII, XLII
9 CFR Chs. I-III
36 CFR Ch. II
48 CFR Ch. 4
Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, Fall 2013
AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, USDA.
ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.
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SUMMARY: This agenda provides summary descriptions of significant and
not significant regulations being developed in agencies of the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) in conformance with Executive Orders
(E.O.) 12866 ``Regulatory Planning and Review,'' and 13563 ``Improving
Regulation and Regulatory Review.'' The agenda also describes
regulations affecting small entities as required by section 602 of the
Regulatory Flexibility Act, Public Law 96-354. This agenda also
identifies regulatory actions that are being reviewed in compliance
with section 610(c) of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We invite public
comment on those actions as well as any regulation consistent with E.O.
13563.
USDA has attempted to list all regulations and regulatory reviews
pending at the time of publication except for minor and routine or
repetitive actions, but some may have been inadvertently missed. There
is no legal significance to the omission of an item from this listing.
Also, the dates shown for the steps of each action are estimated and
are not commitments to act on or by the date shown.
USDA's complete regulatory agenda is available online at
www.reginfo.gov. Because publication in the Federal Register is
mandated for the regulatory flexibility agendas required by the
Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 602), USDA's printed agenda
entries include only:
(1) Rules that are likely to have a significant economic impact on
a substantial number of small entities; and
(2) Rules identified for periodic review under section 610 of the
Regulatory Flexibility Act.
For this edition of the USDA regulatory agenda, the most important
significant regulatory actions and a Statement of Regulatory Priorities
are included in the Regulatory Plan, which appears in both the online
regulatory agenda and in part II of the Federal Register that includes
the abbreviated regulatory agenda.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information on any
specific entry shown in this agenda, please contact the person listed
for that action. For general comments or inquiries about the agenda,
please contact Michael Poe, Office of Budget and Program Analysis, U.S.
Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, (202) 720-3257.
Dated: September 5, 2013.
Michael Poe,
Chief, Legislative and Regulatory Staff.
Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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152....................... National Organic Program, 0581-AD08
Origin of Livestock, NOP-
11-0009 (Reg Plan Seq No.
1).
153....................... National Organic Program, 0581-AD20
Organic Pet Food
Standards.
154....................... National Organic Program; 0581-AD22
Sunset Review (2012) for
Sodium Nitrate.
155....................... National Organic Program, 0581-AD31
Organic Apiculture
Practice Standard, NOP-12-
0063.
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References in boldface appear in The Regulatory Plan in part II of this
issue of the Federal Register.
Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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156....................... National Organic Program: 0581-AD17
Sunset Review for
Nutrient Vitamins and
Minerals.
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Farm Service Agency--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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157....................... Farm Loan Programs, 0560-AI14
Clarification and
Improvement.
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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158....................... Scrapie in Sheep and Goats 0579-AC92
159....................... Plant Pest Regulations; 0579-AC98
Update of General
Provisions.
160....................... Bovine Spongiform 0579-AD10
Encephalopathy and
Scrapie; Importation of
Small Ruminants and Their
Germplasm, Products, and
Byproducts.
161....................... Importation of Beef From a 0579-AD41
Region in Brazil.
162....................... Brucellosis and Bovine 0579-AD65
Tuberculosis; Update of
General Provisions (Reg
Plan Seq No. 5).
163....................... Establishing a Performance 0579-AD71
Standard for Authorizing
the Importation and
Interstate Movement of
Fruits and Vegetables
(Reg Plan Seq No. 6).
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References in boldface appear in The Regulatory Plan in part II of this
issue of the Federal Register.
[[Page 1113]]
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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164....................... Introduction of Organisms 0579-AC31
and Products Altered or
Produced Through Genetic
Engineering.
165....................... Bovine Spongiform 0579-AC68
Encephalopathy;
Importation of Bovines
and Bovine Products.
166....................... Importation of Live Dogs.. 0579-AD23
167....................... Importation of Wood 0579-AD28
Packaging Material From
Canada.
168....................... Treatment of Firewood and 0579-AD60
Spruce Logs Imported From
Canada.
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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169....................... Handling of Animals; 0579-AC69
Contingency Plans.
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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170....................... Citrus Canker, Citrus 0579-AD29
Greening, and Asian
Citrus Psyllid;
Interstate Movement of
Regulated Nursery Stock.
171....................... Domestic Regulation of 0579-AD49
Firewood.
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Rural Housing Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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172....................... Guaranteed Single-Family 0575-AC18
Housing.
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Food and Nutrition Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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173....................... Child and Adult Care Food 0584-AE18
Program: Meal Pattern
Revisions Related to the
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids
Act of 2010 (Reg Plan Seq
No. 11).
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References in boldface appear in The Regulatory Plan in part II of this
issue of the Federal Register.
Food and Nutrition Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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174....................... Certification of 0584-AE15
Compliance With Meal
Requirements for the
National School Lunch
Program Under the
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids
Act of 2010.
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Food Safety and Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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175....................... Performance Standards for 0583-AC46
the Production of
Processed Meat and
Poultry Products.
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Food Safety and Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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176....................... Mandatory Inspection of 0583-AD36
Catfish and Catfish
Products.
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[[Page 1114]]
Forest Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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177....................... Management of Surface 0596-AD03
Activities Associated
With Outstanding Mineral
Rights on National Forest
System Lands.
178....................... National Forest System 0596-AD05
Invasive Species
Management Handbook.
179....................... Ski Area--D Clauses: 0596-AD14
Resource and Improvement
Protection, Water
Facilities and Water
Rights.
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Forest Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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180....................... Land Management Planning 0596-AD06
Rule Policy (Reg Plan Seq
No. 21).
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References in boldface appear in The Regulatory Plan in part II of this
issue of the Federal Register.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
Proposed Rule Stage
152. National Organic Program, Origin of Livestock, NOP-11-0009
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 1 in part II of this issue
of the Federal Register.
RIN: 0581-AD08
153. National Organic Program, Organic Pet Food Standards
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: The National Organic Program (NOP) is establishing
national standards governing the marketing of organically produced
agricultural products. In 2004, the National Organic Standards Board
(NOSB) initiated the development of organic pet food standards, which
had not been incorporated into the NOP regulations, by forming a task
force which included pet food manufacturers, organic consultants, etc.
Collectively, these experts drafted organic pet food standards
consistent with the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990, Food and Drug
Administration requirements, and the Association of American Feed
Control Officials (AAFCO) Model Regulations for Pet and Specialty Pet
Food. The AAFCO regulations are scientifically-based regulations for
voluntary adoption by State jurisdictions to ensure the safety, quality
and effectiveness of feed. In November 2008, the NOSB approved a final
recommendation for organic pet food standards incorporating the
provisions drafted by the pet food task force.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 09/00/14 .......................
Final Action........................ 09/00/15 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Melissa R Bailey, Director, Standards Division,
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 14th &
Independence Avenue SW., Room 2646-South Building, Washington, DC
20250, Phone: 202 720-3252, Fax: 202 205-7808, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0581-AD20
154. National Organic Program; Sunset Review (2012) for Sodium Nitrate
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: This action proposes to amend the listing for sodium
nitrate on the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances as
part of the 2012 sunset review process. Consistent with the
recommendation from the National Organic Standards Board, this
amendment would prohibit the use of the substance in its entirety from
organic crop production.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 09/00/14 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Melissa R Bailey, Director, Standards Division,
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 14th &
Independence Avenue SW., Room 2646-South Building, Washington, DC
20250, Phone: 202 720-3252, Fax: 202 205-7808, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0581-AD22
155. National Organic Program, Organic Apiculture Practice
Standard, NOP-12-0063
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: This action proposes to amend the USDA organic
regulations to reflect an October 2010 recommendation submitted to the
Secretary by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) concerning the
production of organic apicultural (i.e. beekeeping) products. Instead
of continuing to allow certifying agents to certify apiculture to the
organic livestock standards, this action would establish certification
standards specifically for organic bees and bee products. The scope of
this action includes provisions for: transition to organic apiculture
production, replacement bees, hive construction forage areas,
supplemental feeding health care, pest control practices and an organic
apiculture system plan. This action would also add a new scope of
certification and accreditation to the USDA organic regulations. This
action does not regulate the use of bees for pollination of organic
crops.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 09/00/14 .......................
Final Action........................ 09/00/15 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Melissa R Bailey, Director, Standards Division,
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 14th &
Independence Avenue SW., Room 2646-South Building, Washington, DC
20250, Phone: 202 720-3252, Fax: 202 205-7808, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0581-AD31
[[Page 1115]]
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
Final Rule Stage
156. National Organic Program: Sunset Review for Nutrient Vitamins and
Minerals
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) intends to amend
the listing for nutrient vitamins and minerals on the U.S. Department
of Agriculture's (USDA) National List of Allowed and Prohibited
Substances (National List) to clarify what synthetic substances are
allowed as vitamins and minerals in products labeled as ``organic'' or
``made with organic (specified ingredients or food group(s)).'' In
September 2012, AMS published an interim rule (77 FR 59287) to renew
the exemption (use) for nutrient vitamins and minerals which was
otherwise due to expire, or sunset, on October 21, 2012. The interim
rule followed a proposed rule in which AMS suggested amending the
listing to allow only vitamins and minerals which are essential for
food and required for infant formula. Under the proposed action,
synthetic substances that are not specifically referenced by the
exemption would be prohibited from use in organic products unless there
is an explicit National List exemption for such use. AMS is evaluating
the comments on the interim rule and considering the impact of 13
National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) recommendations for affected
synthetic nutrients that were petitioned for addition to the National
List.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 01/12/12 77 FR 1980
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/12/12 .......................
Interim Final Rule.................. 09/27/12 77 FR 59287
Interim Final Rule Comment Period 10/21/12 .......................
End.
Final Action........................ 09/00/14 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Melissa R Bailey, Director, Standards Division,
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 14th &
Independence Avenue SW., Room 2646-South Building, Washington, DC
20250, Phone: 202 720-3252, Fax: 202 205-7808, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0581-AD17
BILLING CODE 3410-02-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Farm Service Agency (FSA)
Final Rule Stage
157. Farm Loan Programs, Clarification and Improvement
Legal Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C. 1989
Abstract: The rule will amend farm loan programs (FLPs) regulations
for loan servicing including the following areas:
Real estate appraisals;
Lease, subordination, and disposition of security; and
Conservation contracts.
FSA is also making technical and conforming amendments. The
amendments are technical corrections, clarifications, and procedural
improvements that will allow FSA to further streamline normal servicing
activities and reduce burden on borrowers while still protecting the
loan security.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 04/13/12 77 FR 22444
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/12/12
Final Action........................ 11/00/13
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Deirdre Holder, Director, Regulatory Review Group,
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0572,Phone: 202 205-5851,Fax: 202 720-
5233,Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0560-AI14
BILLING CODE 3410-05-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Proposed Rule Stage
158. Scrapie in Sheep and Goats
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the scrapie regulations by
changing the risk groups and categories established for individual
animals and for flocks. It would simplify, reduce, or remove certain
recordkeeping requirements. This action would provide designated
scrapie epidemiologists with more alternatives and flexibility when
testing animals in order to determine flock designations under the
regulations. It would also make the identification and recordkeeping
requirements for goat owners consistent with those for sheep owners.
These changes would affect sheep and goat producers and State
governments.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 02/00/14
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/00/14
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Diane Sutton, National Scrapie Program Coordinator,
Ruminant Health Programs, NCAHP, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal
and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 43,
Riverdale, MD 20737-1235,Phone: 301 851-3509.
RIN: 0579-AC92
159. Plant Pest Regulations; Update of General Provisions
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 2260; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to
7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8817; 19 U.S.C. 136; 21
U.S.C. 111; 21 U.S.C. 114a; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701; 42
U.S.C. 4331 and 4332
Abstract: We are proposing to revise our regulations regarding the
movement of plant pests. We are proposing to regulate the movement of
not only plant pests, but also biological control organisms and
associated articles. We are proposing risk-based criteria regarding the
movement of biological control organisms, and are proposing to
establish regulations to allow the movement in interstate commerce of
certain types of plant pests without restriction by granting exceptions
from permitting requirements for those pests. We are also proposing to
revise our regulations regarding the movement of soil and to establish
regulations governing the biocontainment facilities in which plant
pests, biological control organisms, and associated articles are held.
This proposed rule replaces a previously published proposed rule, which
we are withdrawing as part of this document. This proposal would
clarify the factors that would be considered when assessing the risks
associated with the movement of certain organisms, facilitate the
movement of regulated organisms and articles in a manner that also
protects U.S. agriculture, and address gaps in the current regulations.
Timetable:
[[Page 1116]]
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Action Date FR Cite
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Notice of Intent To Prepare an 10/20/09 74 FR 53673
Environmental Impact Statement.
Notice Comment Period End........... 11/19/09
NPRM................................ 02/00/14
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/00/14
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Shirley Wager-Page, Chief, Pest Permitting Branch,
Plant Health Programs, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant
Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 131, Riverdale, MD
20737-1236,Phone: 301 851-2323.
RIN: 0579-AC98
160. Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy and Scrapie; Importation of Small
Ruminants and Their Germplasm, Products, and Byproducts
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 1622; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to
7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 21 U.S.C. 136 and
136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the bovine spongiform
encephalopathy (BSE) and scrapie regulations regarding the importation
of live sheep, goats, and wild ruminants and their embryos, semen,
products, and byproducts. The proposed scrapie revisions regarding the
importation of sheep, goats, and susceptible wild ruminants for other
than immediate slaughter are similar to those recommended by the World
Organization for Animal Health in restricting the importation of such
animals to those from scrapie-free regions or certified scrapie-free
flocks.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 05/00/14 .......................
NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/00/14 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Peter Merrill, Assistant Director, Technical Trade
Services, National Center for Import and Export, VS, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River
Road, Unit 39, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231,Phone: 301 851-3300.
RIN: 0579-AD10
161. Importation of Beef From a Region in Brazil
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781
to 7786; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the regulations governing the
importation of certain animals, meat, and other animal products by
allowing, under certain conditions, the importation of fresh (chilled
or frozen) beef from a region in Brazil (the States of Bahia, Distrito
Federal, Espirito Santo, Goias, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas
Gerais, Parana, Rio Grande do Sul, Rio de Janeiro, Rondonia, Sao Paulo,
Sergipe, and Tocantis). Based on the evidence in a recent risk
assessment, we have determined that fresh (chilled or frozen) beef can
be safely imported from those Brazilian States provided certain
conditions are met. This action would provide for the importation of
beef from the designated region in Brazil into the United States while
continuing to protect the United States against the introduction of
foot-and-mouth disease.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 01/00/14 .......................
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/00/14 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Silvia Kreindel, Senior Staff Veterinarian,
Regionalization Evaluation Services Staff, NCIE, VS, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River
Road, Unit 39, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231,Phone: 301 851-3313.
RIN: 0579-AD41
162. Brucellosis and Bovine Tuberculosis; Update of General Provisions
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 5 in part II of this issue
of the Federal Register.
RIN: 0579-AD65
163. Establishing a Performance Standard for Authorizing the
Importation and Interstate Movement of Fruits and Vegetables
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 6 in part II of this issue
of the Federal Register.
RIN: 0579-AD71
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Final Rule Stage
164. Introduction of Organisms and Products Altered or Produced Through
Genetic Engineering
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 31
U.S.C. 9701
Abstract: This rulemaking will amend the regulations regarding the
importation, interstate movement, and environmental release of certain
genetically engineered organisms. This rule will affect persons
involved in the importation, interstate movement, or release into the
environment of genetically engineered plants and certain other
genetically engineered organisms.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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Notice of Intent to Prepare an 01/23/04 69 FR 3271
Environmental Impact Statement.
Comment Period End.................. 03/23/04 .......................
Notice of Availability of Draft 07/17/07 72 FR 39021
Environmental Impact Statement.
Comment Period End.................. 09/11/07 .......................
NPRM................................ 10/09/08 73 FR 60007
NPRM Comment Period End............. 11/24/08 .......................
Correction.......................... 11/10/08 73 FR 66563
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 01/16/09 74 FR 2907
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/17/09 .......................
NPRM; Notice of Public Scoping 03/11/09 74 FR 10517
Session.
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 04/13/09 74 FR 16797
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/29/09 .......................
Final Rule.......................... 06/00/14 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Andrea Huberty, Branch Chief, Regulatory and
Environmental Analysis, BRS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and
Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 146, Riverdale,
MD 20737-1236,Phone: 301 851-3880.
RIN: 0579-AC31
[[Page 1117]]
165. Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy; Importation of Bovines and
Bovine Products
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 1622; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to
7772; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701
Abstract: This rulemaking will amend the regulations regarding the
importation of bovines and bovine products. This rulemaking will also
address public comments received in response to a September 2008
request for comments regarding certain provisions of an APHIS January
2005 final rule.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 03/16/12 77 FR 15848
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/15/12 .......................
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 05/21/12 77 FR 29914
NPRM Comment Period Reopened End.... 06/14/12 .......................
Final Rule.......................... 12/04/13 78 FR 72979
Final Rule Effective................ 03/04/14 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Betzaida Lopez, Staff Veterinarian, Technical Trade
Services, National Center for Import and Export, VS, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River
Road, Unit 39, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231,Phone: 301 851-3364.
Christopher Robinson, Senior Staff Veterinarian, Technical Trade
Services, National Center for Import and Export, VS, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River
Road, Unit 40, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231,Phone: 301 851-3300.
RIN: 0579-AC68
166. Importation of Live Dogs
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 2148
Abstract: We are amending the regulations to implement an amendment
to the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). The Food, Conservation, and Energy Act
of 2008 added a new section to the AWA to restrict the importation of
certain live dogs. Consistent with this amendment, this rule prohibits
the importation of dogs, with limited exceptions, from any part of the
world into the continental United States or Hawaii for purposes of
resale, research, or veterinary treatment, unless the dogs are in good
health, have received all necessary vaccinations, and are at least 6
months of age. This action is necessary to implement the amendment to
the AWA and will help to ensure the welfare of imported dogs.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 09/01/11 76 FR 54392
NPRM Comment Period End............. 10/31/11 .......................
Final Rule.......................... 03/00/14 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Gerald Rushin, Veterinary Medical Officer, Animal
Care, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection
Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231,Phone: 301
851-3740.
RIN: 0579-AD23
167. Importation of Wood Packaging Material From Canada
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781
to 7786; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a
Abstract: This rulemaking will amend the regulations for the
importation of unmanufactured wood articles to remove the exemption
that allows wood packaging material from Canada to enter the United
States without first meeting the treatment and marking requirements of
the regulations that apply to wood packaging material from all other
countries. This action is necessary in order to prevent the
dissemination and spread of pests via wood packaging material from
Canada.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 12/02/10 75 FR 75157
NPRM Comment Period End............. 01/31/11 .......................
Final Rule.......................... 04/00/14 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John Tyrone Jones, Trade Director, Forestry
Products, Phytosanitary Issues Management, PPQ, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River
Road, Unit 140, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231,Phone: 301 851-2344.
RIN: 0579-AD28
168. Treatment of Firewood and Spruce Logs Imported From Canada
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781
to 7786; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a
Abstract: This rulemaking will amend the regulations to require
firewood of all species imported from Canada, including treated lumber
(furniture scraps) sold as kindling, and all spruce logs imported from
Nova Scotia to be heat-treated and to be accompanied by either a
certificate of treatment or an attached commercial treatment label.
This action is necessary on an immediate basis to prevent the
artificial spread of pests including emerald ash borer, Asian
longhorned beetle, gypsy moth, European spruce bark beetle, and brown
spruce longhorn beetle to noninfested areas of the United States and to
prevent further introductions of these pests into the United States.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule.................. 03/00/14 .......................
Interim Final Rule Comment Period 05/00/14 .......................
End.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John Tyrone Jones, Trade Director, Forestry
Products, Phytosanitary Issues Management, PPQ, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River
Road, Unit 140, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231,Phone: 301 851-2344,
RIN: 0579-AD60
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Long-Term Actions
169. Handling of Animals; Contingency Plans
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 2131 to 2159
Abstract: This rulemaking amends the Animal Welfare Act regulations
to add requirements for contingency planning and training of personnel
by research facilities and by dealers, exhibitors, intermediate
handlers, and carriers. We are taking this action because we believe
all licensees and registrants should develop a contingency plan for all
animals regulated under the Animal Welfare Act in an effort to better
prepare for potential disasters. This action will heighten the
awareness of licensees and registrants regarding their responsibilities
and help ensure a timely and appropriate response should an emergency
or disaster occur.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 10/23/08 73 FR 63085
NPRM Comment Period End............. 12/22/08 .......................
[[Page 1118]]
NPRM Comment Period Extended........ 12/19/08 73 FR 77554
NPRM Comment Period Extended End.... 02/20/09 .......................
Final Rule Effective................ 01/30/13 .......................
Final Rule--Stay of Regulations..... 07/31/13 78 FR 46255
Final Rule Effective--Stay of 07/31/13 .......................
Regulations.
Next Action Undetermined............ ......... .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jeanie Lin,Phone: 919 855-7100.
RIN: 0579-AC69
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Completed Actions
170. Citrus Canker, Citrus Greening, and Asian Citrus Psyllid;
Interstate Movement of Regulated Nursery Stock
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786
Abstract: This rulemaking will amend the regulations governing the
interstate movement of regulated articles from areas quarantined for
citrus canker, citrus greening, and/or Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) to
allow the movement of regulated nursery stock under a certificate to
any area within the United States. In order to be eligible to move
regulated nursery stock, a nursery must enter into a compliance
agreement with APHIS that specifies the conditions under which the
nursery stock must be grown, maintained, and shipped. It will also
amend the regulations that allow the movement of regulated nursery
stock from an area quarantined for ACP, but not for citrus greening, to
amend the existing regulatory requirements for the issuance of limited
permits for the interstate movement of the nursery stock. We made these
changes on an immediate basis in order to provide nursery stock
producers in areas quarantined for citrus canker, citrus greening, or
ACP with the ability to ship regulated nursery stock to markets within
the United States that would otherwise be unavailable to them due to
the prohibitions and restrictions contained in the regulations while
continuing to provide adequate safeguards to prevent the spread of the
three pests into currently unaffected areas of the United States.
Completed:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule.......................... 10/24/13 78 FR 63369
Final Rule Effective................ 11/25/13 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Lynn Evans-Goldner,Phone: 301 851-2286.
RIN: 0579-AD29
171. Domestic Regulation of Firewood
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786
Abstract: This rulemaking would require that commercial firewood
destined to be moved interstate be affixed with a label on which the
county and State, or counties and States, in which the wood from which
the firewood was produced was harvested, the site at which the firewood
was produced, what phytosanitary treatment, if any, the firewood has
received, and contact information for reporting detections of suspected
plant pests are prominently and legibly displayed. We would also
require firewood producers, distributors, and retailers to retain
records regarding the manufacturing, purchase, and sale of the
firewood. Although the movement of commercial firewood in interstate
commerce can be a pathway for numerous plant pests, this movement is
currently largely unregulated. This action would aid in preventing the
further dissemination of plant pests within the United States through
the interstate movement of firewood.
Completed:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn........................... 08/27/13 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Paul Chaloux,Phone: 301 851-2064.
RIN: 0579-AD49
BILLING CODE 3410-34-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Rural Housing Service (RHS)
Final Rule Stage
172. Guaranteed Single-Family Housing
Legal Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C. 1989; 42 U.S.C. 1480
Abstract: The Guaranteed Single-Family Housing Loan Program is
taking the proposed action to implement authorities granted the
Secretary of the USDA, in section 102 of the Supplemental
Appropriations Act, 2010 (Pub. L. 111-212, July 29, 2010). The intent
of the annual fee is to make the SFHGLP subsidy neutral when used in
conjunction with the one-time guarantee fee, thus eliminating the need
for taxpayer support of the program.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 10/28/11 76 FR 66860
NPRM Comment Period End............. 12/27/11 .......................
Interim Final Rule.................. 12/00/13 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Cathy Glover, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of
Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., STOP
0784, Washington, DC 02050-0784,Phone: 202 720-1460,Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0575-AC18
BILLING CODE 3410-XV-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
Proposed Rule Stage
173. Child and Adult Care Food Program: Meal Pattern Revisions Related
to the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 11 in part II of this issue
of the Federal Register.
RIN: 0584-AE18
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
Final Rule Stage
174. Certification of Compliance With Meal Requirements for the
National School Lunch Program Under the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act
of 2010
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111-296
Abstract: This rule codifies section 201 of the Healthy, Hunger-
Free Kids Act (Pub. L. 111-296) under 7 CFR part 210 directing the
Secretary to provide, additional 6 cents per lunch, adjusted annually
for changes in the Consumer Price Index, for schools that are certified
to be in compliance with the interim/final regulation, ``Nutrition
Standards in the National School Lunch and
[[Page 1119]]
Breakfast Programs,'' (77 FR 4088, January 26, 2012). This rule
establishes the compliance standards that State agencies will use to
certify schools that are eligible to receive the rate increase.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule.................. 04/27/12 77 FR 25024
Interim Final Rule Effective........ 07/01/12
Interim Final Rule Comment Period 07/26/12
End.
Final Rule.......................... 02/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: James F Herbert, Regulatory Review Specialist,
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 305-2572, Email:
[email protected], Lynnette M Williams, Chief, Planning and
Regulatory Affairs Branch, Department of Agriculture, Food and
Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone:
703 605-4782, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0584-AE15
BILLING CODE 3410-30-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
Proposed Rule Stage
175. Performance Standards for the Production of Processed Meat and
Poultry Products
Legal Authority: 21 U.S.C. 451 et seq.; 21 U.S.C. 601 et seq.
Abstract: FSIS is proposing to establish pathogen reduction
performance standards for all ready-to-eat (RTE) and partially heat-
treated meat and poultry products. The performance standards spell out
the objective level of pathogen reduction that establishments must meet
during their operations in order to produce safe products, but allow
the use of customized, plant-specific processing procedures other than
those prescribed in their earlier regulations. With HACCP, food safety
performance standards give establishments the incentive and flexibility
to adopt innovative, science-based food safety processing procedures
and controls, while providing objective, measurable standards that can
be verified by Agency inspectional oversight. This set of performance
standards will include and be consistent with standards already in
place for certain ready-to-eat meat and poultry products.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/27/01 66 FR 12590
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/29/01
NPRM Comment Period Extended........ 07/03/01 66 FR 35112
NPRM Comment Period Extended End.... 09/10/01
Interim Final Rule.................. 06/06/03 68 FR 34208
Interim Final Rule Effective........ 10/06/03
Interim Final Rule Comment Period 01/31/05
End.
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 03/24/05 70 FR 15017
NPRM Comment Period Reopened End.... 05/09/05
Affirmation of Interim Final Rule 06/00/14
and Supplemental Proposed Rule.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Rachel Edelstein, Assistant Administrator, Office
of Policy and Program Development, Department of Agriculture, Food
Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., 350-E JLW
Building, Washington, DC 20250-3700, Phone: 202 205-0495, Fax: 202 720-
2025, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0583-AC46
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
Long-Term Actions
176. Mandatory Inspection of Catfish and Catfish Products
Legal Authority: 21 U.S.C. 601 et seq.; Pub. L. 110-249, sec 11016
Abstract: The Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (Pub. L.
110-246, sec. 11016), known as the 2008 Farm Bill, amended the Federal
Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) to make catfish an amenable species under
the FMIA. Amenable species must be inspected, so this rule will define
inspection requirements for catfish. The regulations will define
``catfish'' and the scope of coverage of the regulations to apply to
establishments that process farm-raised species of catfish and to
catfish and catfish products.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/24/11 76 FR 10434
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/24/11
Final Rule.......................... To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Rachel Edelstein, Phone: 202 205-0495, Fax: 202
720-2025, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0583-AD36
BILLING CODE 3410-DM-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Forest Service (FS)
Proposed Rule Stage
177. Management of Surface Activities Associated With Outstanding
Mineral Rights on National Forest System Lands
Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined
Abstract: Close to 11,000,000 acres (approximately 6 percent) of
National Forest System lands overlie severed (split) mineral estates
owned by a party other than the Federal Government. Over 75 percent of
these lands are in the Eastern Region (Forest Service Regions 8 and 9).
There are two kinds of severed mineral estates, generally known as
``private rights'': Reserved and outstanding. Reserved mineral rights
are those retained by a grantor in a deed conveying land to the United
States. Outstanding mineral rights are those owned by a party other
than the surface owner at the time the surface was conveyed to the
United States. Because these are non-Federal mineral interests, the
USDI Bureau of Land Management has no authority for or role in managing
development activities associated with such interests. States have the
authority and responsibility for regulating development of the private
mineral estate.
Various Secretary's Rules and Regulations (years of 1911, 1937,
1938, 1939, 1947, 1950, and 1963) and Forest Service regulations at 36
CFR 251.15 provide direction for the use of NFS lands for mineral
development activities associated with the exercise of reserved mineral
rights. These existing rules for reserved minerals development
activities also include requirements for protection of NFS resources.
[[Page 1120]]
Currently there are no formal regulations governing the use of NFS
lands for activities associated with the exercise of outstanding
mineral rights underlying those lands. The Energy Policy Act of 1992,
section 2508, directed the Secretary of Agriculture to: apply specified
terms and conditions to surface-disturbing activities related to
development of oil and gas on certain lands with outstanding mineral
rights on the Allegheny National Forest, and promulgate regulations
implementing that section.
The Forest Service initiated rulemaking for the use of NFS lands
for development activities associated with both reserved and
outstanding minerals rights with an Advance Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking (ANPRM) in the Federal Register on December 29, 2008.
Comments from the public in response to the ANPRM conveyed a high level
of concern about the broad scope of the rule, along with a high level
of concern about effects of a broad rule on small businesses and local
economies.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM............................... 12/29/08 73 FR 79424
ANPRM Comment Period End............ 02/27/09
NPRM................................ 08/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: LaRenda C King, Assistant Director, Directives and
Regulations, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R
Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0003, Phone:
202 205-6560, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0596-AD03
178. National Forest System Invasive Species Management Handbook
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 473 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 528 et seq.; 16
U.S.C. 1600 et seq.
Abstract: Management activities to address the threats and impacts
of invasive species across the National Forest System are guided by a
general, broad policy articulated in the proposed Forest Service Manual
2900 (NFS Invasive Species Management). The specific requirements,
standards, criteria, rules, and guidelines for Forest Service staff to
effectively manage invasive species on NFS lands will be provided in a
handbook which will tier to FSM 2900. The proposed handbook will be
issued through the Directives system.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 07/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No.
Agency Contact: LaRenda C King, Assistant Director, Directives and
Regulations, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R
Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0003, Phone:
202 205-6560, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0596-AD05
179. Ski Area--D Clauses: Resource and Improvement Protection,
Water Facilities and Water Rights
Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined
Abstract: On November 8, 2011, the Forest Service issued an interim
directive (FSH 2709.11-2011-3) including a revised clause to address
the ownership of water rights developed on National Forest System (NFS)
lands for use by ski area permit holders. On March 6, 2012, a second
interim directive (FSH 2709.11-2012-1) for the revised ski area water
rights clause was issued, superseding the 2011 version. The National
Ski Areas Association filed a lawsuit in the United States District
Court for the District of Colorado on March 12, 2012, opposing use of
the revised clause. On December 19, 2012, the court ruled that the
Forest Service had erred in not providing an opportunity for notice and
comment on the interim directive and that the agency needed to conduct
a Regulatory Flexibility Act analysis of the impact of the directive on
small business entities that hold ski area permits. The court vacated
the interim directive and enjoined enforcement of the 2011 and 2012
clauses in permits containing them.
The Forest Service intends to publish the proposed ski area water
rights clause in the Federal Register for public notice and comment. To
identify interests and views from a diverse group of stakeholders
regarding a revised water rights clause for ski areas, the Forest
Service held four stakeholder meetings in April 2013. The input from
the stakeholder sessions will be considered in the development of a
proposed water rights clause for ski areas.
The proposed directive would address the development of water
facilities on NFS lands; the ownership of preexisting and future water
rights; mechanisms to ensure sufficient water remains for ski areas on
NFS lands; and measures necessary to protect NFS lands and resources.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proposed Rule....................... 01/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: LaRenda C King, Assistant Director, Directives and
Regulations, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R
Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0003, Phone:
202 205-6560, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0596-AD14
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Forest Service (FS)
Final Rule Stage
180. Land Management Planning Rule Policy
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 21 in part II of this issue
of the Federal Register.
RIN: 0596-AD06
[FR Doc. 2013-29628 Filed 1-6-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-11-P