[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 240 (Tuesday, December 15, 2015)]
[Unknown Section]
[Pages 77916-77925]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-31019]
[[Page 77915]]
Vol. 80
Tuesday,
No. 240
December 15, 2015
Part III
Department of Agriculture
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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda
Federal Register / Vol. 80 , No. 240 / Tuesday, December 15, 2015 /
Unified Agenda
[[Page 77916]]
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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 2015
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
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
Executive Order 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 22, 2015.
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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140....................... National Organic Program, 0581-AD20
Organic Pet Food
Standards.
141....................... National Organic Program, 0581-AD31
Organic Apiculture
Practice Standard, NOP-12-
0063.
142....................... National Organic Program-- 0581-AD34
Organic Aquaculture
Standards.
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Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
143....................... National Organic Program, 0581-AD08
Origin of Livestock, NOP-
11-0009.
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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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144....................... Animal Welfare: Marine 0579-AB24
Mammals; Nonconsensus
Language and Interactive
Programs.
145....................... Scrapie in Sheep and Goats 0579-AC92
146....................... Plant Pest Regulations; 0579-AC98
Update of General
Provisions.
147....................... Bovine Spongiform 0579-AD10
Encephalopathy and
Scrapie; Importation of
Small Ruminants and Their
Germplasm, Products, and
Byproducts.
148....................... Brucellosis and Bovine 0579-AD65
Tuberculosis; Update of
General Provisions.
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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149....................... Importation of Wood 0579-AD28
Packaging Material From
Canada.
150....................... Treatment of Firewood and 0579-AD60
Spruce Logs Imported From
Canada.
151....................... Establishing a Performance 0579-AD71
Standard for Authorizing
the Importation and
Interstate Movement of
Fruits and Vegetables.
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[[Page 77917]]
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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152....................... Introduction of Organisms 0579-AC31
and Products Altered or
Produced Through Genetic
Engineering.
153....................... Importation of Beef From a 0579-AD41
Region in Brazil.
154....................... Viruses, Serums, Toxins, 0579-AD64
and Analogous Products;
Single Label Claim for
Veterinary Biological
Products.
155....................... User Fees for Agricultural 0579-AD77
Quarantine and Inspection
Services.
156....................... Importation of Beef From a 0579-AD92
Region in Argentina
(Completion of a Section
610 Review).
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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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157....................... Modernizing Supplemental 0584-AE37
Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP) Benefit
Redemption Systems.
158....................... Supplemental Nutrition 0584-AE39
Assistance Program
(SNAP): Electronic
Benefits Transfer
Requirements for Scanning
and Product-Lookup
Technology.
159....................... Food and Nutrition Service 0584-AE42
Regulatory Implementation
of Office of Management
and Budget's Uniform
Administrative
Requirements, Cost
Principles, and Audit
Requirements for Federal
Awards.
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Food and Nutrition Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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160....................... National School Lunch and 0584-AE09
School Breakfast
Programs: Nutrition
Standards for All Foods
Sold in School, as
Required by the Healthy,
Hunger-Free Kids Act of
2010 (Reg Plan Seq No. 6).
161....................... National School Lunch and 0584-AE11
School Breakfast
Programs: School Food
Service Account Revenue
Amendments Related to the
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids
Act of 2010.
162....................... 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. 7).
163....................... Child Nutrition Programs: 0584-AE25
Local School Wellness
Policy Implementation
Under the Healthy, Hunger-
Free Kids Act of 2010.
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References in boldface appear in The Regulatory Plan in part II of
this issue of the Federal Register.
Food Safety and Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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164....................... Elimination of Trichina 0583-AD59
Control Regulations and
Consolidation of
Thermally Processed,
Commercially Sterile
Regulations.
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Food Safety and Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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165....................... Mandatory Inspection of 0583-AD36
Fish of the Order
Siluriformes and Products
Derived From Such Fish.
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Forest Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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166....................... Ski Area--D Clauses: 0596-AD14
Resource and Improvement
Protection, Water
Facilities, and Water
Rights (Directive).
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[[Page 77918]]
Forest Service--Long-Term Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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167....................... Management of Surface 0596-AD03
Activities Associated
With Outstanding Mineral
Rights on National Forest
System Lands (Directive).
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Office of Procurement and Property Management--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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168....................... Designation of Biobased 0599-AA24
Product Categories for
Federal Procurement,
Round 11.
169....................... Designation of Biobased 0599-AA25
Product Categories for
Federal Procurement,
Round 12.
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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
Proposed Rule Stage
140. National Organic Program, Organic Pet Food Standards
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: The National Organic Program (NOP) establishes 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................................ 04/00/16
Final Action........................ 11/00/16
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Miles McEvoy, Deputy Administrator, USDA National
Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
Service, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 720-3252.
RIN: 0581-AD20
141. 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 (or beekeeping) products.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 05/00/16
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Miles McEvoy, Deputy Administrator, USDA National
Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
Service, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 720-3252.
RIN: 0581-AD31
142. National Organic Program--Organic Aquaculture Standards
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6522.
Abstract: This action proposes to establish standards for organic
production and certification of farmed aquatic animals and their
products in the USDA organic regulations. This action would also add
aquatic animals as a scope of certification and accreditation under the
National Organic Program (NOP). This action is necessary to establish
standards for organic farmed aquatic animals and their products which
would allow U.S. producers to compete in the organic seafood market.
This action is also necessary to address multiple recommendations
provided by USDA by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB). In
2007 through 2009, the NOSB made five recommendations to establish
standards for the certification of organic farmed aquatic animals and
their products. Finally, the U.S. currently has organic standards
equivalence arrangements with Canada and the European Union (EU). Both
Canada and the EU established standards for organic aquaculture
products. Because the U.S. does not have organic aquaculture standards,
the U.S. is unable to include aquaculture in the scope of these
arrangements. Establishing U.S. organic aquaculture may provide a basis
for expanding those trade partnerships.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 11/00/15
Final Action........................ 07/00/16
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Miles McEvoy, Deputy Administrator, USDA National
Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
Service, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 720-3252.
RIN: 0581-AD34
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
Final Rule Stage
143. National Organic Program, Origin of Livestock, NOP-11-0009
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: The current regulations provide two tracks for replacing
dairy animals which are tied to how dairy farmers transition to organic
production. Farmers who transition an entire distinct herd must
thereafter replace dairy animals with livestock that has been under
organic management from the last third of gestation. Farmers who do not
transition an entire distinct herd
[[Page 77919]]
may perpetually obtain replacement animals that have been managed
organically for 12 months prior to marketing milk or milk products as
organic. The proposed action would eliminate the two-track system and
require that upon transition, all existing and replacement dairy
animals from which milk or milk products are intended to be sold,
labeled, or represented as organic must be managed organically from the
last third of gestation.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 04/28/15 80 FR 23455
NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/27/15
Final Action........................ 05/00/16
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Miles McEvoy, Deputy Administrator, USDA National
Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
Service, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 720-3252.
RIN: 0581-AD08
BILLING CODE 3410-02-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Proposed Rule Stage
144. Animal Welfare: Marine Mammals; Nonconsensus Language and
Interactive Programs
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 2131 to 2159
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the Animal Welfare Act
regulations concerning the humane handling, care, treatment, and
transportation of marine mammals in captivity. These proposed changes
would affect sections in the regulations relating to variances and
implementation dates, indoor facilities, outdoor facilities, space
requirements, and water quality. We are also proposing to revise the
regulations that relate to swim-with-the-dolphin programs. We believe
these actions are necessary to ensure that the minimum standards for
the humane handling, care, treatment, and transportation of marine
mammals in captivity are based on current industry and scientific
knowledge and experience.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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ANPRM............................... 05/30/02 67 FR 37731
ANPRM Comment Period End............ 07/29/02
NPRM................................ 11/00/15
NPRM Comment Period End............. 01/00/16
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Barbara Kohn, Senior Staff Veterinarian, Animal
Care, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection
Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234, Phone: 301
851-3751.
RIN: 0579-AB24
145. 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................................ 09/10/15 80 FR 54659
NPRM Comment Period End............. 11/09/15
Final Action........................ 07/00/16
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Diane Sutton, Sheep, Goat, Cervid, and Equine
Health Center; Surveillance, Preparedness, and Response Services, 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
146. 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 criteria regarding the
movement and environmental release of biological control organisms, and
are proposing to establish regulations to allow the importation and
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. 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 and facilitate the movement of regulated organisms
and articles in a manner that also protects U.S. agriculture.
Timetable:
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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................................ 04/00/16
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/00/16
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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
147. 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
[[Page 77920]]
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................................ 03/00/16
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/00/16
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Langston Hull, Senior Staff Veterinary Medical
Officer, Animal Permitting and Negotiating Services, 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
148. Brucellosis and Bovine Tuberculosis; Update of General Provisions
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 1622; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 15 U.S.C.
1828; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701
Abstract: This rulemaking would consolidate the regulations
governing bovine tuberculosis (TB), currently found in 9 CFR part 77,
and those governing brucellosis, currently found in 9 CFR part 78. As
part of this consolidation, we are proposing to transition the TB and
brucellosis programs away from a State status system based on disease
prevalence. Instead, States and tribes would implement an animal health
plan that identifies sources of the diseases within the State or tribe
and specifies mitigations to address the risk posed by these sources.
The consolidated regulations also would set forth standards for
surveillance, epidemiological investigations, and affected herd
management that must be incorporated into each animal health plan, with
certain limited exceptions; conditions for the interstate movement of
cattle, bison, and captive cervids; and conditions for APHIS approval
of tests for bovine TB or brucellosis. Finally, the rulemaking would
revise the import requirements for cattle and bison to make these
requirements clearer and ensure that they more effectively mitigate the
risk of introduction of the diseases into the United States.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 11/00/15
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Langston Hull, Senior Staff Veterinary Medical
Officer, Animal Permitting and Negotiating Services, VS, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River
Road, Unit 39, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231, Phone: 301 851-3300.
C. William Hench, Senior Cattle Health Specialist, Cattle Health
Center, Surveillance, Preparedness, and Response, VS, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 2150 Centre
Avenue, Building B-3E20, Fort Collins, CO 80526, Phone: 970 494-7378.
RIN: 0579-AD65
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Final Rule Stage
149. 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
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NPRM................................ 12/02/10 75 FR 75157
NPRM Comment Period End............. 01/31/11
Final Rule.......................... 03/00/16
Final Action Effective.............. 04/00/16
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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
150. 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 introduction of these pests into the United States.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule.................. 02/00/16
Interim Final Rule Comment Period 04/00/16
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
151. Establishing a Performance Standard for Authorizing the
Importation And Interstate Movement of Fruits and Vegetables
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 our regulations governing the
importations of fruits and vegetables by broadening our existing
performance standard to provide for consideration of all new fruits and
vegetables for importation into the United States using a notice-based
process. Rather than authorizing new imports through proposed and final
rules and specifying import conditions in the regulations, the notice-
based process uses Federal Register notices to make risk analyses
available to the public for review and comment, with authorized
commodities and their conditions of entry subsequently being listed on
the Internet. It also will remove the region- or commodity-specific
phytosanitary
[[Page 77921]]
requirements currently found in these regulations. Likewise, we are
proposing an equivalent revision of the performance standard in our
regulations governing the interstate movements of fruits and vegetables
from Hawaii and the U.S. territories (Guam, Northern Mariana Islands,
Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and the removal of commodity-
specific phytosanitary requirements from those regulations. This action
will allow for the consideration of requests to authorize the
importation or interstate movement of new fruits and vegetables in a
manner that enables a more flexible and responsive regulatory approach
to evolving pest situations in both the United States and exporting
countries. It will not, however, alter the science-based process in
which the risk associated with importation or interstate movement of a
given fruit or vegetable is evaluated or the manner in which risks
associated with the importation or interstate movement of a fruit or
vegetable are mitigated.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 09/09/14 79 FR 53346
NPRM Comment Period End............. 11/10/14
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 12/04/14 79 FR 71973
NPRM Comment Period End............. 01/09/15
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 02/06/15 80 FR 6665
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/10/15
Final Rule.......................... 03/00/16
Final Rule Effective................ 05/00/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Nicole Russo, Assistant Director, Regulatory
Coordination and Compliance, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and
Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 133, Riverdale,
MD 20737-1236, Phone: 301 851-2159.
RIN: 0579-AD71
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Completed Actions
152. 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: We are withdrawing a proposed rule that would have
amended the regulations regarding the introduction (importation,
interstate movement, and environmental release (field testing)) of
certain genetically engineered organisms. We are doing this because of
the experience we have gained over the past 28 years, continuing
advances in biotechnology, and comments we received on the rule. We
will begin a fresh stakeholder engagement to explore alternative policy
approaches. This engagement will begin with a series of webinars that
will provide the stakeholder community an opportunity to provide
initial feedback. Information on these webinars will be announced in
the coming month.
Completed:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM--Withdrawn..................... 03/04/15 80 FR 11598
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Chessa Huff-Woodard, Phone: 301 851-3943.
RIN: 0579-AC31
153. 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 amends 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, Esp[iacute]rito Santo, Goi[aacute]s, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso
do Sul, Minas Gerais, Paran[aacute], Rio Grande do Sul, Rio de Janeiro,
Rond[ocirc]nia, S[atilde]o Paulo, Sergipe, and Tocantins). 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 provides 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.
Completed:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule.......................... 07/02/15 80 FR 37923
Final Rule Effective................ 08/31/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Silvia Kreindel, Phone: 301 851-3313.
RIN: 0579-AD41
154. Viruses, Serums, Toxins, and Analogous Products; Single Label
Claim for Veterinary Biological Products
Legal Authority: 21 U.S.C. 151 to 159
Abstract: This rulemaking amends the Virus-Serum-Toxin Act
regulations to provide for the use of a simpler labeling format that
would better communicate product performance to the user. Under this
rulemaking, the previous label format, which reflected any of four
different levels of effectiveness, is replaced with a single, uniform
label format. We are also requiring biologics licensees to provide a
standardized summary, with confidential business information removed,
of the efficacy and safety data submitted to the Animal and Plant
Health Inspection Service in support of the issuance of a full product
license or conditional license. A simpler label format, along with
publicly available safety and efficacy data, will help biologics
producers to more clearly communicate product performance to their
customers.
Completed:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule.......................... 07/10/15 80 FR 39669
Final Rule Effective................ 09/08/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Donna L. Malloy, Phone: 301 851-3426.
RIN: 0579-AD64
155. User Fees for Agricultural Quarantine and Inspection Services
Legal Authority: 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; 49 U.S.C. 80503
Abstract: This rulemaking will amend the user fee regulations by
adding new fee categories and adjusting current fees charged for
certain agricultural quarantine and inspection services that are
provided in connection with certain
[[Page 77922]]
commercial vessels, commercial trucks, commercial railroad cars,
commercial aircraft, and international passengers arriving at ports in
the customs territory of the United States. It also will adjust the fee
caps associated with commercial vessels, commercial trucks, and
commercial railcars. Based on the conclusions of a third party
assessment of the user fee program and on other considerations, we have
determined that revised user fee categories and revised user fees are
necessary to recover the costs of the current level of activity, to
account for actual and projected increases in the cost of doing
business, and to more accurately align fees with the costs associated
with each fee service.
Completed:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule.......................... 10/29/15 80 FR 66747
Final Rule Effective................ 12/28/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: William E. Thomas, Phone: 301 851-2306, Kris
Caraher, Phone: 301 851-2384.
RIN: 0579-AD77
156. Importation of Beef From a Region in Argentina (Completion of a
Section 610 Review)
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 amends the regulations governing the
importation of certain animals, meat, and other animal products to
allow, under certain conditions, the importation of fresh (chilled or
frozen) beef from a region in Argentina located north of Patagonia
South and Patagonia North B, referred to as Northern Argentina. Based
on the evidence in a recent risk analysis, we have determined that
fresh (chilled or frozen) beef can be safely imported from Northern
Argentina, subject to certain conditions. This action provides for the
importation of beef from Northern Argentina into the United States,
while continuing to protect the United States against the introduction
of foot-and-mouth disease.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 08/29/14 79 FR 51508
NPRM Comment Period End............. 10/28/14
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 10/31/14 79 FR 64687
NPRM Comment Period Reopened End.... 12/29/14
Final Rule.......................... 07/02/15 80 FR 37935
Final Rule Effective................ 09/01/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Silvia Kreindel, Senior Staff Veterinarian,
Regionalization Evaluation Services Staff, NIES, VS, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River
Road, Unit 38, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231, Phone: 301 851-3313.
RIN: 0579-AD92
BILLING CODE 3410-34-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
Proposed Rule Stage
157. Modernizing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Benefit Redemption Systems
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79
Abstract: The Agricultural Act of 2014 (Pub. L. 113-79, the Farm
Bill) amended the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 (the FNA) to include
new requirements regarding the acceptance and processing of SNAP client
benefits by all non-exempt retailers participating in SNAP. Statutory
changes will modernize EBT systems and ensure greater program
integrity. The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) also plans to revise
certain SNAP regulations for which multiple State agencies have sought
and received approval of waivers. The revisions will streamline program
administration, offer greater flexibility to State agencies, and
improve customer service.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 03/00/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Regulatory Review Specialist,
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email:
[email protected].
Lynnette M. Thomas, 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-AE37
158. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Electronic
Benefits Transfer Requirements for Scanning and Product-Lookup
Technology
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79
Abstract: This rule will align program regulations with changes
made by section 4002 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 (Pub. L. 113-79,
the Farm Bill), which introduces new technical requirements for point-
of-sale (POS) devices in the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system
in section 7(h)(2)(C) of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 (the FNA).
The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) will propose to revise existing
regulations both to codify these statutory requirements as well as to
provide for their effective implementation and enforcement through the
clarification of the technical specifications and capabilities required
of this equipment and by addressing methods for ensuring compliance. In
addition, the Department will define what constitutes an area that has
significantly limited access to food to determine who is exempt from
this requirement.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 05/00/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Regulatory Review Specialist,
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email:
[email protected].
Lynnette M. Thomas, 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-AE39
159. Food and Nutrition Service Regulatory Implementation of Office of
Management and Budget's Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost
Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards
Legal Authority: OMB Guidance, ``Uniform Administrative
Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal
Awards''
[[Page 77923]]
Abstract: This proposed regulation will implement the final
guidance Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and
Audit Requirements for Federal Awards published by the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) on December 26, 2013. USDA implementation
of the guidance will occur in December 2014 with the OMB joint interim
final rule. This Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) rule will update
references to the OMB final guidance throughout the FNS rules.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 11/00/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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. Thomas, 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-AE42
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
Final Rule Stage
160. National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs: Nutrition
Standards for all Foods Sold in School, as Required by the Healthy,
Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 6 in part II of this issue
of the Federal Register.
RIN: 0584-AE09
161. National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs: School Food
Service Account Revenue Amendments Related to the Healthy, Hunger-Free
Kids Act of 2010
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111-296
Abstract: This rule amends National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
regulations to conform to requirements contained in the Healthy,
Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 regarding equity in school lunch pricing
and revenue from non-program foods sold in schools. This rule requires
school food authorities (SFAs) participating in the NSLP to provide the
same level of financial support for lunches served to students who are
not eligible for free or reduced price lunches as is provided for
lunches served to students eligible for free lunches. This rule also
requires that all food sold in a school and purchased with funds from
the nonprofit school food service account other than meals and
supplements reimbursed by the Department of Agriculture must generate
revenue at least proportionate to the cost of such foods.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule.................. 06/17/11 76 FR 35301
Interim Final Rule Effective........ 07/01/11
Interim Final Rule Comment Period 09/15/11
End.
Final Action........................ 05/00/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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. Thomas, 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-AE11
162. 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. 7 in part II of this issue
of the Federal Register.
RIN: 0584-AE18
163. Child Nutrition Programs: Local School Wellness Policy
Implementation Under the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111-296
Abstract: This final rule codifies a provision of the Healthy,
Hunger-Free Kids Act (Pub. L. 111-296; the Act) under 7 CFR parts 210
and 220. Section 204 of the Act requires each local educational agency
(LEA) to establish, for all schools under its jurisdiction, a local
school wellness policy. The Act requires that the wellness policy
include goals for nutrition, nutrition education, physical activity,
and other school-based activities that promote student wellness. In
addition, the Act requires that local educational agencies ensure
stakeholder participation in development of their local school wellness
policies, and periodically assess compliance with the policies, and
disclose information about the policies to the public.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/26/14 79 FR 10693
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/28/14
Final Action........................ 03/00/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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. Thomas, 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-AE25
BILLING CODE 3410-30-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
Proposed Rule Stage
164. Elimination of Trichina Control Regulations and
Consolidation of Thermally Processed, Commercially Sterile Regulations
Legal Authority: Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA); Poultry
Products Inspection Act (PPIA)
Abstract: Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to
amend the Federal meat inspection regulations to eliminate the
requirements for both ready-to-eat (RTE) and not-ready-to-eat (NRTE)
pork and pork products to be treated to destroy trichina (Trichinella
spiralis) because the regulations are inconsistent with the Hazard
Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) regulations, and these
prescriptive regulations are no longer necessary. If this supplemental
proposed rule is finalized, FSIS will end its Trichinella Approved
Laboratory Program (TALP program) for the evaluation and approval of
non-Federal laboratories that use the pooled sample digestion
[[Page 77924]]
technique to analyze samples for the presence of trichina. FSIS is also
proposing to consolidate the regulations on thermally processed,
commercially sterile meat and poultry products (i.e., canned food
products containing meat or poultry).
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 03/00/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
.Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Assistant Administrator,
Office of Policy and Program Development, Department of Agriculture,
Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., 349-E
JWB, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 205-0495, Fax: 202 720-2025,
Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0583-AD59
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
Final Rule Stage
165. Mandatory Inspection of Fish of the Order Siluriformes and
Products Derived From Such Fish
Legal Authority: Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) (21 U.S.C. 601
to 695); Pub. L. 110-246, sec 11016; Pub. L. 113-79, sec 12106
Abstract: The 2008 Farm Bill (Pub. L. 110-246, sec. 11016), amended
the Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) to make ``catfish'' a species
amenable to the FMIA and, therefore, subject to Food Safety and
Inspection Service (FSIS) inspection. In addition, the 2008 Farm Bill
gave FSIS the authority to define the term ``catfish.'' On February 24,
2011, FSIS published a proposed rule that outlined a mandatory catfish
inspection program and presented two options for defining ``catfish.''
The 2014 Farm Bill (Pub. L. 113-79, sec. 12106), amended the FMIA to
remove the term ``catfish'' and to make ``all fish of the order
Siluriformes'' subject to FSIS jurisdiction and inspection. As a
result, FSIS inspection of Siluriformes is mandated by law and non-
discretionary.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/24/11 76 FR 10434
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/24/11
Final Action........................ 12/00/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Assistant Administrator,
Office of Policy and Program Development, Department of Agriculture,
Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., 349-E
JWB, Washington, DC 20250, 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)
Final Rule Stage
166. Ski Area--D Clauses: Resource and Improvement Protection, Water
Facilities, and Water Rights (Directive)
Legal Authority: FSH 2709.11
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 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. The Forest Service published 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 was considered in
the development of the final water rights clause for ski areas.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proposed Directive.................. 06/23/14 79 FR 35513
Proposed Directive Comment Period 08/22/14
End.
Final Directive..................... 03/00/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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)
Long-Term Actions
167. Management of Surface Activities Associated With Outstanding
Mineral Rights on National Forest System Lands (Directive)
Legal Authority: EPA 1992
Abstract: Close to 11,000,000 acres (approximately 6 percent) of
National Forest System (NFS) lands overlie severed (split) mineral
estates owned by a party other than the Federal Government. More than
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 U.S. Department of the Interior's 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.
[[Page 77925]]
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.
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................................ To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: LaRenda C. King, Phone: 202 205-6560, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0596-AD03
BILLING CODE 3410-11-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM)
Proposed Rule Stage
168. Designation of Biobased Product Categories for Federal
Procurement, Round 11
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79
Abstract: This proposed rule will designate, for preferred
procurement under the Federal Biobased Products Preferred Procurement
Program, approximately 10 intermediate ingredient or feedstock product
categories. An intermediate ingredient or feedstock is defined by the
BioPreferred Program as a material or compound made in whole or in
significant part from biological products. Typical intermediate
ingredient or feedstock product categories will include renewable
chemicals; plastic resins; chemical binders; oils, fats, and waxes; and
fibers and fabrics.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/00/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Ron Buckhalt, Manager, BioPreferred Program, Office
of Procurement and Property Management, Department of Agriculture,
Office of Procurement and Property Management, 361 Reporters Building,
300 7th Street SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 205-4008, Fax: 202
720-8972, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0599-AA24
169. Designation of Biobased Product Categories for Federal
Procurement, Round 12
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79
Abstract: This proposed rule will designate, for preferred
procurement under the Federal Biobased Products Preferred Procurement
Program, approximately eight complex assembly product categories. A
complex assembly is defined by the BioPreferred program as a system of
distinct materials and components assembled to create a finished
product with specific functional intent where some or all of the system
inputs contain some amount of biobased material or feedstock. Typical
complex assembly product categories will include products such as
upholstered office chairs and other office furniture; mattresses;
backpacks; boots; and other camping gear. The specific product
categories to be included in this rulemaking are under investigation by
the Office of Procurement and Property Management, but technical
information is expected to be available to support the designation of
about eight product categories.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 08/00/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Ron Buckhalt, Manager, BioPreferred Program, Office
of Procurement and Property Management, Department of Agriculture,
Office of Procurement and Property Management, 361 Reporters Building,
300 7th Street SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 205-4008, Fax: 202
720-8972, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0599-AA25
[FR Doc. 2015-31019 Filed 12-14-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-98-P