<DOC>
[April 30, 2007 (Volume 72, Number 82)]
[Unified Agenda]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [frwais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID: f:ua070404.wais]

[Page 22340-22429]
 
Department of Commerce


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

Part IV








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



Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 22340]]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                                           
  
_______________________________________________________________________

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Office of the Secretary

13 CFR Ch. III

15 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I, II, III, VII, VIII, IX, and XI

19 CFR Ch. III

37 CFR Chs. I, IV, and V

48 CFR Ch. 13

50 CFR Chs. II, III, IV, and VI

Spring 2007 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Commerce.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: In compliance with Executive Order 12866 entitled ``Regulatory 
Planning and Review'' and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, as amended, 
the Department of Commerce (Department), in the spring and fall of each 
year, publishes in the Federal Register an agenda of regulations under 
development or review over the next 12 months. Rulemaking actions are 
grouped according to prerulemaking, proposed rules, final rules, long-
term actions, and rulemaking actions completed since the fall 2006 
agenda. The purpose of the agenda is to provide information to the 
public on regulations currently under review, being proposed, or issued 
by the Department. The agenda is intended to facilitate comments and 
views by interested members of the public.

     The Department's spring 2007 regulatory agenda includes 
regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the 
period April 1, 2007 through March 31, 2008.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:   

    Specific: For additional information about specific regulatory 
actions listed in the agenda, contact the individual identified as 
the contact person.

    General: Comments or inquiries of a general nature about the 
agenda should be directed to Daniel Cohen, Chief Counsel for 
Regulation, Office of the Assistant General Counsel for Legislation 
and Regulation, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230; 
telephone: (202) 482-3151.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Executive Order 12866 requires agencies to 
publish an agenda of those regulations that are under consideration 
pursuant to this order. By memorandum of February 1, 2007, the Office 
of Management and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the 
preparation and publication of the spring 2007 Unified Agenda of 
Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions. The Regulatory Flexibility 
Act, 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., requires agencies to publish, in the spring 
and fall of each year, a regulatory flexibility agenda which contains a 
brief description of the subject area of any rule which is likely to 
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities. The agenda also identifies those entries that have been 
selected for periodic review under section 610 of the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act.

     Within the Department, the Office of the Secretary and various 
operating units may issue regulations. Operating units, such as the 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Bureau 
of Industry and Security, and the Patent and Trademark Office issue 
the greatest share of the Department's regulations.

     A large number of regulatory actions reported in the agenda 
deal with fishery management programs of NOAA's National Marine 
Fisheries Service (NMFS). To avoid repetition of programs and 
definitions, as well as to provide some understanding of the 
technical and institutional elements of the NMFS programs, a 
section on ``Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS 
Regulatory Entries'' is provided below.

Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries

     The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act 
(16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) (Act) governs the management of fisheries 
within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The EEZ refers to those 
waters from the outer edge of the State boundaries, generally 3 
nautical miles, to a distance of 200 nautical miles. Fishery 
Management Plans (FMPs) are to be prepared for fisheries, which 
require conservation and management measures. Regulations 
implementing these FMPs regulate domestic fishing and foreign 
fishing where permitted. Foreign fishing can be conducted in a 
fishery in which there is no FMP only if a preliminary fishery 
management plan has been issued to govern that foreign fishing. 
Under the Act, eight Regional Fishery Management Councils 
(Councils) prepare FMPs or amendments to FMPs for fisheries within 
their respective areas. In the development of such plans or 
amendments and their implementing regulations, the Councils are 
required by law to conduct public hearings on the draft plans and 
to consider the use of alternative means of regulating.

     The Council process for developing FMPs and amendments makes 
it difficult for NMFS to determine the significance and timing of 
some regulatory actions under consideration by the Councils at the 
time the semiannual regulatory agenda is published.

     The Department's spring 2007 regulatory agenda follows.

 John J. Sullivan,

General Counsel.

                                   Office of the Secretary--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
292         Civil Monetary Penalties; Adjustments.................................................    0690-AA35
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 22341]]


                                Bureau of Economic Analysis--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
293         Change in Reporting Requirements for BE-11, Annual Survey of U.S. Direct Investment       0691-AA63
            Abroad................................................................................
294         Change in Reporting Requirements for BE-12, Benchmark Survey of Foreign Direct            0691-AA64
            Investment in the United States--2007.................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Bureau of Economic Analysis--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
295         Benchmark Survey of Transactions Between U.S. and Foreign Persons in Selected Services    0691-AA60
            and Intangible Assets.................................................................
296         Quarterly Survey of Transactions in Selected Services and Intangible Assets With          0691-AA61
            Foreign Persons.......................................................................
297         Quarterly Survey of Financial Services Transactions Between U.S. Financial Services       0691-AA62
            Providers and Foreign Persons.........................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    Bureau of the Census--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
298         Procedure for Requesting Estimates Review and Update..................................    0607-AA46
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Bureau of the Census--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
299         Cutoff Dates for Recognition of Boundary Changes for Census 2000 and for the              0607-AA35
            Intercensal Period....................................................................
300         Mandatory Automated Export System (AES) Filing for Export Shipments Requiring             0607-AA38
            Shipper's Export Declaration Information..............................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Bureau of the Census--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
301         Establishment of the 2010 Census Redistricting Program................................    0607-AA42
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             Economic Development Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
302         Economic Development Administration Regulations.......................................    0610-AA63
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    General Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
303         Disclosure of Government Information..................................................    0605-AA19
304         Revision of Debt Collection Regulations...............................................    0605-AA24
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 22342]]


                                    General Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
305         Disclosure of Government Information; Responsibility for Responding to Freedom of         0605-AA22
            Information Act Requests..............................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    General Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
306         Nonprocurement Debarment and Suspension...............................................    0605-AA23
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             International Trade Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
307         Procedures for Conducting Five-Year (Sunset) Reviews of Antidumping and Countervailing    0625-AA51
            Duty Orders...........................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              International Trade Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
308         Proposed Amendment to Regulation Concerning Certification of Factual Information to       0625-AA66
            Import Administration During Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Proceedings..........
309         Changes in the Insular Possessions Watch, Watch Movement and Jewelry Programs.........    0625-AA72
310         Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Proceedings; Documents Submission Procedures; APO     0625-AA73
            Procedures............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              International Trade Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
311         Commercial Availability of Fabric and Yarn............................................    0625-AA59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              International Trade Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
312         Mexican Cement Import Licensing System................................................    0625-AA70
313         Procedures for Importation of Supplies for Use in Emergency Relief Work...............    0625-AA71
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Bureau of Industry and Security--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
314         Automated Export System and Shippers Export Declaration--Requirement to Show              0694-AD89
            Paragraphs in Export Control Classification Numbers...................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 22343]]


                              Bureau of Industry and Security--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
315         Additional Protocol Regulations.......................................................    0694-AD26
316         Conforming Changes to Certain End-User/End-Use Based Controls in the EAR;                 0694-AD59
            Clarification of the Term Transfer and Related Terms as Used in the EAR...............
317         Authorization to Impose License Requirements for Exports and Reexports to Entities        0694-AD82
            Acting Contrary to the United States' National Security or Foreign Policy Interests...
318         Mandatory Electronic Filing of Export and Reexport License Applications,                  0694-AD94
            Classification Requests, Encryption Review Requests and Notifications, and License
            Exception AGR Notifications...........................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Bureau of Industry and Security--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
319         License Exception AVS: Clarifications.................................................    0694-AC33
320         Administrative Action Providing for Order To Stop Specific Exports or Reexports           0694-AC47
            Otherwise Eligible Under Designation NLR..............................................
321         Chemical Weapons Convention Regulations: UDOC ``Change in Inspection Status Form''....    0694-AD53
322         Technical Amendments to the Export Administration Regulations.........................    0694-AD54
323         Revisions and Clarifications to the Export Administration Regulations.................    0694-AD55
324         Implementation of the Understandings Reached at the 2004 Goteborg and 2005 Oslo           0694-AD58
            Nuclear Supplier Group (NSG) Plenary Meetings.........................................
325         Voluntary Disclosure Provisions and Administrative Case Settlement Guidance Related to    0694-AD63
            Restrictive Trade Practices or Boycotts...............................................
326         Revisions to License Requirements for Certain Thermal Imaging Cameras Incorporating       0694-AD71
            Focal Plane Arrays....................................................................
327         Revisions to License Exceptions TMP and BAG: Expansion of Eligible Items..............    0694-AD72
328         Revisions and Clarification of Export and Reexport Controls for the People's Republic     0694-AD75
            of China (PRC); New Authorization Validated End-User; Revision of Import and End-User
            Certificate Requirement...............................................................
329         Revision to General Restriction on All License Exceptions: Availability of Certain        0694-AD80
            License Exceptions for Lightweight Aircraft Engines...................................
330         Revised Export License Application Review Policy and End Use Verification Policy to       0694-AD87
            Implement the July 2006 Recommendations of the Commission for Assistance to a Free
            Cuba..................................................................................
331         Expanded Licensing Jurisdiction for QRS11 Micromachined Angular Rate Sensor...........    0694-AD92
332         December 2006 Wassenaar Arrangement Plenary Agreement Implementation: CCL Cats. 1, 2,     0694-AD95
            3, 5 Pt. I, 6, 7, 8, and 9; Wassenaar Report Req'mts.; Definitions; and Statmts. of
            Understanding on Source Code..........................................................
333         Revisions to the Export Administration Regulations Based on the 2006 Missile              0694-AD96
            Technology Control Regime Plenary Agreements..........................................
334         Corrections to Rule that Implemented the New Formula for Calculating Computer             0694-AD98
            Performance: Adjusted Peak Performance (APP) in Weighted TeraFLOPS....................
335         Amendment to General Order No. 3: Addition of Certain Persons and Expansion of            0694-AD99
            Criteria for Placing Persons on the General Order.....................................
336         Revisions and Technical Correction to the Export Administration Regulations...........    0694-AE00
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Bureau of Industry and Security--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
337         Export Administration Regulations: Support Documentation Consolidation and                0694-AC04
            Reorganization........................................................................
338         Exports and Reexports to Sudan........................................................    0694-AC05
339         Expansion of License Exception GOV; Exports and Reexports to International                0694-AC15
            Organizations.........................................................................
340         De Minimis Expansion of Eligibility: U.S.-Origin Software Incorporated Into Foreign-      0694-AC17
            Made Commodities......................................................................
341         Revision to the Export Administration Regulations: Replacement Licenses...............    0694-AC23
342         Short Supply Controls: Crude Oil Exports..............................................    0694-AC25
343         Clarifications to Part 752: Special Comprehensive License Requirements................    0694-AC34
344         Chemical Weapons Convention: Revisions to the Export Administration Regulations.......    0694-AC35
345         Imposition of License Requirement for Exports and Reexports of Missile-Technology-(MT)    0694-AC48
            Controlled Items to Canada............................................................

[[Page 22344]]


346         Revisions of Aircraft Export Licensing Jurisdiction Based on Review of the U.S.           0694-AC74
            Munitions List........................................................................
347         Export and Reexport Controls on Iraq..................................................    0694-AC84
348         Clarification of ``Space-Qualified'' Parts, Components, and Technology Subject to the     0694-AD07
            Export Administration Regulations.....................................................
349         Export Administration Regulations: Removal of Country Groups..........................    0694-AD09
350         Implementation of the Wassenaar Arrangement Statement of Understanding on the Control     0694-AD10
            of Non-Listed Dual-Use Items..........................................................
351         License Exception GOV Exports and Reexports for Official IAEA International Inspection    0694-AD27
            and Verification Use in Accordance With the U.S.-IAEA Safeguards Agreement, as Amended
            by the Additional Protocol............................................................
352         Removal of License Exception GBS and TSR Eligibility for Certain Microwave Monolithic     0694-AD36
            Integrated Circuit Power Amplifiers and Related Software and Technology...............
353         Establishment of New License Exception for the Export or Reexport to Libya of Certain     0694-AD57
            Items Controlled for Anti-Terrorism Reasons on the Commerce Control List..............
354         Revisions to the DPAS Regulation and Associated Notices...............................    0694-AD69
355         Implementation in the Export Administration Regulations of the United States'             0694-AD81
            Rescission of Libya's Designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism and Revisions
            Applicable to Iraq....................................................................
356         Country Group C: Destinations of Diversion Concern....................................    0694-AD93
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Bureau of Industry and Security--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
357         Imposition of Foreign Policy Controls on Surreptitious Communications Intercepting        0694-AC82
            Devices...............................................................................
358         Revisions and Clarification of License Exception Availability, License Requirements       0694-AD47
            and Licensing Policy for Certain Crime Control Items..................................
359         Clarification of Licensing Requirements for Certain Photovoltaic Arrays and Related       0694-AD64
            Software and Technology...............................................................
360         Removal of License Exception ``Additional Permissive Reexports'' (APR) Eligibility for    0694-AD70
            Reexports of Commodities Controlled for National Security Reasons to Country Group D:1
            Destinations..........................................................................
361         Addition of ``Serbia'' and ``Montenegro'' as Separate Destinations in the Export          0694-AD85
            Administration Regulations............................................................
362         Implementation of the Understandings Reached at the June 2006 Australia Group (AG)        0694-AD86
            Plenary Meeting; Clarifications and Corrections.......................................
363         Technical Corrections to the Export Administration Regulations and to the Defense         0694-AD88
            Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS) Regulation...................................
364         Addition of Entities to the Entity List...............................................    0694-AD91
365         North Korea: Imposition of New Foreign Policy Controls................................    0694-AD97
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                         National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
366         Guidance on Limited Access Privilege Provisions in the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery           0648-AV48
            Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act of 2006...............................
367         Protective Regulations for Killer Whales in the Northwest Region Under the Endangered     0648-AV15
            Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act..........................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                      National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
368         Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries; Amendment 9.......................    0648-AP60
369         Regulatory Amendment To Adjust Permit Renewal Requirements and Transferability            0648-AQ20
            Restrictions in NWHI's Hoomalu Zone and Mau Limited Access Programs...................
370         Fisheries of the United States; National Standard 1...................................    0648-AQ63

[[Page 22345]]


371         Amendment 62 to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Gulf of Alaska and Amendment    0648-AR06
            62 to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Isles
            (Islands).............................................................................
372         Maximize Retention and Monitoring Program in the Shore-Based Pacific Whiting Fishery..    0648-AR63
373         Amendment 72 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska..    0648-AR72
374         Revisions to the Definitions of Exempted Fishing and Scientific Research..............    0648-AR78
375         Community Development Quota (CDQ) Transfers 2007......................................    0648-AS13
376         Amendment 14 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery.................    0648-AS22
377         Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Tilefish Fishery...................    0648-AS25
378         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Reducing Sea Turtle Takes....................    0648-AS49
379         Generic Amendment To Provide for Regulations of Offshore Aquaculture of Selected Fish.    0648-AS65
380         Establish Management Measures for the Western Pacific Squid Fishery...................    0648-AS71
381         Fisheries off West Coast States and in the Western Pacific; West Coast Salmon             0648-AS96
            Fisheries; Amendment 14; Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Descriptions for Pacific Salmon.
382         Transfer of Management Authority for the Atlantic Coast Red Drum Resource From the        0648-AT13
            South Atlantic Fishery Management Council to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries
            Commission............................................................................
383         West Coast Highly Migratory Species, Correcting Amendment.............................    0648-AT32
384         Management Measures for Pacific Bigeye Tuna...........................................    0648-AT55
385         Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan..    0648-AT58
386         Framework Adjustment 1 to the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery Management       0648-AT62
            Plan..................................................................................
387         Amendment 68; Central Gulf of Alaska Rockfish Pilot Program...........................    0648-AT71
388         Interagency Electronic Reporting System (IERS)........................................    0648-AT91
389         Western Pacific Precious Corals Fishery Management Plan (FMP): Amendment To Manage        0648-AT93
            Hawaii Black Coral Fishery............................................................
390         Amendment 84-A to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian       0648-AU03
            Islands Management Area Implementing Salmon Bycatch Measures..........................
391         American Lobster Fishery: Egg Production Measures as Approved in Addenda II Through       0648-AU07
            VII to Amendment 3 of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's Interstate
            Fishery Management Plan...............................................................
392         Expansion of the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Vessel Monitoring System to the Open    0648-AU08
            Access Fishery........................................................................
393         Subsistence Halibut Program Amendments................................................    0648-AU14
394         Regulatory Amendment To Revise Certain Species Codes in Table 2a and Table 2d.........    0648-AU20
395         Amendment 14 to the Bottomfish and Seamount Groundfish FMP: Measures to End Bottomfish    0648-AU22
            Overfishing in the Hawaiian Archipelago...............................................
396         Authorize an Exempted Fishing Permit Under the Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Fishery     0648-AU25
            Management Plan (FMP).................................................................
397         Amendment 12 to the Coastal Pelagic Species (CPS) Fishery Management Plan (FMP).......    0648-AU26
398         Amendment 14 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the        0648-AU28
            South Atlantic Region.................................................................
399         Amendment 15 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the        0648-AU29
            South Atlantic Region.................................................................
400         Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan......................    0648-AU32
401         Framework 4 to the Fishery Management Plan for Monkfish...............................    0648-AU34
402         Reconciliation of State and Federal Commercial Fishing Vessel Permit Programs.........    0648-AU51
403         Framework Adjustment to the Bycatch Reduction Criterion for the Fishery Management        0648-AU59
            Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico.....................................
404         Approval of Operations Plan for the Georges Bank Fixed Gear Sector for 2007-2008......    0648-AU61
405         Approval of Operations Plan for the Georges Bank Hook Sector for 2007-2008............    0648-AU62
406         Establishment of Quotas for the 2007-2008 Cod, Haddock, and Yellowtail Flounder           0648-AU63
            Fishery...............................................................................
407         Amendment 80 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and          0648-AU68
            Aleutian Islands......................................................................
408         Amendment 15 to the Pacific Coast Salmon Fishery Management Plan......................    0648-AU69
409         2007-2008 Management Measures for Commercial, Recreational, and Treaty Indian Salmon      0648-AU70
            Fisheries Off the Coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California........................
410         Geographic Reorganization of Western Pacific Regulations..............................    0648-AU71
411         Amend Vessel Marking Section 660.704 of the U.S. West Coast Highly Migratory Species      0648-AU73
            Fishery Management Plan...............................................................
412         Effort Limitation for United States Commercial Fishing Vessels Targeting North Pacific    0648-AU74
            Albacore Tuna.........................................................................
413         Bag Limits for Tuna Species Taken in the Recreational Charter Fishery for the United      0648-AU77
            States West Coast Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species..............................
414         Individual Fishing Quota Processing Restriction Amendments............................    0648-AU85
415         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); 2007 Bluefin Tuna Quota Specifications and       0648-AU87
            Effort Controls.......................................................................
416         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; International Trade Permit Regulatory Amendment....    0648-AU88
417         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Shark Management Measures.................    0648-AU89

[[Page 22346]]


418         Protective Regulations for Threatened Elkhorn and Staghorn Corals.....................    0648-AU92
419         Vessel Monitoring System Revision for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) and Gulf     0648-AU93
            of Alaska (GOA) Fisheries.............................................................
420         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Essential Fish Habitat.......................    0648-AV00
421         Revise Economic Data Reports (EDR) Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off           0648-AV06
            Alaska; Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King and Tanner Crab Fishery Resources........
422         Standardize Permit Applications for the Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off      0648-AV08
            Alaska; Bering Sea, Aleutian Islands, and Gulf of Alaska..............................
423         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; North and South Atlantic Swordfish Commercial          0648-AV10
            Management Measures...................................................................
424         Annual Specifications for 2007 Pacific Sardine Fishery................................    0648-AV11
425         High Seas Fishing Compliance Act (HSFCA); Amendment of Regulations....................    0648-AV12
426         Regulatory Amendment to Revise Electronic Reporting Software and Hardware Requirements    0648-AV13
            for the Observer Communications System (OCS)..........................................
427         Revision to Allowable Bycatch Reduction Devices for the Gulf of Mexico Shrimp Fishery.    0648-AV14
428         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Sawfish Dehooking and Sea Turtle Handling        0648-AV16
            Gear..................................................................................
429         Amendment 18 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Coastal Migratory Pelagic             0648-AV17
            Resources.............................................................................
430         Amendment 25 to the Fishery Management Plan in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands        0648-AV19
            King and Tanner Crab Fisheries off Alaska.............................................
431         Georges Bank Cod Hook Sector Operations Plan and Agreement and Allocation of Georges      0648-AV20
            Bank Cod Total Allowable Catch........................................................
432         Framework Adjustment 7 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery           0648-AV21
            Management Plan.......................................................................
433         2007 Georges Bank Cod Fixed Gear Sector Operations Plan and TAC allocation............    0648-AV22
434         Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for U.S. West Coast Fisheries for Highly       0648-AV24
            Migratory Species.....................................................................
435         Fishery Ecosystem Plans for the Western Pacific Region................................    0648-AV27
436         Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Bottomfish and Seamount Groundfish Fisheries; FMP       0648-AV28
            Amendment 10--Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Large Vessel
            Bottomfish Management.................................................................
437         Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Western Pacific Crustacean Fisheries; FMP Amendment     0648-AV29
            13--Deepwater Shrimp..................................................................
438         Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Precious Corals Fisheries; FMP Amendment 8--Gold and    0648-AV30
            Black Coral Management................................................................
439         South Atlantic Fishery Ecosystem Plan Comprehensive Amendment.........................    0648-AV31
440         Modification Maximum Retainable Amounts (MRAs) for Selected Groundfish Species Caught     0648-AV32
            by the Non-American Fishing Act Trawl Catcher/Processors Sector.......................
441         Community Development Quota Regulation of Harvest.....................................    0648-AV33
442         Reef Fish Amendment 30 for Gag, Red Grouper, Greater Amberjack, and Gray Triggerfish:     0648-AV34
            Measures To End Overfishing and Establish SFA Parameters..............................
443         Alaska Groundfish Fisheries Seabird Avoidance Measures................................    0648-AV38
444         Amendment 13 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan; Industry-Funded         0648-AV39
            Observer Program......................................................................
445         Specifications for the 2008 Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries........    0648-AV40
446         Specifications for the 2008 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Seabass Fisheries........    0648-AV41
447         Specifications for the 2008-2010 Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries..................    0648-AV42
448         Amendment 7 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Seabass Fishery Management Plan...    0648-AV43
449         Amendment 4 to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's (Commission)             0648-AV44
            Interstate Fisheries Management Plan (ISFMP) for Weakfish.............................
450         Reef Fish Regulatory Amendment for Vermilion Snapper to Revise Management Measures....    0648-AV45
451         Catch Accounting Requirements for Processors/First Receivers Participating in the         0648-AV46
            Pacific Whiting Shoreside Fishery.....................................................
452         Recreational Charter Halibut Fishery Management Measures..............................    0648-AV47
453         Amendment 15 to the Pacific Coast Salmon FMP--De Minimis Fishing Opportunity for          0648-AV07
            Klamath River Fall Run Chinook Salmon.................................................
454         Taking and Importing Marine Mammals: Taking Marine Mammals Incidental To Conducting       0648-AQ71
            Oil and Gas Exploration Activities in the Gulf of Mexico..............................
455         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental To Assessing     0648-AT77
            Naval Ship Survivability..............................................................
456         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental To Deployment    0648-AT78
            of a Naval At-Sea Gunnery Scoring System..............................................
457         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental To Testing       0648-AT80
            and Training of the Navy's Surveillance Towed Array Sensor System--Low Frequency
            Active Sonar..........................................................................
458         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Naval         0648-AT81
            Training Operations at the East Coast Shallow Water Training Range....................

[[Page 22347]]


459         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to U.S. Air      0648-AT82
            Force Air-to-Surface Gunnery Exercises in the Northern Gulf of Mexico.................
460         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Naval         0648-AT83
            Explosives Ordnance Testing and Training Exercises in the Northern Gulf of Mexico.....
461         Spinner Dolphins in the Main Hawaiian Islands.........................................    0648-AU02
462         Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Naval Surf-      0648-AU53
            Zone Explosive Ordnance Disposal School Training Operations at Eglin Air Force Base,
            Florida...............................................................................
463         Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Construction of the Knik Arm Bridge, Anchorage,       0648-AU96
            Alaska................................................................................
464         Sea Turtle Conservation; Virginia Modified Pound Net Leader Inspection Program........    0648-AU98
465         Potential Revisions to the Turtle Excluder Device Requirements........................    0648-AV04
466         Endangered and Threatened Species; Designation of Critical Habitat for Elkhorn and        0648-AV35
            Staghorn Corals.......................................................................
467         Amendments to Regulations for Tuna Purse Seine Vessels and Fishing Operations in the      0648-AV37
            Eastern Tropical Pacific Ocean........................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                        National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
468         Require Mandatory Observer Coverage in the At-Sea Processing Sector of the Whiting        0648-AK26
            Fishery...............................................................................
469         Amendment 1 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan...........................    0648-AQ87
470         Regulatory Amendment to Establish Measures Authorizing the Optional Use of Electronic     0648-AS29
            Logbook Forms in the Western Pacific Fisheries........................................
471         Amendment to Regulations Implementing the Antarctic Marine Living Resources Convention    0648-AS75
            Act of 1984...........................................................................
472         Amendment 67 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska..    0648-AS84
473         Fisheries Off West Coast States; Highly Migratory Species Fisheries...................    0648-AS89
474         Joint Amendment to the Fishery Management Plans for the Shrimp (Amendment 14) and Reef    0648-AT87
            Fish Fisheries (Amendment 27) of the Gulf of Mexico...................................
475         Resource Agency Procedures for Conditions and Prescriptions in Hydropower Licenses....    0648-AU01
476         Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements;    0648-AU05
            Regulatory Amendment to Modify Seafood Dealer Reporting Requirements; Correction......
477         Observer Health and Safety............................................................    0648-AU46
478         Amendment 85 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish of the Bering Sea and      0648-AU48
            Aleutian Islands (BSAI) Management Area; Pacific Cod Allocations......................
479         Extend the North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program Beyond 2007......................    0648-AU58
480         Recreational Specifications for the 2007 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Seabass         0648-AU60
            Fisheries.............................................................................
481         Reporting and Conservation Measures For Sea Otter Interactions With the Pacific           0648-AU72
            Sardine Fishery.......................................................................
482         Vessel List to Establish Eligibility to Fish for Albacore Tuna in Canadian Waters         0648-AU78
            Under the U.S. Canada Albacore Tuna Treaty............................................
483         Restrictions for 2007 Purse Seine and Longline Fisheries in the Eastern Tropical          0648-AU79
            Pacific Ocean.........................................................................
484         Atlantic Hagfish Collection of Information Requirements...............................    0648-AU80
485         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Swordfish Commercial Management Measures...........    0648-AU86
486         Reduce Overfishing of Atlantic Sea Scallops in the 2007 Fishing Year by Modifying the     0648-AV05
            Elephant Trunk Access Area Management Measures........................................
487         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Atlantic Shark Commercial Season Lengths.....    0648-AV09
488         Illegal, Unreported, or Unregulated Fishing Definition................................    0648-AV23
489         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Temporary Suspension of Requirement To Use       0648-AV25
            Circle Hooks in Atlantic Billfish Tournaments.........................................
490         Provide Regulations for Permits for Capture, Transport, Import, and Export of             0648-AH26
            Protected Species for Public Display, and for Maintaining a Captive Marine Mammal
            Inventory.............................................................................
491         Taking of the Cook Inlet, Alaska, Stock of Beluga Whales by Alaska Natives............    0648-AO16
492         Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Navy Operations...................................    0648-AR99
493         Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations; Atlantic Large      0648-AS01
            Whale Take Reduction Plan Regulations.................................................
494         Right Whale Ship Strike Reduction.....................................................    0648-AS36
495         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental To the           0648-AT79
            Explosive Removal of Offshore Structures in the Gulf of Mexico........................

[[Page 22348]]


496         12-month Finding on Petition To List Puget Sound Steelhead as an Endangered or            0648-AU43
            Threatened Species Under the ESA......................................................
497         Authorize Observer Coverage of Fisheries To Monitor Sea Turtle Interactions...........    0648-AU81
498         Rule Amending Gillnet Management Measures for Right Whale Protection in the Southeast     0648-AU90
            U.S. Restricted Area..................................................................
499         Puget Sound Steelhead Proposed Protective Regulations.................................    0648-AV18
500         Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary Management Plan Review...............    0648-AT14
501         Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Management Plan Review.........................    0648-AT15
502         Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary Management Plan Review......................    0648-AT17
503         Consideration of Marine Reserves and Marine Conservation Areas Within the Channel         0648-AT18
            Islands National Marine Sanctuary.....................................................
504         Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary Management Plan Review.........................    0648-AT16
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
505         American Lobster Fishery; Fishing Effort Control Measures To Complement Interstate        0648-AT31
            Lobster Management Recommendations by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.
506         Amendment 15 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan.    0648-AU36
507         Procedural Changes to the Federal Consistency Process.................................    0648-AP98
508         Coastal Zone Management Act Federal Consistency Regulations...........................    0648-AR16
509         Regional Marine Research Program......................................................    0648-AF20
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
510         Measures to Prevent or Mitigate and Conserve, Manage, and Allow Full Utilization of       0648-AN76
            Sharks................................................................................
511         Implementation of the Regulatory Changes Resulting from the Amendments and Extension      0648-AP61
            of the South Pacific Tuna Act.........................................................
512         Individual Fishing Quota for Guided Recreational Charter Halibut Fishery..............    0648-AR96
513         Fish and Seafood Promotion Act Provisions; Seafood Marketing Councils.................    0648-AS09
514         Amendment 26 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of    0648-AS67
            Mexico To Establish a Red Snapper Individual Fishing Quota Program....................
515         Individual Fishing Quota Program; Restructure Date-Specific Quota Share Regulations...    0648-AS77
516         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Atlantic Shark Commercial Management Measures    0648-AT37
517         Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Provisions; Fisheries of the     0648-AT48
            Northeastern U.S.; Fishery Closure Due to the Presence of the Toxin That Causes
            Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning.........................................................
518         Omnibus Amendments To Fishery Management Plans To Address Essential Fish Habitat......    0648-AT57
519         Specifications for the 2007 Fishing Year for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea     0648-AT60
            Bass Fisheries........................................................................
520         Specifications for the 2007 Fishing Year for the Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery....    0648-AT61
521         Specifications for the 2007 Fishing Year for the Tilefish Fishery.....................    0648-AT63
522         Specifications for the 2007 Fishing Year for the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and            0648-AT65
            Butterfish Fisheries..................................................................
523         Specifications for the 2007 Fishing Year for the Atlantic Herring Fishery.............    0648-AT66
524         Specifications for the 2007 Fishing Year for the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery............    0648-AT67
525         2006 Scallop Research Set-Aside Request for Proposals.................................    0648-AT68
526         Western Pacific Bottomfish FMP: Amendment 9 To Limit Large Vessel Fishing Effort          0648-AT94
            Around Guam...........................................................................
527         Western Pacific Omnibus: Bottomfish Amendment 8, Amendment 12 Crustaceans, and            0648-AT95
            Amendment 6 Precious Corals...........................................................
528         Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic; Gulf of Mexico            0648-AU04
            Recreational Grouper Fishery Management Measures......................................
529         Amendment 18 (Bycatch Minimization) to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management    0648-AU12
            Plan..................................................................................
530         Announcement of the Optimum Yield and Harvest Quotas for Pacific Mackerel.............    0648-AU27
531         Modification to the ``Other Species'' Complex 2006 and 2007 Total Allowable Catch         0648-AU52
            (TAC) Amounts in the Gulf of Alaska (GOA).............................................

[[Page 22349]]


532         Correct and Clarify 2005 Atlantic Mackerel, Squid and Butterfish Fishery                  0648-AU54
            Specifications........................................................................
533         Amendment to Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan; Georges Bank Fixed Gear      0648-AU56
            Sector Operations Plan................................................................
534         Amendment 16-4 (Overfished Species Rebuilding) to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery    0648-AU57
            Management Plan and the 2007-2008 Groundfish Harvest Specifications and Management
            Measures..............................................................................
535         Solicitation of Proposals for Research Set-Aside Quota for Mid-Atlantic Fisheries for     0648-AU64
            2008..................................................................................
536         Fishery Specifications for the 2007 Monkfish Fishery..................................    0648-AU65
537         Solicitation of Proposals for Research Set-Aside Quota for Monkfish for 2008..........    0648-AU66
538         Solicitation of Proposals for Research Set-Aside Quota for Atlantic Sea Scallop for       0648-AU67
            2008..................................................................................
539         Amend Regulations Pertaining to Protected Resource Closures in the United States West     0648-AU75
            Coast Swordfish/Thresher Shark Drift Gillnet Fishery..................................
540         Regulations for the Development of Biological Reference Points for the United States      0648-AU76
            West Coast Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species.....................................
541         Amendment to Net Mesh Size Measurement Regulations....................................    0648-AU83
542         Atlantic Shark Seasons and Quotas for First Trimester 2007............................    0648-AU84
543         Change in Process for Renewing and Replacing Highly Migratory Species Vessel Owner        0648-AU91
            Permits...............................................................................
544         Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Establish a Control    0648-AU94
            Date..................................................................................
545         Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Removal of Delayed Effectiveness When Closing Hawaii    0648-AU99
            Shallow-Set Longline Fishery..........................................................
546         Establish a Revised Control Date for the Commercial King Mackerel Fishery in the South    0648-AV02
            Atlantic Exclusive Economic Zone......................................................
547         Pacific Halibut Fisheries; Catch Sharing Plan.........................................    0648-AV03
548         Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Western Pacific Precious Corals Fisheries; Establish    0648-AV26
            a Control Date for the Black Coral Fishery in the Au'au Channel, Hawaii...............
549         Preventing Harassment From Human Activities Directed at Marine Mammals in the Wild....    0648-AN43
550         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to U.S. Air      0648-AT39
            Force Precision Strike Weapons Exercises in the Northern Gulf of Mexico...............
551         List of Fisheries for 2006............................................................    0648-AU19
552         Designation of Critical Habitat for the Southern Resident Killer Whale (Orcinus orca).    0648-AU38
553         ESA Emergency Rule Closing Right Whale Core Calving Area to Gillnet Fishing...........    0648-AU95
554         Emergency Rule To Correct the Configuration of Chain Mats Required in the Mid-Atlantic    0648-AU97
            Sea Scallop Dredge Fishery............................................................
555         List of Fisheries for 2007............................................................    0648-AV01
556         Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary.................................................    0648-AQ41
557         Certification Requirements for NOAA Electronic Navigational Chart Distribution........    0648-AR87
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                  National Telecommunications and Information Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
558         Implement and Administer a Coupon Program for Digital-to-Analog Converter Boxes.......    0660-AA16
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Patent and Trademark Office--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
559         The Duty of Candor and Inequitable Conduct in Prosecution of Patent Applications......    0651-AC04
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Patent and Trademark Office--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
560         Changes to Representation of Others Before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.......    0651-AB55

[[Page 22350]]


561         Amendment of Trademark Rules of Practice..............................................    0651-AB89
562         Examination of Patent Applications That Include Claims Containing Markush or Other        0651-AC00
            Alternative Language..................................................................
563         Changes in the Requirements for Filing Requests for Reconsideration of Final Office       0651-AC05
            Actions in Trademark Cases............................................................
564         Revision of Patent and Trademark Fees for Fiscal Year 2008............................    0651-AC07
565         Changes to Rules of Practice Before the Board of Appeals and Interferences in Ex Parte    0651-AC12
            Appeals...............................................................................
566         Changes to Rules of Practice Before the Board of Appeals and Interferences in Inter       0651-AC13
            Partes Appeals........................................................................
567         Changes to Rules of Practice Before the Board of Appeals and Interferences in             0651-AC14
            Interferences.........................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Patent and Trademark Office--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
568         Changes in Trademark Rules of Practice in Inter Partes Proceedings Before the             0651-AB56
            Trademark Trial and Appeal Board......................................................
569         Revisions and Technical Corrections Affecting Requirements for Ex Parte and Inter         0651-AB77
            Partes Reexamination..................................................................
570         Revision of Patent Fees for Fiscal Year 2007..........................................    0651-AB81
571         Correspondence With the United States Patent and Trademark Office, Office of the          0651-AC08
            General Counsel.......................................................................
572         Revision of Patent Cooperation Treaty Procedures......................................    0651-AC09
573         International Trademark Classification Changes........................................    0651-AC10
574         Correspondence with the Madrid Processing Unit of the United States Patent and            0651-AC11
            Trademark Office......................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Patent and Trademark Office--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
575         Acceptance, Processing, Use and Dissemination of Chemical and Three-Dimensional           0651-AB91
            Biological Structural Data in Electronic Format.......................................
576         Changes to Practice for Continuing Applications, Requests for Continued Examination       0651-AB93
            Practice, and Applications Containing Patentably Indistinct Claims....................
577         Changes to Practice for the Examination of Claims in Patent Applications..............    0651-AB94
578         Changes to Information Disclosure Statement Requirements and Other Related Matters....    0651-AB95
579         Pre-Brief Appeal Conference for Patent Applications Under Appeal to the Board of          0651-AB96
            Patent Appeals and Interferences......................................................
580         Changes to Examination Practice for Means- (or Step-) Plus-Function Claim Elements in     0651-AB97
            Patent Applications...................................................................
581         Interim Guidelines for Examination of Patent Applications for Patent Subject Matter       0651-AB98
            Eligibility...........................................................................
582         Revision to the Time for Required Filing of a Biological Deposit and to the Date of       0651-AB99
            Availability of the Biological Deposit................................................
583         Changes to Implement Preexamination Search Reports....................................    0651-AC03
584         Revisions to the Procedures for Deferral of Examination of an Application for Patent..    0651-AC06
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Patent and Trademark Office--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
585         Changes to Implement Priority Application Exchange Between Intellectual Property          0651-AB75
            Offices...............................................................................
586         Amendment of Rules for Filing Intent to Use Documents in Section 1(b) Applications....    0651-AB90
587         Changes To Facilitate Electronic Filing of Patent Correspondence......................    0651-AB92
588         Changes to Eliminate the Disclosure Document Program..................................    0651-AC01
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 22351]]

_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions
Office of the Secretary (OS)
_______________________________________________________________________

292. [bull] CIVIL MONETARY PENALTIES; ADJUSTMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 109-177

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 6.4(a)(4); 15 CFR 6.4(a)(5)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule is being issued to adjust civil monetary 
penalties (CMPs) provided by law within the jurisdiction of the 
Department of Commerce (the Department). Recent changes to the 
International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), as amended by the 
USA PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005 (Patriot Act), 
Public Law 109-177, increased the penalties for two violations. The 
intent of this rule is to make the Department's regulations consistent 
with those changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/09/07                      72 FR 900
Final Action Effective          01/09/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Peter Robbins, Attorney Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Office of the Secretary, Office of the General Counsel, 15th 
& Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3151
Fax: 202 482-0512
Email: probbins@doc.gov

RIN: 0690-AA35
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage
Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)
_______________________________________________________________________

293. [bull] CHANGE IN REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR BE-11, ANNUAL SURVEY OF 
U.S. DIRECT INVESTMENT ABROAD

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 806.14

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend existing rule 15 CFR 806.14 to change 
the reporting requirements for the BE-11, Annual Survey of U.S. Direct 
Investment Abroad, to require U.S. Reporters and foreign affiliates 
that are banks to be reported.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/07
Final Action                    01/00/08
Final Action Effective          02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Chief, International Investment 
Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 606-9890
Fax: 202 606-5318
Email: obie.whichard@bea.gov

RIN: 0691-AA63
_______________________________________________________________________

294. [bull] CHANGE IN REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR BE-12, BENCHMARK SURVEY 
OF FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT IN THE UNITED STATES--2007

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 806.17

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend existing rule 15 CFR 806.17 to provide 
for the conduct of the BE-12, Benchmark Survey of Foreign Direct 
Investment in the United States--2007, as required by the International 
Investment and Trade in Services Survey Act, 22 USC 3101 to 3108 (see 
especially section 4(b) of the Act). The existing rule covers a similar 
survey for 2002, which has been completed and which the new survey will 
update.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/07
Final Action                    01/00/08
Final Action Effective          02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Chief, International Investment 
Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 606-9890
Fax: 202 606-5318
Email: obie.whichard@bea.gov

RIN: 0691-AA64
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions
Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)
_______________________________________________________________________

295. BENCHMARK SURVEY OF TRANSACTIONS BETWEEN U.S. AND FOREIGN PERSONS 
IN SELECTED SERVICES AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 801.10

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend 15 CFR 801.9 to provide for the 
conduct of the Benchmark Survey of Transactions in Selected Services 
and Intangible Assets With Foreign Persons (the BE-120). The existing 
regulations implement a similar but more limited survey (the BE-20), 
which the new survey would replace. In particular, the new survey would 
collect information on services transactions with affiliated as well as 
unaffiliated foreign parties, whereas the coverage of the existing

[[Page 22352]]

survey is limited to transactions with unaffiliated foreigners.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/15/06                    71 FR 54448
NPRM Comment Period End         11/14/06
Final Action                    12/15/06                    71 FR 75417
Final Action Effective          01/16/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Chief, International Investment 
Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 606-9890
Fax: 202 606-5318
Email: obie.whichard@bea.gov

RIN: 0691-AA60
_______________________________________________________________________

296. QUARTERLY SURVEY OF TRANSACTIONS IN SELECTED SERVICES AND 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS WITH FOREIGN PERSONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 801.9

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend 15 CFR 801.9 to provide for the 
conduct of the Quarterly Survey of Transactions in Selected Services 
and Intangible Assets With Foreign Persons (the BE-125). The existing 
regulations implement a similar but more limited survey (the BE-25), 
which the new survey will replace. In particular, the new survey would 
collect information on services transactions with affiliated as well as 
unaffiliated foreign parties, whereas the coverage of the existing 
survey is limited to transactions with unaffiliated foreigners. In 
addition, the new survey would provide for quarterly collection of data 
on some services transactions that previously had been collected 
annually.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/20/06                    71 FR 67086
NPRM Comment Period End         01/19/07
Final Action                    02/05/07                     72 FR 5169
Final Action Effective          03/07/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Chief, International Investment 
Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 606-9890
Fax: 202 606-5318
Email: obie.whichard@bea.gov

RIN: 0691-AA61
_______________________________________________________________________

297. QUARTERLY SURVEY OF FINANCIAL SERVICES TRANSACTIONS BETWEEN U.S. 
FINANCIAL SERVICES PROVIDERS AND FOREIGN PERSONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 801.9

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend 15 CFR 801.9 to provide for the 
conduct of the Quarterly Survey of Financial Services Transactions 
Between U.S. Financial Services Providers and Foreign Persons (the BE-
185). The existing regulations implement a similar but more limited 
survey (the BE-85), which the new survey would replace. In particular, 
the new survey would collect information on services transactions with 
affiliated as well as unaffiliated foreign parties, whereas the 
coverage of the existing survey is limited to transactions with 
unaffiliated foreigners.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/16/06                    71 FR 66706
NPRM Comment Period End         01/16/07
Final Action                    02/05/07                     72 FR 5167
Final Action Effective          03/07/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Chief, International Investment 
Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 606-9890
Fax: 202 606-5318
Email: obie.whichard@bea.gov

RIN: 0691-AA62
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage
Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)
_______________________________________________________________________

298. [bull] PROCEDURE FOR REQUESTING ESTIMATES REVIEW AND UPDATE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 13 USC 4; 13 USC 181

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 90

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Census Bureau is proposing to amend title 15, section 
90.1-90.20, of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) to update the 
program name from Procedure for Challenging of Certain Population and 
Income Estimates to Procedures for Requesting Estimates Review and 
Update. In addition, references to the method by which population 
estimates are officially released will be updated to reflect widespread 
use of the Internet for disseminating official demographic data. 
Finally, references to per capita income will be eliminated from the 
document.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

[[Page 22353]]

Agency Contact: Victoria A Velkoff, Assistant Division Chief for 
Population Estimates and Projections, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
the Census, Population Division, Room 5H185, Mailstop 8800, Washington, 
DC 20233
Phone: 301 763-7070
TDD Phone: 301-763-2182
Fax: 301 763-2516
Email: victoria.a.velkoff@census.gov

RIN: 0607-AA46
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage
Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)
_______________________________________________________________________

299. CUTOFF DATES FOR RECOGNITION OF BOUNDARY CHANGES FOR CENSUS 2000 
AND FOR THE INTERCENSAL PERIOD

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 553(b)(3)(A); 5 USC 604(a); 44 USC 35

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 70

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of the Census (Census Bureau) is establishing 
cutoff dates for recognition of boundary changes to geographic entities 
for which the Census Bureau reports data in various surveys, estimates, 
censuses, programs, compilations, and publications throughout the 
period between decennial censuses (years 2001 through 2009).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/25/02                     67 FR 3631
NPRM Comment Period End         02/25/02
Final Action                    12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Robert La Macchia, Chief, Geography Division, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Washington Plaza, Room 
651, 4700 Silver Hill Road, Washington, DC 20233
Phone: 301 763-1022

RIN: 0607-AA35
_______________________________________________________________________

300. MANDATORY AUTOMATED EXPORT SYSTEM (AES) FILING FOR EXPORT SHIPMENTS 
REQUIRING SHIPPER'S EXPORT DECLARATION INFORMATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 107-228, sec 1404

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 30

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of the Census is amending the Foreign Trade 
Statistics Regulations to require mandatory filing through the 
Automated Export System (AES) of all export information for shipments 
where filing of a Shipper's Export Declaration was formerly required. 
The AES is an electronic method by which export information is 
transmitted. This amendment will specify the provisions and filing 
responsibilities of parties exporting commodities from the United 
States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           10/22/03                    68 FR 60301
ANPRM Comment Period End        11/21/03
NPRM                            02/17/05                     70 FR 8200
NPRM Comment Period End         04/18/05
Final Action                    12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Stephanie Dunlap, Regulations, Outreach, & Education 
Branch, Foreign Trade Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of the 
Census, 4700 Silver Hill Road, FB-3, Washington, DC 20233
Phone: 301 763-2238
Fax: 301 457-3765
Email: stephanie.b.dunlap@census.gov

Related RIN: Related to 0607-AA29, Related to 0607-AA31, Related to 
0607-AA30
RIN: 0607-AA38
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions
Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)
_______________________________________________________________________

301. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE 2010 CENSUS REDISTRICTING PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: None

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          05/13/04                    69 FR 26547
Notice                          02/15/05                     70 FR 7713
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Catherine C. McCully
Phone: 301 763-4039

RIN: 0607-AA42

[[Page 22354]]

_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions
Economic Development Administration (EDA)
_______________________________________________________________________

302. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 3121 et seq; 19 USC 2341 et seq; 42 USC 6701; 
42 USC 5184; 42 USC 5121 et seq; 42 USC 3123; 42 USC 6709; 42 USC 6101 
et seq; 29 USC 794; 42 USC 2000d-1

CFR Citation: 13 CFR 300 to 315

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Economic Development Administration will be considering 
and modifying its regulations to reflect the requirements of its 
reauthorizing legislation passed in 2004. The revisions will implement 
the changes made to the Public Works and Economic Development Act 
(PWEDA), as amended, by the reauthorizing legislation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/11/05                    70 FR 47002
Interim Final Rule Effective    10/01/05
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/14/05
Second Interim Final Rule       12/15/05                    70 FR 74193
Second Interim Final Rule 
Effective                       12/15/05
Final Action                    09/27/06                    71 FR 56658

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal

URL For More Information:
www.eda.gov

Agency Contact: Otto B. Bird, Chief Counsel, Department of Commerce, 
Economic Development Administration, Office of the Chief Counsel, 1401 
Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4687
Fax: 202 482-5671
Email: bbird@eda.doc.gov

RIN: 0610-AA63
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage
General Administration (ADMIN)
_______________________________________________________________________

303. DISCLOSURE OF GOVERNMENT INFORMATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 552; 5 USC 552a; 5 USC 301; 5 USC 553; 31 USC 
3717; 44 USC 3101

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 4

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Department of Commerce's (Department) 
Privacy Act (PA) regulations (15 CFR part 4) by adding an additional 
method of authorization to determine the identification of individuals 
seeking access to records under the Privacy Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Brenda Dolan, Departmental Freedom of Information and 
Privacy Act Officer, Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3258
Email: bdolan1@doc.gov

RIN: 0605-AA19
_______________________________________________________________________

304. [bull] REVISION OF DEBT COLLECTION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority: PL 104-134

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 19; 15 CFR 21; 15 CFR 22

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule revises the Department of Commerce (Commerce 
Department or Commerce) debt collection regulations to conform to the 
Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996, the revised Federal Claims 
Collection Standards, and other laws applicable to the collection of 
non-tax debts owed to the Commerce Department. This rule also revises 
Commerce's regulations governing the offset of Commerce-issued payments 
to collect debts owed to other Federal agencies.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Lisa Casias, Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Department 
of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue, NW, Room 6827, Washington, DC 
20230
Phone: 202 482-1207

RIN: 0605-AA24
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions
General Administration (ADMIN)
_______________________________________________________________________

305. DISCLOSURE OF GOVERNMENT INFORMATION; RESPONSIBILITY FOR RESPONDING 
TO FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT REQUESTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 4

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/01/06                    71 FR 31073
Interim Final Rule Effective    06/01/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Brenda Dolan
Phone: 202 482-3258
Email: bdolan1@doc.gov

RIN: 0605-AA22

[[Page 22355]]

_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions
General Administration (ADMIN)
_______________________________________________________________________

306. NONPROCUREMENT DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; PL 103-355, sec 2455; EO 12549; EO 12689

CFR Citation: 2 CFR 1326; 15 CFR 26 (Removed)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce (Department) amends its 
regulations to remove its provisions implementing the Governmentwide 
common rule on nonprocurement debarment and suspension, currently 
codified at title 15, and to adopt the Office of Management and 
Budget's (OMB) guidance at title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations 
published in the Federal Register on August 31, 2005. This proposed 
regulatory action would implement the OMB's initiative to streamline 
and consolidate all Federal regulations on nonprocurement debarment and 
suspension into one part of the CFR. The Department does not intend to 
modify any of its current policy.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/22/06                    71 FR 55354
Final Action                    12/21/06                    71 FR 76573
Final Action Effective          01/22/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gary W. Johnson, Senior Policy Specialist, Department 
of Commerce, HCHB, Room 6054, 14th and Constitution Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-1679
Fax: 202 482-1844
Email: gjohnso3@doc.gov

RIN: 0605-AA23
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage
International Trade Administration (ITA)
_______________________________________________________________________

307. PROCEDURES FOR CONDUCTING FIVE-YEAR (SUNSET) REVIEWS OF ANTIDUMPING 
AND COUNTERVAILING DUTY ORDERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 19 USC 1671 et seq; 19 USC 1673 et seq; 19 USC 1303

CFR Citation: 19 CFR 351

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On May 19, 1997 (62 FR 27296), the Department of Commerce 
(the Department) published final rules on inter alia procedures for 
conducting antidumping and countervailing duty proceedings to conform 
to the Department's existing regulations to the Uruguay Round 
Agreements Act (URAA). Although these regulations contain provisions on 
the conduct of sunset reviews, the Department is planning to amend the 
regulations to provide more guidance on the procedures for conducting 
sunset reviews. Specifically, the Department would amend the procedural 
regulations for participation in, and conduct of, sunset reviews to add 
two definitions to provide shorthand expressions for 120-day and 240-
day sunset reviews; provide deadlines for certain submissions; clarify 
the information to be provided by parties participating in a sunset 
review; clarify when the Department will conduct a 120-day or a 240-day 
sunset review; and provide time limits for actions to be taken by the 
Department.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              03/20/98                    63 FR 13516
Interim Final Rule Effective    03/20/98
NPRM                            12/00/07
Final Action                    12/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Stacy Ettinger, Attorney, Department of Commerce, 
International Trade Administration, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4618

RIN: 0625-AA51
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage
International Trade Administration (ITA)
_______________________________________________________________________

308. PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO REGULATION CONCERNING CERTIFICATION OF 
FACTUAL INFORMATION TO IMPORT ADMINISTRATION DURING ANTIDUMPING AND 
COUNTERVAILING DUTY PROCEEDINGS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 19 USC 1202 note; 19 USC 1303 note; 19 USC 
1671 et seq; 19 USC 3538; . . .

CFR Citation: 19 CFR 351

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce (Department) amends 19 CFR 
351.303(g), which governs the certification of factual information 
submitted to the Department by a person or their representative during 
antidumping and countervailing duty proceedings. The amendments are 
intended to strengthen the current imprecise certification requirements 
so that it is clear what has been certified, by whom, and when, and so 
that parties and their counsel are aware of the potential consequences 
of false certifications.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/22/04                    69 FR 56738
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert E. Nielsen, Senior Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, International Trade

[[Page 22356]]

Administration, 14th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 
20230
Phone: 202 482-5340
Email: robert--neilsen@ita.doc.gov

RIN: 0625-AA66
_______________________________________________________________________

309. CHANGES IN THE INSULAR POSSESSIONS WATCH, WATCH MOVEMENT AND 
JEWELRY PROGRAMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 19 USC 1202; 48 USC 1681; PL 103-465; PL 106-36; PL 
108-429

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 303

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action amends the International Trade Administration 
regulations governing the duty-exemption allocations for watch 
producers and duty-refund benefits for watch and jewelry producers in 
the United States insular possessions (the Virgin Islands, Guam, 
American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands).
This action would amend the regulations by updating the maximum total 
value of watch components per watch that are eligible for duty-free 
entry into the United States under the insular program, further 
clarifying the definition of creditable and non-creditable wages and 
fringe benefits, provide more details about the calculation of mid-year 
and annual duty-refund and the verification process, and make minor 
editorial changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           10/20/06                    71 FR 61923
NPRM                            01/24/07                     72 FR 3083
NPRM Comment Period End         02/23/07
Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Faye Robinson, Acting Director, Statutory Import 
Programs Staff, Department of Commerce, International Trade 
Administration, 14th Street & Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 
20230
Phone: 202 482-3526

RIN: 0625-AA72
_______________________________________________________________________

310. [bull] ANTIDUMPING AND COUNTERVAILING DUTY PROCEEDINGS; DOCUMENTS 
SUBMISSION PROCEDURES; APO PROCEDURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 19 USC 1677f(c)

CFR Citation: 19 CFR 351

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce (``the Department'') proposes to 
amend its regulations in antidumping (``AD'') and countervailing duty 
(``CVD'') proceedings governing information submitted to the Department 
and administrative protective orders. Specifically, the Department 
proposes to amend its regulations as follows: (1) to reflect a transfer 
in the function of receiving submissions filed in D/CVD proceedings 
from the Central Records Unit to the Administrative Protective Order 
(``APO'') Unit, and to change the name of the APO Unit to APO/Dockets 
Unit; (2) to reflect a transfer in the function of maintaining public 
service lists from the Central Records Unit to the APO/Dockets Unit; 
(3) to update the definition of ``Customs Service'' to reflect the 
reorganization of the Executive Branch; (4) to clarity that documents 
filed with the Department will only be time stamped when appropriate, 
for example, when an interested party submits a request for treatment 
as a voluntary respondent; (5) to clarify when a part must serve 
business proprietary information already on the administrative record 
to new authorized applicants to the APO; (6) to require a formal letter 
of appearance to request being placed on the service list of any 
segment of an AD/CVD proceeding; (7) to clarify when a party is to be 
considered an ``interested party'' for the purposes of the APO; and (8) 
to require importers to submit documentary evidence to confirm their 
status as an interested party, and thus eligibility for APO access. 
Finally, the Department proposes amending its short form application 
for an APO (Form ITA-367).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/08/07                      72 FR 680
NPRM Comment Period End         02/28/07
Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For Public Comments:
www.trades.gov/ia

Agency Contact: William J. Kovatch, Senior Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, International Trade Administration, 1401 Constitution Avenue 
NW., Room 3622, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-5052
Fax: 202-482-4912
Email: william.kovatch@mail.doc.gov

RIN: 0625-AA73
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions
International Trade Administration (ITA)
_______________________________________________________________________

311. COMMERCIAL AVAILABILITY OF FABRIC AND YARN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 345

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janet Heinzen
Phone: 202 482-4006
Email: janet--heinzen@ita.doc.gov

RIN: 0625-AA59

[[Page 22357]]

_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions
International Trade Administration (ITA)
_______________________________________________________________________

312. MEXICAN CEMENT IMPORT LICENSING SYSTEM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 13 USC 5301(a); 13 USC 302

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 361

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce (Commerce) amends its regulations 
to establish a Mexican Cement Import Licensing System in accordance 
with the Agreement Between the Office of the United States Trade 
Representative and the United States Department of Commerce and 
Secretaria de Economia on Trade in Cement (Agreement) which was 
executed in March 2006. This cement licensing system is intended to 
enable Commerce to monitor compliance with the sub-regional export 
limits established by the Agreement for the three-year duration of the 
Agreement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/31/06                    71 FR 30836
NPRM Comment Period End         06/30/06
Final Action                    03/06/07                    72 FR 10006
Final Action Effective          04/05/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Scott McBride, Department of Commerce, International 
Trade Administration, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 
20230
Phone: 202 482-6292
Fax: 202 482-4912
Email: scott--mcbride@ita.doc.gov

RIN: 0625-AA70
_______________________________________________________________________

313. PROCEDURES FOR IMPORTATION OF SUPPLIES FOR USE IN EMERGENCY RELIEF 
WORK

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 19 USC 1318(a)

CFR Citation: 19 CFR 358

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce amends its regulations to 
establish procedures for importation of supplies free of antidumping or 
countervailing duties if those supplies are to be used in emergency 
relief work, as authorized under section 318(a) of the Tariff Act of 
1930, as amended (19 U.S.C. section 1318(a)).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/22/06                    71 FR 35846
Final Action                    10/30/06                    71 FR 63230

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Stacy Ettinger, Attorney, Department of Commerce, 
International Trade Administration, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4618

RIN: 0625-AA71
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                              Prerule Stage
Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)
_______________________________________________________________________

314. AUTOMATED EXPORT SYSTEM AND SHIPPERS EXPORT DECLARATION--
REQUIREMENT TO SHOW PARAGRAPHS IN EXPORT CONTROL CLASSIFICATION NUMBERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 758

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Export Administration Regulations currently require that 
the Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) be entered for certain 
exports from the United States. The lists of items in some ECCNs is 
further broken down by paragraphs that describe the items covered by 
that ECCN with greater precision. In some instances, the export license 
requirements, availability of license exceptions and license 
application review policy are affected by that paragraph designation. 
BIS is considering requiring that paragraph designations be included in 
the ECCN field on Automated Export System entries and on paper 
Shipper's Export Declarations. Requiring that additional information 
would, in some transactions, allow BIS to determine more quickly the 
accuracy of a claimed use of authority to ship without a license or 
pursuant to an license exception. In addition, this information would 
enable BIS to target its end use checks of exports more effectively 
because it could select items of the greatest significance without 
extensive follow-up information from the exporter. By taking advantage 
of the additional information, BIS could make more effective use of its 
limited enforcement resources.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD89

[[Page 22358]]

_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage
Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)
_______________________________________________________________________

315. ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 6701; 50 USC 1601; 50 USC 1701; EO 13128; EO 
12938; EO 13094;

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 781; 15 CFR 782; 15 CFR 783; 15 CFR 784; 15 CFR 
785; 15 CFR 786; 15 CFR 787; 15 CFR 788

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Following ratification by the United States of the Protocol 
Additional to the Agreement Between the United States of America and 
the International Atomic Energy Agency for the Application of 
Safeguards in the United States of America (AP or Protocol), the Bureau 
of Industry and Security (BIS) proposes to establish the Additional 
Protocol Regulations (APR) to implement the provisions of the Protocol 
affecting U.S. industry and other U.S. persons.
In the aftermath of the 1991 Persian Gulf War, international inspectors 
determined that Iraq had been engaged in a clandestine nuclear weapons 
development program at locations not directly subject to International 
Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards. The international community 
determined that the safeguards system needed to be strengthened and 
negotiated a model Additional Protocol to amend existing bilateral 
safeguards agreements. The model Additional Protocol requires enhanced 
information collection and access to provide IAEA inspectors with 
greater ability to detect clandestine nuclear activities in non-nuclear 
weapons states (NNWS), and covers almost all of a state's nuclear fuel 
cycle. The United States, as a nuclear weapons state (NWS) party to the 
Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), is not 
obligated to accept IAEA safeguards on its nuclear activities. However, 
the United States voluntarily signed the U.S. Additional Protocol on 
June 12, 1998. In this U.S. Additional Protocol, the United States 
accepts all of the measures of the Model Protocol, except where their 
application would result in access by the IAEA to activities with 
direct national security significance to the United States or to 
locations or information associated with such activities. By submitting 
itself to the same safeguards on all of its civil nuclear activities 
that NNWS are subject to (except those of national security 
significance), the United States intends to demonstrate that adherence 
to the model Additional Protocol does not place other countries at a 
commercial disadvantage.
Declarations submitted under the U.S. Additional Protocol would provide 
the IAEA with information about additional aspects of the U.S. nuclear 
fuel cycle, including mining and milling of nuclear materials, nuclear-
related equipment manufacturing, nuclear-related imports and exports, 
research and development not involving nuclear material, and other 
nuclear material activities not currently subject to the U.S. 
Safeguards Agreement. There are no routine inspections under the U.S. 
Additional Protocol, but IAEA inspectors may be provided access 
(referred to as ``complementary access'') to the U.S. nuclear fuel 
cycle to assure the absence of undeclared nuclear material and 
activities or where there is a question or an inconsistency about the 
completeness or correctness of the U.S. declaration, which could relate 
to declared or undeclared industrial locations. Access to most 
industrial locations is predicated upon an IAEA request for 
clarification of a declaration. As with the U.S.-IAEA Safeguards 
Agreement, the IAEA would not be required to seek access to any U.S. 
locations. In carrying out the responsibilities delegated to it for 
implementation of the U.S. Additional Protocol, the Bureau of Industry 
and Security (BIS) will apply a philosophy of ensuring compliance while 
minimizing intrusion and the burden on commercial activities and 
emphasizing the protection of confidential business, national security, 
and other critical information to the maximum extent possible.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: wfisher@bis.doc.gov

Related RIN: Related to 0694-AD27
RIN: 0694-AD26
_______________________________________________________________________

316. CONFORMING CHANGES TO CERTAIN END-USER/END-USE BASED CONTROLS IN 
THE EAR; CLARIFICATION OF THE TERM TRANSFER AND RELATED TERMS AS USED IN 
THE EAR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 2151 (note), PL 108-175; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 
USC 2139a; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; EO 12058; EO 
12851; EO 12938; EO 12947; EO 13020; EO 13026; EO 13099; EO 13222; EO 
13224; EO 13338; PL 106-387; PL 107-56

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 736; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 
748; 15 CFR 752; 15 CFR 760; 15 CFR 772

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) proposes to amend 
the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) by making conforming 
changes in certain end-user/end-use controls in the EAR to ensure that 
the terminology used to describe each type of end-user/end-use control 
is consistent, to the fullest extent possible, with the terminology in 
other such controls in the EAR. The proposed amendments would clarify 
that a party cannot proceed with an export, reexport, or transfer (in-
country) that is in transit at the time the party is informed by BIS 
that a license is required (in accordance with certain end-user/end-use 
controls in the EAR), unless that party first obtains a license from 
BIS authorizing the completion of the transaction. These proposed 
changes to part 744 are intended to enhance the ability of BIS to stop 
items subject to the EAR, including items not on the Commerce Control 
List, from being exported, reexported or transferred (in-country) when 
there is an unacceptable risk that such items will be used in, or 
diverted to, any of the proliferation activities specified in sections 
744.2, 744.3, 744.4 and 744.6 of the EAR. This rule also proposes to 
amend the EAR by revising the definition of the term transfer and 
certain related terms, to provide greater clarity regarding these 
provisions.

[[Page 22359]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                   05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Mail Stop 2705, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: tmooney@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD59
_______________________________________________________________________

317. AUTHORIZATION TO IMPOSE LICENSE REQUIREMENTS FOR EXPORTS AND 
REEXPORTS TO ENTITIES ACTING CONTRARY TO THE UNITED STATES' NATIONAL 
SECURITY OR FOREIGN POLICY INTERESTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; EO 12058; EO 12851; 
EO 12938; EO 12947; EO 13026; EO 13099; EO 13222; EO 13224

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 756

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends its 
regulations to expand the scope of reasons for which BIS may add names 
to the Entity List and makes changes to the Entity List appealable to 
the Under Secretary for Industry and Security pursuant to part 756 of 
the EAR. This rule revises section 744.20 to authorize BIS to add to 
the Entity List entities that BIS has reasonable cause to believe, 
based on specific and articulable facts, are or have been involved in 
activities that are contrary to the national security or foreign policy 
interests of the United States or to those acting on behalf of such 
entities.
With this rule, the United States government will be able to conduct 
prior review of proposed exports and reexports to such recipients to 
the degree necessary to protect its interests. BIS will be able to 
tailor license requirements and availability of license exceptions for 
exports and reexports to parties who have taken or who are taking 
actions that are contrary to United States national security or foreign 
policy interests without imposing additional license requirements that 
apply broadly to entire destinations or items. BIS believes that such 
selective application of license requirements and exceptions will 
provide the flexibility to deter use of items that are subject to the 
EAR in ways that are inimical to the interests of the United States 
with minimal costs to and disruption of legitimate trade.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD82
_______________________________________________________________________

318. [bull] MANDATORY ELECTRONIC FILING OF EXPORT AND REEXPORT LICENSE 
APPLICATIONS, CLASSIFICATION REQUESTS, ENCRYPTION REVIEW REQUESTS AND 
NOTIFICATIONS, AND LICENSE EXCEPTION AGR NOTIFICATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; PL 108-11; EO 12058; 
EO 12851; EO 12983; EO 13206; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 754; 15 CFR 
764; 15 CFR 772

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would require that export and reexport license 
applications, classification requests, encryption review requests, 
License Exception AGR notifications and related documents be submitted 
to the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) via its Simplified Network 
Application Process (SNAP-R) system. This requirement would not apply 
to applications for Special Comprehensive Licenses, submissions made 
through BIS's Electronic License Application Information Network 
(ELAIN) or certain situations in which BIS would authorize paper 
submissions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD94

[[Page 22360]]

_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage
Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)
_______________________________________________________________________

319. LICENSE EXCEPTION AVS: CLARIFICATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; EO 12002; EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12938; EO 
13026; EO 13222;

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to clarify the scope of certain 
License Exception AVS provisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: wfisher@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AC33
_______________________________________________________________________

320. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION PROVIDING FOR ORDER TO STOP SPECIFIC EXPORTS 
OR REEXPORTS OTHERWISE ELIGIBLE UNDER DESIGNATION NLR

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 7420; 10 USC 7430(e); 22 USC 2151 (note), PL 
108-175; 22 USC 287c; 22 USC 3201 et seq.; 22 USC 6004; 30 USC 185(s), 
185(u); 42 USC 2139a; 42 USC 6212; 43 USC 1354; 46 USC app. 466c; 50 
USC 1701 et seq.; 50 USC app. 2401 et seq.; 50 USC app. 5; EO 12938; EO 
13020; EO 13026; EO 13222; EO 13338; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; PL 108-11

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 736; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 
748; 15 CFR 750; 15 CFR 758; 15 CFR 764

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) by adding a new revocation and 
suspension order to part 750. This revocation and suspension order 
clarifies the authority of BIS to issue an order informing any person 
that a license is required for the export, reexport, or transfer (in-
country) of a specific item or items subject to the EAR to a specific 
destination and/or consignee (ultimate or intermediate), that would 
otherwise be eligible for export, reexport or transfer (in-country) 
under designation NLR, when BIS has reasonable grounds to believe a 
violation of the EAR has occurred, is about to occur, or is intended to 
occur in connection with the export, reexport or transfer (in-country) 
in question. This rule also consolidates in that same section in part 
750 the related administrative measure for the revision, suspension or 
revocation of license exceptions that was formerly in section 740.2(b). 
In that same section of part 750, this rule clarifies that BIS may 
suspend, revise or revoke a license for certain non-enforcement related 
reasons (e.g. administrative or procedural error). This rule also 
clarifies several provisions of the EAR to indicate that ``No License 
Required'' is not an authorization to export, but a designation that an 
export or reexport does not require a license from BIS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3371
Email: tmooney@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AC47
_______________________________________________________________________

321. CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION REGULATIONS: UDOC ``CHANGE IN 
INSPECTION STATUS FORM''

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 6701; EO 13128

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 715; 15 CFR 716

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would amend the Chemical Weapons Convention 
Regulations (CWCR) to expedite the collection of information concerning 
the inspection status of plant sites that produce unscheduled discrete 
organic chemicals (UDOCs) subject to the declaration requirements of 
the CWCR. The CWCR include requirements to report certain activities, 
involving scheduled chemicals and unscheduled discrete organic 
chemicals (UDOCs), and to provide access for on-site verification by 
international inspectors of certain facilities and locations in the 
United States. Specifically, this rule would amend the CWCR by revising 
the annual declaration requirements for UDOCs to permit a ``declared'' 
plant site currently subject to inspection, which anticipates that its 
production of UDOCs during the current calendar year will be below the 
inspection threshold level indicated in the CWCR, to submit a ``Change 
in Inspection Status Form'' to BIS by December 15th of the current 
calendar year. The information provided to BIS by this new form would 
ensure that the plant site would not be subject to inspection during 
the first 90 days of the next calendar year, which is the period when 
the United States compiles its annual declaration on past activities 
for submission to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical 
Weapons (OPCW). Any such plant site containing at least one plant that 
anticipates producing an individual PSF chemical (i.e., a UDOC 
containing the elements phosphorus, sulfur, or fluorine), in quantities 
that exceed the declaration threshold for such chemicals, will have the 
option of submitting its ``Annual Declaration on Past Activities,'' in 
lieu of a ``Change in Inspection Status Form,'' by December 15th of the 
current calendar year; otherwise, the CWCR require that the ``Annual 
Declaration on Past Activities'' be submitted by February 28th of the 
following year. This rule would create an expedited mechanism for 
determining which UDOC plant sites would be subject to inspection, 
thereby allowing the United States to notify the OPCW concerning the 
inspection status of UDOC plant sites prior to the submission of the 
U.S. declaration to the OPCW and enabling the OPCW to schedule 
inspections of UDOC facilities in the United States on a year-round 
basis.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/10/06                    71 FR 59032

[[Page 22361]]

NPRM Comment Period End         11/06/06
Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: wfisher@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD53
_______________________________________________________________________

322. TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
2151; PL 108-175; EO 12938; EO 13020; EO 13026; EO 13222; EO 13338

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 736; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 746; 15 CFR 
748; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends its 
regulations to remove an obsolete in-transit license requirement, makes 
BIS policy regarding certain exceptions to export and reexport license 
requirements more explicit, corrects some omissions in two sections 
that summarize license requirements regarding Iran, clarifies support 
document requirements regarding the People's Republic of China, removes 
two instances of two ECCN's applying to a single commodity, conforms 
some software and technology Export Control Classification Numbers 
(ECCNs) more closely to their related commodity ECCNs and makes 
technical changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD54
_______________________________________________________________________

323. REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION 
REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 18 USC 
2510 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 50 USC app 5; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; 
PL 108-11; EO 12058; EO 12851; EO 12938; EO 13026; EO 13222; 50 USC app 
2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 10 USC 7420; 10 USC 7430(e); 22 USC 
287c; 22 USC 6004; 30 USC 185(s); 30 USC 185(u); 42 USC 2139a; 42 USC 
6212; 43 USC 1354; 46 USC app 466c;

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule removes reference to ``Advisory Notes'' from the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR). This rule also removes the 
Advisory Note from the entry on the Commerce Control List (CCL) that 
controls specialized machinery, equipment, gear, and specially designed 
parts and for the examination, manufacture, testing, and checking of 
arms, appliances, machines, and implements of war. In addition, it 
revises License Exceptions GBS and CIV in that CCL entry to include 
certain equipment used to determine the safety data of explosives. 
Finally, it revises certain ECCN headings to reflect the current name 
of the Wassenaar Arrangement Munitions List.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD55
_______________________________________________________________________

324. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE UNDERSTANDINGS REACHED AT THE 2004 GOTEBORG 
AND 2005 OSLO NUCLEAR SUPPLIER GROUP (NSG) PLENARY MEETINGS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC. app. 2401 et seq.; 50 USC 1701 et seq.; 18 USC 
2510 et seq.; 22 USC 3201 et seq.; 42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; 
PL 108-11; EO 12058; EO 12851; EO 1293 ; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 742 ; 15 CFR 772 ; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is publishing this 
rule to amend the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to implement 
the understandings reached at the 2004 Goteborg and 2005 Oslo Nuclear 
Supplier Group (NSG) Plenary Meetings.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Jeffery Lynch, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Room 2705, 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3451
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: jlynch@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD58
_______________________________________________________________________

325. VOLUNTARY DISCLOSURE PROVISIONS AND ADMINISTRATIVE CASE SETTLEMENT 
GUIDANCE RELATED TO RESTRICTIVE TRADE PRACTICES OR BOYCOTTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 764; 15 CFR 766

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends its 
regulations to

[[Page 22362]]

set forth procedures for making voluntary self disclosures of 
violations of part 760 of the Export Administration Regulations 
(Restrictive Trade Practices or Boycotts) and related recordkeeping 
violations (collectively referred to as antiboycott violations). This 
rule also provides guidance about BIS typically exercises its 
discretion regarding whether to pursue an administrative case regarding 
antiboycott violations, and what administrative sanctions to seek in 
settling such a case.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/30/06                    71 FR 37517
Correction                      07/06/06                    71 FR 38321
NPRM Comment Period End         08/29/06
Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD63
_______________________________________________________________________

326. REVISIONS TO LICENSE REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN THERMAL IMAGING 
CAMERAS INCORPORATING FOCAL PLANE ARRAYS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 18 USC 
2510 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; 
PL 108-11; EO 12058 ; EO 12851 ; EO 12938; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 744

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends its 
regulations to remove the regional stability reason for control from 
certain thermal imaging cameras that incorporate focal plane arrays and 
the regional stability reason for control for other such cameras. This 
rule describes the cameras affected by this change in terms of 
performance level measured by frame rate and pixel count. These 
reductions in unilateral U.S. license requirements for exports and 
reexports of certain thermal imaging cameras are warranted by increased 
foreign production of cameras with performance capabilities equal to or 
better than the cameras affected by this rule.
BIS has concluded that these circumstances warrant a limited revision, 
based on performance level, of regional stability controls on thermal 
imaging cameras that incorporate focal plane arrays. Accordingly, this 
rule removes regional stability as a reason for control from certain 
relatively lower performance level cameras and replaces the RS1 reason 
for control with an RS2 reason for control for certain higher 
performance level cameras. This rule retains the RS1 reason for control 
for cameras with high levels of performance. These revised licensing 
requirements remove the license requirement for exports and reexports 
of certain thermal imaging cameras to regions that already produce 
thermal imaging cameras in significant volumes or can readily obtain 
such cameras from other countries without an export license.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD71
_______________________________________________________________________

327. REVISIONS TO LICENSE EXCEPTIONS TMP AND BAG: EXPANSION OF ELIGIBLE 
ITEMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; PL 106-
387; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR), to clarify the scope of the 
tools of trade provisions of License Exceptions TMP and BAG.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/30/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Mail Stop 2705, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: tmooney@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD72
_______________________________________________________________________

328. REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATION OF EXPORT AND REEXPORT CONTROLS FOR THE 
PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA (PRC); NEW AUTHORIZATION VALIDATED END-USER; 
REVISION OF IMPORT AND END-USER CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENT

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; EO 13026; EO 13099; 
EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 
772;

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends the Export 
Administration Regulations (EAR) by revising and clarifying United 
States policy on exports and reexports of goods and technology to the 
People's Republic of China (PRC). The amendments include a new military 
end-use control on certain items on the CCL to the PRC; a revision of 
the End-User Certificate Requirement for other than national security 
reasons to the PRC; and the creation of a new authorization and 
procedure for validated end-users.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/06/06                    71 FR 38313
NPRM Comment Period End         11/03/06                    71 FR 61692
Interim Final Rule              05/00/07

[[Page 22363]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., HCHB Room 2092, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: squarter@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD75
_______________________________________________________________________

329. REVISION TO GENERAL RESTRICTION ON ALL LICENSE EXCEPTIONS: 
AVAILABILITY OF CERTAIN LICENSE EXCEPTIONS FOR LIGHTWEIGHT AIRCRAFT 
ENGINES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq ; 50 USC 1701 et seq ; PL 106-
387; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security amends the general 
restriction on using license exceptions for MT controlled items, by 
adding one additional Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) 
9A101.a to the list of ECCNs for which certain license exceptions are 
available. Specifically, that the commodities described in ECCN 
9A101.a, may be exported as part of a manned aircraft, land vehicle or 
marine vehicle or in quantities appropriate for replacement parts for 
such applications under section 740.9(a)(2)(ii) (License Exception TMP 
for kits consisting of replacement parts), section740.10 (License 
Exception RPL),or section 740.15(c) (License Exception AVS for 
equipment and spare parts for permanent use on an aircraft).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/25/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Mail Stop 2705, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: tmooney@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD80
_______________________________________________________________________

330. REVISED EXPORT LICENSE APPLICATION REVIEW POLICY AND END USE 
VERIFICATION POLICY TO IMPLEMENT THE JULY 2006 RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE 
COMMISSION FOR ASSISTANCE TO A FREE CUBA

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
287c; PL 108-11; PL 106-387; EO 12854; EO 12918; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 746

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule revises export and reexport license application 
review policy toward Cuba with respect to vessels and aircraft on 
temporary sojourn, and medical devices and medical equipment. It also 
makes clear that licenses for export or reexport of medical devices, 
medical equipment, and certain aircraft on temporary sojourn to Cuba 
will be issued with conditions imposing verification and reporting 
requirements. This rule implements recommendations and policy 
objectives of section VI of the July 2006 report to the president of 
the Commission for Assistance to a Free Cuba.
Section VI of that report addressed the topic of denying revenue to the 
Castro regime and emphasized the need to maintain economic pressure on 
the regime. Generally, the changes made by this rule favor the use of 
regular commercial carriers to carry lawful exports and travelers to 
Cuba as opposed to non-commercial aircraft or boats in order to limit 
the landing, docking, or other fees that the Cuban government can 
collect. The verification and reporting requirements that will be 
imposed by licenses for medical devices and equipment are to make sure 
that such devices and equipment are used for the benefit of the Cuban 
people.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD87
_______________________________________________________________________

331. [bull] EXPANDED LICENSING JURISDICTION FOR QRS11 MICROMACHINED 
ANGULAR RATE SENSOR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 10 USC 
7420; 10 USC 7430(e); 22 USC 287c; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 22 USC 6004; 30 
USC 185(s); 30 USC 185(u); 42 USC 2139a; 42 USC 6212; 43 USC 1354; 46 
USC app 466c; 50 USC app 5; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 734; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule implements the transfer of licensing jurisdiction 
to the Bureau of Industry and Security of QRS11-00100-100/101 
micromachined angular rate sensors when those sensors are integrated 
into primary instrument system for use on civil aircraft, or exported 
solely for integration into such a system or when such sensors are 
embedded in a gyro-stabilized camera system prior to export. Licensing 
jurisdiction for such sensors when integrated into and included as part 
of a commercial standby instrument system of the type described in ECCN 
7A991 or an aircraft or the type described in ECCN 9A991 was 
transferred to the Bureau of Industry and Security in February 2004 and 
those transactions continue to be subject to BIS licensing 
jurisdiction. All other exports and reexports of QRS11-00100-100/101 
micromachined angular rate sensors are subject to the licensing 
jurisdiction of the Department of State, Directorate of Defense Trade 
Controls.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

[[Page 22364]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hillary Hess, Director, Regulatory Policy Division, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: hhess@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD92
_______________________________________________________________________

332. [bull] DECEMBER 2006 WASSENAAR ARRANGEMENT PLENARY AGREEMENT 
IMPLEMENTATION: CCL CATS. 1, 2, 3, 5 PT. I, 6, 7, 8, AND 9; WASSENAAR 
REPORT REQ'MTS.; DEFINITIONS; AND STATMTS. OF UNDERSTANDING ON SOURCE 
CODE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; 10 USC 7420; EO 13026;

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 743; 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 772;

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) maintains the 
Commerce Control List (CCL), which identifies items subject to 
Department of Commerce export controls. This final rule revises the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to implement changes made to 
the Wassenaar Arrangement's List of Dual Use Goods and Technologies 
(Wassenaar List), and Statements of Understanding maintained and agreed 
to by governments participating in the Wassenaar Arrangement on Export 
Controls for Conventional Arms and Dual Use Goods and Technologies 
(Wassenaar Arrangement, or WA.) The Wassenaar Arrangement advocates 
implementation of effective export controls on strategic items with the 
objective of improving regional and international security and 
stability. To harmonize with the changes to the Wassenaar List, this 
rule revises the EAR by amending certain entries that are controlled 
for national security reasons in Categories 1, 2, 3, 5 Part I 
(telecommunications), 6, 7, 8, and 9; and adding new entries to the 
Commerce Control List (CCL), amending EAR Definitions and reporting 
requirements, as well as adding new definitions and reporting 
requirements to the EAR, and adding a new Statement of Understanding on 
source code.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: scook@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD95
_______________________________________________________________________

333. [bull] REVISIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS BASED ON 
THE 2006 MISSILE TECHNOLOGY CONTROL REGIME PLENARY AGREEMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 7420; 10 USC 7430(e); 22 USC 287c, 22 USC 3201 
et seq. ; 30 USC 185(s), 185(u); 42 USC 2139a; 42 USC 6212; 43 USC 
1354; 46 USC app 466c; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 
USC app 5; EO 13026; EO 13222; PL 106-387; PL 107-56

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 772; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to reflect changes to the 
Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) Annex that were agreed to by 
MTCR member countries at the October 2006 Plenary in Copenhagen, 
Denmark. The amendments set forth in this rule include adding a new 
Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) 7A107 to control three axis 
magnetic heading sensors designed to be modified with flight control 
and navigation systems.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Mail Stop 2705, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: tmooney@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD96
_______________________________________________________________________

334. [bull] CORRECTIONS TO RULE THAT IMPLEMENTED THE NEW FORMULA FOR 
CALCULATING COMPUTER PERFORMANCE: ADJUSTED PEAK PERFORMANCE (APP) IN 
WEIGHTED TERAFLOPS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; EO 13026; EO 13222;

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule corrects errors that were published on April 24, 
2006, in the rule that implemented the new formula for calculating 
computer performance in Weighted TeraFLOPS (71 FR 20876). These errors 
include references to Missile Technology controls that were removed by 
the April 24, 2006 rule, as well as errors related to scope of controls 
and license exceptions described in Export Control Classification 
Numbers (ECCNs) 4A003, 4D001, and 4E001.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Correction                      04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: scook@bis.doc.gov

Related RIN: Related to 0694-AD66
RIN: 0694-AD98

[[Page 22365]]

_______________________________________________________________________

335. [bull] AMENDMENT TO GENERAL ORDER NO. 3: ADDITION OF CERTAIN 
PERSONS AND EXPANSION OF CRITERIA FOR PLACING PERSONS ON THE GENERAL 
ORDER

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
2151 (note), PL 108-175; EO 12938; EO 13020; EO 13026; EO 13222; EO 
13338

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 736

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is revising the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to add certain persons to 
General Order No. 3, published in the Federal Register on June 5, 2006 
and later amended on September 6, 2006.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Mail Stop 2705, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: tmooney@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD99
_______________________________________________________________________

336. [bull] REVISIONS AND TECHNICAL CORRECTION TO THE EXPORT 
ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 10 USC 
7420; 10 USC 7430(e); 22 USC 287c; 22 USC 2151 note, PL 108-175; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 22 USC 6004; 30 USC 185(s), 30 USC 185(u); 42 USC 2139a; 
42 USC 6212; 43 USC 1354; 46 USC app 466c; 50 USC app 5; PL 106-387; PL 
107-56; EO 11912; EO 12002; EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12851; EO 12854; EO 
12918; EO 12938; EO 12947; EO 12981; EO 13020; EO 13026; EO 13099; EO 
13222; EO 13224; EO 13338; PL 108-11

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730; 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 746; 15 CFR 
774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
by making a technical correction to the contact information for the 
Drug Enforcement Administration. In addition, this rule amends the EAR 
by making corrections to three rules recently published in the Federal 
Register: (1) the August 31, 2006, final rule implementing the 
rescission of Libya's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism; (2) 
the November 20, 2006, final rule imposing foreign policy controls on 
surreptitious communications intercepting devices; and (3) the January 
26, 2007, final rule imposing restrictions on exports and reexports of 
luxury goods to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North 
Korea).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Emme, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry 
and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4159
Email: semme@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AE00
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions
Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)
_______________________________________________________________________

337. EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS: SUPPORT DOCUMENTATION 
CONSOLIDATION AND REORGANIZATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 748;

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: tmooney@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________

338. EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS TO SUDAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 746; 15 CFR 
774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________

339. EXPANSION OF LICENSE EXCEPTION GOV; EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS TO 
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: squarter@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AC15

[[Page 22366]]

_______________________________________________________________________

340. DE MINIMIS EXPANSION OF ELIGIBILITY: U.S.-ORIGIN SOFTWARE 
INCORPORATED INTO FOREIGN-MADE COMMODITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: scook@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AC17
_______________________________________________________________________

341. REVISION TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS: REPLACEMENT 
LICENSES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 748 ; 15 CFR 750

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: scook@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AC23
_______________________________________________________________________

342. SHORT SUPPLY CONTROLS: CRUDE OIL EXPORTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 750; 15 CFR 754

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: wfisher@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AC25
_______________________________________________________________________

343. CLARIFICATIONS TO PART 752: SPECIAL COMPREHENSIVE LICENSE 
REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700 to 799

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: wfisher@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AC34
_______________________________________________________________________

344. CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION: REVISIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION 
REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700 to 799

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: wfisher@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AC35
_______________________________________________________________________

345. IMPOSITION OF LICENSE REQUIREMENT FOR EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS OF 
MISSILE-TECHNOLOGY-(MT) CONTROLLED ITEMS TO CANADA

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 742

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/20/01                    66 FR 65666
NPRM                            05/24/05                    70 FR 29660
Comment Period End              06/23/05
Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AC48
_______________________________________________________________________

346. REVISIONS OF AIRCRAFT EXPORT LICENSING JURISDICTION BASED ON REVIEW 
OF THE U.S. MUNITIONS LIST

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AC74
_______________________________________________________________________

347. EXPORT AND REEXPORT CONTROLS ON IRAQ

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 
744; 15 CFR 746; 15 CFR 750; 15 CFR 752; 15 CFR 758; 15 CFR 762; 15 CFR 
774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/30/04                    69 FR 46060
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: squarter@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AC84
_______________________________________________________________________

348. CLARIFICATION OF ``SPACE-QUALIFIED'' PARTS, COMPONENTS, AND 
TECHNOLOGY SUBJECT TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 744

[[Page 22367]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jeffery Lynch
Phone: 202 482-3451
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: jlynch@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD07
_______________________________________________________________________

349. EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS: REMOVAL OF COUNTRY GROUPS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 724; 15 CFR 736; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 
740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 750; 15 CFR 752; 15 CFR 
758; 15 CFR 770; 15 CFR 772; 15 CFR 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: scook@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD09
_______________________________________________________________________

350. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WASSENAAR ARRANGEMENT STATEMENT OF 
UNDERSTANDING ON THE CONTROL OF NON-LISTED DUAL-USE ITEMS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 746; 15 CFR 748

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: squarter@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD10
_______________________________________________________________________

351. LICENSE EXCEPTION GOV EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS FOR OFFICIAL IAEA 
INTERNATIONAL INSPECTION AND VERIFICATION USE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE 
U.S.-IAEA SAFEGUARDS AGREEMENT, AS AMENDED BY THE ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: wfisher@bis.doc.gov

Related RIN: Related to 0694-AD26
RIN: 0694-AD27
_______________________________________________________________________

352. REMOVAL OF LICENSE EXCEPTION GBS AND TSR ELIGIBILITY FOR CERTAIN 
MICROWAVE MONOLITHIC INTEGRATED CIRCUIT POWER AMPLIFIERS AND RELATED 
SOFTWARE AND TECHNOLOGY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jeffery Lynch
Phone: 202 482-3451
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: jlynch@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD36
_______________________________________________________________________

353. ESTABLISHMENT OF NEW LICENSE EXCEPTION FOR THE EXPORT OR REEXPORT 
TO LIBYA OF CERTAIN ITEMS CONTROLLED FOR ANTI-TERRORISM REASONS ON THE 
COMMERCE CONTROL LIST

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 772; 15 CFR 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/16/05                    70 FR 69432
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: squarter@bis.doc.gov

Related RIN: Related to 0694-AD14
RIN: 0694-AD57
_______________________________________________________________________

354. REVISIONS TO THE DPAS REGULATION AND ASSOCIATED NOTICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Michael J. Vacarro
Phone: 202 482-8232
Fax: 202 482-5650
Email: mvaccaro@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD69
_______________________________________________________________________

355. IMPLEMENTATION IN THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS OF THE 
UNITED STATES' RESCISSION OF LIBYA'S DESIGNATION AS A STATE SPONSOR OF 
TERRORISM AND REVISIONS APPLICABLE TO IRAQ

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 734; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 
746; 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 750; 15 CFR 752; 15 CFR 764; 15 CFR 772; 15 CFR 
774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/31/06                    71 FR 51714
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      10/02/06
Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 22368]]

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: squarter@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD81
_______________________________________________________________________

356. [bull] COUNTRY GROUP C: DESTINATIONS OF DIVERSION CONCERN

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security 
(BIS) is considering amendments to the Export Administration 
Regulations (EAR) to further the national security interests of the 
United States by designating Country Group C for countries that are 
``Destinations of Diversion Concern.'' This amendment would establish 
license requirements for exports and reexports to countries that 
represent a concern for the diversion of items subject to the EAR.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           02/23/07                     72 FR 8315
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/12/07


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: scook@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD93
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions
Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)
_______________________________________________________________________

357. IMPOSITION OF FOREIGN POLICY CONTROLS ON SURREPTITIOUS 
COMMUNICATIONS INTERCEPTING DEVICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; EO 13026; EO 13222; EO 
12938; 10 USC 7420; 10 USC 7430(e); 22 USC 2151; 22 USC 287; PL 108-
175; 22 USC 3201; 22 USC 6004; 30 USC 185(s), 185(u); 42 USC 2139(a); 
42 USC 6212; 43 USC 1354; 46 USC app 466c; 50 USC app 5; PL 106-387; PL 
107-56; EO 11912; EO 12002; EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12851; EO 12854; EO 
12918; EO 12947; EO 12981; EO 13020; EO 13099; EO 13224; EO 13224

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 
746; 15 CFR 752

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends the Export 
Administration Regulations (EAR) by imposing export and reexport 
controls on communications intercepting devices primarily useful for 
surreptitious interception of wire, oral or electronic communications 
classified under Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) 5A980. In 
this rule, BIS also imposes controls on related software and technology 
by creating ECCNs 5D980 and 5E980, the classifications for software and 
technology designed or modified for the ``development,'' ``production'' 
or ``use'' of equipment controlled under 5A980. The items controlled 
under ECCNs 5A980, 5D980 and 5E980 are controlled for crime control 
(CC) and antiterrorism (AT) reasons.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/20/06                    71 FR 67034

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., HCHB Room 2092, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: squarter@bis.doc.gov

Related RIN: Related to 0694-AB41
RIN: 0694-AC82
_______________________________________________________________________

358. REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATION OF LICENSE EXCEPTION AVAILABILITY, 
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS AND LICENSING POLICY FOR CERTAIN CRIME CONTROL 
ITEMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 18 USC 
2510 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; 
PL 108-11; EO 12058; EO 12851; EO 12938; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule removes a geographic restriction to allow use of 
License Exception GOV for shipments consigned to and for the official 
use by U.S. Government agencies of crime control items to all 
destinations. This rule also clarifies and strengthens those geographic 
restrictions for License Exceptions generally. This rule clarifies the 
distinction between crime control items and specially designed 
implements of torture.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/06/07                     72 FR 9847

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD47

[[Page 22369]]

_______________________________________________________________________

359. CLARIFICATION OF LICENSING REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN PHOTOVOLTAIC 
ARRAYS AND RELATED SOFTWARE AND TECHNOLOGY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 10 USC 
7420; 10 USC 7430(e); 18 USC 2510 et seq; 22 USC 287c; 22 USC 3201 et 
seq; 22 USC 6004; 30 USC 185(s), 185(u); 42 USC 2139a; 42 USC 6212; 43 
USC 1354; 46 USC app 466c; 50 USC app 5; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; EO 
13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
to clarify that the term ``photovoltaic arrays,'' as used in three 
Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCNs) in the Commerce Control 
List, applies to any individual cell, array of cells or panel of arrays 
that otherwise meet the specifications of those ECCNs. This rule also 
clarifies that the word ``photovoltaic'' and ``solar'' have the same 
meaning in those ECCNs when describing a cell, array or panel. This 
clarification is needed to promote understanding that license 
requirements apply to a photovoltaic array that includes only one cell 
when it meets the relevant specification and that in the ECCNs modified 
by this rule, the word ``solar'' is synonymous with the word 
``photovoltaic.''

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/12/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

Related RIN: Related to 0694-AD95
RIN: 0694-AD64
_______________________________________________________________________

360. REMOVAL OF LICENSE EXCEPTION ``ADDITIONAL PERMISSIVE REEXPORTS'' 
(APR) ELIGIBILITY FOR REEXPORTS OF COMMODITIES CONTROLLED FOR NATIONAL 
SECURITY REASONS TO COUNTRY GROUP D:1 DESTINATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app. 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; PL 106-
387; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 740.16 Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
provides some exceptions to license requirements that apply to 
reexports (transmission or shipment from one foreign country to 
another) of an item that is subject to the EAR but not to exports from 
the United States. This rule addresses the reexport exception set forth 
in section 740.16(a)(3)(ii), which authorizes items controlled on the 
Commerce Control List for national security reasons to be reexported 
from countries listed in Country Group A:1 and cooperating countries to 
destinations listed in Country Group D:1 other than Cambodia, Laos or 
North Korea. Country Groups A:1 and D:1 are listed in supplement No. 1 
to part 740 of the EAR. Country Group A:1 and Cooperating countries 
generally are countries that implement export controls for national 
security reasons consistent with U.S. controls. Country Group D:1 
countries are countries of concern for national security reasons.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       10/06/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: warvin@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD70
_______________________________________________________________________

361. ADDITION OF ``SERBIA'' AND ``MONTENEGRO'' AS SEPARATE DESTINATIONS 
IN THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; EO 13026; EO 13222;

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule deletes ``Serbia and Montenegro'' and adds 
``Montenegro'' and ``Serbia'' as separate entries on the Commerce 
Country Chart in supplement no. 1 to part 738 of the EAR for export 
licensing purposes. Montenegro attained independence from Serbia on 
June 3, 2006, based on a May 21, 2006, referendum. This rule also 
updates references to ``Serbia and Montenegro'' in part 740 of the EAR 
to reflect Montenegro's legal separation from Serbia.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/27/06                    71 FR 68438

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jeffery Lynch, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Room 2705, 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3451
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: jlynch@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD85
_______________________________________________________________________

362. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE UNDERSTANDINGS REACHED AT THE JUNE 2006 
AUSTRALIA GROUP (AG) PLENARY MEETING; CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; 18 USC 2510; 22 USC 3201; 42 
USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; EO 12058; EO 13026; EO 13222;

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to implement the understandings 
reached at the June 2006 plenary meeting of the Australia Group (AG). 
Specifically, this

[[Page 22370]]

rule amends the EAR by revising the List of Items Controlled in Export 
Control Classification Number (ECCN) 1C350, which controls human and 
zoonotic pathogens and toxins on the AG Common Control Lists, to add 
certain fungi (i.e., Coccidioides immitis and Coccidioides posadasii) 
and Shiga-like ribosome inactivating proteins other than verotoxin, 
consistent with the AG decision to add these items to the AG ``Control 
List of Biological Agents.'' These items are currently controlled under 
ECCN 1C360, which controls select agents and toxins not included on any 
of the AG Common Control Lists. This rule also amends the EAR to 
implement changes to the AG ``Control List of Dual-Use Chemical 
Manufacturing Facilities and Equipment and Related Technology'' by 
revising the List of Items Controlled in ECCN 2B351 to add certain 
chemical manufacturing equipment in which all surfaces that come in 
direct contact with the chemical(s) being processed or contained are 
made from niobium (colombium) or niobium alloys. In addition, this rule 
corrects errors contained in two ECCNs that were amended by a final 
rule that BIS published on December 29, 2004 (69 FR 77890). 
Specifically, this rule corrects a typographical error in the C.A.S. 
number for N,N-dimethylaminophosphoryl dichloride, which is listed in 
ECCN 1C350.b.23. This rule also corrects an error in ECCN 1C355 by 
removing and reserving 1C355.b.2.a, which currently contains the 
precursor chemical ethyldiethanolamine (C.A.S. #139-87-7). This 
chemical was added to ECCN 1C350.c.12 by the December 29, 2004, final 
rule and should have been removed from ECCN 1C355 at that time.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/24/06                    71 FR 67786

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: wfisher@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD86
_______________________________________________________________________

363. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS AND 
TO THE DEFENSE PRIORITIES AND ALLOCATIONS SYSTEM (DPAS) REGULATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 10 USC 2538; 10 USC 7420; 10 USC 7430(e); 22 USC 6004; 
30 USC 185(s), 185(u); 42 USC 2139a; 42 USC 5195 et seq; 42 USC 6212; 
43 USC 1354; 46 USC app 466c; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 50 USC 82; 50 USC app 
2061 et seq; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC app 5; EO 11912; EO 12002; 
EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12656; EO 12742; EO 12851; EO 12854; EO 12918; 
EO 12919; EO 12938; EO 12947; EO 12981; EO 13020; EO 13026; EO 13099; 
EO 13222; EO 13224; EO 13286; EO 13338; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; USC 3201 
et seq

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700; 15 CFR 730; 15 CFR 734; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 
748; 15 CFR 758; 15 CFR 762

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR), in subchapter C, to remove an 
outdated reference to another Agency's schedule that is no longer used 
by that other Agency; to remove an outdated reference to another 
Department's regulations and replace it with the Department name and 
regulatory reference that is currently in use; to correct two 
references in the EAR that inadvertently directed the public to the 
wrong sections of the EAR for further information; and to correct 
information listed in the EAR for one (1) telephone number; one (1) fax 
number; one (1) e-mail number address; and two (2) addresses. This rule 
adds an e-mail address, fax number, and address to clarify for the 
public where de minimis reports should be sent, when required by the 
EAR.
BIS is also correcting a typographical error in a final rule published 
in the Federal Register on July 13, 2006 (71 FR 39526) that made 
administrative and technical corrections to the Defense Priorities and 
Allocations System (DPAS) Regulation (15 CFR part 700).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/29/07                     72 FR 3943

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Mail Stop 2705, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: tmooney@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD88
_______________________________________________________________________

364. [bull] ADDITION OF ENTITIES TO THE ENTITY LIST

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; EO 12058; EO 12851; 
EO 12938; EO 12947; EO 13026; EO 13099; EO 13222; EO 13224

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 744

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to add two entities to the 
Entity List. The Entity List is a compilation of end-users that present 
an unacceptable risk of using or diverting certain items to activities 
related to weapons of mass destruction. BIS requires a license for most 
exports or reexports to these entities and maintains the Entity List to 
inform the public of these license requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/02/07                     72 FR 9433

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Mooney, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Mail Stop 2705, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: tmooney@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD91

[[Page 22371]]

_______________________________________________________________________

365. [bull] NORTH KOREA: IMPOSITION OF NEW FOREIGN POLICY CONTROLS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3201; 22 USC 6004; 50 USC 1701; 50 USC 2401; EO 
13026;

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 
746; 15 CFR 772; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) by adding license requirements 
for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) prohibiting 
the export of all goods on the CCL including EAR99 items other than 
food and medicine. This final rule is issued consistent with section 
903 of the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000 
(TSRA).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/26/07                     72 FR 3722

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Jeffery Lynch, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Room 2705, 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3451
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: jlynch@bis.doc.gov

RIN: 0694-AD97
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                              Prerule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________

NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
____________________________________________________
366. [bull] GUIDANCE ON LIMITED ACCESS PRIVILEGE PROVISIONS IN THE 
MAGNUSON-STEVENS FISHERY CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT REAUTHORIZATION ACT 
OF 2006

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This notice is a solicitation for comments on the Limited 
Access Privilege (LAP) provisions in the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act of 2006 (MSRA). NMFS is 
in the process of developing guidelines to provide guidance in the use 
of a LAP program (LAPP) as a fishery management tool, as defined in the 
MSRA. These guidelines would assist the Fishery Management Councils 
(Councils) in developing a LAPP.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AV48
_______________________________________________________________________

367. [bull] PROTECTIVE REGULATIONS FOR KILLER WHALES IN THE NORTHWEST 
REGION UNDER THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT AND MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq; 16 USC 1531 to 1543

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216; 50 CFR 224

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering 
regulations to protect killer whales (Orcinus orca) in the Pacific 
Northwest. The Southern Resident killer whale distinct population 
segment (DPS) was listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act 
(ESA) on November 18, 2005 (70 FR 69903). In the final rule announcing 
the listing, NMFS identified vessel effects, including direct 
interference and sound, as a potential contributing factor in the 
recent decline of this population. Both the Marine Mammal Protection 
Act (MMPA) and the ESA prohibit take, including harassment, of killer 
whales, but these statutes do not prohibit specified acts. NMFS is now 
considering regulations that would prohibit certain acts, under our 
general authorities under the ESA and MMPA and their implementing 
regulations. The Proposed Recovery Plan for Southern Resident killer 
whales (71 FR 69101; November 29, 2006) includes as a management action 
the evaluation of current guidelines and the need for regulations and/
or protected areas. The scope of this rulemaking encompasses the 
activities of any person or conveyance that may result in the 
unauthorized taking of killer whales and/or that may cause detrimental 
individual-level and population-level impacts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           03/22/07                    72 FR 13464
ANPRM Comment Period End        05/23/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Trevor Spradlin, Marine Mammal Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289
Email: trevor.spradlin@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV15

[[Page 22372]]

_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________

NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
____________________________________________________
368. ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH FISHERIES; AMENDMENT 9

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 9 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Atlantic 
mackerel, squid, and butterfish fisheries would address essential fish 
habitat and revise the Illex quota procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AP60
_______________________________________________________________________

369. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ADJUST PERMIT RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS AND 
TRANSFERABILITY RESTRICTIONS IN NWHI'S HOOMALU ZONE AND MAU LIMITED 
ACCESS PROGRAMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment under the Bottomfish Fishery 
Management Plan would remove annual landings requirement for permit 
renewal, revise permit transferability restrictions, establish permit 
eligibility for the Mau Zone, and establish a mechanism to facilitate 
permits through a community development program in the Northwestern 
Hawaiian Islands bottomfish limited access programs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AK82
RIN: 0648-AQ20
_______________________________________________________________________

370. FISHERIES OF THE UNITED STATES; NATIONAL STANDARD 1

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is considering 
revisions to the national standard guidelines for National Standard 1 
(NS1) that specify criteria for determining overfishing and 
establishing rebuilding schedules. There have been concerns expressed 
by the scientific community, fisheries managers, the fishing industry, 
and environmental groups regarding the appropriateness of some aspects 
of these guidelines.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           02/14/03                     68 FR 7492
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/17/03
Comment Period Extended         03/03/03                     68 FR 9967
NPRM                            06/22/05                    70 FR 36240
Comment Period Extended         08/15/05                    70 FR 47777
NPRM Comment Period End         08/22/05
Proposed Rule                   06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AQ63
_______________________________________________________________________

371. AMENDMENT 62 TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE GULF OF 
ALASKA AND AMENDMENT 62 TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE 
BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLES (ISLANDS)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would implement American Fisheries Act (AFA) single 
geographic location allowing AFA-qualified inshore floating processors 
the flexibility to relocate between reporting weeks rather than between 
fishing years for the purpose of processing targeted Bering Sea and 
Aleutian Islands pollock. In addition, this rule would address obsolete 
and inconsistent inshore/offshore language in both the BSAI and GOA 
groundfish fishery management plans and recommend removing the GOA 
inshore/offshore allocation sunset date.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AR06
_______________________________________________________________________

372. MAXIMIZE RETENTION AND MONITORING PROGRAM IN THE SHORE-BASED 
PACIFIC WHITING FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 22373]]

Abstract: The Pacific Fishery Management Council (Pacific Council) at 
their October 21-25, 1996, meeting in San Francisco, California 
addressed the treatment and disposition of salmon in the groundfish 
trawl fisheries, specifically the shore-based whiting fishery. At that 
meeting, the Pacific Council discussed the retention of salmon in the 
shore-based whiting fishery and took action to maintain a viable shore-
based whiting fishery by using exempted fishing permits (EFPs). These 
EFPs allowed the shore-based whiting fleet to temporarily deliver 
unsorted catch to processing plants and provided for the monitoring of 
incidentally taken salmon until a permanent monitoring program could be 
implemented. In keeping with the Pacific Council's recommendation, NMFS 
is proceeding with implementing a monitoring program for the shore-
based whiting fishery. This action will aid in the sustainable 
management of Pacific Coast salmon and groundfish fisheries while 
providing an important economic opportunity to those associated with 
the harvest, processing, and selling of whiting taken by the shore-
based whiting fleet. The need for implementing a permanent monitoring 
program in the shore-based Pacific whiting fishery is to provide for a 
full retention fishery by enabling the shore-based whiting fleet, 
comprised exclusively of catcher vessels, to deliver unsorted catch to 
processing plants. This practice is necessary to ensure that whiting 
landings are of market quality, while abiding by Federal groundfish 
regulations and those implementing the Pacific Coast salmon and 
groundfish fishery management plans (FMPs).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AR63
_______________________________________________________________________

373. AMENDMENT 72 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE GROUNDFISH OF 
THE GULF OF ALASKA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would eliminate an existing requirement under the 
Improved Retention/Improved Utilization (IR/IU) program that groundfish 
fisheries retain shallow water flatfish in the Gulf of Alaska (GOA). 
This action may relieve some harvesting and utilization restrictions on 
GOA groundfish harvesting and processing operations. It follows a 
parallel action taken in the BSAI to relieve those groundfish fisheries 
from requirements to retain all IR/IU flatfish species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AR72
_______________________________________________________________________

374. REVISIONS TO THE DEFINITIONS OF EXEMPTED FISHING AND SCIENTIFIC 
RESEARCH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service amends the regulations 
at 50 CFR 600.745. The action is intended to provide clearer guidance 
to the public for obtaining appropriate acknowledgments and permits and 
to facilitate the timely conduct of research to address bycatch and 
habitat issues in the fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AR78
_______________________________________________________________________

375. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT QUOTA (CDQ) TRANSFERS 2007

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would revise regulations associated 
with fisheries quota transfers conducted under the Western Alaska 
Community Development Quota (CDQ) Program. This includes modifying 
restrictions associated with groundfish and halibut CDQ transfers to 
allow eligible entities to transfer quota before or after harvesting. 
This action also would revise Table 7 to part 679--Eligible CDQ 
Communities and remove obsolete regulatory text at 50 CFR 679.30.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AS13

[[Page 22374]]

_______________________________________________________________________

376. AMENDMENT 14 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 14 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass 
Fishery Management would establish a rebuilding plan for scup.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AS22
_______________________________________________________________________

377. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE TILEFISH FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Tilefish 
Fishery would implement Individual Transferable Quotas in the tilefish 
fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AS25
_______________________________________________________________________

378. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); REDUCING SEA TURTLE TAKES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 971; 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the regulations governing the 
Atlantic pelagic longline fishery based upon a June 1, 2004, Biological 
Opinion regarding Atlantic sea turtles. This amendment could include 
framework mechanisms that would allow the Agency to take action, such 
as partial or rolling closures or gear or effort restrictions, if the 
number of sea turtle interactions or mortalities exceed anticipated 
levels during a certain period of time. This action would not change 
established quotas for target species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           08/12/04                    69 FR 49858
ANPRM Comment Period End        10/12/04
NPRM                            07/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AS49
_______________________________________________________________________

379. GENERIC AMENDMENT TO PROVIDE FOR REGULATIONS OF OFFSHORE 
AQUACULTURE OF SELECTED FISH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of the amendment is to develop a regulatory 
permitting process for regulating and promoting environmentally sound 
and economically sustainable aquaculture in the Gulf exclusive economic 
zone. Possible management actions include: (1) Types of aquaculture 
permits required; (2) duration aquaculture permits are effective; (3) 
conditions for permit issuance; (4) species allowed for aquaculture; 
(5) allowable aquaculture systems; (6) designation of sites or areas 
for conducting aquaculture; (7) buffer zones for aquaculture 
facilities; (8) recordkeeping and reporting requirements; and (9) 
regulations to aid in the enforcement of marine aquaculture facilities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AS65
_______________________________________________________________________

380. ESTABLISH MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR THE WESTERN PACIFIC SQUID FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Under an amendment to the western Pacific pelagics Fishery 
Management Plan, pelagic squid would be designated as a management unit 
species, and measures would be established governing the pelagic squid 
fishery in the western Pacific region.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/07

[[Page 22375]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AS71
_______________________________________________________________________

381. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES AND IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; WEST 
COAST SALMON FISHERIES; AMENDMENT 14; ESSENTIAL FISH HABITAT (EFH) 
DESCRIPTIONS FOR PACIFIC SALMON

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement Amendment 14 to the Pacific 
Salmon Fishery Management Plan (Salmon FMP) to identify and describe 
Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) for Pacific salmon. The intent of this 
rule is to codify the EFH identifications and descriptions for 
freshwater and marine habitats of Pacific salmon managed under the 
Salmon FMP, including chinook, coho, and pink salmon in Washington, 
Oregon, and California. In addition, the intent of this rule is to 
comply with the October 1, 2003, court order of the U.S. District Court 
for the District of Idaho, and to promote the conservation and 
enhancement of Pacific salmon EFH.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AS96
_______________________________________________________________________

382. TRANSFER OF MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY FOR THE ATLANTIC COAST RED DRUM 
RESOURCE FROM THE SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL TO THE 
ATLANTIC STATES MARINE FISHERIES COMMISSION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this action is to repeal the Atlantic Coast 
Red Drum Fishery Management Plan (Red Drum FMP) and transfer the 
Secretary's authority to regulate harvest and possession of red drum in 
and from the Atlantic Coast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) from the 
Magnuson-Stevens Act to the Atlantic Coastal Fisheries Cooperative 
Management Act (ACA), as requested by the Council and the Atlantic 
States Marine Fisheries Commission. This action will maintain the 
prohibition on possession and harvest of red drum in the EEZ.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AT13
_______________________________________________________________________

383. WEST COAST HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES, CORRECTING AMENDMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will make clarifications and corrections to the 
final rules published to implement the Fishery Management Plan for U.S. 
West Coast Highly Migratory Species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AT32
_______________________________________________________________________

384. MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR PACIFIC BIGEYE TUNA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 14 to the Pelagics Fishery Management Plan (FMP) 
would implement management measures to address overfishing of bigeye 
tuna in the Pacific Ocean. The amendment would include nonregulatory 
procedures for the management of international fisheries that harvest 
bigeye tuna, and regulatory measures for fisheries managed under the 
FMP. These measures include a program of Federal permits and data 
collection for non-longline Hawaii-based commercial pelagic vessels 
(troll, handline, and pole and line). The amendment may include other 
regulatory measures, possibly including effort controls.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          02/15/07                     72 FR 7375
NPRM                            03/29/07                    72 FR 14761
Comment Period End              04/16/07
NPRM Comment Period End         05/14/07
Final Rule                      07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

[[Page 22376]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AT55
_______________________________________________________________________

385. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement a rebuilding program for 
butterfish. This would also authorize the formation of sectors in the 
squid fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT58
_______________________________________________________________________

386. FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 1 TO THE ATLANTIC SURFCLAM AND OCEAN QUAHOG 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Framework 1 would require Vessel Monitoring Systems in the 
surfclam and ocean quahog fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/05/07                     72 FR 9719
NPRM Comment Period End         04/04/07
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT62
_______________________________________________________________________

387. AMENDMENT 68; CENTRAL GULF OF ALASKA ROCKFISH PILOT PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement a pilot program that would 
recognize the historic participation of fishing vessels (1996 to 2002, 
best 5 of 7 years) and historic participation of fish processors (1996 
to 2000, best 4 of 5 years) for Pacific ocean perch, northern rockfish, 
and pelagic shelf rockfish harvested in Central Gulf of Alaska. This 
pilot program would: (1) Provide for a set-aside of up to 5 percent for 
the total allowable catch of such fisheries for catcher vessels not 
eligible to participate in the pilot program, which shall be delivered 
to shore-based fish processors not eligible to participate in the pilot 
program; (2) establish catch limits for non-rockfish species and non-
target rockfish species currently harvested with Pacific ocean perch, 
northern rockfish, and pelagic shelf rockfish, which shall be based on 
historical harvesting of such bycatch species. The pilot program would 
sunset when a Gulf of Alaska groundfish comprehensive rationalization 
plan is authorized by the Council and implemented by the Secretary, or 
2 years from date of implementation, whichever is earlier.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          05/15/06                    71 FR 27984
NPRM                            06/07/06                    71 FR 33040
Comment Period End              07/14/06
NPRM Comment Period End         07/24/06
Final Action                    11/20/06                    71 FR 67210
Second NPRM                     06/00/07
Second NPRM Comment Period End  07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AT71
_______________________________________________________________________

388. INTERAGENCY ELECTRONIC REPORTING SYSTEM (IERS)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would revise 50 CFR part 679.4--Permits by making 
technical edits, clarifying, and simplifying existing requirements. In 
addition, this rule would revise several sections of 50 CFR part 679.5-
-Reformatting recordkeeping and reporting regulations to make room for 
new electronic reporting requirements; making technical edits; 
clarifying and simplifying existing requirements; removing obsolete 
text. A new section will be added to describe requirements for a 
catcher vessel electronic logbook. The Shoreside Processor Electronic 
Logbook Report (SPELR) for groundfish at 679.5(e) will be replaced by 
the Interagency Electronic Reporting System (IERS) eLandings data entry 
for groundfish, crab, Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) halibut, IFQ 
sablefish, and Community Development Quota halibut. The IFQ Internet 
system described at 679.5(l) will be revised with an option to use 
eLandings. The mothership weekly accumulative ADF&G fish tickets 
described at 679.5(m) will be removed; this information will be sent 
through IERS eLandings. The revision of this rule is necessary to meet 
the statutory

[[Page 22377]]

deadline for eLandings to be in place for groundfish data entry by 
January 1, 2007.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AR30, Merged with 0648-AQ07
RIN: 0648-AT91
_______________________________________________________________________

389. WESTERN PACIFIC PRECIOUS CORALS FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP): 
AMENDMENT TO MANAGE HAWAII BLACK CORAL FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is taking action to 
reduce fishing impacts on black coral in the Auau Channel, Hawaii. The 
biomass of black coral there has declined from several factors, 
including fishing. This action would remove an exemption that allows 
the harvest of black corals with a minimum base diameter of 0.75 inch 
or minimum height of 36 inches by persons who reported harvest to the 
State of Hawaii within the five years prior to April 17, 2002. The 
current minimum base requirement of 1 inch and minimum height of 48 
inches would remain in effect.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AS64
RIN: 0648-AT93
_______________________________________________________________________

390. AMENDMENT 84-A TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE BERING 
SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS MANAGEMENT AREA IMPLEMENTING SALMON BYCATCH 
MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would exempt Pollock and Community Development 
Quota vessels that participate in a voluntary rolling hotspot closure 
system (VRHS) from chum and Chinook salmon savings area closures. The 
VRHS utilizes inseason data and a private contractor to determine and 
avoid high salmon bycatch areas. The VRHS encourages salmon bycatch 
reduction through internal enforcement of a civil agreement between 
cooperatives and third party groups. This rulemaking would also exempt 
vessels participating in the trawl cod and/or flatfish targets from 
closures of the chum salmon savings area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU03
_______________________________________________________________________

391. AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY: EGG PRODUCTION MEASURES AS APPROVED IN 
ADDENDA II THROUGH VII TO AMENDMENT 3 OF THE ATLANTIC STATES MARINE 
FISHERIES COMMISSION'S INTERSTATE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 697

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announces that 
it is considering, and seeking public comment on, the implementation of 
further minimum carapace length (gauge) increases and escape vent size 
increases in the Federal lobster fishery, consistent with 
recommendations for Federal action in Addenda II-VII of Amendment 3 to 
the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's (Commission) 
Interstate Fishery Management Plan (ISFMP) for American Lobster. These 
include gauge increases scheduled annually from 2005 through 2008 in 
Lobster Conservation Management Areas (LCMA) 3 and the Outer Cape 
Lobster Conservation Management Area (OCLMA), as well as an escape vent 
size increase for LCMA 1 scheduled for 2007. These measures are in 
addition to those addressed by NMFS in a proposed rule, published in 
the Federal Register on September 2, 2005 (70 FR 52346), which proposes 
gauge increases and escape vent size increases as scheduled through 
2004 in Addenda II and III to Amendment 3 of the ISFMP.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/13/05                    70 FR 73717
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/12/06
ANPRM                           12/18/06                    71 FR 75705
NPRM                            08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For More Information:
http://www.nero.noaa.gov/statefedoff/

URL For Public Comments:
http://www.nero.noaa.gov/nero/comments/index.htm

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast

[[Page 22378]]

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU07
_______________________________________________________________________

392. EXPANSION OF THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY VESSEL MONITORING 
SYSTEM TO THE OPEN ACCESS FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1851, sec 301

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action expands the current vessel monitoring system 
(VMS) program by requiring all vessels fishing pursuant to the harvest 
guidelines, quotas, and other management measures governing the open 
access groundfish fishery to provide declaration reports and to 
activate and use a VMS transceiver while fishing off the coasts of 
Washington, Oregon, and California. Any commercial fishing vessel that 
is not registered to a limited entry groundfish permit and that is used 
to take and retain groundfish in the Exclusive Economic Zone (3-200 nm 
from shore) that possess groundfish while transiting the EEZ, or that 
lands groundfish taken in the EEZ is considered to be participating in 
the open access groundfish fishery. Vessels using non-groundfish trawl 
gear to fish in the EEZ will be included, whether or not groundfish is 
retained, for the purpose of monitoring vessel activity in relation to 
essential fish habitat.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AU08
_______________________________________________________________________

393. SUBSISTENCE HALIBUT PROGRAM AMENDMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 773 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679; 50 CFR 300; 50 CFR 902

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The action would amend regulations for the Subsistence 
Halibut Program by: (1) Revising the subsistence gear restrictions in 
Kodiak and adding seasonal gear and vessel limits in the Sitka Sound 
Local Area Management Plan (LAMP) area; (2) adding the village of 
Naukati to the list of eligible subsistence halibut communities; (3) 
implementing a possession limit equal to two daily bag limits to 
enhance enforcement; (4) revising the definition of charter vessel; (5) 
revising regulations allowing customary trade; and (6) allowing the use 
of special permits within non-subsistence use areas by tribes eligible 
for the permits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AK16, Related to 0648-AR88
RIN: 0648-AU14
_______________________________________________________________________

394. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REVISE CERTAIN SPECIES CODES IN TABLE 2A 
AND TABLE 2D

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would add and revise species codes 
to table 2 to part 679. Table 2a is revised to remove species code 154 
Dusky rockfish (S. ciliatus) and by adding in its place 154 Dark 
rockfish (S. ciliatus) and a new species code for Dusky rockfish (S. 
variabilis). This change will allow managers to account for catches of 
each of these species separately. Table 2d is revised to remove an 
unnecessary species code for Albacore tuna.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU20
_______________________________________________________________________

395. AMENDMENT 14 TO THE BOTTOMFISH AND SEAMOUNT GROUNDFISH FMP: 
MEASURES TO END BOTTOMFISH OVERFISHING IN THE HAWAIIAN ARCHIPELAGO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Pacific Islands Regional Administrator notified the 
Western Pacific Council in May 2005 that the bottomfish species complex 
in the Hawaiian Archipelago is in a state of overfishing. This action 
would amend the fishery management plan to implement measures to end 
overfishing in the bottomfish complex.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator,

[[Page 22379]]

Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AU22
_______________________________________________________________________

396. AUTHORIZE AN EXEMPTED FISHING PERMIT UNDER THE HIGHLY MIGRATORY 
SPECIES (HMS) FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would implement regulations authorizing an Exempted 
Fishing Permit, under the Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Fishery 
Management Plan, to allow a limited number of drift gillnet vessels to 
fish in a zone currently closed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) 
and Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act 
regulations. The action is pending review and approval by the Pacific 
Council and must undergo an ESA section 7 consultation prior to 
adoption.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AU25
_______________________________________________________________________

397. AMENDMENT 12 TO THE COASTAL PELAGIC SPECIES (CPS) FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Pacific Fishery Management Council amends its Coastal 
Pelagic Species (CPS) Fishery Management Plan (FMP) to ensure the 
protection of krill and the resources which depend on or are sensitive 
to the abundance and availability of krill off the West Coast. The 
Amendment would add krill to the management unit species of the CPS 
FMP, establish a ``prohibited harvest'' category of management unit 
species in the CPS FMP, place krill in the ``prohibited harvest'' 
category and thus prohibit the harvest and retention of krill in the 
EEZ, and deny the use of the exempted fishing permit process under the 
CPS FMP to allow krill fishing.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability          02/26/07                     72 FR 8335
Comment Period End              04/27/07
NPRM                            06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AU26
_______________________________________________________________________

398. AMENDMENT 14 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER-GROUPER 
FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 14 would establish marine protected areas (MPAs) in 
Federal waters of the South Atlantic.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          07/20/06                    71 FR 41207
NPRM                            06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AU28
_______________________________________________________________________

399. AMENDMENT 15 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER-GROUPER 
FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 15 would: establish biological reference points and 
status determination criteria, where needed, for five snapper grouper 
species; establish rebuilding schedules and strategies, where needed, 
for five snapper grouper species; assess the practicability of 
prohibiting the sale of recreationally caught fish; ensure parity among 
users in different states by changing the golden tilefish fishing year 
and trip limit; eliminate the queen snapper size limit; assess the 
practicability of changes to the renewal period on commercial snapper 
grouper permits; and assess the practicability of allowing one-to-one 
transfer of commercial permits from an individual to a family-held 
corporation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AU29

[[Page 22380]]

_______________________________________________________________________

400. AMENDMENT 11 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 11 would limit access and control effort in the 
General Category sector of the scallop fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU32
_______________________________________________________________________

401. FRAMEWORK 4 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR MONKFISH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This framework would modify the annual adjustment process for 
the monkfish fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/20/07                    72 FR 13069
NPRM Comment Period End         04/23/07
Final Rule                      06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AU65
RIN: 0648-AU34
_______________________________________________________________________

402. RECONCILIATION OF STATE AND FEDERAL COMMERCIAL FISHING VESSEL 
PERMIT PROGRAMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648; 50 CFR 697

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement a limit to the amount of days 
that a federally-permitted commercial fishing vessel can fish. 
Although, in the case of the Northeast (NE) multispecies fisheries, it 
is estimated that less that 5 percent of vessels are currently 
exploiting what amounts to a regulatory loophole, fishing part of the 
permit year exclusively under State regulations and then later renewing 
their Federal permit, their impact to fishing mortality objectives 
could potentially be significant, especially as reductions in DAS 
continue in New England. This action is needed to address the 
aforementioned situation, that is exploited by a few people, before 
others begin to regard this as an advantage that should be utilized to 
stay competitive. The purpose of this action is to remove an unintended 
consequence of having a Federal permit renewal system that effectively 
allows for a temporary relinquishment of a Federal limited access 
permit. This action would reinforce commercial fishing vessel permit 
renewal procedures currently practiced by over 90 percent of all 
limited access permit holders. Furthermore, this action may facilitate 
the development of corresponding State permit regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/06/07                    72 FR 17085
NPRM Comment Period End         05/07/07
Final Rule                      07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU51
_______________________________________________________________________

403. FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT TO THE BYCATCH REDUCTION CRITERION FOR THE 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SHRIMP FISHERY OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) 
developed Amendment 9 to the Shrimp FMP, which established a 
requirement for the use of Bycatch Reduction Devices (BRDs) in the 
shrimp fishery of the western Gulf of Mexico. Amendment 9 also 
established criteria by which BRDs would be tested and certified for 
use in the shrimp fishery of the western Gulf of Mexico. Since that 
time, many changes have occurred in both the directed red snapper 
fishery and the shrimp fishery to affect the fishing mortality 
reduction requirements. Because of changes in the shrimp fishery, 
existing certified BRDs reduce fishing mortality by a lesser amount 
than originally documented, and no new BRDs have been developed for use 
in the shrimp fishery. NMFS is taking this action to modify the 
existing BRD certification criteria. The intent of this change is to 
better address reductions in bycatch of red snapper, and to better 
address National Standard 9 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AT86
RIN: 0648-AU59

[[Page 22381]]

_______________________________________________________________________

404. APPROVAL OF OPERATIONS PLAN FOR THE GEORGES BANK FIXED GEAR SECTOR 
FOR 2007-2008

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action requests comment on an Operations Plan for a 
Sector in the NE multispecies fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU61
_______________________________________________________________________

405. APPROVAL OF OPERATIONS PLAN FOR THE GEORGES BANK HOOK SECTOR FOR 
2007-2008

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action requests comment on an Operations Plan for a 
Sector in the NE multispecies fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU62
_______________________________________________________________________

406. ESTABLISHMENT OF QUOTAS FOR THE 2007-2008 COD, HADDOCK, AND 
YELLOWTAIL FLOUNDER FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action implements fishing quotas (TACs) for cod, 
haddock, and yellowtail flounder on Georges Bank for 2007.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/12/07                    72 FR 10967
NPRM Comment Period End         04/11/07
Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU63
_______________________________________________________________________

407. AMENDMENT 80 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR GROUNDFISH OF THE 
BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 80 would provide specific groundfish allocations to 
the non-AFA trawl CP sector and allow the formation of fishing 
cooperatives within the sector. Sector allocations and associated 
cooperatives would allow participants to focus less on harvest 
maximization and more on optimizing their harvest. This in turn could 
allow reduction of incidental catch, improve retention, and improve 
utilization, while still improving the economic health of the 
harvesting and processing, all of which address the problem statement 
for Amendment 80. Additional monitoring and enforcement provisions will 
ensure that the allocations are properly accounted. The costs of these 
monitoring provisions would be less than the benefits from improved 
economic efficiency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AT04
RIN: 0648-AU68
_______________________________________________________________________

408. AMENDMENT 15 TO THE PACIFIC COAST SALMON FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 15 to the Pacific Coast Salmon Fishery Management 
Plan (FMP) would implement provisions that provide de minimis fishing 
opportunity during periods when the status of Klamath River fall 
Chinook is such that no fishing opportunities would be allowed under 
the current FMP without use of the emergency rule process, as was 
necessary for the 2006 salmon season. The conservation objective for 
Klamath River fall Chinook, which includes an annual natural spawning 
escapement floor of 35,000 adults, with respect to determining when 
stock status would trigger a Conservation Alert or an Overfishing 
Concern, will not change.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          12/20/06                    71 FR 76270
NPRM                            05/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of

[[Page 22382]]

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand 
Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AU69
_______________________________________________________________________

409. 2007-2008 MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR COMMERCIAL, RECREATIONAL, AND 
TREATY INDIAN SALMON FISHERIES OFF THE COASTS OF WASHINGTON, OREGON, AND 
CALIFORNIA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement annual management measures for 
the 2007-2008 fishing year. In particular, this action would specify 
allowable ocean harvest levels (including quotas) allocations, 
management boundaries and zones, minimum size limits, gear definitions, 
seasons, selective fisheries, and in-season notice procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AU70
_______________________________________________________________________

410. GEOGRAPHIC REORGANIZATION OF WESTERN PACIFIC REGULATIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service amends its regulations 
concerning fisheries in the Western Pacific by reorganizing the 
provisions according to geography. This action will make the 
regulations better organized and easier to use for managers, the 
regulated community, and the general public.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AU71
_______________________________________________________________________

411. AMEND VESSEL MARKING SECTION 660.704 OF THE U.S. WEST COAST HIGHLY 
MIGRATORY SPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Pacific Fisheries Management Council (Council) is 
considering alternatives for amending the vessel marking requirement 
embodied in Section 660.704 of the Highly Migratory Species Fishery 
Management Plan. Changes to letter height, color, and placement 
pertaining to the official vessel number will be amended. These changes 
are being considered to standardize the vessel marking requirements for 
recreational charter vessels operating in West Coast fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Craig Heberer, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 West 
Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 760 431-9440
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: craig.heberer@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AU73
_______________________________________________________________________

412. EFFORT LIMITATION FOR UNITED STATES COMMERCIAL FISHING VESSELS 
TARGETING NORTH PACIFIC ALBACORE TUNA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is considering 
regulations to fulfill the United States' obligation under Inter-
American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC) Resolution to cap effort in 
the North Pacific albacore surface hook-and-line fishery managed under 
the Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan. The IATTC 
Resolution recommends that member nations and cooperating parties take 
this action to address potential overfishing concerns for North Pacific 
albacore.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Craig Heberer, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 West 
Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 760 431-9440
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: craig.heberer@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AU74
_______________________________________________________________________

413. BAG LIMITS FOR TUNA SPECIES TAKEN IN THE RECREATIONAL CHARTER 
FISHERY FOR THE UNITED STATES WEST COAST FISHERIES FOR HIGHLY MIGRATORY 
SPECIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement bag limits for tuna species taken 
by West Coast recreational fisheries. This regulation would institute a 
daily bag

[[Page 22383]]

limit for albacore and bluefin tuna harvested in State and Federal 
waters off California, Oregon and Washington. The bag limited is needed 
to address resource conservation efforts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Craig Heberer, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 West 
Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 760 431-9440
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: craig.heberer@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AU77
_______________________________________________________________________

414. INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA PROCESSING RESTRICTION AMENDMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 773 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300; 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would modify the halibut and sablefish Individual 
Fishing Quota (IFQ) Program regulations to allow: (1) Processing of 
non-IFQ species on a vessel that is otherwise authorized to process 
non-IFQ species when any amount of IFQ halibut resulting from catcher 
vessel Quota Share (QS) is held by fishermen on board a vessel in the 
Bering Sea and Aluetian Islands and the Gulf of Alaska; and (2) 
processing catcher/processor QS on board a vessel on which persons 
possess catcher vessel QS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU85
_______________________________________________________________________

415. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); 2007 BLUEFIN TUNA QUOTA 
SPECIFICATIONS AND EFFORT CONTROLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS proposes specifications for the Atlantic bluefin tuna 
(BFT) fishery to set BFT quotas, General category effort controls, and 
seasonal management measures for the 2007 fishing year (June 1, 2007 -- 
December 31, 2007). This action will implement the U.S. annual BFT 
quota as recommended by the International Commission for the 
Conservation of Atlantic Tunas and allocate that quota among the 
domestic fishing
categories. General category effort controls will allocate time-period 
subquotas and set certain restricted fishing days. The seasonal 
management measures would propose daily retention limits and their 
duration for both the General and Angling categories. The annual 
specification process is set forth in current regulations implemented 
under the Consolidated Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management 
Plan.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/04/07                    72 FR 16318
NPRM Comment Period End         05/04/07
Final Rule                      07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AU87
_______________________________________________________________________

416. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; INTERNATIONAL TRADE PERMIT 
REGULATORY AMENDMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Species proposes regulatory 
changes to the highly migratory species (HMS) international trade 
program, which encompasses dealer permitting and reporting for 
international trade of swordfish, bluefin tuna, and bigeye tuna. The 
proposed regulatory changes will include adjustments to improve program 
efficacy and consistency with regulations of other U.S. agencies.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AU88
_______________________________________________________________________

417. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; ATLANTIC SHARK MANAGEMENT 
MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would reevaluate the management measures for large 
coastal sharks (LCS) and pelagic sharks based on the 2005/2006 LCS 
stock assessment, the 2006 dusky shark stock assessment, and the 
Canadian 2005 porbeagle shark stock assessment. This rulemaking could 
consider, among other things, changes to existing rebuilding plans for 
overfished species, commercial quotas and trip limits, recreational 
minimum size and bag limits, and the public display quota. In

[[Page 22384]]

addition, this rule would likely reevaluate the Mid-Atlantic shark 
closure and its role in the rebuilding plan for LCS. This action is 
necessary in light of recent stock assessments, which have determined 
that dusky and sandbar sharks are overfished with overfishing 
occurring. The status is unknown for the Atlantic blacktip shark 
population, and porbeagle sharks are likely overfished. In addition, 
the 2005/2006 LCS stock assessment determined it is inappropriate to 
assess the LCS complex as a whole, which has been the basis of managing 
these species since 1993.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          11/07/06                    71 FR 65086
NPRM                            07/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AU89
_______________________________________________________________________

418. [bull] PROTECTIVE REGULATIONS FOR THREATENED ELKHORN AND STAGHORN 
CORALS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 to 1544

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Under section 4(d) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the 
Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) is required to adopt such regulations 
as he deems necessary and advisable for the conservation of species 
listed as threatened. This rule represents the regulations that NMFS 
believe are necessary and advisable to conserve threatened elkhorn and 
staghorn corals. These protective regulations would apply the take 
prohibitions enumerated in section 9(a)(1) of the ESA in most 
circumstances to the two listed threatened coral species. NMFS does not 
find it necessary or advisable to apply the take prohibitions to 
specified categories of activities that contribute to conserving listed 
corals or are governed by a program that adequately limits impacts on 
listed corals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AU92
_______________________________________________________________________

419. [bull] VESSEL MONITORING SYSTEM REVISION FOR BERING SEA AND 
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS (BSAI) AND GULF OF ALASKA (GOA) FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment is necessary to clarify the 
requirements for vessel monitoring systems (VMS) for vessels operating 
in the fisheries of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands management area 
and Gulf of Alaska. The revision would require all federally permitted 
vessels to operate a VMS when the fishery is open for which the vessel 
is endorsed. In addition, the revision would require all federally 
permitted vessels to operate a VMS in State of Alaska waters when VMS 
operation is also required in Federal waters.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AT09
RIN: 0648-AU93
_______________________________________________________________________

420. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); ESSENTIAL FISH 
HABITAT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would update Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) for 
Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS). This rulemaking would consider 
alternatives for different EFH identifications and descriptions, 
analyze fishing and non-fishing impacts on any resulting changes to 
EFH, and consider measures to minimize any adverse fishing and non-
fishing impacts on the revised EFH. EFH for Atlantic HMS was originally 
identified and described in the 1999 fishery management plan (FMP) for 
Atlantic Tunas, Swordfish, and Sharks, and in the 1999 Amendment 1 to 
the Atlantic Billfish FMP. As part of the 5-year review and update 
required by the EFH regulatory guidelines, the National Marine 
Fisheries Service reviewed all new and existing EFH data in the 
Consolidated HMS FMP and determined that changes to existing EFH may be 
warranted. This rulemaking would constitute the second phase of the 5-
year review and update by potentially modifying some of the existing 
EFH.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          11/07/06
NPRM                            12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910

[[Page 22385]]

Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AV00
_______________________________________________________________________

421. [bull] REVISE ECONOMIC DATA REPORTS (EDR) FISHERIES OF THE 
EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE OFF ALASKA; BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING 
AND TANNER CRAB FISHERY RESOURCES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1862

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would revise the implementation of 
reporting regulations for the Crab Rationalization Program to section 
680.06 to conform with the statutory requirements and objectives of the 
Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands (BSAI) King and 
Tanner Crabs (FMP), the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and 
Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act), and other applicable laws. This 
action is necessary to correct a discrepancy in the previous 
rulemaking. Specifically, revision to the reporting requirements to 
section 680.06 is necessary to maintain consistency between EDRs and 
the regulations for crab harvesters and processors participating in the 
program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AS47
RIN: 0648-AV06
_______________________________________________________________________

422. [bull] STANDARDIZE PERMIT APPLICATIONS FOR THE FISHERIES OF THE 
EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE OFF ALASKA; BERING SEA, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS, AND 
GULF OF ALASKA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1862

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would revise permit application requirements by 
adding, if not already included: (1) Social security number (SSN) or 
tax identification number (TIN), and (2) date of birth or date of 
incorporation. This action is necessary to standardize the process for 
issuing permits across NMFS and to comply with the Debt Collection 
Improvement Act of 1996 (DCIA), which requires Federal agencies to 
collect a TIN or SSN for all persons doing business with the 
government. All existing and future applications for a permit, license, 
endorsement, transfer, or like instruments issued by the National 
Marine Fisheries Service will require the TIN or, in certain permits/
applications, the social security number of the applicant as well as 
the date of birth of individual applicants or date of incorporation, no 
later than December 31, 2007.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AV08
_______________________________________________________________________

423. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; NORTH AND SOUTH ATLANTIC 
SWORDFISH COMMERCIAL MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will modify the 2006 fishing season quotas for 
North and South Atlantic Swordfish based on recent updated landings 
information. This action will also establish initial North and South 
Atlantic quotas and seasons for 2007, and will implement 
recommendations from the 2006 meeting of the International Commission 
for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT). This rule is necessary 
to ensure that current swordfish quotas account for underharvests from 
the 2005 fishing year, consistent with regulations at 50 CFR part 635, 
and implement ICCAT recommendations that establish the U.S. North and 
South Atlantic swordfish allocations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AV10
_______________________________________________________________________

424. [bull] ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR 2007 PACIFIC SARDINE FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will announce the annual harvest guideline for 
Pacific sardine in the exclusive economic zone off the Pacific coast. 
The Coastal Pelagic Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and its implementing 
regulations require NMFS to set an annual harvest guideline for Pacific 
sardine based on a formula in the FMP. The intended effect of this 
action is to establish allowable harvest levels for Pacific sardine off 
the Pacific coast.

[[Page 22386]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AV11
_______________________________________________________________________

425. [bull] HIGH SEAS FISHING COMPLIANCE ACT (HSFCA); AMENDMENT OF 
REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5501

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service publishes this action 
to improve the administration of the HSFCA program. The regulatory 
changes will include adjustments to permitting, reporting and 
transshipping procedures; provisions for experimental or exploratory 
fisheries; specifications for vessel monitoring system requirements; 
and the correction of obsolete references.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Rebecca Lent, Regional Administrator, Southwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802-4213
Phone: 562 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AV12
_______________________________________________________________________

426. [bull] REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REVISE ELECTRONIC REPORTING SOFTWARE 
AND HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE OBSERVER COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM (OCS)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773k; 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 3631

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679; 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action is necessary to revise regulations at section 
679.50(g)(1) and section 679.50(g)(2), which describe vessel and 
shoreside processor minimum software and hardware requirements for the 
Observer Communications System (OCS). The OCS consists of custom 
software and communications equipment that groundfish observers use to 
enter data collected in the course of their duties and to communicate 
this data by satellite link to observer program staff. Additionally, 
the OCS is capable of sending text messages, and observer program staff 
uses this function to provide support to observers while in the field. 
Since its implementation, OCS requirements have been periodically 
upgraded through proposed and final rulemaking. These upgrades have 
been necessary as commercially available software becomes obsolete or 
unsupported by its manufacturer, or the National Marine Fisheries 
Service (NMFS) must upgrade the software component of the OCS to 
increase the overall data quality and efficiency of the OCS system. 
Rather than propose upgrades to specific hardware and software 
components necessary to support new OCS software, NMFS removes these 
specific requirements, and replaces them with a requirement that each 
catcher vessel, catcher/processor, mothership, and shoreside or 
stationary floating processor already subject to OCS requirements 
provide hardware and software that is fully functional and operational 
with the NMFS supplied software.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/29/07                    72 FR 14764
NPRM Comment Period End         04/27/07
Final Rule                      06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Jason Anderson, 907-586-7650; 
Jason.Anderson@noaa.gov

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AP66, Related to 0648-AS93
RIN: 0648-AV13
_______________________________________________________________________

427. [bull] REVISION TO ALLOWABLE BYCATCH REDUCTION DEVICES FOR THE GULF 
OF MEXICO SHRIMP FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In accordance with the framework procedures for adjusting 
management measures of the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp 
Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico (FMP), NMFS publishes this action to 
decertify the expanded mesh bycatch reduction device (BRD), the Gulf 
fisheye BRD, and to revise the allowable configuration of the fisheye 
BRD for use in the Gulf of Mexico shrimp fishery. The intended effect 
of this rule is to improve bycatch reduction in the shrimp fishery and 
better meet the requirements of national standard 9.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AV14

[[Page 22387]]

_______________________________________________________________________

428. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); SAWFISH DEHOOKING 
AND SEA TURTLE HANDLING GEAR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would update regulations on the handling and 
release of smalltooth sawfish, an endangered species, to allow for 
removal of hooks or other fishing gear if a smalltooth sawfish is 
caught incidentally in pelagic longline or bottom longline fisheries 
for Atlantic highly migratory species (HMS). This rule would also make 
mandatory the possession and use of additional sea turtle handling gear 
to facilitate dehooking of sea turtles (endangered or threatened 
depending on species) caught incidentally in pelagic or bottom longline 
gear for Atlantic HMS. The benefit of this rule is to maximize safe and 
efficient gear removal from incidentally captured sawfish and sea 
turtles, minimizing the potential for serious injury or mortality from 
remaining gear.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AV16
_______________________________________________________________________

429. [bull] AMENDMENT 18 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE COASTAL 
MIGRATORY PELAGIC RESOURCES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To prevent overfishing and continue sustainable management of 
the Atlantic groups of king and Spanish mackerel resources, Amendment 
18 would adjust total allowable catch for Atlantic migratory groups of 
king and Spanish mackerel, and adjust the trip limits for Atlantic 
migratory group Spanish mackerel to track the new fishing year (March 1 
-- end of February).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AV17
_______________________________________________________________________

430. [bull] AMENDMENT 25 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN IN THE BERING 
SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRAB FISHERIES OFF ALASKA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773k; 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 3631

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679; 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for the Bering Sea and 
Aleutian Islands King and Tanner Crab Fisheries off Alaska titled 
Amendment 25 authorizes eligible entities and their affiliates to work 
together to combine Processor Quota Share (PQS) and Catcher Vessel 
Operator (CVO) Quota Share (QS) and to exchange these shares for newly 
created northern region CPO QS (North CPO QS). This FMP is in 
accordance with the Magnuson-Stevens Reauthorization Act of 2006.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          02/05/07                     72 FR 5255
Comment Period End              04/06/07
NPRM                            06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AV19
_______________________________________________________________________

431. [bull] GEORGES BANK COD HOOK SECTOR OPERATIONS PLAN AND AGREEMENT 
AND ALLOCATION OF GEORGES BANK COD TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan approved 
creation of the Georges Bank Cod Hook Sector (Sector) in 2004, and 
created a process wherein the Sector is required to submit an annual 
operations plan in order to be approved to operate in a specific manner 
during a specific fishing year, and be allocated a total allowable 
catch (TAC) of Georges Bank cod for a fishing year. This proposed rule 
would not implement regulations, but would solicit public comment on 
the proposed management measures under which the Sector would Operate 
during fishing year 2007, and propose a specific 2007 Georges Bank cod 
TAC. The Fishery Management Plan authorizes the Regional Administrator 
(NER) to approve the proposed operations plan after soliciting public 
comment through publication of a proposed rule in the Federal Register.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 22388]]

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV20
_______________________________________________________________________

432. [bull] FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 7 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND 
BLACK SEA BASS FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this framework is to improve the timeliness 
and efficiency of incorporating the best scientific information 
available, consistent with National Standards 1 and 2, into the annual 
management processes outlined in section 648.100, 648.120, and 648.140 
for these three stocks, respectively. This action would first 
liberalize the stock status determination criteria contained within the 
Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan (FMP) 
while maintaining objective and measurable status determination 
criteria for identifying when stocks or stock complexes covered by the 
FMP are overfished. Second, this action would establish acceptable 
categories of peer-review for stock status determination criteria. When 
these specific peer-review metrics are met and new or updated 
information is available, the new or revised stock status determination 
criteria may be incorporated by the Council directly into the annual 
management measures for each species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV21
_______________________________________________________________________

433. [bull] 2007 GEORGES BANK COD FIXED GEAR SECTOR OPERATIONS PLAN AND 
TAC ALLOCATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Framework Adjustment (FW) 42 to the Northeast Multispecies 
Fishery Management Plan approved creation of the Georges Bank Cod Fixed 
Gear Sector (Fixed Gear Sector) in 2006, and created a process wherein 
the Sector is required to submit an annual operations plan in order to 
be approved to operate in a specific manner during
 a specific fishing year, and be allocated a total allowable catch 
(TAC) of Georges Bank cod for a fishing year. This proposed rule would 
not implement regulations, but would solicit public comment on the 
proposed management measures under which the Sector would Operate 
during fishing year 2007, and propose a specific 2007 Georges Bank cod 
TAC. The Fishery Management Plan authorizes the Regional Administrator 
(NER) to approve the proposed operations plan after soliciting public 
comment through publication of a proposed rule in the Federal Register.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV22
_______________________________________________________________________

434. [bull] AMENDMENT 1 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR U.S. WEST 
COAST FISHERIES FOR HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 1 to the West Coast Highly Migratory Species (HMS) 
Fishery Management Plan (FMP), combined with the Western Pacific 
Fishery Management Council's Amendment 14 will address Pacific-wide 
overfishing of Pacific bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus). This action is 
necessary per requirements contained in the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act), which requires 
protection for, and an end to overfishing of species managed under a 
Federal FMP. Amendment 1 also would reorganize the HMS FMP to create a 
more user-friendly document as the current form is a combined FMP with 
the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS), which evaluates the 
effects of its implementation. In addition to addressing overfishing of 
bigeye tuna, the reorganized FMP retains the management program 
elements required by the Magnuson-Stevens Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          03/09/07                    72 FR 10628
Comment Period End              05/08/07
NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AV24
_______________________________________________________________________

435. [bull] FISHERY ECOSYSTEM PLANS FOR THE WESTERN PACIFIC REGION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action is being taken to develop new Fishery Ecosystem 
Plans (FEPs) to employ ecosystem approaches to fishery management. The 
place-based FEPs (one for pelagic fisheries, and for

[[Page 22389]]

fisheries in the American Samoa Archipelago, the Hawaii Archipelago, 
the Marianas Archipelago, and the Pacific Remote Island Areas)--will 
replace existing species-based fishery management plans (FMPs): 
Bottomfish and Seamount Groundfish FMP, Crustaceans FMP, Precious 
Corals FMP, Coral Reef Ecosystems FMP and Pelagics FMP.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AV27
_______________________________________________________________________

436. [bull] FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; BOTTOMFISH AND SEAMOUNT 
GROUNDFISH FISHERIES; FMP AMENDMENT 10--COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN 
MARIANA ISLANDS (CNMI) LARGE VESSEL BOTTOMFISH MANAGEMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 10 to the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for 
Bottomfish and Seamount Groundfish Fisheries in the Western Pacific 
would establish closed areas, Federal permitting and reporting 
requirements, and vessel monitor system requirements, for large vessels 
(> 40 ft) targeting bottomfish in the Commonwealth of the Northern 
Mariana Islands.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AV28
_______________________________________________________________________

437. [bull] FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; WESTERN PACIFIC CRUSTACEAN 
FISHERIES; FMP AMENDMENT 13--DEEPWATER SHRIMP

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 CFR 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 13 to the FMP for Crustacean Fisheries in the 
Western Pacific would add deep-water shrimp in the genus Heterocarpus 
to the management unit, and establish Federal permitting and reporting 
requirements for these shrimp.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AV29
_______________________________________________________________________

438. [bull] FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; PRECIOUS CORALS FISHERIES; 
FMP AMENDMENT 8--GOLD AND BLACK CORAL MANAGEMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 8 to the FMP for Precious Coral Fisheries in the 
Western Pacific would establish the Auau Channel, Hawaii, black coral 
bed as an Established Bed with an annual harvest quota of 5000 kg 
(11,023 lb) every 2 years, and would place a 5-year moratorium on the 
harvest of gold coral in the Western Pacific.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AV30
_______________________________________________________________________

439. [bull] SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY ECOSYSTEM PLAN COMPREHENSIVE 
AMENDMENT

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this action is to develop an ecosystem-based 
approach to resource management. The South Atlantic Council plans to 
develop a Fishery Ecosystem Plan Comprehensive Amendment, which would 
modify all its Fishery Management Plans (FMPs). The initial amendment 
would include the following actions: 1) Require a permit to fish for, 
harvest, or possess any resource in the EEZ for all recreational and 
commercial fishermen; 2) various actions to comply with new Essential 
Fish Habitat requirements; 3) establishment of deep water coral Habitat 
Areas of Particular Concern, with possible gear limitations; 4) amend 
the shrimp FMP; 5) amend the Dolphin/Wahoo FMP; 6) consider a total 
prohibition on harvest of Sargassum, and develop a comprehensive 
research and monitoring plan; 7) any other actions that may be 
necessary to implement ecosystem-based fishery management.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast

[[Page 22390]]

Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AV31
_______________________________________________________________________

440. [bull] MODIFICATION MAXIMUM RETAINABLE AMOUNTS (MRAS) FOR SELECTED 
GROUNDFISH SPECIES CAUGHT BY THE NON-AMERICAN FISHING ACT TRAWL CATCHER/
PROCESSORS SECTOR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS issues this rule to amend regulations specifying the 
current interval of time allowed for determining the maximum retainable 
amount (MRA) of selected groundfish species that can be retained by 
non-American Fishery Act (AFA) trawl catcher/ processors (C/P). This 
action would change MRA regulations located at 50 CFR 679.20(e) that 
establish the calculation of MRAs for groundfish species that are 
closed to directed fishing by increasing the interval of time each 
vessel in this sector would have to retain the MRA specified in 
regulation for several species in the BSAI. The rule is intended to 
promote the goals and objectives of the Fishery Management Plan 
(FMP)for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management 
Area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07
Final Action                    09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AV32
_______________________________________________________________________

441. [bull] COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT QUOTA REGULATION OF HARVEST

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would revise fisheries management 
regulations to ensure that the halibut, sablefish, and pollock 
community development quota (CDQ) fisheries are managed no more 
restrictively than comparable individual fishing quota or cooperative 
fisheries in Alaska. Possible regulatory revisions include those 
associated with: (1) fisheries observer coverage levels; (2) catch 
retention and reporting requirements; and (3) an exemption from a 
licensing requirement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07
Final Action                    08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AV33
_______________________________________________________________________

442. [bull] REEF FISH AMENDMENT 30 FOR GAG, RED GROUPER, GREATER 
AMBERJACK, AND GRAY TRIGGERFISH: MEASURES TO END OVERFISHING AND 
ESTABLISH SFA PARAMETERS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this action is to implement adjustments to the 
total allowable catch and/or management measures for gag, red grouper, 
greater amberjack, and gray triggerfish based on recent stock 
assessments, in order to end overfishing for those species where it is 
occurring. Additionally, post-Sustainable Fisheries Act (SFA) 
benchmarks and reference points for several reef fish species have not 
yet been approved. Thus, under this rulemaking, post-SFA biological 
reference points and benchmarks will be defined for various reef fish 
species that do not currently have approved reference points and 
benchmarks.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AV34
_______________________________________________________________________

443. [bull] ALASKA GROUNDFISH FISHERIES SEABIRD AVOIDANCE MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would revise Alaska groundfish 
fisheries regulations to apply seabird avoidance gear standards to 
hook-and-line vessels operating in the Exclusive Economic Zone and 
portions of inside waters where birds of concern occur. The revision 
would remove seabird avoidance gear requirements in portions of inside 
waters where birds of concern do not occur. A weather safety exemption 
would be added to the regulations for small vessels, and the Seabird 
Avoidance Plan requirement would be deleted because it was found to be 
an unnecessary measure to ensure the proper use of seabird avoidance 
gear.

[[Page 22391]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07
Final Action                    08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AV38
_______________________________________________________________________

444. [bull] AMENDMENT 13 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY MANAGEMENT 
PLAN; INDUSTRY-FUNDED OBSERVER PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this rulemaking is to permanently implement 
the observer service provider mechanism first implemented by emergency 
action in June 2006.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/06/07                    72 FR 17076
NPRM Comment Period End         05/07/07
Final Rule                      08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV39
_______________________________________________________________________

445. [bull] SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2008 ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND 
BUTTERFISH FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish fishery specifications for the 
2008 Atlantic mackerel, squid, and butterfish fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV40
_______________________________________________________________________

446. [bull] SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2008 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK 
SEABASS FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish fishery specifications for the 
2008 summer flounder, scup, and black seabass fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV41
_______________________________________________________________________

447. [bull] SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2008-2010 SURFCLAM AND OCEAN QUAHOG 
FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish fishery specifications for the 
2008-2010 surfclam and ocean quahog fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV42
_______________________________________________________________________

448. [bull] AMENDMENT 7 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEABASS 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish a revised procedure and 
flexibility for changing biological reference points to adjust to best 
available scientific information.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV43

[[Page 22392]]

_______________________________________________________________________

449. [bull] AMENDMENT 4 TO THE ATLANTIC STATES MARINE FISHERIES 
COMMISSION'S (COMMISSION) INTERSTATE FISHERIES MANAGEMENT PLAN (ISFMP) 
FOR WEAKFISH

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 697

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) amends 
it regulations to modify management restrictions in the Federal 
weakfish fishery in a manner consistent with the Commission's Weakfish 
Management Board's (Board) approved Addendum II to Amendment 4 to the 
ISFMP for Weakfish. In short, the Federal regulatory change would 
decrease the incidental catch allowance for weakfish in the EEZ in non-
directed fisheries using smaller mesh sizes, from 300 pounds to no more 
than 150 pounds per day or trip, whichever is longer in duration. The 
Board's action was taken in response to a significant decline in stock 
abundance and increasing total mortality since 1999. As a result of the 
stock's overfished status, the Board was required under Amendment 4 to 
the ISFMP for Weakfish to adjust the management program to help rebuild 
spawning stock biomass. This issue is compounded by the fact that 
natural mortality, rather than fishing mortality, has been indicated as 
the lead cause for stock decline. This regulatory change would not 
increase or decrease the number of weakfish actually caught, but could 
reduce by up to 150 pounds the amount of bycatch that could be landed.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Thomas Meyer, Fisheries Biologist, Office of 
Intergovernmental/Recreational Fisheries, Department of Commerce, 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 8484 Georgia Avenue, 
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 427-2014

RIN: 0648-AV44
_______________________________________________________________________

450. [bull] REEF FISH REGULATORY AMENDMENT FOR VERMILION SNAPPER TO 
REVISE MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of the regulatory amendment is to revise 
management measures implemented through Amendment 23 to the FMP for the 
Reef Fish Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico. These management measures need 
to be revised because a recent stock assessment resulted in a change of 
stock status to not overfished or undergoing overfishing. The 
regulatory amendment contains two management alternatives. Alternative 
1 is the no action alternative and would maintain the regulations 
implemented by Amendment 23. Preferred Alternative 2 reverses 
management measures originally implemented by Amendment 23. 
Specifically, the actions in Preferred Alternative 2 include: reducing 
the recreational and commercial minimum size limit from 11 to 10 inches 
total length; ending the April 22-May 31 commercial seasonal closure; 
eliminating the 10 fish bag limit for vermilion snapper; and retaining 
vermilion snapper in the current 20-fish aggregate bag limit for those 
reef fish species without a species-specific bag limit.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV45
_______________________________________________________________________

451. [bull] CATCH ACCOUNTING REQUIREMENTS FOR PROCESSORS/FIRST RECEIVERS 
PARTICIPATING IN THE PACIFIC WHITING SHORESIDE FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1851

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this regulatory amendment is to establish 
catch accounting requirements for persons who receive, buy, or accept 
Pacific whiting deliveries of 4,000 pounds (lb) or more from vessels 
using mid-water trawl gear during the primary season. The Pacific 
whiting shoreside fishery needs to have an improved catch accounting 
system in place to better track the catch of Pacific whiting and other 
groundfish species, including overfished groundfish species, such that 
the optimum yields, harvest guidelines, sector allocations, and bycatch 
limits are not exceeded, or that the fishing industry is not 
unnecessarily constrained. The action would also provide for timely 
reporting of Chinook salmon take as specified in the Endangered Species 
Act Section 7 Biological Opinion for Chinook salmon catch in the 
Pacific groundfish fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/09/07                    72 FR 17469
NPRM Comment Period End         04/24/07
Final Rule                      06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Becky Renko, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic 
and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 
98115
Phone: 206 526-6140
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: becky.renko@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV46
_______________________________________________________________________

452. [bull] RECREATIONAL CHARTER HALIBUT FISHERY MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

[[Page 22393]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this regulatory amendment is to implement 
management measures that would reduce fishing mortality in the guided 
recreational fishery in the Pacific Halibut Commission's (Commission) 
area 2C while preserving the opportunity to harvest two halibut per 
day. This action is also intended to further the management goals of 
the Commission under the Northern Pacific Halibut Act of 1982.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/06/07                    72 FR 17071
NPRM Comment Period End         04/23/07
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AV47
_______________________________________________________________________

453. [bull] AMENDMENT 15 TO THE PACIFIC COAST SALMON FMP--DE MINIMIS 
FISHING OPPORTUNITY FOR KLAMATH RIVER FALL RUN CHINOOK SALMON

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 15 is to provide limited opportunity 
for harvest when fisheries would otherwise be closed to mitigate severe 
economic consequences to local communities and States that would 
otherwise occur. The provisions of this amendment are designed to be 
implemented during times when the conservation objective for the 
Klamath River fall Chinook stock precludes fishery access to co-mingled 
Chinook salmon stocks. While this amendment seeks to provide additional 
management flexibility in times of low Klamath River fall Chinook 
abundance, the overriding purpose of the Fishery Management Plan 
remains to preserve the long-term productive capacity of the stock and 
thereby ensure it continues to contribute meaningfully to ocean and 
river fisheries in the future. This amendment is not designed to 
provide for a sizeable fishery, nor is it designed to allow fishing 
levels that would deplete the stock.
Specifically, Amendment 15 would allow the Council to implement de 
minimis fisheries, which would: permit an ocean impact rate cap of 10 
percent on age-4 Klamath River fall Chinook, if the projected natural 
spawning escapement associated with a 10 percent age-4 ocean impact 
rate, including river recreational and tribal impacts, is between 
22,000 and 35,000. During the preseason planning process, the Council 
could further reduce the cap by considering the following issues: (a) 
Critically low natural spawner abundance, including the risk of Klamath 
Basin substocks dropping below crucial genetic thresholds; (b) a series 
of low spawner abundance in recent years; (c) the status of co-mingled 
stocks; (d) El Nino or other adverse environmental conditions; (e) 
Endangered Species Act considerations; and (f) other considerations as 
appropriate.
If the projected natural escapement associated with a 10 percent ocean 
impact rate is less than 22,000, the Council shall reduce the allowable 
age-4 ocean impact rate to reflect the status of the stock. Although 
this language does not require stopping fishing below 22,000 natural 
spawners, the regions believe it will be difficult to justify fishing 
below this level.
It is worth noting that de minimis fishing levels could have been 
implemented only twice in the last 23 years. (Run size projections have 
been greater than 35,000 in all other years.) Amendment 15 is, 
therefore, designed to mitigate the consequences of complete fishery 
closures likely to occur only occasionally under the current FMP. For 
perspective, the ocean impact rate on KRFC approved in 2006 was 11.5 
percent. De minimis levels allowed for under Amendment 15 would, 
therefore, in all cases, be more conservative than those allowed in 
2006.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Sarah Joy McAvinchey, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand 
Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-4323
Fax: 206-526-6736

RIN: 0648-AV07
_______________________________________________________________________

454. TAKING AND IMPORTING MARINE MAMMALS: TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO CONDUCTING OIL AND GAS EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES IN THE GULF 
OF MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1371(a)(5)(A)

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101 to 216.108

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received an 
application from the U.S. Minerals Management Service for regulations 
under section 101(a)(5)(A) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) 
to authorize the taking of marine mammals incidental to conducting oil 
and gas exploration activities by U.S. citizens in the Gulf of Mexico. 
Without this authorization, the taking of marine mammals is prohibited 
by the MMPA. In order to authorize the taking and issuing of 
authorizations, NMFS must, through regulations, determine that the 
proposed activity will have no more than a negligible impact on the 
affected species and stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kenneth R. Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department 
of Commerce, National

[[Page 22394]]

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of Protected Resources, 
1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20912
Phone: 301 713-2055
Email: ken.hollingshead@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AQ71
_______________________________________________________________________

455. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO ASSESSING NAVAL SHIP SURVIVABILITY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) expects to 
receive a request from the U.S. Navy for an authorization under the 
Marine Mammal Protection Act to take marine mammals, by harassment, 
injury, and possible mortality, incidental to conducting a shock trial 
along the U.S. East Coast/Gulf of Mexico. Shock trials are required to 
test the survivability of naval ship assets in accordance with section 
2366, title 10 United States Code. As a result of this request, NMFS 
will propose new regulations, that if implemented, would govern the 
incidental taking of marine mammals by the Navy for this activity. In 
order to promulgate regulations and issue an Letter of Authorization 
thereunder, NMFS must determine that the takings will have a negligible 
impact on the affected species and stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kenneth Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Room 13600, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2289
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: ken.hollingshead@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AT77
_______________________________________________________________________

456. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO DEPLOYMENT OF A NAVAL AT-SEA GUNNERY SCORING SYSTEM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the U.S. Navy for an authorization under the Marine Mammal 
Protection Act to take marine mammals, by harassment, incidental to 
deployment of a Naval At-Sea Gunnery Scoring System for the purpose of 
proficiency certification of U.S. Atlantic Fleet ships for naval 
surface fire support both within and seaward of established military 
operating areas. As a result of this request, NMFS is proposing 
regulations, that if implemented, would govern the incidental taking of 
marine mammals by the Navy. In order to promulgate regulations and 
issue Letters of Authorization thereunder, NMFS must determine that 
these takings will have a negligible impact on the affected species and 
stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Southwest Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, No. 4200, Long 
Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 502 980-4015
Fax: 502 980-4027

RIN: 0648-AT78
_______________________________________________________________________

457. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO TESTING AND TRAINING OF THE NAVY'S SURVEILLANCE TOWED 
ARRAY SENSOR SYSTEM--LOW FREQUENCY ACTIVE SONAR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the U.S. Navy for an authorization under the Marine Mammal 
Protection Act to take marine mammals, by harassment, incidental to 
testing and training activities related to the Surveillance Towed Array 
Sensor System-Low Frequency Active Sonar. The Navy is currently issued 
Letters of Authorization (LOA) under rulemaking scheduled to end on 
August 15, 2007. As a result of this request, NMFS will propose new 
regulations that, if implemented, would govern the incidental taking of 
marine mammals by the Navy for this activity. In order to promulgate 
regulations and issue LOAs thereunder, NMFS must determine that these 
takings will have a negligible impact on the affected species and 
stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kenneth Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Room 13600, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2289
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: ken.hollingshead@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AT80
_______________________________________________________________________

458. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO NAVAL TRAINING OPERATIONS AT THE EAST COAST SHALLOW WATER 
TRAINING RANGE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the U.S. Navy for an authorization under the Marine Mammal 
Protection Act to take marine

[[Page 22395]]

mammals, by harassment, incidental to naval vessels conducting shallow 
water anti-submarine training exercises in a specified area along the 
U.S. East Coast. As a result of this request, NMFS is proposing 
regulations, that if implemented, would govern the incidental taking of 
marine mammals by harassment and non-serious auditory impairment. In 
order to promulgate regulations and issue Letters of Authorization 
thereunder, NMFS must determine that these takings will have a 
negligible impact on the affected species and stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AT81
_______________________________________________________________________

459. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO U.S. AIR FORCE AIR-TO-SURFACE GUNNERY EXERCISES IN THE 
NORTHERN GULF OF MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the U.S. Air Force, Eglin Air Force Base (AFB), for an 
authorization under the Marine Mammal Protection Act to take marine 
mammals, by harassment, incidental to conducting air-to-surface gunnery 
testing and training exercises from an AC-130 gunship within the waters 
of the northern Gulf of Mexico adjacent to Eglin AFB. As a result of 
this request, NMFS will propose regulations, that if implemented, would 
govern the incidental taking of marine mammals by Eglin AFB for this 
activity. In order to promulgate regulations and issue a Letter of 
Authorization (LOA) thereunder, NMFS must determine that the takings 
will have a negligible impact on the affected species and stocks of 
marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Southwest Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, No. 4200, Long 
Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 502 980-4015
Fax: 502 980-4027

RIN: 0648-AT82
_______________________________________________________________________

460. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO NAVAL EXPLOSIVES ORDNANCE TESTING AND TRAINING EXERCISES 
IN THE NORTHERN GULF OF MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the U.S. Air Force, Eglin Air Force Base (AFB), for an 
authorization under the Marine Mammal Protection Act to take marine 
mammals, by harassment, incidental to conducting naval explosives 
ordnance disposal school exercises within the waters of the northern 
Gulf of Mexico adjacent to Eglin AFB. As a result of this request, NMFS 
will propose regulations, that if implemented, would govern the 
incidental taking of marine mammals by Eglin AFB for this activity. In 
order to promulgate regulations and issue a Letter of Authorization 
(LOA) thereunder, NMFS must determine that the takings will have a 
negligible impact on the affected species and stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AT83
_______________________________________________________________________

461. SPINNER DOLPHINS IN THE MAIN HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is considering 
regulations to protect wild spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris) in 
the main Hawaiian Islands from human activities that have the potential 
to cause ``take,'' as defined in the Marine Mammal Protection Act and 
its implementing regulations, or to otherwise adversely affect the 
dolphins. The scope of this action encompasses the activities of any 
person or conveyance that may result in the unauthorized taking of 
spinner dolphins and/or that may diminish the value to the dolphins of 
habitat routinely used by them for resting and/or that may cause 
detrimental individual-level and population-level impacts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/12/05                    70 FR 73426
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/11/06
NPRM                            12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AU02

[[Page 22396]]

_______________________________________________________________________

462. TAKING AND IMPORTING MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO NAVAL SURF-ZONE EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL SCHOOL 
TRAINING OPERATIONS AT EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, FLORIDA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from Eglin Air Force Base (EAFB) to take marine mammals by 
Level B harassment incidental to Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal 
School (NEODS) training operations, which include up to 30 detonations 
per year of small C-4 charges, off Santa Rosa Island (SRI) at EAFB. 
This action would implement regulations to govern that take. In order 
to issue a Letter of Authorization (LOA) and issue final regulations 
governing the take, NMFS must determine that the taking will have a 
negligible impact on the species or stocks and will not have an 
unmitigable adverse impact on the availability of such species or stock 
for taking for subsistence uses.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AU53
_______________________________________________________________________

463. [bull] TAKING MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO CONSTRUCTION OF THE KNIK 
ARM BRIDGE, ANCHORAGE, ALASKA

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.100

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS has received a request from the Knik Arm Bridge and Toll 
Authority for an authorization to take marine mammals, by harassment, 
incidental to construction of the Knik Arm Bridge in Alaska during the 
period 2007 through 2012. In order to issue regulations and authorize 
the take, NMFS must determine that the taking will have a negligible 
impact on the affected species and stocks of marine mammals, will not 
have an unmitigable adverse impact on subsistence uses of marine 
mammals and will be at the lowest level practicable.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Kenneth Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Room 13600, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2289
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: ken.hollingshead@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AU96
_______________________________________________________________________

464. [bull] SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION; VIRGINIA MODIFIED POUND NET LEADER 
INSPECTION PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: With this action, NMFS issues a rule to implement an 
inspection program for modified pound net leaders in the Virginia 
waters of the mainstem Chesapeake Bay. Regulations published on June 
23, 2006 (71 FR 36024) required modified pound net leaders in a portion 
of the Virginia Chesapeake Bay from May 6 to July 15 each year. This 
action would ensure that leaders used in that area do, in fact, meet 
the definition of a modified pound net leader. The purpose of this 
action is to help protect threatened and endangered sea turtles, while 
enabling fishermen to use leaders, an important component of pound net 
gear, during the regulated period.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/01/07                     72 FR 9297
NPRM Comment Period End         04/02/07
Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Carrie Upite, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, One 
Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9300
Email: carrie.upite@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AU98
_______________________________________________________________________

465. [bull] POTENTIAL REVISIONS TO THE TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICE 
REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1533

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 222; 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: With this action, NMFS announces that it is considering 
technical changes to the requirements for turtle excluder devices. 
Specifically, this action would modify the size of the TED escape 
opening currently required in the summer flounder fishery; require the 
use of TEDs in the whelk, calico scallop, and Mid-Atlantic scallop 
trawl fisheries; require the use of TEDS in flynets; and to move the 
current northern boundary of the Summer Flounder Fishery-Sea Turtle 
Protection Area off Cape Charles, Virginia, to a point farther north.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           02/15/07                     72 FR 7382
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/19/07
NPRM                            11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

[[Page 22397]]

Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AV04
_______________________________________________________________________

466. [bull] ENDANGERED AND THREATENED SPECIES; DESIGNATION OF CRITICAL 
HABITAT FOR ELKHORN AND STAGHORN CORALS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 to 1544

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS takes this action to designate critical habitat for 
elkhorn and staghorn corals, which were recently listed as threatened 
under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Areas proposed for designation 
will be within the current geographic ranges of these species that are 
under U.S. jurisdiction, including areas in Southeast Florida, Puerto 
Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AV35
_______________________________________________________________________

467. [bull] AMENDMENTS TO REGULATIONS FOR TUNA PURSE SEINE VESSELS AND 
FISHING OPERATIONS IN THE EASTERN TROPICAL PACIFIC OCEAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq; 16 USC 951 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216; 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would amend regulations pertaining to vessels 
authorized to fish for tuna and tuna-like species in the eastern 
tropical Pacific Ocean. This rule would: (1) require vessel owners or 
managing owners of vessels fishing for tuna and tuna-like species to 
submit information required by the Inter-American Tropical Tuna 
Commission to list the vessel on the Vessel Register; (2) require that 
owners or managing owners of purse seine vessels of 400 st (362.8 mt) 
carrying capacity or less provide annual notification to NMFS to be 
categorized as active or inactive on the Vessel Register; (3) require 
owners or managing owners of purse seine vessels on the Vessel Register 
to notify NMFS prior to transfer of the vessel to foreign registry and 
flag; (4) allow NMFS to remove vessels from the Vessel Register if the 
vessel's documentation is not valid or effective; (5) allow NMFS to 
remove purse seine vessels from the Vessel Register if their request 
for active status is determined to be frivolous; (6) request additional 
information on tuna purse seine vessel and operator permit applications 
and add an application fee (less than $50) for the operator permit; and 
(7) implement resolutions under the Agreement on the International 
Dolphin Conservation Program regarding floodlight specifications and 
vessel gear inspections. This rule would also make additional 
modifications and technical changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AV37
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________

NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
____________________________________________________
468. REQUIRE MANDATORY OBSERVER COVERAGE IN THE AT-SEA PROCESSING SECTOR 
OF THE WHITING FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, May 2006, Final regulations to be 
published within 30 days of end of NPRM comment period.

Abstract: This action amends the regulations implementing the Pacific 
Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan to provide for a mandatory, 
vessel-financed observer program on at-sea processing vessels.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/10/03                    68 FR 53334
NPRM Comment Period End         10/10/03
Interim Final Rule              06/07/04                    69 FR 31751
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/07/04
Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AK26
_______________________________________________________________________

469. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

[[Page 22398]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement a limited access program, 
implement management measures to management area 1A, and make other 
adjustments to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          09/06/06                    71 FR 52521
NPRM                            09/27/06                    71 FR 56446
Comment Period End              11/06/06
NPRM Comment Period End         11/13/06
Final Action                    03/12/07                    72 FR 11252
Correction                      06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ87
_______________________________________________________________________

470. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ESTABLISH MEASURES AUTHORIZING THE OPTIONAL 
USE OF ELECTRONIC LOGBOOK FORMS IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment, under the western Pacific pelagics 
FMP, would allow fishermen the option of using electronic logbook forms 
in substitution of paper logbook forms for Federal data recording and 
reporting requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/21/07                     72 FR 7853
NPRM Comment Period End         03/23/07
Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AS29
_______________________________________________________________________

471. AMENDMENT TO REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING THE ANTARCTIC MARINE LIVING 
RESOURCES CONVENTION ACT OF 1984

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 2431 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300 subpart G

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment to the regulations for Antarctic Marine Living 
Resources (AMLR) implements measures agreed to by the parties to the 
Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources 
(CCAMLR). More specifically, it would require the use of the 
centralized satellite-linked vessel monitoring system (VMS) by all U.S. 
vessels harvesting AMLR and would be a condition of export for all 
dealers seeking to import shipments of toothfish. It would also exempt 
all shipments of fresh toothfish from the National Marine Fisheries 
Service preapproval process and allow importers of frozen toothfish to 
submit the U.S. Customs 7501 entry number subsequent to their initial 
application for preapproval. This rule would require the use of 
Electronic Catch Documents, after a 60-day transition period, for all 
U.S. dealers seeking to import shipments of toothfish into the United 
States. This rule would also amend certain definitions including 
``import'' and ``export.'' Use of a seal excluder device would be 
required on krill vessels using trawl gear in CCAMLR waters. 
Regulations governing scientific observers and vessel information would 
be modified.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/13/06                    71 FR 39642
NPRM Comment Period End         08/14/06
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AS75
_______________________________________________________________________

472. AMENDMENT 67 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE GROUNDFISH OF 
THE GULF OF ALASKA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 773 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300; 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The action would amend regulations for the Halibut and 
Sablefish Individual Fishing Quota Program by: (1) Instituting an 
emergency medical transfer program; (2) tightening criteria for the use 
of hired masters; (3) adding vessel clearance requirements to the 
sablefish fisheries in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands; (4) 
changing product recovery rates for sablefish; (5) adjusting the 
halibut Quota Share block program; and (6) amending vessel 
classification Quota Share use allowances.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/01/06                    71 FR 64218
NPRM Comment Period End         12/18/06
Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AR90
RIN: 0648-AS84
_______________________________________________________________________

473. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES; HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

[[Page 22399]]

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service publishes a correction 
to the final rule published in the Federal Register on April 7, 2004 
(69 FR 18444) to implement the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for U.S. 
West Coast Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species. The final rule 
should have contained the language defining a loggerhead conservation 
area in which drift gillnet fishing would be prohibited during a 
declared El Nino year, as published in the Federal Register on December 
16, 2003 (68 FR 69962). The intended effect of this action is to ensure 
that loggerhead sea turtles will receive the necessary protection from 
excessive takes in El Nino years.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/30/07                     72 FR 4225
NPRM Comment Period End         03/01/07
Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AP42
RIN: 0648-AS89
_______________________________________________________________________

474. JOINT AMENDMENT TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR THE SHRIMP 
(AMENDMENT 14) AND REEF FISH FISHERIES (AMENDMENT 27) OF THE GULF OF 
MEXICO

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Shrimp and reef fish in the Gulf of Mexico are managed under 
their respective FMPs. Both fisheries contribute to fishing mortality 
of reef fish, especially juvenile and undersized red snapper. Age-0 and 
Age-1 red snapper are taken by shrimp trawls, and Age-2 and older red 
snapper are caught in the directed commercial and recreational red 
snapper fishery. Red snapper is overfished and undergoing overfishing, 
and reducing fishing mortality on these younger age classes is needed 
to help rebuild the stock. Actions to reduce bycatch of red snapper are 
anticipated to reduce bycatch fishing mortality for other reef fish 
species as well. The Gulf Council began work on the joint amendment, 
which will consider a variety of harvesting and gear restrictions to 
further reduce fishing mortality and fishing effort in the shrimp and 
red snapper fisheries. In August 2006, the Gulf Council deferred 
working on this amendment until new information was available in 
January 2007. However, by postponing the development of a plan 
amendment, measures to address overfishing during the 2007 fishing 
season would not occur, further delaying progress in stock recovery. 
Thus, to address overfishing on the red snapper stock for 2007, NMFS is 
developing a rulemaking action.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/14/06                    71 FR 75220
NPRM Comment Period End         01/26/07
Interim Final Rule              04/02/07                    72 FR 15617
Interim Final Rule Effective    05/02/07
Final Rule                      08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AT86
RIN: 0648-AT87
_______________________________________________________________________

475. RESOURCE AGENCY PROCEDURES FOR CONDITIONS AND PRESCRIPTIONS IN 
HYDROPOWER LICENSES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 797(e)

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 221

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Pursuant to the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct), the 
Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, and Interior are establishing 
joint procedures for a new category of expedited trial-type hearings. 
The hearings will resolve disputed issues of material fact with respect 
to conditions or prescriptions that one or more of the Departments 
develop for inclusion in a hydropower license issued by the Federal 
Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) under the Federal Power Act. The 
three Departments are also establishing procedures for the 
consideration of alternative conditions and prescriptions submitted by 
any party to a license proceeding, as provide in the EPAct.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/17/05                    70 FR 69803
Final Action                    12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Melanie Harris, Marine Habitat Resource Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, Office of Habitat Conservation, 1315 East-West 
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-4300
Fax: 301 713-4305
Email: melanie.harris@noaa.gov

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AC42, Related to 0648-AS55
RIN: 0648-AU01
_______________________________________________________________________

476. FISHERIES OF THE NORTHEASTERN UNITED STATES; RECORDKEEPING AND 
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS; REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO MODIFY SEAFOOD DEALER 
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS; CORRECTION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 18 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) published a 
document in the Federal Register on April 28, 2005, revising 
regulations for seafood dealer reporting requirements. That rule also 
contained a measure authorizing vessel operator permits

[[Page 22400]]

issued by the NMFS Southeast (SE) Region under regulations governing 
the Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf, and South Atlantic to satisfy 
NMFS Northeast (NE) Region vessel operator permitting requirements. 
However, when amending the operator permit section of the regulations 
to reflect the reciprocal arrangement, NMFS inadvertently removed the 
summer flounder fishery from the list of fisheries requiring a NE 
operator permit. This document corrects the April 28, 2005, regulations 
by adding the summer flounder fishery to the list of fisheries 
requiring a NE operator permit.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AS87
RIN: 0648-AU05
_______________________________________________________________________

477. OBSERVER HEALTH AND SAFETY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 5 USC 561

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would enhance the safety of observers and the 
efficiency of their deployment. These amendments would clarify 
prohibited actions regarding observers, reinforce that an observer may 
not be deployed nor stay aboard an unsafe vessel, clarify when a 
fishing vessel is inadequate for observer deployment and how an owner 
or operator can resolve discrepancies, improve communications between 
observer programs and fishing vessel owners and operators, and provide 
for a National Marine Fisheries Service alternate safety equipment 
examination of certain small fishing vessels.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/30/07                     72 FR 4226
NPRM Comment Period End         03/01/07
Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Bonnie Ponwith, Acting Director, Office of Science and 
Technology, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West 
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2367

RIN: 0648-AU46
_______________________________________________________________________

478. AMENDMENT 85 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE GROUNDFISH OF 
THE BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS (BSAI) MANAGEMENT AREA; PACIFIC COD 
ALLOCATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would modify the current Bering Sea and 
Aleutian Island (BSAI) Pacific cod allocations among the jig, trawl, 
hook-and-line, and pot gear sectors. The current harvest patterns vary 
significantly from sector allocations that have been in place since 
1997. This action is necessary to establish allocations that better 
reflect actual use by sector, while considering socio-economic and 
community factors.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          12/07/06                    71 FR 70943
NPRM                            02/07/07                     72 FR 5654
NPRM Comment Period End         03/26/07
Final Action                    07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU48
_______________________________________________________________________

479. EXTEND THE NORTH PACIFIC GROUNDFISH OBSERVER PROGRAM BEYOND 2007

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773k; 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 3631

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is amending its 
regulations under the authority of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act, to extend the North Pacific Groundfish 
Observer Program (Observer Program) beyond 2007. Regulations governing 
the Observer Program currently are scheduled to expire on December 31, 
2007. This proposed rule would remove the sunset date and ensure the 
continued, uninterrupted collection of observer information. This 
information is necessary for many current management and scientific 
programs for fisheries off the coast of Alaska.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/29/06                    71 FR 57764
NPRM Comment Period End         10/31/06
Final Action                    12/29/06                    71 FR 78638
Second NPRM                     02/22/07                     72 FR 7948
Second NPRM Comment Period End  03/23/07
Final Action                    09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AU58

[[Page 22401]]

_______________________________________________________________________

480. RECREATIONAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND 
BLACK SEABASS FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action implements recreational management measures for 
the summer flounder, scup, and black seabass fisheries for 2007.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/15/07                    72 FR 12158
NPRM Comment Period End         03/30/07
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU60
_______________________________________________________________________

481. REPORTING AND CONSERVATION MEASURES FOR SEA OTTER INTERACTIONS WITH 
THE PACIFIC SARDINE FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement new reporting requirements and 
prohibitive measures under the Coastal Pelagic Species (CPS) Fishery 
Management Plan (FMP). The purpose of this action is to comply with the 
terms and conditions set forth in the incidental take statement section 
of a biological opinion issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 
(USFWS) regarding the implementation of Amendment 11 to the CPS FMP and 
its effects on the federally endangered southern sea otter. These 
reporting requirements and prohibitive measures would require Pacific 
sardine fishers/vessel operators to employ avoidance measures when sea 
otters are present in the fishing area and to report any interactions 
that may occur between their vessel and/or fishing gear and the otters.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/07/06                    71 FR 70943
NPRM Comment Period End         01/08/07
Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AU72
_______________________________________________________________________

482. VESSEL LIST TO ESTABLISH ELIGIBILITY TO FISH FOR ALBACORE TUNA IN 
CANADIAN WATERS UNDER THE U.S. CANADA ALBACORE TUNA TREATY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1821

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the National Marine Fisheries Service 
(NMFS) regulation on international fisheries to clarify: 1) a vessel 
list is effective only for one calendar year and will be recompiled 
beginning on January 1 of each year, 2) a vessel owner seeking to be 
eligible to fish under the U.S. Canada Albacore Tuna Treaty must submit 
the required information to NMFS to be added to the vessel list for a 
specific year, and 3) how and where to obtain the current vessel.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/07/07                     72 FR 5652
NPRM Comment Period End         03/09/07
Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AU78
_______________________________________________________________________

483. RESTRICTIONS FOR 2007 PURSE SEINE AND LONGLINE FISHERIES IN THE 
EASTERN TROPICAL PACIFIC OCEAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 951 to 961; 16 USC 971

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service announces the 2007 
conservation and management measures for international tuna fisheries 
in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. The purse seine fishery will be 
closed for six weeks and any national longline fishery which reaches a 
catch level for bigeye tuna equal to the 2001 catch levels will also be 
closed. The intended effect of this rule is to establish prohibition of 
U.S. vessels purse seine fishing for tuna in the Inter-American 
Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC) Convention Area from November 20 to 
December 31, and to announce the closure of the U.S. longline fishery. 
This will conform to the IATTC recommendation that was approved by the 
State Department.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/26/07                     72 FR 8333
NPRM Comment Period End         03/28/07
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AU79

[[Page 22402]]

_______________________________________________________________________

484. ATLANTIC HAGFISH COLLECTION OF INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will implement changes to the NE fishery 
regulations, at 50 CFR part 648, to require that any vessel owner/
operator who intends to fish for, catch, and/or land hagfish in or from 
the exclusive economic zone be required to take an observer on board 
their vessel when requested to do so, and requires dealers who purchase 
hagfish to obtain a permit and report on their hagfish purchases.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/01/06                    71 FR 64214
NPRM Comment Period End         12/01/06
Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU80
_______________________________________________________________________

485. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; SWORDFISH COMMERCIAL MANAGEMENT 
MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service proposes regulatory 
changes to the commercial management measures for the Atlantic 
swordfish fishery to support the fleet's ability to fully harvest the 
U.S. domestic quota. The proposed regulatory changes may include 
adjustments to vessel upgrading restrictions and incidental trip limits 
consistent with other applicable requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/28/06                    71 FR 68784
Hearing                         01/03/07                       72 FR 96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/31/07
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AU86
_______________________________________________________________________

486. [bull] REDUCE OVERFISHING OF ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOPS IN THE 2007 
FISHING YEAR BY MODIFYING THE ELEPHANT TRUNK ACCESS AREA MANAGEMENT 
MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The interim final rule would delay the opening of the 
Elephant Trunk Access Area (ETAA) until March 1, 2007, reduce the 
maximum number of trips per vessel in the ETAA from 5 trips to 3, 
reduce the number of general category fleet trips from 1,360 to 865 
trips in the ETAA, and prohibit the retention of more than 50 U.S. 
bushels of in-shell scallops outside of the boundaries of the sea 
scallop access areas.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Rule                    12/22/06                    71 FR 76945
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      01/22/07
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AT25
RIN: 0648-AV05
_______________________________________________________________________

487. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); ATLANTIC SHARK 
COMMERCIAL SEASON LENGTHS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would adjust regional quotas and announce season 
lengths for the 2007 second and third trimester seasons for large 
coastal sharks (LCS), small coastal sharks (SCS), and pelagic sharks 
managed under the 2006 Final Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory 
Species Fishery Management Plan. This action is necessary to ensure 
that quotas are based upon the most recent landings information and 
account for any over- or underharvests from the 2006 second and third 
trimester seasons.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/08/07                    72 FR 10480
NPRM Comment Period End         03/28/07
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AV09
_______________________________________________________________________

488. [bull] ILLEGAL, UNREPORTED, OR UNREGULATED FISHING DEFINITION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1826d

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service takes this action to

[[Page 22403]]

define ``illegal, unreported, or unregulated fishing,'' as required by 
Section 403 (Section 609(e)) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act of 2006. This 
definition will apply to fishing in areas under the competence of 
regional fisheries management organizations or arrangements, or 
otherwise beyond the jurisdiction of any nation, and the fish caught in 
such operations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dean Swanson, Chief, International Fisheries Division, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2276
Email: dean.swanson@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV23
_______________________________________________________________________

489. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); TEMPORARY 
SUSPENSION OF REQUIREMENT TO USE CIRCLE HOOKS IN ATLANTIC BILLFISH 
TOURNAMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would temporarily suspend regulations finalized in 
the Final Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Consolidated Fishery 
Management Plan (October 2, 2006; 71 FR 58058) that limits all HMS 
permitted vessels participating in Atlantic billfish tournaments to 
deploying only non-offset circle hooks when using natural baits or 
natural bait/artificial lure combinations. The purpose of this rule is 
to temporarily suspend the requirement to use circle hooks in Atlantic 
billfish tournaments to provide an additional fishing season for 
recreational anglers to become more familiar with circle hooks.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/15/07                    72 FR 12154
NPRM Comment Period End         03/30/07
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AV25
_______________________________________________________________________

490. PROVIDE REGULATIONS FOR PERMITS FOR CAPTURE, TRANSPORT, IMPORT, AND 
EXPORT OF PROTECTED SPECIES FOR PUBLIC DISPLAY, AND FOR MAINTAINING A 
CAPTIVE MARINE MAMMAL INVENTORY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1372 (c)

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will revise and simplify criteria and procedures 
specific to permits for taking, transporting, importing, and exporting 
protected species for public display and provide convenient formats for 
reporting marine mammal captive holdings and transports as required by 
amendments made in 1994 to the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/03/01                    66 FR 35209
NPRM Comment Period Extended    08/22/01                    66 FR 44109
NPRM Comment Period End         09/04/01
Comment Period Extended         11/02/01
Withdraw Proposed Rule          06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tanya Dobrzynski, Marine Resource Manager, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289

RIN: 0648-AH26
_______________________________________________________________________

491. TAKING OF THE COOK INLET, ALASKA, STOCK OF BELUGA WHALES BY ALASKA 
NATIVES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1371

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is regulating 
subsistence harvest of Cook Inlet Beluga to ensure that the harvest is 
sustainable and does not substantially delay the recovery of this 
marine mammal stock. Specific harvest levels and distribution of the 
harvest will be based upon cooperative agreements with Alaska native 
organizations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/04/00                    65 FR 59164
NPRM Comment Period End         11/27/00
Final Rule                      04/06/04                    69 FR 17973
Final Action                    07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Tribal

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AO16
_______________________________________________________________________

492. TAKING MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO NAVY OPERATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1371 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is amending its 
regulations governing the taking of marine mammals incidental to

[[Page 22404]]

operations of the U.S. Navy's SURTASS LFA sonar to implement provisions 
of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2004 (NDAA). The President 
signed into law the NDAA (P.L. 108-136) on November 24, 2003. Included 
in this law were amendments to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) 
that apply where a ``military readiness activity'' is concerned. NMFS 
and the Navy have determined that the Navy's SURTASS LFA sonar testing 
and training operations that are the subject of NMFS' July 16, 2002 (67 
FR 46712) final rule constitute a military readiness activity because 
those activities constitute ``training and operations of the Armed 
Forces that relate to combat'' and constitute ``adequate and realistic 
testing of military equipment, vehicles, weapons and sensors for proper 
operation and suitability for combat use.''

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/29/04                    69 FR 38873
NPRM Comment Period End         07/29/04
Final Action                    12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kenneth R. Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department 
of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20912
Phone: 301 713-2055
Email: ken.hollingshead@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AR99
_______________________________________________________________________

493. TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO COMMERCIAL FISHING 
OPERATIONS; ATLANTIC LARGE WHALE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 224

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement modifications of the Atlantic 
Large Whale Take Reduction Plan (ALWTRP). The ALWTRP was developed 
pursuant to section 118 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The 
commercial fishery requirements provided in this rule are intended to 
implement the additional requirements recommended by the Atlantic Large 
Whale Take Reduction Team and NMFS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/21/05                    70 FR 35894
Comment Period Extended         07/13/05                    70 FR 40301
NPRM Comment Period End         07/21/05
Final Action                    02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AS01
_______________________________________________________________________

494. RIGHT WHALE SHIP STRIKE REDUCTION

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 224

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These regulations would establish speed restrictions to 
reduce the number of deaths to North Atlantic right whales as a result 
of collisions with vessels, which account for more confirmed right 
whale deaths than any other anthropogenic cause. Speed restrictions 
would be limited to areas and times when North Atlantic right whales 
and ships overlap to reduce the likelihood of ship strikes to the 
extent practicable.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/01/04                    69 FR 30857
ANPRM Comment Period Extended   07/09/04                    69 FR 41446
ANPRM Comment Period Extended   09/13/04                    69 FR 55135
NPRM                            06/26/06                    71 FR 36299
NPRM Comment Period End         08/25/06
Comment Period Extended         08/14/06                    71 FR 46440
Comment Period End              10/05/06
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Public Compliance Cost: Yearly Recurring Cost: $116,000,000; Base Year 
for Dollar Estimates: 2005

URL For More Information:
www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/pr2

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

Peter Robbins, Attorney Advisor, Department of Commerce, 14th & 
Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-0846
Email: probbins@doc.gov

RIN: 0648-AS36
_______________________________________________________________________

495. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO THE EXPLOSIVE REMOVAL OF OFFSHORE STRUCTURES IN THE GULF 
OF MEXICO

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the Minerals Management Service (MMS), U.S. Department of 
the Interior, on behalf of offshore operators, for authorization to 
harass marine mammals incidental to explosive severance activities at 
offshore oil and gas structures in the Gulf of Mexico outer continental 
shelf. In compliance with Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act regulations 
and MMS guidelines, operators are required to remove sea-floor 
obstructions from their leases within one year of lease termination or 
after a structure has been deemed obsolete or unusable. As a result of 
this request, NMFS is proposing regulations, that if implemented, would 
govern the incidental taking of marine mammals

[[Page 22405]]

under individual Letters of Authorization (LOAs) issued to participants 
in this industry to take marine mammals by harassment and non-serious 
auditory impairment. In order to promulgate regulations and issue LOAs 
thereunder, NMFS must determine that these takings will have a 
negligible impact on the affected species and stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/07/06                    71 FR 17790
NPRM Comment Period End         05/22/06
Final Action                    07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kenneth Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Room 13600, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2289
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: ken.hollingshead@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AT79
_______________________________________________________________________

496. 12-MONTH FINDING ON PETITION TO LIST PUGET SOUND STEELHEAD AS AN 
ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES UNDER THE ESA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 to 1543

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, September 13, 2006.

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service has determined that 
naturally spawned winter- and summer-run steelhead populations and two 
hatchery steelhead stocks, below natural and manmade impassable 
barriers, in the river basins of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Puget 
Sound, and Hood Canal (Washington) constitute a Distinct Population 
Segment (DPS) and hence a ``species'' for listing consideration under 
the Endangered Species Act (ESA). After reviewing the best available 
scientific and commercial information, evaluating threats facing the 
species, and taking into account those efforts being made to protect 
the species, we conclude that the Puget Sound steelhead DPS is likely 
to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future 
throughout all or a significant portion of its range. This action would 
list the Puget Sound steelhead DPS as a threatened species under the 
ESA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/29/06                    71 FR 15666
NPRM Comment Period End         06/27/06
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Office of Protected Resources, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Fax: 301-427-2523
Email: marta.nammack@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AU43
_______________________________________________________________________

497. AUTHORIZE OBSERVER COVERAGE OF FISHERIES TO MONITOR SEA TURTLE 
INTERACTIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223.206

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) amends its 
regulations to establish a requirement for State and Federal fisheries 
that operate in areas where sea turtles may be present and likely to 
interact with such fishing operations to take an observer on board when 
requested to do so by NMFS. All sea turtles that occur in U.S. waters 
are listed as either endangered or threatened under the Endangered 
Species Act. Therefore, measures are necessary both to monitor the 
level of takes occurring as well as to reduce takes to recover sea 
turtle species. This measure is necessary to adequately document sea 
turtle interactions with fishing operations, to evaluate existing 
measures to reduce sea turtle takes, and to determine whether 
additional measures to address sea turtle takes may be necessary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/20/06                    71 FR 76265
NPRM Comment Period End         02/20/07
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Tanya Dobrzynski, Marine Resource Manager, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289

RIN: 0648-AU81
_______________________________________________________________________

498. [bull] RULE AMENDING GILLNET MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR RIGHT WHALE 
PROTECTION IN THE SOUTHEAST U.S. RESTRICTED AREA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq; 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: With this action, NMFS issues a rule to revise regulations 
implementing the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan (ALWTRP) by: 
expanding the Southeast U.S. Restricted Area to include waters within 
35 nautical miles of the South Carolina coast; dividing the Southeast 
U.S. Restricted Area into Southeast U.S. Areas North and South; and 
modifying regulations pertaining to gillnetting within the Southeast 
U.S. Restricted Area. NMFS issues this proposed rule under the ALWTRP 
regulations at 50 CFR 229.32(g)(1) and (g)(2). These amendments are in 
response to a January 2006 death of a right whale calf from gillnet 
gear entanglement, and recommendations from the Atlantic Large Whale 
Take Reduction Team's Mid-Atlantic Southeast Subgroup and the Marine 
Mammal Commission.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/15/06                    71 FR 66482
NPRM Comment Period End         12/15/06
Final Action                    05/00/07

[[Page 22406]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AU90
_______________________________________________________________________

499. [bull] PUGET SOUND STEELHEAD PROPOSED PROTECTIVE REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We, NMFS, are proposing to issue protective regulations under 
section 4(d) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) for a distinct 
population segment (DPS) of steelhead in Puget Sound, Washington, 
presently proposed for listing as a threatened species. The 4(d) 
regulations prohibit the take of listed species, unless a ``limit'' 
applies for specified categories of activities determined to be 
adequately protective of listed salmonids.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/07/07                     72 FR 5648
NPRM Comment Period End         03/09/07
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Office of Protected Resources, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Fax: 301-427-2523
Email: marta.nammack@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV18
_______________________________________________________________________

NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE/OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
____________________________________________________
500. GULF OF THE FARALLONES NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY MANAGEMENT PLAN 
REVIEW

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434; 16 USC 1439

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922.80 to 922.84

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the existing regulations and 
designation document, and add several new prohibitions to address 
specific resource management issues in the Gulf of the Farallones 
National Marine Sanctuary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/06/06                    71 FR 59337
NPRM Comment Period End         01/05/07
Final Action                    08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Maria Brown, Manager, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Gulf of the Farallones National 
Marine Sanctuary, Fort Mason, Building 201, San Francisco, CA 94123
Phone: 415 561-6622
Fax: 415 561-6616
Email: maria.brown@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AT14
_______________________________________________________________________

501. MONTEREY BAY NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY MANAGEMENT PLAN REVIEW

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434; 16 USC 1439

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922.130 to 922.134

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the existing regulations and 
designation document, and add several new prohibitions to address 
specific resource management issues in the Monterey Bay National Marine 
Sanctuary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/06/06                    71 FR 59050
NPRM Comment Period End         01/05/07
Final Action                    08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William J. Douros, Superintendent, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Monterey Bay 
National Marine Sanctuary, 299 Foam Street, Monterey, CA 93940
Phone: 831 647-4201
Fax: 831 647-4250
Email: william.douros@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AT15
_______________________________________________________________________

502. CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY MANAGEMENT PLAN REVIEW

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434; 16 USC 1439

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922.70 to 922.72

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the existing regulations and 
designation document to address specific resource management issues in 
the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/19/06                    71 FR 29096
NPRM Comment Period End         07/21/06
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Christopher Mobley, Superintendent, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Channel 
Islands National Marine Sanctuary, 113 Harbor Way, Suite 150, Santa 
Barbara, CA 93109
Phone: 805 966-7107

[[Page 22407]]

Fax: 805 568-1582
Email: chris.mobley@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AT17
_______________________________________________________________________

503. CONSIDERATION OF MARINE RESERVES AND MARINE CONSERVATION AREAS 
WITHIN THE CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434; 16 USC 1439

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922.70 to 922.72

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the existing regulations and 
designation document for the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. 
This action, which would complement existing marine protected areas 
designated by the State of California, seeks to further protect 
sanctuary resources by regulating certain extractive activities within 
the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/11/06                    71 FR 46134
NPRM Comment Period End         10/10/06
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Christopher Mobley, Superintendent, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Channel 
Islands National Marine Sanctuary, 113 Harbor Way, Suite 150, Santa 
Barbara, CA 93109
Phone: 805 966-7107
Fax: 805 568-1582
Email: chris.mobley@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AT18
_______________________________________________________________________

OFFICE OF THE ADMINISTRATOR
____________________________________________________
504. CORDELL BANK NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY MANAGEMENT PLAN REVIEW

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434; 16 USC 1439

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922.110 to 922.112

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend the existing regulations and 
designation document to address specific resource management issues in 
the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/06/06                    71 FR 59039
NPRM Comment Period End         01/05/07
Final Action                    08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dan Howard, Manager, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Cordell Bank National Marine 
Sanctuary, P. O. Box 159, Olema, CA 94950
Phone: 415 663-0314
Fax: 415 663-0315
Email: dan.howard@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AT16
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________

NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
____________________________________________________
505. AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY; FISHING EFFORT CONTROL MEASURES TO 
COMPLEMENT INTERSTATE LOBSTER MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE ATLANTIC 
STATES MARINE FISHERIES COMMISSION

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 697

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/10/05                    70 FR 24495
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/09/05


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT31
_______________________________________________________________________

506. AMENDMENT 15 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU36

[[Page 22408]]

_______________________________________________________________________

NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE/OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
____________________________________________________
507. PROCEDURAL CHANGES TO THE FEDERAL CONSISTENCY PROCESS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 930

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/02/02                    67 FR 44407
ANPRM Comment Period End        09/03/02


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: David W. Kaiser
Phone: 301 713-3155
Fax: 301 713-4367
Email: david.kaiser@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AP98
_______________________________________________________________________

NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE/OFFICE OF MINERAL ENERGY
____________________________________________________
508. COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT FEDERAL CONSISTENCY REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 930

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/11/03                    68 FR 34851
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David W. Kaiser
Phone: 301 713-3155
Fax: 301 713-4367
Email: david.kaiser@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AR16
_______________________________________________________________________

OFFICE OF THE ADMINISTRATOR
____________________________________________________
509. REGIONAL MARINE RESEARCH PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Don Scavia
Phone: 301 713-3060

RIN: 0648-AF20
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________

510. MEASURES TO PREVENT OR MITIGATE AND CONSERVE, MANAGE, AND ALLOW 
FULL UTILIZATION OF SHARKS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would implement amendment 9 to the western Pacific 
pelagics FMP, which would establish trip limit for non-blue sharks in 
the Hawaii-based longline fishery, establish a new definition for 
bottom longline, and prohibit its use in the Hawaiian Islands and other 
management measures to protect and conserve shark resources in the 
region.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/20/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AN76
_______________________________________________________________________

511. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE REGULATORY CHANGES RESULTING FROM THE 
AMENDMENTS AND EXTENSION OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC TUNA ACT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 973; PL 100-330

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would implement the regulatory changes resulting 
from the recently renegotiated Treaty on Fisheries between the 
governments of Certain Pacific Island States and the Government of the 
United States, as authorized under the South Pacific Tuna Act. These 
changes include the implementation of an electronic vessel monitoring 
system for U.S. purse seine vessels licensed to fish within the Treaty 
Area. The location information

[[Page 22409]]

will be provided to the Forum Fisheries Agency, located in Honiara, 
Solomon Islands, as well as NOAA Fisheries. This rule would eliminate 
the prohibition of duly authorized U.S. longline vessels from fishing 
in the high seas areas within the Treaty Area. Additionally, the rule 
would impose minor modifications in the various reporting requirements, 
as well as modify the areas of fishing allowed in the exclusive 
economic zones of the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/10/06                    71 FR 45752
NPRM Comment Period End         10/10/06
Final Action                    02/09/07                     72 FR 6144

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Charles Karnella, Pacific Islands Area Office, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1110, Honolulu, HI 
96814-4700
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AP61
_______________________________________________________________________

512. INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA FOR GUIDED RECREATIONAL CHARTER HALIBUT 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 1540

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish a control date announcing that 
anyone entering the Charter Sport Fishery for Pacific Halibut in and 
off Alaska after December 9, 2005, (control date), will not be assured 
of future access to that fishery if a management regime that limits the 
number of participants is developed and implemented under the authority 
of the Northern Pacific Halibut Act of 1982 (Halibut Act).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           02/08/06                     71 FR 6442
Withdrawn                       02/23/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AR96
_______________________________________________________________________

513. FISH AND SEAFOOD PROMOTION ACT PROVISIONS; SEAFOOD MARKETING 
COUNCILS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 4001 to 4017

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 270

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In 1989, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 
(NOAA) issued a final rule implementing the Fish and Seafood Promotion 
Act of 1986 (Act), as it pertains to seafood marketing councils for one 
or more species of fish or fish products. The rule was stricken from 
the Code of Federal Regulations as part of a Presidential regulatory 
reform effort along with a large number of other rules and regulations 
unused or little used. In light of evidence that seafood marketing 
councils may be a valuable tool in the near future, NOAA now plans to 
reissue this rule which governs the establishment and operations of 
such councils. This rule is intended to implement the Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/24/06                     71 FR 3797
NPRM Comment Period End         02/23/06
Final Rule                      04/11/07                    72 FR 18105
Final Rule Effective            05/11/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gordon Helm, Deputy Director, Office of Constituent 
Affairs, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2379

RIN: 0648-AS09
_______________________________________________________________________

514. AMENDMENT 26 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH 
RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO TO ESTABLISH A RED SNAPPER INDIVIDUAL 
FISHING QUOTA PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of the IFQ program proposed in Amendment 26 is to 
reduce overcapacity in the commercial red snapper fishery and to 
eliminate, to the extent possible, the problems associated with derby 
fishing, in order to assist the Council in achieving optimum yield from 
the fishery. Additionally, an IFQ program could also help reduce 
discard mortality. The main action in this amendment (Action 1) would 
establish an IFQ program. The following actions (Actions 2-11) would 
determine the structure of the program. These actions are: IFQ program 
duration; ownership caps and restrictions on IFQ share certificates; 
eligibility for initial IFQ allocation; initial apportionment of IFQ 
shares; establishment and structure of an appeals process; transfer 
eligibility requirements; use-it-or-lose-it clause for IFQ shares or 
allocations; adjustments in commercial quota; use of a vessel 
monitoring system; and a cost recovery plan. Initial eligibility into 
the IFQ program would be restricted to United States citizens and 
permanent resident aliens who own a Class 1 or Class 2 red snapper 
license. Initial IFQ shares would be allotted proportionately among 
eligible participants based on the average annual landings associated 
with their current license(s).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          08/02/06
NPRM                            08/24/06                    71 FR 50012
NPRM Comment Period End         09/28/06
Comment Period End              10/02/06
Final Action                    11/22/06                    71 FR 67447

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

[[Page 22410]]

Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AS67
_______________________________________________________________________

515. INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA PROGRAM; RESTRUCTURE DATE-SPECIFIC QUOTA 
SHARE REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773k; 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 3631

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679; 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would restructure date-specific regulations 
governing the halibut U.S. Individual Fishing Quota fishery to 
reference a time, relative to the season opening and closing dates, 
when operational events should occur relative to certain fishing season 
milestones. This action is necessary to provide the International 
Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) with flexibility to adjust fishing 
season durations and time periods to meet fishery management needs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/23/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AS77
_______________________________________________________________________

516. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); ATLANTIC SHARK COMMERCIAL 
MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would require vessels fishing for sharks with 
bottom longline gear to have the National Marine Fisheries Service's 
approved dehooking devices and materials on board during fishing 
activities. These devices are intended to reduce post-hooking mortality 
of sea turtles that may interact with this fishing gear and are already 
required on vessels using pelagic longline gear fishing for Highly 
Migratory Species, including sharks. In addition, these measures may 
reduce the post-release mortality of marine mammals, sharks, and other 
fishes. This rule would also implement measures complementary to the 
closures that were required by the Caribbean Sustainable Fisheries Act 
Amendment and that were implemented to minimize adverse impacts to 
Essential Fish Habitat mutton snapper, red hind, and other reef-
dwelling species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/29/06                    71 FR 15680
NPRM Comment Period End         06/27/06
Final Action                    02/07/07                     72 FR 5633

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AT37
_______________________________________________________________________

517. MAGNUSON-STEVENS FISHERY CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT ACT 
PROVISIONS; FISHERIES OF THE NORTHEASTERN U.S.; FISHERY CLOSURE DUE TO 
THE PRESENCE OF THE TOXIN THAT CAUSES PARALYTIC SHELLFISH POISONING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1855(c)

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is promulgating 
this rule to close portions of Federal waters off the Gulf of Maine, 
Georges Bank, and southern New England to the harvest of shellfish 
(bivalves), with the exception of sea scallop adductor muscles 
harvested and shucked at sea, due to the presence of the toxin that 
causes paralytic shellfish poisoning. The concentrations of the toxins 
in State and adjacent Federal waters is great enough to warrant a 
public health emergency. The closure will remain in effect until the 
circumstances that created the emergency no longer exist.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/16/05                    70 FR 35047
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/18/05
Final Rule                      09/09/05                    70 FR 53580
Correction                      10/03/05
Final Rule                      10/18/05                    70 FR 60450
Final Rule                      12/28/05                    70 FR 76713
Final Rule                      06/30/06                    71 FR 37505

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT48
_______________________________________________________________________

518. OMNIBUS AMENDMENTS TO FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLANS TO ADDRESS ESSENTIAL 
FISH HABITAT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would refine essential fish habitat designations 
in New England based on the most recent scientific information.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/23/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930

[[Page 22411]]

Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT57
_______________________________________________________________________

519. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 FISHING YEAR FOR THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, 
SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the 2007 
fishing year for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass 
fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/27/06                    71 FR 62972
NPRM Comment Period End         11/17/06
Final Action                    12/14/06                    71 FR 75134
Final Rule                      01/19/07                     72 FR 2458

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT60
_______________________________________________________________________

520. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 FISHING YEAR FOR THE SURFCLAM AND OCEAN 
QUAHOG FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the 2007 
fishing year for the surfclam and ocean quahog fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/23/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT61
_______________________________________________________________________

521. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 FISHING YEAR FOR THE TILEFISH FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the 2007 
fishing year for the tilefish fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/06/06                    71 FR 52519
NPRM Comment Period End         09/21/06
Withdrawn                       10/30/06                    71 FR 63277

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT63
_______________________________________________________________________

522. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 FISHING YEAR FOR THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, 
SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the Atlantic 
mackerel, squid, and butterfish fisheries for the 2007 fishing year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/05/06                    71 FR 70493
NPRM Comment Period End         01/04/07
Final Action                    01/30/07                     72 FR 4211
Correction                      02/07/07                     72 FR 5643
Correction                      02/27/07                     72 FR 8632

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT65
_______________________________________________________________________

523. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 FISHING YEAR FOR THE ATLANTIC HERRING 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the Atlantic 
herring fishery for the 2007 fishing year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      04/10/07                    72 FR 17807
Final Rule Effective            05/10/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT66
_______________________________________________________________________

524. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 FISHING YEAR FOR THE ATLANTIC BLUEFISH 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish specifications for the Atlantic 
bluefish fishery for the 2007 fishing year.

[[Page 22412]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/27/06                    71 FR 68524
NPRM Comment Period End         12/27/06
Final Action                    01/31/07                     72 FR 1461

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT67
_______________________________________________________________________

525. 2006 SCALLOP RESEARCH SET-ASIDE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action is a solicitation for research projects to be 
conducted in accordance with requirements of Amendment 10 to the 
Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan, Framework 16 to the 
Atlantic Sea Scallop FMP and Framework 39 to the Northeast Multispecies 
FMP (Joint Framework); and with NOAA grant-review and award procedures. 
Amendment 10 established a procedure through which 2 percent of the 
overall Days-At-Sea (DAS) for use in open areas and 2 percent of the 
overall Total Available Catch (TAC) in Sea Scallop Access Areas for a 
given fishing year are set-aside by the New England Fishery Management 
Council as a mechanism to fund sea scallop research. Each year, NOAA 
Fisheries Service and the Councils issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) 
that identifies priorities for sea scallop research projects to be 
conducted under an RSA Program. The total value of the set-asides 
available for scallop-related research in fishing year 2006 is 
approximately $4.46 million dollars (79 percent from the open area DAS 
set-aside, 6 percent from the Closed Area I Access Area and 15 percent 
from the Nantucket Lightship Access Area). NOAA Fisheries anticipates 
issuing Letters of Authorization to allow participating vessels to 
harvest scallops used as compensation to fund the research project, as 
well as Letters of Acknowledgment for research trips where appropriate.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/18/06                    71 FR 60790

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT68
_______________________________________________________________________

526. WESTERN PACIFIC BOTTOMFISH FMP: AMENDMENT 9 TO LIMIT LARGE VESSEL 
FISHING EFFORT AROUND GUAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is taking action to 
close Federal waters within 50 nautical miles around Guam to bottomfish 
fishing by vessels longer than 50 feet, and to require these vessels 
that land bottomfish management unit species in Guam to comply with 
Federal permitting and logbook reporting requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/14/06                    71 FR 46441
NPRM Comment Period End         09/22/06
Notice                          07/24/06                    71 FR 41770
Comment Period End              09/23/06
Final Action                    11/02/06                    71 FR 64474

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AT94
_______________________________________________________________________

527. WESTERN PACIFIC OMNIBUS: BOTTOMFISH AMENDMENT 8, AMENDMENT 12 
CRUSTACEANS, AND AMENDMENT 6 PRECIOUS CORALS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council (WPFMC) is 
establishing new permitting and reporting requirements for the 
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and the Pacific 
Remote Island Areas (PRIAs). They do this by including domestic 
fisheries that offload or operate in Federal waters around the CNMI and 
PRIAs under the WPFMC's fishery management plans for crustaceans, 
precious corals, and bottomfish.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          06/07/06                    71 FR 32911
NPRM                            06/23/06                    71 FR 36049
Comment Period End              08/07/06
NPRM Comment Period End         08/07/06
Final Action                    12/01/06                    71 FR 69495

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

Related RIN: Merged with 0648-AL67, Merged with 0648-AR65, Merged with 
0648-AS31, Merged with 0648-AS63
RIN: 0648-AT95

[[Page 22413]]

_______________________________________________________________________

528. FISHERIES OF THE CARIBBEAN, GULF OF MEXICO, AND SOUTH ATLANTIC; 
GULF OF MEXICO RECREATIONAL GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Secretarial Amendment 1 to the Reef Fish Fishery Management 
Plan was implemented by NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) 
on July 15, 2004, and established a rebuilding plan, a 5.31 MP GW 
commercial quota, and a 1.25 MP GW recreational target catch level for 
red grouper. NMFS implemented interim regulations to reduce 
recreational grouper landings in August 2005. These regulations were 
extended in January 2006 for an additional 180 days. NMFS implements 
this action to establish more permanent management measures for the 
recreational grouper fishery. These management measures are needed to 
return recreational red grouper landings to levels specified in the 
rebuilding plan and prevent or minimize impacts on gag and other 
grouper resulting from more restrictive recreational red grouper 
regulations. This rule would reduce the bag limit for red grouper and 
prohibit captain and crew from retaining bag limits of grouper while 
under charger, implement size limits and vessel limits. This rule would 
also establish a 1-month spawning season closure for red, gag, and 
black grouper.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/31/06                    71 FR 16275
NPRM Comment Period End         05/01/06
Final Action                    06/15/06                    71 FR 34534
Final Rule                      11/17/06                    71 FR 66878

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

Related RIN: Split from 0648-AT12
RIN: 0648-AU04
_______________________________________________________________________

529. AMENDMENT 18 (BYCATCH MINIMIZATION) TO THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 18 modifies the Pacific Coast groundfish FMP to 
implement a bycatch minimization program. Over the past several years, 
the Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) has used a broad suite 
of informal bycatch minimization policies that have been formally 
organized and brought into the FMP through Amendment 18. This FMP 
amendment also sets the Council's future plans for bycatch minimization 
programs into the FMP to provide comprehensive direction for its 
current and future bycatch minimization efforts in Pacific Coast 
groundfish fishery management. Amendment 18 is intended to respond to 
court orders in Pacific Marine Conservation Council v. Evans, 200 
F.Supp.2d 1194 (N.D. Calif. 2002) to establish a bycatch minimization 
program in the FMP. NMFS has previously complied with the court's 
orders from this same case under Amendment 16-1 to the FMP, in which it 
established a standardized bycatch reporting methodology as a required 
element of the FMP. Regulations to implement Amendment 18 would: 
Establish that species co-occurrence ratios will be used in setting 
trip limits and other management measures; revise routine management 
measures authority to allow the use of area closures to protect all 
species, not just overfished species; and revise observer regulations 
to clarify NMFS' authority to place observers on board vessels that 
participate in non-target fisheries that take groundfish incidentally 
to their target fishing operations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          06/09/06                    71 FR 33432
NPRM                            06/27/06                    71 FR 36506
NPRM Comment Period End         08/08/06
Final Action                    11/13/06                    71 FR 66122

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AU12
_______________________________________________________________________

530. ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE OPTIMUM YIELD AND HARVEST QUOTAS FOR PACIFIC 
MACKEREL

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, July 1, 2006, The CPS fisheries 
regulations require that the annual specifications for Pacific mackerel 
be published before July 1, the start of the fishing year.

Abstract: This rule announces the annual harvest guideline for Pacific 
mackerel in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) off the Pacific coast. 
The Coastal Pelagic Species Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and its 
implementing regulations require NMFS to set an annual harvest 
guideline for Pacific mackerel based on a formula in the FMP. The 
intended effect of this action is to establish allowable harvest levels 
for Pacific mackerel off the Pacific coast and to minimize the impact 
on other coastal pelagic fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/20/06                    71 FR 61944
NPRM Comment Period End         11/20/06
Final Rule                      01/31/07                     72 FR 4461

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 22414]]

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AU27
_______________________________________________________________________

531. MODIFICATION TO THE ``OTHER SPECIES'' COMPLEX 2006 AND 2007 TOTAL 
ALLOWABLE CATCH (TAC) AMOUNTS IN THE GULF OF ALASKA (GOA)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service revises the final 2006 
and 2007 harvest specifications for the ``other species'' complex in 
the Gulf of Alaska (GOA) by reducing the total allowable catch (TAC) 
for the complex to 4,500 metric tons (mt) annually. The intended effect 
of this action is to conserve and manage the groundfish resources in 
the GOA in accordance with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation 
and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/11/06                    71 FR 39046
NPRM Comment Period End         08/10/06
Final Action                    10/31/06                    71 FR 63704

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AT92
RIN: 0648-AU52
_______________________________________________________________________

532. CORRECT AND CLARIFY 2005 ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID AND BUTTERFISH 
FISHERY SPECIFICATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) amends its 
regulations to restore certain measures that were taken out of effect 
on January 1, 2006. A final rule implementing the specifications for 
the 2005 fishing year for Atlantic mackerel, squid, and butterfish 
(MSB) clarified the expiration date of the limited entry program for 
Illex squid, established a minimum mesh requirement for the butterfish 
fishery, and removed a regulatory requirement for annual specifications 
to be published by a specific date. Those regulatory measures were 
intended to be permanent, unlike the specifications themselves, which 
expired January 1, 2006. Due to an error in the final rule, these three 
measures expired on January 1, 2006. This action would restore those 
regulatory requirements. This action is being taken by NMFS under the 
authority of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management 
Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/02/06                    71 FR 43707
NPRM Comment Period End         08/17/06
Final Action                    10/30/06                    71 FR 63268

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AR56
RIN: 0648-AU54
_______________________________________________________________________

533. AMENDMENT TO NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN; 
GEORGES BANK FIXED GEAR SECTOR OPERATIONS PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 13 to the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) established 
a process for the formation of sectors (modification of the FMP), and 
established a process for annual approval of proposed sector operations 
(Regional Administrator approval of Operations Plan). Framework 
Adjustment (FW) 42 to the FMP, if approved, would create the Georges 
Bank (GB) Cod Fixed Gear Sector (Fixed Gear Sector), the second 
approved sector of the FMP. Creation of the Fixed Gear Sector would 
authorize the Regional Administrator to allocate a hard Total Allowable 
Catch (TAC) to the Fixed Gear Sector and exempt members from FMP 
restrictions on an annual basis. In order for the Sector to be 
allocated GB cod, the Sector must submit an Operations Plan to the 
Regional Administrator for approval annually. The Operations Plan and 
Sector Contract must contain certain elements, including a contract 
signed by all Sector participants and a plan containing the management 
rules that the Sector participants agree to abide by, in order to avoid 
exceeding the allocated TAC. This action announces and requests comment 
on the Operations Plan and allocation of a GB cod to the Fixed Gear 
Sector for fishing year 2006.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/22/06                    71 FR 48903
NPRM Comment Period End         09/21/06
Final Action                    11/29/06                    71 FR 69070

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930

[[Page 22415]]

Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU56
_______________________________________________________________________

534. AMENDMENT 16-4 (OVERFISHED SPECIES REBUILDING) TO THE PACIFIC COAST 
GROUNDFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN AND THE 2007-2008 GROUNDFISH HARVEST 
SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, August 24, 2006, Notice of 
Availability.
NPRM, Statutory, September 22, 2006.
Final, Statutory, December 31, 2006.

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service amends its regulations 
to implement Amendment 16-4 to the Pacific Coast groundfish FMP. This 
action implements new rebuilding goals for seven overfished species 
managed under the FMP. Amendment 16-4 responds to a recent ruling in 
the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals to develop overfished species 
rebuilding plans that rebuild the stocks within a time period that is 
``as short as possible, taking into account the status and biology of 
any overfished stocks, the needs of fishing communities. . .and the 
interactions of the overfished stock of fish within the marine 
ecosystem.`` Commercial management measures include landings limits, 
size limits, gear restrictions, and time/area closures. Recreational 
management measures include bag limits, size limits, gear restrictions, 
and time/area closures. The specifications and management measures that 
would be implemented by this action would be in effect from January 1, 
2007, through December 31, 2008.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          09/01/06                    71 FR 52051
Comment Period End              10/31/06
NPRM                            09/29/06                    71 FR 57764
NPRM Comment Period End         10/31/06
Final Rule                      12/29/06                    71 FR 78638
Final Rule--Correction          03/20/07                    72 FR 13043

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AU57
_______________________________________________________________________

535. SOLICITATION OF PROPOSALS FOR RESEARCH SET-ASIDE QUOTA FOR MID-
ATLANTIC FISHERIES FOR 2008

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action implements management measures for the monkfish 
fishery for 2007.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn Will Be Completed By 
Another Action                  02/23/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU64
_______________________________________________________________________

536. FISHERY SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 MONKFISH FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action implements management measures for the monkfish 
fishery for 2007, including trip limits and days-at-sea allocations. 
This is a routine annual adjustment as required by the Monkfish Fishery 
Management Plan and will affect holders of monkfish permits during the 
fishing year that extends from May 1, 2007, through April 30, 2008.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0648-AU34           02/23/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU65
_______________________________________________________________________

537. SOLICITATION OF PROPOSALS FOR RESEARCH SET-ASIDE QUOTA FOR MONKFISH 
FOR 2008

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action solicits proposals for research set-aside quota 
in the monkfish fishery for 2008, as authorized by the Monkfish Fishery 
Management Plan. This is a competitive process by which researchers may 
apply for and be granted days-at-sea in the monkfish fishery to fund 
research on monkfish.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/23/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU66
_______________________________________________________________________

538. SOLICITATION OF PROPOSALS FOR RESEARCH SET-ASIDE QUOTA FOR ATLANTIC 
SEA SCALLOP FOR 2008

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action solicits proposals for research set-aside quota 
in the Atlantic sea scallop fishery for 2008,

[[Page 22416]]

as authorized by the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan. This 
is a competitive process by which researchers may apply for and be 
granted days-at-sea and/or access area trips in the scallop fishery to 
fund research on Atlantic sea scallops.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/23/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU67
_______________________________________________________________________

539. AMEND REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO PROTECTED RESOURCE CLOSURES IN THE 
UNITED STATES WEST COAST SWORDFISH/THRESHER SHARK DRIFT GILLNET FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Pacific Fisheries Management Council (Council) is 
considering alternatives for amending the northern boundary of the 
protected resource closure area embodied in Section 660.713 of the 
Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan. This action is being 
taken to enhance enforcement capabilities and address protected species 
conservation efforts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/23/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Craig Heberer, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 West 
Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 760 431-9440
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: craig.heberer@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AU75
_______________________________________________________________________

540. REGULATIONS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF BIOLOGICAL REFERENCE POINTS FOR 
THE UNITED STATES WEST COAST FISHERIES FOR HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would incorporate biological reference points 
into the Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Fishery Management Plan. The 
biological reference points are required under the Magnuson-Stevens 
Fishery Conservation and Management Act and will allow NMFS to address 
potential overfishing concerns in the HMS fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/23/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Craig Heberer, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 West 
Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 760 431-9440
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: craig.heberer@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AU76
_______________________________________________________________________

541. AMENDMENT TO NET MESH SIZE MEASUREMENT REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will revise the methodology for measuring fishing 
net mesh size in the Northeast Region. Fishing net mesh size is 
measured by inserting a wedge-shaped gauge into the mesh opening with a 
force of a specified weight. This regulatory change will increase the 
weight used to measure mesh size from 5 kg to 8 kg for mesh 5 inches 
and larger, to be consistent with international practices. This is a 
minor change that will likely result in fewer fishermen being cited for 
net size violations as a result of their nets shrinking as they are 
used.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/26/06                    71 FR 56098
NPRM Comment Period End         10/26/06
Final Rule                      02/26/07                     72 FR 8287

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU83
_______________________________________________________________________

542. ATLANTIC SHARK SEASONS AND QUOTAS FOR FIRST TRIMESTER 2007

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would adjust regional quotas and announce season 
lengths for large and small coastal sharks, and pelagic sharks managed 
under the Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Tunas, Swordfish, and 
Sharks. This rule would also consider additional measures to address a 
large overharvest of large coastal sharks that occurred in the South 
Atlantic region in the first trimester of 2006. This rule is necessary 
to ensure that quotas are based upon the most recent landings 
information and account for any over- or underharvests from the 2006 
first trimester season.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/05/06                    71 FR 58778
NPRM Comment Period End         11/01/06
Comment Period Extended         11/13/06                    71 FR 64213
Final Rule                      12/14/06                    71 FR 75122

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 22417]]

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AU84
_______________________________________________________________________

543. [bull] CHANGE IN PROCESS FOR RENEWING AND REPLACING HIGHLY 
MIGRATORY SPECIES VESSEL OWNER PERMITS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The action would modify the process NMFS uses to renew and 
replace permits issued to vessel owners participating in the U.S. West 
Coast highly migratory species (HMS) fishery fisheries managed under 
the HMS fishery management plan. This action would modify the renewal 
process by substituting the last day of the month designated by the 
last digit of the vessel identification number with the last day of the 
managing vessel owner's birth month as determining the renewal date for 
expiring permits. Also, under this action, vessel owners requiring a 
duplicate permit would need to provide written notification to NMFS. 
These regulations are needed to improve the efficiency and timeliness 
by NMFS in issuing permits to manage owners of vessels participating in 
U.S. West Coast HMS fisheries when renewing their expiring permits or 
replacing their lost or mutilated permits. This action is intended to 
meet the conservation and management requirements of the Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/07/06                    71 FR 70939
NPRM Comment Period End         01/08/07
Final Action                    03/12/07                     72 FR AU91

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AP42
RIN: 0648-AU91
_______________________________________________________________________

544. [bull] FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES; PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH 
FISHERY; ESTABLISH A CONTROL DATE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS and the Council intend to consider a groundfish fishery 
management plan (FMP) amendment and management measures to reduce 
harvest capacity in the open access portion of the Pacific Coast 
groundfish fishery in Federal waters off Washington, Oregon, and 
California. A control date for the open access sector is intended to 
promote awareness of potential eligibility criteria for future access 
to the open access portion of the Pacific Coast groundfish fishery. The 
control date is also intended to discourage new entrants into this 
fishery and increase fishing effort based on economic speculation while 
the Council contemplates whether and how access should be controlled. 
Vessels entering the fisheries after September 13, 2006, may be subject 
to restrictions different from those that apply to vessels in the 
fishery prior to September 13, 2006. If catch history is used as a 
basis for future participation or allocation, it is likely that 
participation in the fishery after September 13, 2006, would not count 
toward future allocations or participation in a limited access scheme. 
NMFS previously announced a control date of November 5, 1999, for an 
open access license limitation program (65 FR 6577, February 10, 2000). 
However, NMFS and the Council recognized that open access fishery 
participation has changed over the last seven years and the 1999 
control date may no longer be appropriate for this fishery. Therefore, 
a new control date of September 13, 2006, reflects more recent 
participation in the fishery and changes in fishery management.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/02/06                    71 FR 64216

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AU94
_______________________________________________________________________

545. [bull] FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; REMOVAL OF DELAYED 
EFFECTIVENESS WHEN CLOSING HAWAII SHALLOW-SET LONGLINE FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would permanently remove a seven-
day delayed effectiveness after notification for closure of the 
shallow-set component of the Hawaii longline fishery as a result of 
reaching interaction limits for sea turtles. The intended effect of 
this action is to afford enhanced protection to loggerhead and 
leatherback sea turtles.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/16/07                     72 FR 1700
NPRM Comment Period End         01/31/07
Final Action                    02/26/07                     72 FR 9289

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AU41
RIN: 0648-AU99

[[Page 22418]]

_______________________________________________________________________

546. [bull] ESTABLISH A REVISED CONTROL DATE FOR THE COMMERCIAL KING 
MACKEREL FISHERY IN THE SOUTH ATLANTIC EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This notice announces that the South Atlantic Fishery 
Management Council (SAFMC) is considering additional management 
measures to further limit the number of participants or levels of 
participation in the commercial fishery for Atlantic group king 
mackerel in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the South Atlantic and 
Mid-Atlantic region. If such management measures are implemented, the 
SAFMC is considering June 15, 2004, as a possible control date where 
anyone who entered the fishery after that date would not be assured of 
future access.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/05/06                    71 FR 70492

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Fax: 727 824-5308

RIN: 0648-AV02
_______________________________________________________________________

547. [bull] PACIFIC HALIBUT FISHERIES; CATCH SHARING PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, December 31, 2006.
Final, Statutory, March 1, 2007.

Abstract: NMFS publishes this action to implement changes to the 
Pacific Halibut Catch Sharing Plan (Plan) for the International Pacific 
Halibut Commission's (IPHC or Commission) Regulatory Area 2A off 
Washington, Oregon, and California (Area 2A). NMFS would implement the 
portions of the Plan and management measures that are not implemented 
through the IPHC, which includes the sport fishery management measures 
for Area 2A. NMFS also would revise the Area 2A non-treaty commercial 
fishery closed areas, codified at 50 CFR part 300, subpart E. These 
actions are intended to enhance the conservation of Pacific halibut, to 
protect yelloweye rockfish and other overfished groundfish species from 
incidental catch in the halibut fisheries, and to provide greater 
angler opportunity where available.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/16/07                     72 FR 1690
NPRM Comment Period End         02/02/07
Final Action                    03/14/07                    72 FR 11792

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV03
_______________________________________________________________________

548. [bull] FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; WESTERN PACIFIC PRECIOUS 
CORALS FISHERIES; ESTABLISH A CONTROL DATE FOR THE BLACK CORAL FISHERY 
IN THE AU'AU CHANNEL, HAWAII

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 665

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) 
adopted a control date of December 21, 2006, applicable to persons who 
are contemplating entering the precious coral fishery for black corals 
in the Au'au Channel, Hawaii. The purpose of this action is to notify 
fishermen who may be interested in participating in the black coral 
fishery after December 21, 2006, that they may not be assured of future 
access to the fishery if the Council and/or NMFS decide to limit entry, 
or impose other measures to manage the fishery. Neither the Council nor 
NMFS has yet decided whether to limit new entry or impose other 
measures in this fishery, nor have they decided what other management 
measures might be implemented for the fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/02/07                     72 FR 9500

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207

RIN: 0648-AV26
_______________________________________________________________________

549. PREVENTING HARASSMENT FROM HUMAN ACTIVITIES DIRECTED AT MARINE 
MAMMALS IN THE WILD

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would prohibit the public from swimming with or 
otherwise interacting with dolphins and other marine mammals in the 
wild.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           01/30/02                     67 FR 4379
ANPRM Comment Period End        04/01/02
Withdrawn                       01/04/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Trevor Spradlin, Marine Mammal Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289
Email: trevor.spradlin@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AN43

[[Page 22419]]

_______________________________________________________________________

550. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO U.S. AIR FORCE PRECISION STRIKE WEAPONS EXERCISES IN THE 
NORTHERN GULF OF MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a 
request from the U.S. Air Force, Eglin Air Force Base, for an 
authorization under the Marine Mammal Protection Act to take marine 
mammals, by harassment, incidental to conducting precision strike 
weapons testing and training exercises within the waters of the 
northern Gulf of Mexico adjacent to Eglin AFB. As a result of this 
request, NMFS proposes regulations, that if implemented, would govern 
the incidental taking of marine mammals by Eglin AFB for this activity. 
In order to promulgate regulations and issue an LOA thereunder, NMFS 
must determine that the takings will have a negligible impact on the 
affected species and stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/03/06                    71 FR 44001
NPRM Comment Period End         09/05/06
Final Action                    11/24/06                    71 FR 67810

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Southwest Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, No. 4200, Long 
Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 502 980-4015
Fax: 502 980-4027

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AK76
RIN: 0648-AT39
_______________________________________________________________________

551. LIST OF FISHERIES FOR 2006

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The List of Fisheries (LOF) for 2006 reflects new information 
on interactions between commercial fisheries and marine mammals. NMFS 
must categorize each commercial fishery on the LOF into one of three 
categories under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) based upon the 
levels of mortality and serious injury of marine mammals that occurs 
within each fishery. The categorization of a fishery in the LOF 
determines whether participants in that fishery are subject to certain 
provisions of the MMPA, such as registration, observer coverage, and 
take reduction plan requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/24/06                    71 FR 20941
NPRM Comment Period End         05/24/06
Final Action                    08/22/06                    71 FR 48802

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Kristy Long, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East 
West Highway, Room 13738, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 427-2522
Email: kristy.long@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AU19
_______________________________________________________________________

552. DESIGNATION OF CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE SOUTHERN RESIDENT KILLER 
WHALE (ORCINUS ORCA)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1533

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, July 18, 2006, Early enough to allow 
for a 60-day comment period and revisions.
Final, Statutory, November 18, 2006, Statutory under ESA.

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is proposing to 
designate critical habitat for the endangered Southern Resident killer 
whale (Orcinus orca), as required under the Endangered Species Act. 
Three specific areas proposed for designation comprise about 2,567 
square miles of marine habitat in Puget Sound, Strait of Juan de Fuca, 
and San Juan Islands areas. We are soliciting public comment on this 
proposal. The final determination is due November 18, 2006.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/15/06                    71 FR 34571
NPRM Comment Period End         08/14/06
Final Action                    11/28/06                    71 FR 69054

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

Energy Effects:  Statement of Energy Effects planned as required by 
Executive Order 13211.

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Office of Protected Resources, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Fax: 301-427-2523
Email: marta.nammack@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AU38
_______________________________________________________________________

553. [bull] ESA EMERGENCY RULE CLOSING RIGHT WHALE CORE CALVING AREA TO 
GILLNET FISHING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1533(b)(7)

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: With this action, NMFS issues an emergency rule to close the 
core right whale calving area to gillnet fishing. NMFS considers the 
core right whale calving area to include waters off Northeast Florida 
(north of 29 deg. 00' N lat.) and Georgia, from shore eastward to 
80 deg. 00' W long., and off South Carolina within 35 nautical miles of 
the coast. NMFS issues this emergency rule under the Endangered Species 
Act (16 U.S.C. 1533(b)(7)). This emergency rule is issued to prevent 
significant risk to the well-being of highly endangered right whales in 
the right whale's only known calving area during the right whale's 
winter calving season.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/15/06                    71 FR 66469

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 22420]]

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AU90
RIN: 0648-AU95
_______________________________________________________________________

554. [bull] EMERGENCY RULE TO CORRECT THE CONFIGURATION OF CHAIN MATS 
REQUIRED IN THE MID-ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP DREDGE FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531; 16 USC 1361

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) issues this 
emergency rule to correct the configuration requirements for the chain-
mat modified dredges required in the mid-Atlantic sea scallop fishery. 
This rule would apply to all vessels with a Federal Atlantic sea 
scallop fishery permit and sea scallop dredge-gear fishing south of 
41 deg. 9.0' N. latitude from the shoreline to outer boundary of the 
Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) from May 1 through November 30 each year. 
This rule is being promulgated under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) 
to ensure that the chain-mat modified dredge will provide the 
protection to sea turtles that was expected from a rulemaking.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/16/06                    71 FR 66466

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

Related RIN: Related to 0648-AS92
RIN: 0648-AU97
_______________________________________________________________________

555. [bull] LIST OF FISHERIES FOR 2007

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: With this action, NMFS issues a rule to publish the annual 
List of Fisheries (LOF), as required by section 118 of the Marine 
Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). The proposed LOF for 2007 reflects new 
information on interactions between commercial fisheries and marine 
mammals. NMFS must categorize each commercial fishery on the LOF into 
one of three categories under the MMPA based upon the levels of 
mortality and serious injury of marine mammals that occurs within each 
fishery. The categorization of a fishery in the LOF determines whether 
participants in that fishery are subject to certain provisions of the 
MMPA, such as registration, observer coverage, and take reduction plan 
requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/04/06                    71 FR 70339
NPRM Comment Period End         01/03/07
Final Action                    03/28/07                    72 FR 14466

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Vickie A. Allin, Chief, Policy Coordination Division, 
Office of Ocean & Coastal Resource Mgmt., Department of Commerce, 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1305 East-West 
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-3086

James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected Resources, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AV01
_______________________________________________________________________

556. GRAY'S REEF NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434; 16 USC 1439

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922.90 to 922.92

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend regulations and designation documents 
for the Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary to clarify that the 
sanctuary boundary includes submerged lands; revise regulations on 
placing structures on the seabed, fishing, anchoring, discharges, and 
cultural resources; and revise procedure for issuing sanctuary permits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/31/03                    68 FR 62033
NPRM Comment Period End         12/31/03
Final Action                    10/12/06                    71 FR 60055

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Reed Bohne, Manager, Gray's Reef National Marine 
Sanctuary, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 10 Ocean Science Circle, Savannah, GA 31411
Phone: 912 598-2345
Fax: 912 598-2367
Email: reed.bohne@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AQ41
_______________________________________________________________________

557. CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR NOAA ELECTRONIC NAVIGATIONAL CHART 
DISTRIBUTION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 33 USC 892(a) to 892(b); HSIA 2002, sec 303; HSIA 
2002, sec 304

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 995

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, December 19, 2004, By not later than 2 
years after the date of enactment of the HSIA Amendments of 2002.
Mandate to certify hydrographic products that satisfy the standards 
promulgated by the Administrator no later than 2 years after the date 
of enactment of the Hydrographic Services Improvement Act Amendments of 
2002.

Abstract: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 
amends its regulations to add certification requirements with standards 
for applicants who want to distribute NOAA Electronic Navigational 
Charts (NOAA ENCs) as official data. NOAA intends to offer two types of 
certification. The first

[[Page 22421]]

type, ``Certified NOAA ENC Distributor,'' is for NOAA ENCs downloading, 
exact copying, and redistribution of those copies of NOAA ENCs data. 
The second type, ``Certified NOAA ENC Value Added Distributor,'' 
permits reformatting official NOAA ENCs into a System Electronic 
Navigational Chart (SENC) using type-approved software, and 
distribution of that SENC. Both types of certification result in 
products that meet Federal chart carriage regulations. Both types of 
certification permit, but do not require, compression, encryption, and 
packaging with other data. NOAA intends by this action to assure that 
quality official NOAA ENC data is offered to the public in support of 
safe navigation on U.S. waters.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/15/04                    69 FR 61165
Final Action                    09/06/05                    70 FR 52906

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For More Information:
nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/mcd/enc/indes.htm

URL For Public Comments:
nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/mcd/enc/indes.htm

Agency Contact: Julia Powell, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic 
and Atmospheric Administration, Office of Coast Survey, 1315 East West 
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-0388
Email: julia.powell@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AR87
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions
National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)
_______________________________________________________________________

558. IMPLEMENT AND ADMINISTER A COUPON PROGRAM FOR DIGITAL-TO-ANALOG 
CONVERTER BOXES

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: PL 109-171

CFR Citation: 47 CFR 301

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Pursuant to the Digital Television Transition and Public 
Safety Act of 2005 (the Act), the National Telecommunications and 
Information Administration (NTIA) proposes to implement a digital-to-
analog converter box coupon program. The Act, among other things, 
requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to require full-
power television stations to cease analog broadcasting by February 18, 
2009. Recognizing that consumers may wish to continue receiving 
broadcast programming over the air using analog-only televisions not 
connected to cable or satellite service, the Act authorizes NTIA to 
create an assistance program to provide $40 coupons to consumers for 
use toward the purchase of digital-to-analog converter boxes. Without 
converter boxes, consumers with analog-only television sets will be 
unable to view full-power television broadcasts unless they purchase 
digital television sets or subscribe to cable or satellite service.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/25/06                    71 FR 42067
Final Action                    03/15/07                    72 FR 12097

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: This action would establish the eligibility 
criteria, application process, coupon value and use restrictions, and 
manufacturer and retailer certification process. To implement this 
program, the Act authorizes NTIA to use up to $990 million to fund the 
program, including $100 million for program administration. NTIA is 
also authorized to expend up to $1.5 billion for the program, including 
$160 million for administration, upon a 60-day notice and certification 
to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives 
and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
Senate that the $990 million is insufficient to fulfill coupon requests 
for eligible U.S. households.

Agency Contact: Milton Brown, Deputy Chief Counsel, Department of 
Commerce, National Telecommunications and Information Administration, 
14th & Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-1816
Fax: 202 501-8013
Email: mbrown@ntia.doc.gov

RIN: 0660-AA16
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                              Prerule Stage
Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)
_______________________________________________________________________

559. THE DUTY OF CANDOR AND INEQUITABLE CONDUCT IN PROSECUTION OF PATENT 
APPLICATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1.56

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), under its 35 
USC Section 2 authority to prescribe procedural rules, is seeking 
comment on alternatives to provisions of its current Rule 1.56, 
establishing obligations to disclose information to the Office in 
patent application prosecution. The notice will also articulate how the 
USPTO interprets the implementation of its ethics rules concerning 
registered patent practitioners for information disclosure. Finally, 
the notice recognizes the influence of the judicial doctrine of 
inequitable conduct on submission to the USPTO and seeks public comment 
on the extent of that influence and possible alternatives.

[[Page 22422]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Inquiry               07/00/07
Notice of Inquiry Comment Period 
End                             09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kyu S. Lee, Associate Counsel, Department of Commerce, 
Patent and Trademark Office, Office of the General Counsel, P.O. Box 
15667, Arlington, VA 22215
Phone: 571 272-6421
Fax: 571 273-0099
Email: lee.kyu@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage
Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)
_______________________________________________________________________

560. CHANGES TO REPRESENTATION OF OTHERS BEFORE THE U.S. PATENT AND 
TRADEMARK OFFICE

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 500(a); 35 USC 2(b) 2(D)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1; 37 CFR 2; 37 CFR 10; 37 CFR 11

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) amends its 
regulations to update the procedures regarding enrollment and 
discipline. The office also replaces the current USPTO Code of 
Professional Responsibility, which is based on the Model Code of 
Professional Responsibility of the American Bar Association, with USPTO 
Rules of Professional Conduct, which are based largely on the Model 
Rules of Professional Conduct of the American Bar Association.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/12/03                    68 FR 66648
NPRM Comment Period End         02/12/04
Notice                          03/03/04                     69 FR 9986
Comment Period End              06/11/04
Final Action - Part I           06/24/04                    69 FR 35428
Supplemental NPRM               02/28/07                     72 FR 9196
Supplemental NPRM Comment Period 
End                             05/29/07
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: See 69 FR 9986-9987.

Agency Contact: Harry I. Moatz, Director of Enrollment and Discipline, 
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Office of 
Enrollment and Discipline, P. O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-4097

Related RIN: Related to 0651-AB38
RIN: 0651-AB55
_______________________________________________________________________

561. AMENDMENT OF TRADEMARK RULES OF PRACTICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2.6, 2.21, 2.26, 2.32, 2.33, 2.34; 37 CFR 2.44, 
2.45, 2.47, 2.52, 2.53, 2.56; 37 CFR 2.63, 2.65, 2.67, 2.74, 2.76, 
2.77; 37 CFR 2.85, 2.86, 2.87, 2.88, 2.89, 2.99; 37 CFR 2.145, 2.146, 
2.153, 2.161, 2.171; 37 CFR 2.172, 2.173, 2.175, 2.184, 2.198; 37 CFR 
3.31, 3.85, 7.14, 7.25

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is amending its 
rules to simplify and clarify procedures for (1) registering 
trademarks, (2) maintaining trademark registrations, (3) processing 
petitions to the Director in trademark cases, and (4) filing 
applications for international trademark registration and other 
documents pertaining to international registrations under the Madrid 
Agreement Concerning the International Registration of Marks (Madrid 
Protocol) through the USPTO.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mary E. Hannon, Attorney Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P. O. Box 1451, Alexandria, VA 
22313-1451
Phone: 571 272-9569
Fax: 571 273-9569
Email: mary.hannon@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB89
_______________________________________________________________________

562. EXAMINATION OF PATENT APPLICATIONS THAT INCLUDE CLAIMS CONTAINING 
MARKUSH OR OTHER ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR Part 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Office) is considering 
revising the rules of practice to address Markush-type and other claims 
written so as to claim an invention in the alternative. The search and 
examination of Markush-type and other claims written in the alternative 
generally consume a disproportionate amount of Office resources as 
compared to other types of claims, because these claims can encompass 
multiple independent and distinct inventions, and determining the 
patentability of such a claim may require a separate examination of 
each of the alternatives within the claim. The Office anticipates that 
requiring applicants who choose this claim-drafting format to ensure a 
certain degree of relatedness among the members of a Markush group or 
the alternatives presented in the claims will allow the Office to do a 
better, more thorough and reliable examination of Markush-type and 
other claims written in the alternative.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

[[Page 22423]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 
22313
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AC00
_______________________________________________________________________

563. CHANGES IN THE REQUIREMENTS FOR FILING REQUESTS FOR RECONSIDERATION 
OF FINAL OFFICE ACTIONS IN TRADEMARK CASES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2.64

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Office amends 37 CFR part 2.64 to require that a request 
for reconsideration of an examining attorney's final refusal or 
requirement be filed through TEAS within 3 months of the mailing date 
of the final action. The purpose of this rule is to streamline the 
processing of applications in which a final refusal has been issued, 
and to reduce pendency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/14/07                     72 FR 6984
NPRM Comment Period End         04/16/07
Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mary E. Hannon, Attorney Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P. O. Box 1451, Alexandria, VA 
22313-1451
Phone: 571 272-9569
Fax: 571 273-9569
Email: mary.hannon@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________

564. REVISION OF PATENT AND TRADEMARK FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 41; 35 USC 376; 35 USC 2(b)(2)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1.16 to 1.21; 37 CFR 1.26; 37 CFR 1.445, 1.482, 
1.492; 37 CFR 41.20 and 2.6

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 1, 2007, Final Action 
Effective Date.

Abstract: This rulemaking revises certain patent and trademark fees to 
reflect fluctuations in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) consistent with 
PL 105-358, as amended by PL 108-447.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dianne Woods, Senior Analyst, Office of Corporate 
Planning, Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P. O. 
Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-3333
Fax: 571 273-0127

RIN: 0651-AC07
_______________________________________________________________________

565. [bull] CHANGES TO RULES OF PRACTICE BEFORE THE BOARD OF APPEALS AND 
INTERFERENCES IN EX PARTE APPEALS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2); 35 USC 6(b); 35 USC 132; 35 USC 133; 
35 USC 134; 35 USC 305; 35 USC 306

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 41, subparts A and B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The USPTO is revising the rules of practice with respect to 
ex parte appeals before the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences. 
For example: (1) the requirements for filing an appeal brief are 
changed to reorganize the manner in which the appeal brief and reply 
brief are presented, (2) lengths of briefs would be established to 
shorten briefs, (3) times for taking action in an appeal would be 
reduced, and (4) authority to decide requests for extensions of time to 
file certain documents would be assigned to the Chief Administrative 
Patent Judge obtained by petition. The change is not related to the 
USPTO's Strategic Plan. The change is expected to have some positive 
impact on the USPTO's appeal backlog and pendency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/07
Final Action                    07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Fred E. McKelvey, Senior Administrative Patent Judge, 
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Mail Stop 
Interference, P. O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-9797
Fax: 571 273-0042
Email: bpai.rules@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AC12
_______________________________________________________________________

566. [bull] CHANGES TO RULES OF PRACTICE BEFORE THE BOARD OF APPEALS AND 
INTERFERENCES IN INTER PARTES APPEALS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2); 35 USC 6(b); 35 USC 132; 35 USC 133; 
35 USC 134; 35 USC 315

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 41, subpart C; 37 CFR 1.959

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The USPTO is revising the rules of practice with respect to 
inter partes appeals before the Board of Patent Appeals and 
Interferences. For example: (1) the requirements for filing appeal 
briefs are changed to reorganize the manner in which the appeal brief 
and reply brief are presented, (2) lengths of briefs would be 
established to shorten briefs, (3) times for taking action in an appeal 
would be reduced, and (4) authority to decide requests for extensions 
of time to file certain documents would be assigned to the Chief 
Administrative Patent Judge obtained by petition. The change is not 
related to the USPTO's Strategic Plan. The change is expected to have 
some positive impact on the USPTO's appeal backlog and pendency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/07
NPRM                            07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 22424]]

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Fred E. McKelvey, Senior Administrative Patent Judge, 
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Mail Stop 
Interference, P. O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-9797
Fax: 571 273-0042
Email: bpai.rules@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AC13
_______________________________________________________________________

567. [bull] CHANGES TO RULES OF PRACTICE BEFORE THE BOARD OF APPEALS AND 
INTERFERENCES IN INTERFERENCES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2); 35 USC 6(b); 35 USC 23; 35 USC 24; 35 
USC 135

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 41, subparts D and E

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The USPTO is revising the rules of practice with respect to 
interferences before the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences. For 
example: (1) The requirements for filing a motion are changed to 
reorganize the manner in which a motion is presented, (2) lengths of 
motions would be established to shorten motions, and (3) the required 
content of a motion would be changed. The change is not related to the 
USPTO's Strategic Plan.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/07
Final Action                    11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Fred E. McKelvey, Senior Administrative Patent Judge, 
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Mail Stop 
Interference, P. O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-9797
Fax: 571 273-0042
Email: bpai.rules@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AC14
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage
Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)
_______________________________________________________________________

568. CHANGES IN TRADEMARK RULES OF PRACTICE IN INTER PARTES PROCEEDINGS 
BEFORE THE TRADEMARK TRIAL AND APPEAL BOARD

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1067; 35 USC 2(8)(2)(A)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2.99(b) to (d); 37 CFR 2.101(a), (b) and (d); 37 
CFR 2.105(a) and (c); 37 CFR 2.111(a) to (c); 37 CFR 2.113(a), (c) and 
(e); 37 CFR 2.116; 37 CFR 2.118; 37 CFR 2.119(a) and (b); 37 CFR 
2.120(a), (d) through (j); 37 CFR 2.121(a), (d) and (e); 37 CFR 
2.123(e); 37 CFR 2.126 (a) and (b); 37 CFR 2.127(a), (c) and (e); 37 
CFR 2.129(a); 37 CFR 2.133 (a) and (b); 37 CFR 2.142(e); 37 CFR 
2.173(a); 37 CFR 2.176

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office amends its rules of 
practice in connection with inter partes proceedings before the 
Trademark Trial and Appeal Board to require that plaintiffs serve 
notice of their claims directly on defendants, to follow the Federal 
Rules of Civil Procedure insofar as they require disclosure by parties 
of certain types of discoverable information and pre-trial disclosures, 
and to permit service of documents by e-mail.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/17/06                     71 FR 2498
NPRM Comment Period End         03/20/06
NPRM Comment Period Reopened    03/27/06                    71 FR 15097
NPRM Reopened Comment Period End05/04/06
Final Action                    05/00/07
Final Action Effective          07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mr, Gerard F. Rogers, Administrative Judge, Department 
of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Trademark Trial and Appeal 
Board, 600 Dulany Street, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-4299
Fax: 571-273-0059
Email: gerard.rogers@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB56
_______________________________________________________________________

569. REVISIONS AND TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS AFFECTING REQUIREMENTS FOR EX 
PARTE AND INTER PARTES REEXAMINATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2); 35 USC 301 to 318

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Office) amends its 
rules of practice relating to ex parte and inter partes reexamination. 
The Office revises the rules of practice to clarify the substantial new 
question of patentability standard for a second or subsequent request 
for ex parte reexamination or inter partes reexamination, and to 
provide for a request for continued reexamination practice to permit 
entry of a limited number of submissions after a final rejection or 
action in an ex parte reexamination or inter partes reexamination. The 
Office also revises the rules of practice to require compliance with 
all the requirements of filing an inter partes reexamination before a 
filing date will be assigned to an inter partes reexamination, and to 
prohibit supplemental patent owner responses to an Office action in an 
inter partes reexamination without a showing of cause.

[[Page 22425]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/30/06                    71 FR 16072
NPRM Comment Period End         05/30/06
Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Mail Stop Comments--Patents, 
Commissioner for Patents, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313-1450
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB77
_______________________________________________________________________

570. REVISION OF PATENT FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 41; 35 USC 376; 35 USC 2(b)(2)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1.16 to 1.21; 37 CFR 1.26; 37 CFR 1.445; 37 CFR 
1.482; 37 CFR 1.492; 37 CFR 41.20; 37 CFR 2.6

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, September 30, 2007.

Abstract: This rulemaking revises certain patent and trademark fees to 
reflect fluctuations in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) consistent with 
Public Law 105-358, as amended by Public Law 108-447.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/05/06                    71 FR 32285
NPRM Comment Period End         07/05/06
Final Action                    08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: The proposed rule notice entitled ``Revision of 
Patent Fees for Fiscal Year 2007'' published in the Federal Register on 
June 5, 2006, proposed to adjust certain patent fee amounts to reflect 
fluctuations in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), as well as a few patent 
fee amounts that track the affected fees. When the proposed rule was 
published, it was anticipated, but not certain, if legislation would be 
enacted that extended the revisions in the Consolidated Appropriations 
Act (CAA).
If legislation were enacted, then Option 1 of this proposed rule would 
apply. If, for any period during FY 2007, the fee revisions in the CAA 
were not in effect, then Option 2 of this proposed rule would apply and 
the fee adjustment would apply to the former fee amounts that were in 
place on October 1, 2004, to December 7, 2004, prior to enactment of 
the CAA.
Based upon anticipated action, and then the enactment of the CAA by 
Congress, a decision was made by the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) not 
to adjust fees by the CPI for FY 2007. On October 3, 2006, a notice was 
also published on the USPTO Internet entitled ``IMPORTANT NOTICE - 
Patent and Trademark Fees - Fiscal Year 2007'' to inform customers that 
based upon anticipated action by the U.S. Congress, USPTO's current 
patent and trademark fee schedule would continue in effect on October 
1, 2006, and beyond.

Agency Contact: Dianne Woods, Senior Analyst, Office of Corporate 
Planning, Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P. O. 
Box 1450, Alexandria, VA , VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-3333
Fax: 571 273-0127

RIN: 0651-AB81
_______________________________________________________________________

571. [bull] CORRESPONDENCE WITH THE UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK 
OFFICE, OFFICE OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR Parts 102 and 104

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office, Office of the 
General Counsel, is revising the rules of practice to update the 
address for mail and service.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kyu S. Lee, Associate Counsel, Department of Commerce, 
Patent and Trademark Office, Office of the General Counsel, P.O. Box 
15667, Arlington, VA 22215
Phone: 571 272-6421
Fax: 571 273-0099
Email: lee.kyu@uspto.gov

Related RIN: Related to 0651-AB86
RIN: 0651-AC08
_______________________________________________________________________

572. [bull] REVISION OF PATENT COOPERATION TREATY PROCEDURES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2) and 376

CFR Citation: 37 CFR Part 1

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, April 1, 2007, PCT Treaty.

Abstract: The USPTO is amending the rules of practice to conform them 
to certain amendments made to the Regulations under the Patent 
Cooperation Treaty (PCT) that will take effect on April 1, 2007. These 
amendments will result in the addition of a mechanism to the PCT system 
whereby applicants may request that the right to claim priority be 
restored in applications that meet certain requirements. In addition, 
these amendments will provide a means for applicants to insert a 
missing portion of an international application without the loss of the 
international filing date. These amendments also will clarify the 
circumstances and procedures under which the correction of an obvious 
mistake may be made in an international application. Finally, the USPTO 
is revising the search fee for international applications.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/16/07                     72 FR 7583
NPRM Comment Period End         03/19/07
Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Mail Stop Comments--Patents,

[[Page 22426]]

Commissioner for Patents, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313-1450
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AC09
_______________________________________________________________________

573. [bull] INTERNATIONAL TRADEMARK CLASSIFICATION CHANGES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 6.1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office amends its 
regulations to incorporate classification changes adopted by the Nice 
Agreement Concerning the International Classification of Goods and 
Services for the Purposes of the Registration of Marks. These changes 
became effective January 1, 2007, and are listed in the International 
Classification of Goods and Services for the Purposes of the 
Registration of Marks (9th ed., 2007), which is published by the World 
Intellectual Property Organization.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marie Sanok, Attorney Advisor, Department of Commerce, 
Patent and Trademark Office, P. O. Box 1451, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-9577
Fax: 571 273-9577
Email: dawn-marie.sanok@uspto.gov

Mary E. Hannon, Attorney Advisor, Department of Commerce, Patent and 
Trademark Office, P. O. Box 1451, Alexandria, VA 22313-1451
Phone: 571 272-9569
Fax: 571 273-9569
Email: mary.hannon@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AC10
_______________________________________________________________________

574. [bull] CORRESPONDENCE WITH THE MADRID PROCESSING UNIT OF THE UNITED 
STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2.190(e) and 7.4(b)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office is revising the 
rules of practice to change the address for correspondence sent to the 
Office's Madrid Processing Unit, relating to filings pursuant to the 
Protocol Relating to the Madrid Agreement Concerning the International 
Registration of Marks (Madrid Protocol).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jennifer Chicoski, Attorney Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Commissioner for Trademarks, P. 
O. Box 1451, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-8943
Fax: 571 273-8943
Email: jennifer.chicoski@uspto.gov

Mary E. Hannon, Attorney Advisor, Department of Commerce, Patent and 
Trademark Office, P. O. Box 1451, Alexandria, VA 22313-1451
Phone: 571 272-9569
Fax: 571 273-9569
Email: mary.hannon@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AC11
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions
Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)
_______________________________________________________________________

575. ACCEPTANCE, PROCESSING, USE AND DISSEMINATION OF CHEMICAL AND 
THREE-DIMENSIONAL BIOLOGICAL STRUCTURAL DATA IN ELECTRONIC FORMAT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/21/05                    70 FR 35573
ANPRM Comment Period End        08/22/05
NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB91
_______________________________________________________________________

576. CHANGES TO PRACTICE FOR CONTINUING APPLICATIONS, REQUESTS FOR 
CONTINUED EXAMINATION PRACTICE, AND APPLICATIONS CONTAINING PATENTABLY 
INDISTINCT CLAIMS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/03/06                       71 FR 48
NPRM Comment Period End         05/03/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB93
_______________________________________________________________________

577. CHANGES TO PRACTICE FOR THE EXAMINATION OF CLAIMS IN PATENT 
APPLICATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/03/06                       71 FR 61
NPRM Comment Period End         05/03/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

[[Page 22427]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB94
_______________________________________________________________________

578. CHANGES TO INFORMATION DISCLOSURE STATEMENT REQUIREMENTS AND OTHER 
RELATED MATTERS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/10/06                    71 FR 38808
NPRM Comment Period End         09/08/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB95
_______________________________________________________________________

579. PRE-BRIEF APPEAL CONFERENCE FOR PATENT APPLICATIONS UNDER APPEAL TO 
THE BOARD OF PATENT APPEALS AND INTERFERENCES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 41

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB96
_______________________________________________________________________

580. CHANGES TO EXAMINATION PRACTICE FOR MEANS- (OR STEP-) PLUS-FUNCTION 
CLAIM ELEMENTS IN PATENT APPLICATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB97
_______________________________________________________________________

581. INTERIM GUIDELINES FOR EXAMINATION OF PATENT APPLICATIONS FOR 
PATENT SUBJECT MATTER ELIGIBILITY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: None

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          12/20/05                    70 FR 75451
Comment Period End              06/30/06
Comment Period Extended         06/14/06                    71 FR 34307
NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________

582. REVISION TO THE TIME FOR REQUIRED FILING OF A BIOLOGICAL DEPOSIT 
AND TO THE DATE OF AVAILABILITY OF THE BIOLOGICAL DEPOSIT

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB99
_______________________________________________________________________

583. CHANGES TO IMPLEMENT PREEXAMINATION SEARCH REPORTS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AC03
_______________________________________________________________________

584. REVISIONS TO THE PROCEDURES FOR DEFERRAL OF EXAMINATION OF AN 
APPLICATION FOR PATENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AC06

[[Page 22428]]

_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions
Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)
_______________________________________________________________________

585. CHANGES TO IMPLEMENT PRIORITY APPLICATION EXCHANGE BETWEEN 
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY OFFICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Office) has established 
a 21st Century Strategic Plan to transform the Office into a quality-
focused, highly productive, responsive organization supporting a 
market-driven intellectual property system. One priority of the 21st 
Century Strategic Plan is the electronic exchange of information and 
documents between intellectual property offices to reduce costs 
associated with seeking patent protection in more than one country. 
Consistent with this priority, the Office revises its rules of practice 
to provide for the electronic transfer of certified copies of 
applications for which priority benefit is claimed under the Paris 
Convention (priority applications) from other intellectual property 
offices with which the Office has negotiated priority application 
exchange agreements. The Office also revises its rules of practice to 
permit applicants to request that the Office permit other participating 
intellectual property offices to electronically retrieve certified 
copies of United States patent applications for free. This electronic 
exchange of priority applications will benefit applicants by reducing 
the cost of ordering paper certified copies of priority applications 
for filing in other participating intellectual property offices, and 
will benefit participating intellectual property offices by reducing 
the administrative costs associated with transferring paper copies of 
priority applications and scanning them into the electronic image 
record management systems.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/16/07                     72 FR 1664

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Mail Stop Comments--Patents, 
Commissioner for Patents, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313-1450
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB75
_______________________________________________________________________

586. AMENDMENT OF RULES FOR FILING INTENT TO USE DOCUMENTS IN SECTION 
1(B) APPLICATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2.76; 37 CFR 2.87 to 2.89

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Office amends the rules to (1) change the deadline for 
filing second and subsequent requests for extensions of time to file a 
statement of use under section 1(d)(2) of the Trademark Act, 15 USC 
1051(d)(2), from six months to one year; and (2) simplify and clarify 
procedures pertaining to the filing of intent-to-use documents in 
applications under section 1(b) of the Act, 15 USC 1051(b).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/16/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mary E. Hannon, Attorney Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P. O. Box 1451, Alexandria, VA 
22313-1451
Phone: 571 272-9569
Fax: 571 273-9569
Email: mary.hannon@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB90
_______________________________________________________________________

587. CHANGES TO FACILITATE ELECTRONIC FILING OF PATENT CORRESPONDENCE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Office) plans to 
provide for the electronic submission of various papers typically 
submitted after an application is filed via a revised electronic filing 
system. The system is anticipated to permit electronic documents in the 
``pdf'' file format to be submitted electronically. This action 
proposes changes consistent with the revisions to the electronic filing 
system and to promote use of the electronic filing system. For example, 
the certificate of mailing practice is proposed to be changed to 
provide for submissions using the Electronic Filing System in the same 
manner as submissions by facsimile transmission. In addition, changes 
to the practice related to amendment of reissue applications and 
reexamination proceedings are proposed.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/23/07                     72 FR 2770

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 
22313
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AB92
_______________________________________________________________________

588. CHANGES TO ELIMINATE THE DISCLOSURE DOCUMENT PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Office) implemented the 
Disclosure Document Program in 1969 in order to provide an alternative 
form of evidence of conception of an invention to, for example, a 
``self-addressed envelope'' containing a disclosure of an invention. It 
appears, however, that few, if any, inventors obtain any actual benefit 
from a disclosure document, and some inventors who use the Disclosure 
Document Program believe that they are actually filing an application 
for a patent. In addition, a provisional application for patent affords 
better benefits and protection to inventors than a Disclosure Document. 
Therefore, the Office is proposing to eliminate the Disclosure Document 
Program.

[[Page 22429]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/06/06                    71 FR 17399
NPRM Comment Period End         05/08/06
Final Action                    11/03/06                    71 FR 64636
Final Action Effective          02/01/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 
22313
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov

RIN: 0651-AC01
[FR Doc. 07-01425 Filed 04-27-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-BW-S
