9540 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 28 / Friday, February 9, 2024 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda 

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

Office of the Secretary 

2 CFR Subtitle B, Ch. IV 

5 CFR Ch. LXXIII 

7 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I–XI, 

XIV–XVIII, XX, XXV–XXXVIII, XLII 

9 CFR Chs. I–III 

36 CFR Ch. II 

48 CFR Ch. 4 

Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, Fall 

2023 

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, USDA. 

ACTION: Semiannual Regulatory Agenda. 

SUMMARY: This agenda provides 

summary descriptions of significant and 

not significant regulations being 

developed in agencies of the U.S. 

Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 

conformance with Executive Orders 

(E.O.) 12866, ‘‘Regulatory Planning and 

Review,’’ 13563, ‘‘Improving Regulation 

and Regulatory Review,’’ and 14094, 

‘‘Modernizing Regulatory Review.’’ The 

agenda also describes regulations 

affecting small entities as required by 

section 602 of the Regulatory Flexibility 

Act, Public Law 96–354. This agenda 

also identifies regulatory actions that are 

being reviewed in compliance with 

section 610(c) of the Regulatory 

Flexibility Act. We invite public 

comment on those actions as well as any 

regulation consistent with Executive 

Orders 13563 and 14094. 

USDA has attempted to list all 

regulations and regulatory reviews 

pending at the time of publication 

except for minor and routine or 

repetitive actions, but some may have 

been inadvertently missed. There is no 

legal significance to the omission of an 

item from this listing. Also, the dates 

shown for the steps of each action are 

estimated and are not commitments to 

act on or by the date shown. 

USDA’s complete regulatory agenda is 

available online at www.reginfo.gov. 

Because publication in the Federal 

Register is mandated for the regulatory 

flexibility agendas required by the 

Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 

602), USDA’s printed agenda entries 

include only: 

(1) Rules that are likely to have a 

significant economic impact on a 

substantial number of small entities; 

and 

(2) Rules identified for periodic 

review under section 610 of the 

Regulatory Flexibility Act. 

For this edition of the USDA 

regulatory agenda, the most important 

regulatory actions are summarized in a 

Statement of Regulatory Priorities that is 

included in the Regulatory Plan, which 

appears in both the online regulatory 

agenda and in part II of the Federal 

Register that includes the abbreviated 

regulatory agenda. 

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For 

further information on any specific 

entry shown in this agenda, please 

contact the person listed for that action. 

For general comments or inquiries about 

the agenda, please contact Mr. Michael 

Poe, Office of Budget and Program 

Analysis, U.S. Department of 

Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, 

(202) 720–3257. 

Dated: September 28, 2023. 

Michael Poe, 

Legislative and Regulatory Staff. 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE—PROPOSED RULE STAGE

Sequence No. Title Regulation 

Identifier No. 

233 .................... Natural Grass Sod Promotion, Research, and Information Order (AMS–LP–21–0028) ................................. 0581–AE07 

234 .................... Organic Market Development for Mushrooms and Pet Food (AMS–NOP–22–0063) .................................... 0581–AE13 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE—FINAL RULE STAGE

Sequence No. Title Regulation 

Identifier No. 

235 .................... Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act (AMS–FTPP–21–0045) 

(Reg Plan Seq No. 2).

0581–AE05 

References in boldface appear in The Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE—LONG-TERM ACTIONS

Sequence No. Title Regulation 

Identifier No. 

236 .................... Organic Aquaculture Standards ....................................................................................................................... 0581–AD34 

237 .................... Inert Ingredients in Pesticides for Organic Production (AMS–NOP–21–0008) ............................................... 0581–AE02 

238 .................... Organic Apiculture Production Standards ........................................................................................................ 0581–AE12 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE—COMPLETED ACTIONS

Sequence No. Title Regulation 

Identifier No. 

239 .................... Dairy Donation Program (AMS–DA–21–0013) ................................................................................................ 0581–AE00 

240 .................... Preserving Trust Benefits Under the Packers and Stockyards Act (AMS–FTPP–21–0015) .......................... 0581–AE01 

241 .................... Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments (AMS–FTPP–21–0044) .............................. 0581–AE03 

242 .................... Organic Livestock and Poultry Standards (AMS–NOP–21–0073) .................................................................. 0581–AE06 

243 .................... Economic Adjustment Assistance for Textile Mills .......................................................................................... 0581–AE26 


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ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE—PROPOSED RULE STAGE

Sequence No. Title Regulation 

Identifier No. 

244 .................... National List of Reportable Animal Diseases .................................................................................................. 0579–AE39 

245 .................... Revision to Horse Protection Act Regulations ................................................................................................. 0579–AE70 

246 .................... AQI User Fees ................................................................................................................................................. 0579–AE71 

ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE—FINAL RULE STAGE

Sequence No. Title Regulation 

Identifier No. 

247 .................... Animal Disease Traceability; Electronic Identification ..................................................................................... 0579–AE64 

ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE—LONG-TERM ACTIONS

Sequence No. Title Regulation 

Identifier No. 

248 .................... Microchipping, Verifiable Signatures, Government Official Endorsement, and Mandatory Forms for Importation of Live Dogs; Cage Standards for Domestic Dogs.0579–AE58 

ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE—COMPLETED ACTIONS

Sequence No. Title Regulation 

Identifier No. 

249 .................... Importation of Bovine Meat From Paraguay .................................................................................................... 0579–AE73 

FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICE—LONG-TERM ACTIONS

Sequence No. Title Regulation 

Identifier No. 

250 .................... National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs: School Food Service Account Revenue Amendments Related to the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010.0584–AE11 

251 .................... Technical Changes for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefit Redemption Systems 0584–AE37 

252 .................... Providing Regulatory Flexibility for Retailers in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) .... 0584–AE61 

253 .................... Strengthening Integrity and Reducing Retailer Fraud in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program 

(SNAP).

0584–AE71 

254 .................... Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC): WIC Online Ordering 

and Transactions and Food Delivery Revisions to Meet the Needs of a Modern, Data-Driven Program.

0584–AE85 

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

(USDA) 

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) 

Proposed Rule Stage 

233. Natural Grass Sod Promotion, 

Research, and Information Order 

(AMS–LP–21–0028) [0581–AE07] 

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 7411 to 7425 

Abstract: This action would establish 

of an industry-funded promotion, 

research, and information program for 

natural grass sod products. The 

proposed Natural Grass Sod Promotion, 

Research, and Information Order was 

submitted to the U.S. Department of 

Agriculture by Turfgrass Producers 

International, a group of natural grass 

sod producers. The program would 

conduct research, marketing, and 

promotion activities that will benefit the 

entire industry. Primary goals of the 

program would include educating 

consumers and stakeholders of the 

benefits of natural grass and providing 

producers with marketing tools they can 

use to grow their business. The goals 

identified in the proposed rule would 

only be attainable through a national 

research and promotion program for 

natural grass sod. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

NPRM .................. 10/16/23 88 FR 71306 

Proposed Rule: 

Referendum 

Procedures.

10/16/23 88 FR 71302 

NPRM Comment 

Period End.

12/15/23 

Comment Period 

End: Referendum Procedures.

12/15/23 

Final Action ......... 04/00/24 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Jeana Harbison, 

Deputy Director of Livestock and 

Poultry Program, Department of 

Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing 

Service, Washington, DC 20024, Phone: 

202 690–3192, Email: 

jeana.m.harbison@usda.gov. 

RIN: 0581–AE07 

234. Organic Market Development for 

Mushrooms and Pet Food (AMS–NOP– 

22–0063) [0581–AE13] 

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 

Abstract: This action seeks comments 

on proposed amendments to the USDA 

organic regulations that would clarify 

production and handling requirements 

for a) organic pet food standards and b) 

organic mushrooms. These products are 

currently certified organic to the 

standards for similar products like those 


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for human consumption (pet food) or for 

crops (mushrooms). The proposed 

action seeks to increase regulatory 

certainty for these markets. Past 

National Organic Standards Board 

recommendations, public comments 

from the National Organic Program’s 

March 2022 public listening session, 

and input from mushroom and pet food 

stakeholders have indicated a need for 

this rule. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

NPRM .................. 01/00/24 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, 

Deputy Administrator, USDA National 

Organic Program, Department of 

Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing 

Service, 1400 Independence Avenue 

SW, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 

260–8077, Email: jennifer.tucker@

usda.gov. 

RIN: 0581–AE13 

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

(USDA) 

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) 

Final Rule Stage 

235. Inclusive Competition and Market 

Integrity Under the Packers and 

Stockyards Act (AMS–FTPP–21–0045) 

[0581–AE05] 

Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. 

No. 2 in part II of this issue of the 

Federal Register. 

RIN: 0581–AE05 

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

(USDA) 

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) 

Long-Term Actions 

236. Organic Aquaculture Standards 

[0581–AD34] 

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6522 

Abstract: This action would establish 

standards for organic production and 

certification of farmed aquatic animals 

and their products in the USDA organic 

regulations. This action would also add 

aquatic animals as a scope of 

certification and accreditation under the 

National Organic Program (NOP). 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

NPRM .................. To Be Determined 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, 

Phone: 202 260–8077, Email: 

jennifer.tucker@usda.gov. 

RIN: 0581–AD34 

237. Inert Ingredients in Pesticides for 

Organic Production (AMS–NOP–21– 

0008) [0581–AE02] 

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6524 

Abstract: Based on comments 

received from the September 2022 

Advance Notice of Proposed 

Rulemaking and recommendations from 

the National Organic Standards Board 

(NOSB) expected in Fall 2024, this 

action would replace outdated 

references in USDA’s organic 

regulations to U.S. Environmental 

Protection Agency (EPA) policy on inert 

ingredients in pesticides. Inerts, also 

identified as ‘‘other ingredients’’ on 

pesticide labels, are any substances 

other than the active ingredient that are 

intentionally added to pesticide 

products. References to outdated EPA 

policy appear in the USDA organic 

regulations in the National List of 

Allowed and Prohibited Substances 

(National List) and identify the inert 

ingredients allowed in pesticides for 

organic production. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

ANPRM ............... 09/02/22 87 FR 54173 

ANPRM Comment 

Period Extended.

10/11/22 87 FR 61268 

ANPRM Comment 

Period End.

11/01/22 

ANPRM Comment 

Period Extended End.

12/31/22 

NPRM .................. To Be Determined 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, 

Phone: 202 260–8077, Email: 

jennifer.tucker@usda.gov. 

RIN: 0581–AE02 

238. Organic Apiculture Production 

Standards [0581–AE12] 

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 

Abstract: This action proposes to 

amend the USDA organic regulations to 

reflect an October 2010 

recommendation submitted to the 

Secretary by the National Organic 

Standards Board (NOSB) concerning the 

production of organic apicultural (or 

beekeeping) products. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

NPRM .................. To Be Determined 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, 

Phone: 202 260–8077, Email: 

jennifer.tucker@usda.gov. 

RIN: 0581–AE12 

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

(USDA) 

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) 

Completed Actions 

239. Dairy Donation Program (AMS– 

DA–21–0013) [0581–AE00] 

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 116–260, sec. 

762 

Abstract: This rulemaking would 

finalize the Dairy Donation Program, 

which was authorized in the 

Consolidated Appropriations Act of 

2021. The Dairy Donation Program is a 

voluntary program that reimburses 

eligible dairy organizations for milk 

used to make eligible dairy products 

donated to non-profit groups for 

distribution to low-income persons. 

Completed: 

Action Date FR Cite 

Final Rule ............ 08/24/23 88 FR 57861 

Final Rule Effective.08/25/23 

Final Rule; Removal of Expiration Date.08/31/23 88 FR 60105 

Final Rule Effective.08/31/23 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Erin Taylor, Phone: 

202 720–7311, Email: erin.taylor@

ams.usda.gov. 

RIN: 0581–AE00 

240. Preserving Trust Benefits Under 

the Packers and Stockyards Act (AMS– 

FTPP–21–0015) [0581–AE01] 

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 116–260, sec. 

763 

Abstract: This action revised the 

Packers and Stockyards regulations to 

add provisions for written notifications 

related to the new livestock dealer trust. 

The revisions outlined the process for 

livestock sellers to notify livestock 

dealers and the Secretary of the seller’s 

intent to preserve their interest in trust 

benefits should the dealer fail to pay for 

livestock purchased. The revisions also 

required livestock sellers to 

acknowledge in writing that they forfeit 

rights to the dealer trust under the terms 


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of credit sales to dealers. These 

provisions mirror existing regulatory 

provisions related to livestock and 

poultry sales under the Packers and 

Stockyards Act. 

Completed: 

Action Date FR Cite 

Final Rule ............ 06/23/23 88 FR 41015 

Final Action Effective.07/24/23 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Stuart Frank, Phone: 

515 323–2586, Email: stuart.frank@

usda.gov. 

RIN: 0581–AE01 

241. Transparency in Poultry Grower 

Contracting and Tournaments (AMS– 

FTPP–21–0044) [0581–AE03] 

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 181 to 229c 

Abstract: This action would amend 

regulations issued under the Packers 

and Stockyards Act (P&S Act), revising 

the list of disclosures and information 

live poultry dealers must furnish to 

poultry growers and sellers with whom 

dealers make poultry growing 

arrangements. The rule would establish 

parameters for the use of poultry grower 

ranking systems by dealers to determine 

settlement payments for poultry 

growers. Amendments are intended to 

promote transparency in poultry 

production contracting and to give 

poultry growers relevant information 

with which to make business decisions. 

Completed: 

Action Date FR Cite 

Final Rule ............ 11/28/23 88 FR 83210 

Final Rule Effective.02/12/24 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Michael V. Durando, 

Phone: 202 720–0219. 

RIN: 0581–AE03 

242. Organic Livestock and Poultry 

Standards (AMS–NOP–21–0073) [0581– 

AE06] 

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6524 

Abstract: This action would establish 

additional practice standards for organic 

livestock and poultry production. The 

rule would amend the USDA organic 

regulations related to: livestock and 

poultry living conditions (for example, 

outdoor access, housing environment, 

and stocking densities); animal health 

care (for example, physical alterations, 

administering medical treatment, and 

euthanasia); animal transport; and 

slaughter. 

Completed: 

Action Date FR Cite 

Final Rule ............ 11/02/23 88 FR 75394 

Final Rule Effective.01/02/24 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Erin Healy, Phone: 

202 617–4942, Email: erin.healy@

usda.gov. 

RIN: 0581–AE06 

243. Economic Adjustment Assistance 

for Textile Mills [0581–AE26] 

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 9037(c) 

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing 

Service (AMS) revises the regulation 

providing guidance for domestic 

manufacturers that consume Upland 

Cotton and voluntarily participate in the 

Economic Adjustment Assistance for 

Textile Mills Program. The revisions 

add definitions and codify certain 

participant responsibilities currently 

outlined in the existing user Agreement. 

The changes made by this rule are 

intended to strengthen management 

controls that have been added into the 

Agreement to prevent fraud, waste, and 

abuse. This action provides the 

necessary legal support for program 

administration. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

Final Rule; With 

request for 

Comments.

10/31/23 88 FR 74330 

Final Rule Effective.10/31/23 

Final Rule Comment Period 

End.

11/30/23 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Dan Schofer, Cotton 

Program Manager, AMS, Fair Trade 

Practice Program, Department of 

Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing 

Service, 1400 Independence Avenue 

SW, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 

690–2434. 

RIN: 0581–AE26 

BILLING CODE 3410–02–P 

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

(USDA) 

Animal and Plant Health Inspection 

Service (APHIS) 

Proposed Rule Stage 

244. National List of Reportable Animal 

Diseases [0579–AE39] 

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317 

Abstract: This rulemaking amends our 

disease regulations to provide for a 

National List of Reportable Animal 

Diseases, along with reporting 

responsibilities for animal health 

professionals that encounter or suspect 

cases of communicable animal diseases 

and disease agents. The changes are 

necessary to streamline Federal 

cooperative animal disease detection, 

response, and control efforts. This 

action will consolidate and enhance 

current disease reporting mechanisms, 

and it will complement and supplement 

existing animal disease tracking and 

reporting at the State level. The Animal 

and Plant Health Inspection Service is 

evaluating the comments received 

during the revised proposed rule in fall 

2023 and the reopening of the comment 

period. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

NPRM .................. 04/02/20 85 FR 18471 

NPRM Comment 

Period End.

06/01/20 

NPRM Comment 

Period Reopened.

08/18/20 85 FR 50796 

NPRM Comment 

Period Reopened End.

08/21/20 

Revising Proposed Rule and 

Reopening 

Comment Period.

08/28/23 88 FR 58524 

NPRM Comment 

Period End.

09/27/23 

Reviewing Comments from Revised Proposed 

Rule.

11/27/23 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Jane Rooney, NLRAD 

Coordinator, Center for Epidemiology 

and Animal Health, Strategy and Policy, 

VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal 

and Plant Health Inspection Service, 

2150 Centre Avenue, Building B, 

Mailstop 2E6, Fort Collins, CO 80526, 

Phone: 970 494–7397. 

RIN: 0579–AE39 

245. Revision to Horse Protection Act 

Regulations [0579–AE70] 

Legal Authority: 15 U.S.C. 1823 


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9544 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 28 / Friday, February 9, 2024 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda 

Abstract: Current Horse Protection 

Act (HPA) regulations require 

Designated Qualified Persons (DQPs) to 

be licensed directly through Horse 

Industry Organizations (HIOs). DQPs 

conduct inspections of horses at HIOaffiliated shows, sales, auctions, and 

exhibitions to determine compliance 

with the HPA. We are proposing to 

amend the Horse Protection regulations 

by eliminating the role of HIOs and 

assigning inspection authority solely to 

Animal and Plant Health Inspection 

Service (APHIS) Veterinary Medical 

Officers and other third parties 

authorized and trained by APHIS. Other 

changes are also being contemplated. 

APHIS hosted a Tribal webinar to 

determine whether this rule would 

adversely impact Tribes, and received 

no concerns. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

NPRM .................. 08/21/23 88 FR 56924 

NPRM Comment 

Period End.

10/23/23 

Reviewing Comments.11/00/23 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Lance Bassage, VMD, 

Director, National Policy Staff, Animal 

Care, Department of Agriculture, 

Animal and Plant Health Inspection 

Service, 4700 River Road Unit 84, 

Riverdale, MD 20737, Phone: 301 851– 

3748, Email: lance.h.bassage@usda.gov. 

RIN: 0579–AE70 

246. AQI User Fees [0579–AE71] 

Legal Authority: 21 U.S.C. 136a 

Abstract: We are proposing multiple 

revisions to our AQI user fee regulations 

in order to facilitate full cost recovery as 

required by 21 U.S.C. 136a. We are 

proposing to update the fees using more 

current operational data, as well as 

update the fees to incorporate recurring 

costs such as capital improvements and 

staffing needs. Inflation would also be 

incorporated into our model. Other 

changes are also being contemplated. 

APHIS conducted a Tribal listening 

session to determine whether this action 

could adversely impact Tribes, and 

received no concerns. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

NPRM .................. 08/11/23 88 FR 54796 

NPRM Comment 

Period End.

10/10/23 

Reviewing Comments.11/00/23 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: George Balady, PEIP 

Cost and Fee Analysis, PPQ, Department 

of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 

Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, 

Riverdale, MD 20737, Phone: 301 851– 

2338. 

RIN: 0579–AE71 

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

(USDA) 

Animal and Plant Health Inspection 

Service (APHIS) 

Final Rule Stage 

247. Animal Disease Traceability; 

Electronic Identification [0579–AE64] 

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8301 et seq. 

Abstract: This action amends APHIS’ 

animal disease traceability regulations, 

currently codified at 9 CFR part 86. The 

primary change requires that APHIS 

will only recognize identification 

devices (e.g., ear tags) as official 

identification for cattle and bison 

covered by the regulations if the devices 

have both visual and electronic 

readability (EID). Other changes clarify 

language and requirements in several 

sections of part 86. These changes will 

enhance the U.S. traceability system to 

better achieve goals of rapidly tracing 

diseased and exposed animals and 

containing outbreaks. APHIS’ Animal 

Disease Traceability program has a longstanding relationship with Tribal 

nations to ensure the program 

incorporates Tribal feedback. APHIS 

provided webinars to Tribal nations in 

2021 and 2022 to notify Tribes of this 

rulemaking and solicit requests for 

consultation. APHIS subsequently was 

in contact with an alliance of Western 

Tribes to apprise them of the status of 

the proposed rule. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

NPRM .................. 01/19/23 88 FR 3320 

NPRM Comment 

Period End.

03/20/23 

NPRM Comment 

Period Extended.

03/20/23 88 FR 16576 

NPRM Comment 

Period Extended End.

04/19/23 

Final Rule ............ 04/00/24 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Dr. Aaron Scott 

Ph.D., DACVPM, Director, Department 

of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 

Inspection Service, National Animal 

Disease Traceability and Veterinary 

Accreditation Center, APHIS Veterinary 

Services Strategy and Policy, 2150 

Centre Avenue, Building B (Mail Stop 

3E87), Fort Collins, CO 80526, Phone: 

970 494–7249, Email: traceability@

usda.gov. 

RIN: 0579–AE64 

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

(USDA) 

Animal and Plant Health Inspection 

Service (APHIS) 

Long-Term Actions 

248. Microchipping, Verifiable 

Signatures, Government Official 

Endorsement, and Mandatory Forms 

for Importation of Live Dogs; Cage 

Standards for Domestic Dogs [0579– 

AE58] 

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 2131 to 2159 

Abstract: We are proposing to amend 

the regulations regarding the 

importation of live dogs by requiring all 

live dogs imported into the United 

States for resale purposes to be 

microchipped for permanent 

identification, and to require importers 

to procure a microchip reader and make 

it available to port-of-entry officials as 

requested. This action would also add 

microchipping as one of three 

identification options for dogs and cats 

used by dealers, exhibitors and research 

facilities. In addition, APHIS is 

proposing to require a verifiable 

signature on the health certificate and 

rabies certificate accompanying 

imported live dogs, an endorsement of 

the health certificate by a government 

official in the country of origin, and the 

mandatory use of forms provided by 

APHIS. Additionally, we are proposing 

to update cage standards for dogs held 

domestically by dealers or exhibitors 

who are licensed under the Animal 

Welfare Act or used in research at 

registered facilities. Other changes are 

also being contemplated. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

NPRM .................. To Be Determined 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Lance Bassage, 

Phone: 301 851–3748, Email: 

lance.h.bassage@usda.gov. 

RIN: 0579–AE58 


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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

(USDA) 

Animal and Plant Health Inspection 

Service (APHIS) 

Completed Actions 

249. Importation of Bovine Meat From 

Paraguay [0579–AE73] 

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 

7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 7 

U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 

136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701 

Abstract: We are amending the 

regulations governing the importation of 

certain animals, meat, and other animal 

products by allowing, under certain 

conditions, the importation of fresh 

(chilled or frozen) beef from Paraguay. 

Based on the evidence from a risk 

analysis, we have determined that fresh 

beef can safely be imported from 

Paraguay, provided certain conditions 

are met. This action will provide for the 

importation of fresh beef from Paraguay 

into the United States while continuing 

to protect the United States against the 

introduction of foot-and-mouth disease. 

Completed: 

Reason Date FR Cite 

Final Rule ............ 11/14/23 88 FR 77883 

Final Rule Effective.12/14/23 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Ingrid Kotowski, 

Phone: 919 855–7732. 

RIN: 0579–AE73 

BILLING CODE 3410–34–P 

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

(USDA) 

Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) 

Long-Term Actions 

250. National School Lunch and School 

Breakfast Programs: School Food 

Service Account Revenue Amendments 

Related to the Healthy, Hunger-Free 

Kids Act of 2010 [0584–AE11] 

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111–296 

Abstract: This rule amends National 

School Lunch Program (NSLP) 

regulations to conform to requirements 

contained in the Healthy, Hunger-Free 

Kids Act of 2010 regarding equity in 

school lunch pricing and revenue from 

non-program foods sold in schools. This 

rule requires school food authorities 

participating in the NSLP to provide the 

same level of financial support for 

lunches served to students who are not 

eligible for free or reduced-price 

lunches as is provided for lunches 

served to students eligible for free 

lunches. This rule also requires that all 

food sold in a school and purchased 

with funds from the nonprofit school 

food service account other than meals 

and snacks reimbursed by the 

Department of Agriculture must 

generate revenue at least proportionate 

to the cost of such foods. This 

rulemaking will impact schools that 

participate in NSLP and households 

with students who participate in NSLP 

at the paid rate. USDA received 

stakeholder input on this rulemaking 

through the public comment process on 

the interim final rule. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

Interim Final Rule 06/17/11 76 FR 35301 

Interim Final Rule 

Effective.

07/01/11 

Interim Final Rule 

Comment Period End.

09/15/11 

Final Rule ............ 09/00/25 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, 

Phone: 703 305–2876, Email: 

michael.depiro@usda.gov. 

Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457– 

7713, Email: maureen.lydon@usda.gov. 

RIN: 0584–AE11 

251. Technical Changes for 

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance 

Program (SNAP) Benefit Redemption 

Systems [0584–AE37] 

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113–79 

Abstract: The Food and Nutrition 

Service (FNS) will propose changes that 

collectively modernize SNAP benefit 

issuance and increase program integrity 

while streamlining program 

administration, offering greater 

flexibility to State agencies, and 

improving customer service. The rule 

will propose to codify provisions of the 

2014 Farm Bill, the 2018 Farm Bill, and 

respond to 2018 OIG audit findings. The 

rule will propose to codify 2014 Farm 

Bill provisions requiring most SNAPauthorized retailers to pay the costs 

associated with EBT equipment, 

supplies and related services and 

requirements pertaining to the online 

SNAP payment option. This rule would 

also propose to codify waivers that have 

been granted to State agencies to 

implement practices that have proven 

beneficial as the EBT system has 

developed and matured and update EBT 

system technical and functional 

requirements. FNS has not held any 

stakeholder engagement initiatives 

related to this rule but will evaluate the 

need for future initiatives as rulemaking progresses. FNS does not 

anticipate any significant impacts on 

communities by this rule, as the 

proposed changes seek to codify 

existing program requirements. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

NPRM .................. 06/00/25 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, 

Phone: 703 305–2876, Email: 

michael.depiro@usda.gov. 

Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457– 

7713, Email: maureen.lydon@usda.gov. 

RIN: 0584–AE37 

252. Providing Regulatory Flexibility 

for Retailers in the Supplemental 

Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) 

[0584–AE61] 

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113–79; 7 

U.S.C. 2011 to 2036 

Abstract: The Agricultural Act of 2014 

amended the Food and Nutrition Act of 

2008 to increase the requirement that 

certain Supplemental Nutrition 

Assistance Program (SNAP) authorized 

retail food stores have available on a 

continuous basis at least three varieties 

of items in each of four staple food 

categories, to a mandatory minimum of 

seven varieties. The Food and Nutrition 

Service (FNS) codified these mandatory 

requirements in 2016 though these 

provisions were subsequently blocked 

by Congress. This change will propose 

to provide some retailers participating 

in SNAP as authorized food stores with 

more flexibility in meeting the 

enhanced SNAP eligibility 

requirements. The stakeholder 

community includes SNAP applicant 

and authorized retailers required to 

meet eligibility requirements, public 

health and access focused advocacy 

organizations, and SNAP participants. 

Stakeholder engagement may include 

listening sessions with these 

stakeholders, though significant 

feedback is also available in comments 

submitted to the previously published 

proposed rule. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

NPRM .................. 04/05/19 84 FR 13555 

NPRM Comment 

Period End.

06/04/19 

NPRM Comment 

Period Reopened.

06/14/19 84 FR 27743 

NPRM Comment 

Period Reopen 

End.

06/20/19 

Final Action ......... 04/00/25 


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9546 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 28 / Friday, February 9, 2024 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, 

Phone: 703 305–2876, Email: 

michael.depiro@usda.gov. 

Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457– 

7713, Email: maureen.lydon@usda.gov. 

RIN: 0584–AE61 

253. Strengthening Integrity and 

Reducing Retailer Fraud in the 

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance 

Program (SNAP) [0584–AE71] 

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113–79; Pub. 

L. 115–334 

Abstract: This proposed rule would 

implement statutory provisions of the 

Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 

2008 (the 2008 Farm Bill), the 

Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 

(the 2018 Farm Bill), and other language 

intended to deter retailer fraud, abuse, 

and non-compliance in the 

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance 

Program (SNAP). Stakeholders are 

SNAP retailers and communities in 

which SNAP retailers provide SNAP 

participants access to food, other 

Programs that require SNAP 

authorization or where reciprocal 

actions impact participation, and SNAP 

participants. Stakeholder engagement 

may include listening sessions; 

however, significant feedback from 

stakeholders is also available in the 

public comments submitted on 

previously proposed rule. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

NPRM .................. 11/00/24 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, 

Phone: 703 305–2876, Email: 

michael.depiro@usda.gov. 

Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457– 

7713, Email: maureen.lydon@usda.gov. 

RIN: 0584–AE71 

254. Special Supplemental Nutrition 

Program for Women, Infants and 

Children (WIC): WIC Online Ordering 

and Transactions and Food Delivery 

Revisions To Meet the Needs of a 

Modern, Data-Driven Program [0584– 

AE85] 

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111–296 

Abstract: This final rulemaking 

addresses key regulatory barriers to 

online ordering in the WIC Program by 

making changes to the provisions that 

prevent online transactions and types of 

online capable stores from participating 

in the Program. This rule will also allow 

FNS to modernize WIC vendor 

regulations that do not reflect current 

technology and facilitate the Program’s 

transition to EBT. To inform the 

development of the proposed rule, FNS 

reviewed materials developed by a 

variety of WIC stakeholders, including 

WIC providers, vendors, manufacturers, 

EBT processors, advocacy organizations, 

and WIC participants; as well as a report 

issued by a task force convened by 

USDA comprised of 18 organizations 

from multiple sectors to ensure a 

diverse range of input. FNS will 

consider public comments received 

during the proposed rulemaking stage in 

development of this final rule. 

Timetable: 

Action Date FR Cite 

NPRM .................. 02/23/23 88 FR 11516 

NPRM Comment 

Period End.

05/24/23 

Final Action ......... 02/00/25 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 

Required: Yes. 

Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, 

Phone: 703 305–2876, Email: 

michael.depiro@usda.gov. 

Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457– 

7713, Email: maureen.lydon@usda.gov. 

RIN: 0584–AE85 

[FR Doc. 2024–00517 Filed 2–8–24; 8:45 am] 

BILLING CODE 3410–30–P 


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