[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 233 (Monday, December 7, 2009)]
[Unknown Section]
[Pages 64395-64419]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-28588]
[[Page 64395]]
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Part IV
Department of Commerce
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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda
[[Page 64396]]
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
Fall 2009 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 spring 2009 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 fall 2009 regulatory agenda includes
regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the
period October 1, 2009, through September 30, 2010.
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 Jennifer K. Nist, Chief Counsel for
Regulations, 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 August 6, 2009, the Office of
Management and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the
preparation and publication of the fall 2009 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 that contains a
brief description of the subject of any rule 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.
For this edition of the Department of Commerce's regulatory
agenda, the most important significant regulatory actions and a
Statement of Regulatory Priorities are included in The Regulatory
Plan, which appears in both the online Unified Agenda and in part
II of the Federal Register that includes the Unified Agenda.
In addition, beginning with the fall 2007 edition, the Internet
became the basic means for disseminating the Unified Agenda. The
complete Unified Agenda will be available online at
www.reginfo.gov, in a format that offers users a greatly enhanced
ability to obtain information from the Agenda database.
Because publication in the Federal Register is mandated for the
regulatory flexibility agendas required by the Regulatory
Flexibility Act (5U.S.C. 602), the Department of Commerce's printed
agenda entries include only:
(1) Rules that are in the Agency's regulatory flexibility
agenda, in accordance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act, because
they are likely to have a significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities; and
(2) Rules that the Agency has identified for periodic review
under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
Printing of these entries is limited to fields that contain
information required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act's Agenda
requirements. Additional information on these entries is available
in the Unified Agenda published on the Internet. In addition, for
fall editions of the Agenda, the entire Regulatory Plan will
continue to be printed in the Federal Register, as in past years,
including the Department of Commerce's Regulatory Plan.
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, an
``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 that
require conservation and management measures. Regulations
implementing these FMPs regulate domestic fishing and foreign
fishing where permitted. Foreign fishing may 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
[[Page 64397]]
significance and timing of some regulatory actions under
consideration by the Councils at the time the semiannual regulatory
agenda is published.
The Department's fall 2009 regulatory agenda follows.
Cameron F. Kerry,
General Counsel.
International Trade Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
233 Commercial Availability of Fabric and Yarn............................................ 0625-AA59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
234 Maximize Retention and Monitoring Program in the Shore-Based Pacific Whiting Fishery.. 0648-AR63
235 American Lobster Fishery; Effort Control Measures..................................... 0648-AT31
236 South Atlantic Fishery Ecosystem Plan Comprehensive Amendment......................... 0648-AV31
237 Collection and Use of Tax Identification Numbers From Holders of and Applicants for 0648-AV76
National Marine Fisheries Service Permits.............................................
238 Amendment 17 to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery 0648-AW11
Management Plan.......................................................................
239 Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Queen Conch Fishery of Puerto Rico 0648-AW15
and the U.S. Virgin Islands...........................................................
240 Marine Mammal Protection Act Stranding Regulation Revisions........................... 0648-AW22
241 Amendment 3 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan.................... 0648-AW30
242 Amendment 4 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan........................... 0648-AW75
243 Allowable Modifications to the Turtle Excluder Device (TED) Requirements.............. 0648-AW93
244 Regulatory Amendment (3) To Correct and Clarify Amendment 13 and Subsequent 0648-AW95
Frameworks of the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan......................
245 Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Fishery Management Plan...... 0648-AX05
246 Amendment 30 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King 0648-AX47
and Tanner Crabs Arbitration Regulations..............................................
247 Amendment 31 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of 0648-AX67
Mexico................................................................................
248 Salmon Bycatch Reduction Management Measures for the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) 91 0648-AX89
in the Bering Sea Aleutian Islands....................................................
249 2010 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Recreational Management Measures....... 0648-AY04
250 Maximized Retention Monitoring Program for Catcher Vessels in the Pacific Whiting 0648-AY17
Mothership Fishery in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery............................
251 Generic Amendment for Annual Catch Limits............................................. 0648-AY22
252 Protective Regulations for Killer Whales in the Northwest Region Under the Endangered 0648-AV15
Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act..........................................
253 Marine Mammal Protection Act Permit Regulation Revisions.............................. 0648-AV82
254 Rulemaking To Establish Take Prohibitions for the Threatened Southern Distinct 0648-AV94
Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon...................................
255 Rule to Revise Leatherback Critical Habitat........................................... 0648-AX06
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
256 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Pelagic Fisheries; Squid Jig Fisheries.............. 0648-AS71
257 Modifying Maximum Retainable Amounts (MRAs) for Selected Groundfish Species Caught by 0648-AV32
the Non-American Fishing Act Trawl Catcher Processor Sector...........................
258 Certification of Nations Whose Fishing Vessels Are Engaged in Illegal, Unreported or 0648-AV51
Unregulated Fishing or Bycatch of Protected Living Marine Resources (Reg Plan Seq No.
34)...................................................................................
259 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) 0648-AV53
Environmental Review Procedure........................................................
260 Initial Implementation of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention 0648-AV63
Implementation Act....................................................................
[[Page 64398]]
261 Amendment 15B to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery 0648-AW12
Management Plan.......................................................................
262 Revise Regulations Governing the North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program............ 0648-AW24
263 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Western Pacific Pelagic Fisheries; Amendment 18 to 0648-AW49
the Pelagics Fishery Management Plan; Shallow-set Longline Swordfish Fishery..........
264 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Shark Management Measures................. 0648-AW65
265 Halibut Charter Vessel Moratorium..................................................... 0648-AW92
266 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; 2009 North and South Atlantic Commercial Quotas.... 0648-AX07
267 Amendment 29 to the Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of 0648-AX39
Mexico................................................................................
268 Western and Central Pacific Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species; Implementation of 0648-AX59
the Longline Catch Limits Adopted at the Fifth Session of the Western and Central
Pacific Fisheries Commission..........................................................
269 Snapper-Grouper Fishery Management Plan of the South Atlantic......................... 0648-AX75
270 Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan.. 0648-AY00
271 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.............................................................................
272 Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals 0648-AX86
Incidental to Training Operations Conducted Within the Gulf of Mexico Range Complex...
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
273 Fishery Management Plan for Regulating Offshore Marine Aquaculture in the Gulf of 0648-AS65
Mexico................................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
274 Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Tilefish Fishery................... 0648-AS25
275 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Reducing Sea Turtle Takes.................... 0648-AS49
276 Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan.. 0648-AT58
277 American Lobster Data Collection and Broodstock Protection Measures................... 0648-AV77
278 Amendment 7 to the South Atlantic Shrimp Fishery Management Plan...................... 0648-AW19
279 Fisheries Off West Coast States; Highly Migratory Species Fisheries................... 0648-AW50
280 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Compensation to Northwestern Hawaiian Islands 0648-AW52
Bottomfish and Lobster Fishermen Due to Fishery Closure in the Papahanaumokuakea
Marine National Monument..............................................................
281 Amendment 16 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper Grouper Fishery of the 0648-AW64
South Atlantic Region.................................................................
282 Amendment 27 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands King and 0648-AW73
Tanner Crabs..........................................................................
283 Amendment 28 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King 0648-AW97
and Tanner Crab.......................................................................
284 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); 2009 Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Quota 0648-AX12
Specifications and Management Measures................................................
285 Amendment 92 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands Groundfish 0648-AX14
and Amendment 82 to the Fishery Management Plan for Gulf of Alaska Groundfish.........
286 One-Fish Daily Bag Limit for the Guided Sport Charter Vessel Fishery for Halibut in 0648-AX17
Regulatory Area 2C....................................................................
287 Amendment 90 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands Groundfish 0648-AX25
and Amendment 78 to the Fishery Management Plan for Gulf of Alaska Groundfish.........
288 Amendment 85 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska...... 0648-AX42
289 2009 Atlantic Bluefish Specifications................................................. 0648-AX49
290 Definition of U.S. Citizen............................................................ 0648-AX52
291 2009 Specifications and Management Measures for the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management 0648-AX57
Plan..................................................................................
292 Western and Central Pacific Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species; Implementation of 0648-AX60
Decisions of the Fifth Session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission
for Purse Seine Fisheries.............................................................
293 2009 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Recreational Management Measures....... 0648-AX69
294 Reef Fish Amendment 30B to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of 0648-AX73
the Gulf of Mexico: Measure To Establish the Edges Seasonal-Area Closure..............
[[Page 64399]]
295 Establish 2009 Fishery Specifications for Pacific Whiting; Pacific Groundfish Fishery; 0648-AX77
Biennial Specifications and Management Measures.......................................
296 Pacific Coast Groundfish Inseason Action for May 1, 2009.............................. 0648-AX84
297 Establish a Control Date for the Reef Fish, Queen Conch, and Spiny Lobster Fisheries 0648-AX92
of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands............................................
298 Atlantic Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Plan......................................... 0648-AV65
299 Designation of Critical Habitat for the Endangered U.S. Distinct Population Segment 0648-AV74
(DPS) of Guided Smalltooth Sawfish....................................................
300 Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction Plan Regulations....................................... 0648-AW51
301 Rulemaking to Designate Critical Habitat for the Gulf of Maine Distinct Population 0648-AW77
Segment of Atlantic Salmon............................................................
302 Rulemaking To Designate Critical Habitat for the Threatened Southern Distinct 0648-AX04
Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon...................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patent and Trademark Office--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
303 Examination of Patent Applications That Include Claims Containing Alternative Language 0651-AC00
304 Fiscal Year 2009 Revision of Request for Continued Examination, 18-Month Publication, 0651-AC29
and Other Miscellaneous Cost-Recovery Patent Fees.....................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Long-Term Actions
International Trade Administration (ITA)
_______________________________________________________________________
233. COMMERCIAL AVAILABILITY OF FABRIC AND YARN
Legal Authority: PL 106-200, sec 112(b)(5)(B); PL 106-200, sec 211; EO
13191; PL 107-210, sec 3103
Abstract: This rule implements certain provisions of the Trade and
Development Act of 2000 (the Act). Title I of the Act (the African
Growth and Opportunity Act or AGOA), title II of the Act (the United
States-Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act or CBTPA), and title XXXI
of the Trade Act of 2002 (the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug
Eradication Act or ATPDEA) provide for quota- and duty-free treatment
for qualifying apparel products from designated beneficiary countries.
AGOA and CBTPA authorize quota- and duty-free treatment for apparel
articles that are both cut (or knit-to-shape) and sewn or otherwise
assembled in one or more designated beneficiary countries from yarn or
fabric that is not formed in the United States or a beneficiary
country, provided it has been determined that such yarn or fabric
cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial quantities in
a timely manner. The President has delegated to the Committee for the
Implementation of Textile Agreements (the Committee), which is chaired
by Commerce, the authority to determine whether yarn or fabric cannot
be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial quantities in a
timely manner under the AGOA, the ATPDEA, and the CBTPA, and has
authorized the Committee to extend quota- and duty-free treatment to
apparel of such yarn or fabric. The rule provides the procedure for
interested parties to submit a request alleging that a yarn or fabric
cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial quantities in
a timely manner, the procedure for public comments, and relevant
factors that will be considered in the Committee's determination. The
rule also outlines the factors to be considered by the Committee in
extending quota- and duty-free treatment.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Janet Heinzen
Phone: 202 482-4006
Email: janet_heinzen@ita.doc.gov
RIN: 0625-AA59
[[Page 64400]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Proposed Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
________________________________
234. MAXIMIZE RETENTION AND MONITORING PROGRAM IN THE SHORE-BASED
PACIFIC WHITING FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
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 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 07/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Barry Thom, 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
Email: barry.thom@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AR63
_______________________________________________________________________
235. AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY; EFFORT CONTROL MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service announces that it is
considering, and seeking public comment on, revisions to Federal
American lobster regulations for the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)
associated with effort control measures as recommended for Federal
implementation by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
(ASFMC) as outlined in the Interstate Fishery Management Plan (ISFMP)
for American Lobster. This action will evaluate effort control measures
in certain Lobster Conservation Management Areas including: Limits on
future access based on historic participation criteria; procedures to
allow trap transfers among qualifiers and impose a trap reduction or
conservation tax on any trap transfers; and a trap reduction schedule
to meet the goals of the ISFMP.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 05/10/05 70 FR 24495
ANPRM Comment Period End 06/09/05
NPRM 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AT31
_______________________________________________________________________
236. SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY ECOSYSTEM PLAN COMPREHENSIVE AMENDMENT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
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 (FEP) Comprehensive Amendment, which
would modify all its Fishery Management Plans (FMPs). The initial
amendment would include the following actions: (1) Various actions to
comply with new essential fish habitat requirements; (2) establishment
of deep water coral Habitat Areas of Particular Concern, with possible
gear limitations, such as the establishment of allowable trawl areas;
and (3) other possible actions necessary to implement ecosystem-based
fishery management.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV31
_______________________________________________________________________
237. COLLECTION AND USE OF TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS FROM HOLDERS OF
AND APPLICANTS FOR NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE PERMITS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq; 16 USC 1531 et seq; 31 USC 7701;
31 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: In conformance with the Debt Collection Improvement Act of
1996 (Debt Collection Act), the National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS) will issue a rule to require that each existing holder of and
future applicant for a permit, license, endorsement, authorization,
transfer or like instrument issued by the agency provide a Taxpayer
Identification Number (TIN) (business' employer identification number
or individual's
[[Page 64401]]
social security number) and Date of Incorporation or Date of Birth, as
appropriate. Under the Debt Collection Act, NMFS is required to collect
the TIN to report on and collect any delinquent non-tax debt owed to
the Federal Government. NMFS plans to use Date of Incorporation or Date
of Birth information for administrative aspects of permitting
procedures with appropriate confidentiality safeguards pursuant to the
Privacy Act. The rule will specify (a) the particular uses that may be
made of the reported TIN, (b) the effects, if any, of not providing the
required information, (c) how the information will be used to ascertain
if the permit holder or applicant owes delinquent non-tax debt to the
Government pursuant to the Debt Collection Act, (d) the effects on the
permit holder or applicant when such delinquent debts are owed, and (e)
the agency's intended communications with the permit holder or
applicant regarding the relationship of such delinquent debts to its
permitting process and the need to resolve such debts as a basis for
completing permit issuance or renewal. The rule will amend existing
agency permit regulations and contain all appropriate modified and new
collections-of-information pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Fax: 301 713-0596
Email: alan.risenhoover@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV76
_______________________________________________________________________
238. AMENDMENT 17 TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL
SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Amendment 17 is intended to: establish management reference
points (MSY, OY) for red snapper; establish a rebuilding plan
(rebuilding timeframe and rebuilding strategy) for red snapper; specify
Annual Catch Limits (ACL), Annual Catch Targets (ACT), and
Accountability Measures (AM) for 10 species undergoing overfishing; and
modify management measures to ensure future catch is equal to or below
the ACL.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW11
_______________________________________________________________________
239. AMENDMENT 2 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE QUEEN CONCH
FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: St. Croix queen conch landings by commercial fishermen alone
have exceeded sustainable harvest levels since the 2000-2001 fishing
season. In 2005-2006 the commercial harvest was over four times
sustainable levels. Additionally, there is an unknown but significant
recreational harvest. Overfishing of queen conch has led to resource
collapse in other regions and in some cases, long-term resource loss.
According to the NMFS Report on the Status of the U.S. Fisheries for
2006, queen conch is overfished and undergoing overfishing. Under
current fishing practices, reductions in mortality are not expected to
be sufficient in the queen conch fishery. Without a reduction in
mortality, queen conch are not expected to achieve the rebuilding goals
established in the Sustainable Fisheries Amendment of 2005. Therefore,
a change in fishing practices is needed to help achieve the necessary
reductions in queen conch fishing mortality.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 10/11/07 72 FR 58057
NPRM 12/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/10
Final Action 01/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW15
_______________________________________________________________________
240. MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT STRANDING REGULATION REVISIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1379; 16 USC 1382; 16 USC 1421
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering
proposing changes to its implementing regulations (50 CFR 216)
governing the taking of stranded marine mammals under section 109(h),
section 112(c), and title IV of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and is
soliciting public comment to better inform the process. NMFS intends
clarify the requirements and procedures for responding to stranded
marine mammals and for determining the disposition of rehabilitated
marine mammals, which includes the procedures for the placement of non-
releasable animals and for authorizing the retention of releasable
rehabilitated marine mammals for scientific research, enhancement, or
public display. This action will be analyzed under the National
Environmental Policy Act with an Environmental Assessment.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 01/31/08 73 FR 5786
ANPRM Comment Period End 03/31/08
NPRM 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: David Cottingham, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric
[[Page 64402]]
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: david.cottingham@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW22
_______________________________________________________________________
241. AMENDMENT 3 TO THE NORTHEAST SKATE COMPLEX FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: NMFS proposes regulations to implement measures in Amendment
3 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan (Skate FMP).
Amendment 3 was developed by the New England Fishery Management Council
(Council) to rebuild overfished skate stocks (thorny and smooth skates)
and implement annual catch limits (ACLs) and accountability measures
(AMs) consistent with the requirements of the reauthorized Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Amendment 3 would
establish an ACL and annual catch target (ACT) for the skate complex,
total allowable landings (TAL) for the skate wing and bait fisheries,
seasonal quotas for the bait fishery, reduced possession limits, in-
season possession limit triggers, and other measures to improve
management of the skate fisheries. This rule also includes skate
fishery specifications for fishing years (FY) 2010 through 2011.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW30
_______________________________________________________________________
242. AMENDMENT 4 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The goal of Amendment 4 is to improve catch monitoring and
ensure compliance with the Reauthorized Magnuson-Stevens Fishery
Conservation and Management Act (MSRA). The management measures
developed in this amendment may address one or more of the following
objectives: (1) To implement measures to improve the long-term
monitoring of catch (landings and bycatch) in the herring fishery; (2)
to implement annual catch limits and accountability measures consistent
with the MSRA; (3) to implement other management measures as necessary
to ensure compliance with the new provisions of the MSRA; (4) to
develop a sector allocation process or other limited access privilege
program for the herring fishery; and (5) in the context of objectives
1-4 (above), to consider the health of the herring resource and the
important role of herring as a forage fish and a predator fish
throughout its range.
The New England Fishery Management Council will develop conservation
and management measures to address the issues identified above and meet
the goals/objectives of the amendment. Any conservation and management
measures developed in this amendment also must comply with all
applicable laws.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NOI To Prepare An EIS 05/08/08 73 FR 26082
NPRM 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW75
_______________________________________________________________________
243. ALLOWABLE MODIFICATIONS TO THE TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICE (TED)
REQUIREMENTS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: NMFS proposes to revise the TED requirements to allow new
materials and modifications to existing approved TED designs.
Specifically, proposed allowable modifications include the use of flat
bar, box pipe, and oval pipe for use in currently-approved TED grids;
an increase in mesh size on escape flaps from 1-5/8 inches to 2 inches;
the use of the Boone single straight cut and triangular escape
openings; specifications on the use of TED grid brace bars; and the use
of the Chauvin Shrimp Kicker to improve shrimp retention.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Michael Barnette, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South,
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 551-5794
RIN: 0648-AW93
_______________________________________________________________________
244. REGULATORY AMENDMENT (#3) TO CORRECT AND CLARIFY AMENDMENT 13 AND
SUBSEQUENT FRAMEWORKS OF THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT
PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This action would make corrections and clarifications to the
final rule implementing Amendment 13 to the Northeast Multispecies
Fishery Management Plan, as well as subsequent groundfish actions.
These corrections are administrative in nature and are intended to
correct inaccurate references and other inadvertent errors and to
clarify specific regulations to maintain consistency with the intent of
Amendment 13 and subsequent actions.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW95
[[Page 64403]]
_______________________________________________________________________
245. AMENDMENT 11 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, BUTTERFISH FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 11 may consider: (1) Limited access in the Atlantic
mackerel (mackerel) fishery; (2) implementation of annual catch limits
(ACLs) and accountability measures (AMs) for mackerel and butterfish
required under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management
Reauthorization Act of 2006 (MSRA); (3) updating of the description and
identification of essential fish habitat (EFH) for all life stages of
mackerel, Loligo squid, Illex squid, and butterfish (including gear
impacts on Loligo squid egg EFH); and (4) possible limitations on at-
sea processing of mackerel.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 08/11/08 73 FR 46590
NPRM 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX05
_______________________________________________________________________
246. AMENDMENT 30 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA AND
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRABS ARBITRATION REGULATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1862; PL 109-241; PL 109-479
Abstract: The proposed action would implement Amendment 30 to the
Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King and
Tanner Crabs to make minor modifications to the arbitration system used
to settle price and other disputes among harvesters and processors in
the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands crab rationalization program.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX47
_______________________________________________________________________
247. AMENDMENT 31 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH
RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: In September 2008, NOAA's National Marine Fisheries (NMFS)
released a report based on observer data that indicated the total
number of loggerhead sea turtle takes by the eastern Gulf of Mexico
reef fish bottom longline fishery was much greater than that authorized
in the most recent biological opinion. In response, the Gulf of Mexico
Fishery Management Council (Council) requested NMFS take emergency
action to reduce the number of takes by the fishery during the short
term while the Council develops long-term measures in Amendment 31.
Measures being considered include: (1) Modifying baits; (2) area,
season, and depth restrictions; (3) reducing effort through a longline
endorsement program; and (4) using observers or electronic monitoring
to close the fishery once a sea turtle take threshold has been met.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX67
_______________________________________________________________________
248. <> SALMON BYCATCH REDUCTION MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR
THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP) 91 IN THE BERING SEA ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 3631 et
seq; PL 108-447
Abstract: This fishery management plan amendment and rulemaking will
implement the North Pacific Fishery Management Council's
recommendations for management measures to minimize to the extent
practicable Chinook salmon bycatch in the Bering Sea pollock fishery.
These management measures provide two options for the pollock sectors
(e.g., inshore catcher vessels, offshore catcher-processors, catcher
vessels delivering to motherships, or CDQ entities): fish under a lower
Chinook salmon cap or participate in an incentive program and fish
under a higher cap. Under the first option, the fleet as a whole may
choose to fish under a transferable cap of 47,591 Chinook salmon, which
would be allocated by season and sector. Once each sector reaches its
specific cap, it would be prohibited from continuing to fish for
pollock for the remainder of the season. Alternatively, vessels or CDQ
entities may choose to participate in private contracts called
incentive plan agreements (IPA) which would describe how participants
would maintain low bycatch even when their bycatch levels are well
below the hard cap approved. Those vessels or CDQ entities
participating in an IPA would be allocated a transferable share of up
to 60,000 Chinook salmon. This cap would be reduced for any vessels or
CDQ entities not participating in an IPA and those vessels and CDQ
entities would fish under a lower, non-transferable cap. In addition to
the annual cap levels, if any sector operating under an IPA exceeds its
proportion of 47,591 Chinook salmon three times in any seven-year
period, the sector's maximum bycatch limit will be permanently reduced
to its proportional share of the 47,591 cap. If the FMP amendments and
proposed rule are approved, fishing under the new Chinook salmon
bycatch management measures would start in 2011.
[[Page 64404]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
FMP 12/00/09
Final Rule FMP 08/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX89
_______________________________________________________________________
249. <> 2010 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS
RECREATIONAL MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: This action will propose and implement the 2010 recreational
management measures (minimum fish size, fishing seasons, and possession
limits) for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass fisheries.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY04
_______________________________________________________________________
250. <> MAXIMIZED RETENTION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR
CATCHER VESSELS IN THE PACIFIC WHITING MOTHERSHIP FISHERY IN THE PACIFIC
COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The action would implement a monitoring program for catcher
vessels in the mothership sector of the Pacific whiting fishery off the
coast of Washington, Oregon, and California. The monitoring program
would consist of a camera and other sensors to monitor fishing activity
in order to maintain the integrity of the maximized retention
requirements found at 50 CFR 660.306 (f)(7). Maximized retention
encourages full retention of all catch while allowing minor discard
events to occur. This ensures that unsorted catch is available for
observers to monitor on board the mothership processors and thereby
maintain the integrity of data collected under the observer program.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: frank.lockhart@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY17
_______________________________________________________________________
251. <> GENERIC AMENDMENT FOR ANNUAL CATCH LIMITS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The generic amendment is intended to modify five of the
Council's FMPs. These include FMPs for: Reef Fish Resources, Shrimp,
Stone Crab, Coral and Coral Reef Resources, and Red Drum. NMFS and the
Council will develop these ACLs in co-operation with the Scientific and
Statistical Committee and the Southeast Fisheries Science Center.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY22
_______________________________________________________________________
252. PROTECTIVE REGULATIONS FOR KILLER WHALES IN THE NORTHWEST REGION
UNDER THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT AND MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq; 16 USC 1531 to 1543
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering
whether to propose 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 whether to propose 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
ANPR 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. NMFS
requests comments on whether--and if so, what type of--conservation
measures, regulations, and, if necessary, other measures would be
appropriate to protect killer whales from the effects of these
activities.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 03/22/07 72 FR 13464
ANPRM Comment Period End 04/23/07
NPRM 07/29/09 74 FR 37674
NPRM Comment Period Extended 10/19/09 74 FR 53454
[[Page 64405]]
NPRM Comment Period End 10/27/09
NPRM Extended Comment Period End12/01/09
Final Action 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Fax: 301 427-2520
Email: jim.lecky@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV15
_______________________________________________________________________
253. MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT PERMIT REGULATION REVISIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1374
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering
changes to its implementing regulations (50 CFR 216) governing the
issuance of permits for scientific research and enhancement activities
under Section 104 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and is soliciting
public comment to better inform the process. NMFS intends to streamline
and clarify general permitting requirements and requirements for
scientific research and enhancement permits, simplify procedures for
transferring marine mammal parts, possibly apply the General
Authorization (GA) to research activities involving Level A harassment
of non-endangered marine mammals, and implement a ``permit application
cycle'' for application submission and processing of all marine mammal
permits. NMFS intends to write regulations for marine mammal
photography permits and is considering whether this activity should be
covered by the GA.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 09/13/07 72 FR 52339
ANPRM Comment Period Extended 10/15/07 72 FR 58279
ANPRM Comment Period End 11/13/07
ANPRM Comment Period Extended 12/13/07 72 FR 58279
NPRM 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7235
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: michael.payne@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV82
_______________________________________________________________________
254. RULEMAKING TO ESTABLISH TAKE PROHIBITIONS FOR THE THREATENED
SOUTHERN DISTINCT POPULATION SEGMENT OF NORTH AMERICAN GREEN STURGEON
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 to 1543
Abstract: Under section 4(d) of the Federal Endangered Species Act
(ESA), the Secretary of Commerce is required to adopt such regulations
as he deems necessary and advisable for the conservation of species
listed as threatened. This rulemaking would establish an ESA section
4(d) rule representing regulations that NMFS believes necessary and
advisable to conserve the threatened Southern Distinct Population
Segment of North American green sturgeon (Southern DPS of green
sturgeon). The 4(d) rule would apply the prohibitions listed under ESA
section 9(a)(1)(A) and 9(a)(1)(D) through 9(a)(1)(G) for the Southern
DPS and apply ESA section 9(a)(1)(B) and (a)(1)(C) prohibitions (called
the ``take prohibitions'') to specific activities that take Southern
DPS fish or alter its habitat in a manner detrimental to the continued
existence of the species. The 4(d) rule would include exceptions to the
take prohibitions for activities conducted in a way that NMFS deems
adequate to protect or conserve the Southern DPS.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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-AV94
_______________________________________________________________________
255. RULE TO REVISE LEATHERBACK CRITICAL HABITAT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service, announces a rule to
revise leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) critical habitat under
the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. The leatherback is
currently listed as endangered throughout its range, and critical
habitat consists of Sandy Point Beach and adjacent waters, St. Croix,
U.S. Virgin Islands. This rule would revise critical habitat to include
waters along the U.S. West Coast.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Therese Conant, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1431
Fax: 301 713-0376
Email: therese.conant@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX06
[[Page 64406]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Final Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
________________________________
256. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; PELAGIC FISHERIES; SQUID JIG
FISHERIES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This action would designate pelagic squid as a management
unit species under the Western Pacific Pelagics Fishery Management
Plan, and establish permitting and reporting requirements.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 08/11/08 73 FR 46581
NPRM 08/28/08 73 FR 50751
Notice Comment Period End 10/10/08
NPRM Comment Period End 10/14/08
Final Action 11/21/08 73 FR 70600
Collection of Information
Approval 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: alvin.katekaru@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AS71
_______________________________________________________________________
257. MODIFYING MAXIMUM RETAINABLE AMOUNTS (MRAS) FOR SELECTED GROUNDFISH
SPECIES CAUGHT BY THE NON-AMERICAN FISHING ACT TRAWL CATCHER PROCESSOR
SECTOR
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service issues this action 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 trawl catcher
processors. 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 Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands.
This action 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 02/13/09 74 FR 7209
NPRM Comment Period End 03/16/09
Final Rule 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV32
_______________________________________________________________________
258. CERTIFICATION OF NATIONS WHOSE FISHING VESSELS ARE ENGAGED IN
ILLEGAL, UNREPORTED OR UNREGULATED FISHING OR BYCATCH OF PROTECTED
LIVING MARINE RESOURCES
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 34 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0648-AV51
_______________________________________________________________________
259. MAGNUSON-STEVENS FISHERY CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT
REAUTHORIZATION ACT (MSRA) ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW PROCEDURE
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Section 107 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and
Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) (P.L. 109-479) requires NOAA
Fisheries to revise and update agency procedures for complying with the
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in context of fishery
management actions. It further requires that NOAA Fisheries consult
with the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and the Regional
Fishery Management Councils (Councils), and involve the public in the
development of the revised procedures. The MSRA provides that the
resulting procedures will be the sole environmental impact assessment
procedure for fishery management actions, and that they must conform to
the time lines for review and approval of fishery management plans and
plan amendments. They must also integrate applicable environmental
analytical procedures, including the time frames for public input, with
the procedure for the preparation and dissemination of fishery
management plans, plan amendments and other actions taken or approved
pursuant to this Act in order to provide for timely, clear and concise
analysis that is useful to decision makers and the public, reduce
extraneous paperwork, and effectively involve the public.
NOAA Fisheries is currently consulting with the councils, the public
and CEQ to develop a proposed procedure.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/14/08 73 FR 27998
NPRM Comment Period End 06/13/08
Final Action 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Steve Leathery, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2239
Email: steve.leathery@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV53
_______________________________________________________________________
260. INITIAL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES
CONVENTION IMPLEMENTATION ACT
Legal Authority: 44 USC 3501 et seq; PL 109-479
Abstract: This action will implement, in part, the Western and Central
Pacific Fisheries Convention (WCPFC) Implementation Act, which
authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to promulgate regulations needed
to carry out the obligations of the United States under the WCPFC. The
action will include regulations applicable to owners and operators of
U.S. vessels used to fish for highly migratory fish stocks in the
western and central Pacific ocean, possibly including requirements to,
among others, obtain authorization to fish, carry position-fixing
transmitters as part of a vessel
[[Page 64407]]
monitoring system, accommodate observers from a regional observer
program, report fishing activity, accept boarding and inspection by
authorized inspectors of other members of the Commission, and to
prohibit transshipping at sea from purse seine vessels.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/22/09 74 FR 23965
NPRM Comment Period End 06/22/09
Final Rule 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: charles.karnella@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV63
_______________________________________________________________________
261. AMENDMENT 15B TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL
SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Amendment 15B would assess the practicability of prohibiting
the sale of recreationally caught fish; assess the practicability of
changes to the renewal period on commercial snapper grouper permits;
assess the practicability of allowing one-to-one transfers of
commercial permits from an individual to a family-held corporation;
implement a plan to monitor and assess bycatch; implement measures to
minimize the impacts of incidental take on sea turtles and smalltooth
sawfish; update management reference points for golden tilefish; and
define allocation for snowy grouper and black sea bass.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 06/04/09 74 FR 26827
NPRM 06/30/09 74 FR 31225
Notice of Availabilty Comment
Period End 08/03/09
NPRM Comment Period End 08/04/09
Final Action 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW12
_______________________________________________________________________
262. REVISE REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE NORTH PACIFIC GROUNDFISH OBSERVER
PROGRAM
Legal Authority: 118 Stat 110; 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq;
16 USC 3631 et seq; PL 108-199
Abstract: This rulemaking would revise Federal regulations relevant to
numerous administrative and procedural requirements applicable to
observer providers, observers, and industry participating in the North
Pacific Groundfish Observer Program. Specifically, this action would:
Modify the current permit issuance process so that observer and
observer provider permit issuance is a discretionary National Marine
Fisheries Service (NMFS) decision; amend current Federal regulations
addressing observer behavior involving drugs, alcohol, and physical
sexual conduct to remove NMFS oversight of observer behavior that does
not affect job performance; require that observer providers submit
policies related to these activities and continue to notify NMFS upon
learning of an incident; revise Federal regulations so that observer
providers are allowed to provide observers or technical staff for
purposes of exempted fishing permits, scientific research permits, or
other scientific research activities; revise the definition of
``fishing day'' in Federal regulations; require observer providers to
annually submit detailed economic information to NMFS; specify a date
by which observers who have collected data in the previous fishing year
would be required to be available for debriefing; and implement
housekeeping issues related to errors or clarifications in existing
regulations at 50 CFR 679.50.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/30/09 74 FR 50155
NPRM Comment Period End 10/30/09
Final Action 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW24
_______________________________________________________________________
263. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; WESTERN PACIFIC PELAGIC
FISHERIES; AMENDMENT 18 TO THE PELAGICS FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN;
SHALLOW-SET LONGLINE SWORDFISH FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Amendment 18 would remove the annual limit on the number of
fishing gear deployments (sets) for the Hawaii-based pelagic longline
fishery. The amendment would also revise the current maximum limit on
the number of physical interactions that occur annually between
loggerhead sea turtles and vessels registered for use under Hawaii
longline limited access permits while shallow-setting. Other measures
currently applicable to the fishery would remain unchanged. Amendment
18 is intended to increase opportunities for the shallow-set fishery to
sustainably harvest swordfish and other fish species, without
jeopardizing the continued existence of sea turtles and other protected
resources.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 03/18/09 74 FR 11518
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 05/18/09
NPRM 06/19/09 74 FR 29158
NPRM Comment Period End 08/03/09
Final Rule 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator,
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 1601
[[Page 64408]]
Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96814
Phone: 808 944-2207
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: alvin.katekaru@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW49
_______________________________________________________________________
264. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; ATLANTIC SHARK MANAGEMENT
MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This rule would evaluate the management measures for small
coastal sharks (SCS) based on the results of the 2007 SCS stock
assessment. This rulemaking could consider, among other things,
commercial quotas and trip limits, recreational minimum size and bag
limits, time/area closures, and the public display quota. In addition,
this rule would implement a rebuilding plan for blacknose sharks. To
the extent that blacknose sharks are caught in fisheries that are not
targeted highly migratory species fisheries, the National Marine
Fisheries Service (NMFS) will work with the appropriate Regional
Fishery Management Council, Interstate Commission, and States to
implement regulations through their processes to rebuild blacknose
sharks. This action is necessary in light of recent stock assessments,
which have determined that blacknose sharks are overfished with
overfishing occurring. As needed, this rule may include others items to
clarify existing regulations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 05/07/08 73 FR 25665
Notice of Scoping Meetings and
Extension of Comment Period 07/02/08 73 FR 37932
Notice of Intent Comment Period
End 08/05/08
Notice of Intent Comment Period
Extended--Second Extension 10/29/08 73 FR 64307
Notice of Intent Comment Period
Extension End 10/31/08
Second Extension Comment Period
End 11/14/08
NPRM 07/24/09 74 FR 36892
NPRM Comment Period End 09/22/09
NPRM Comment Period Extended 08/10/09 74 FR 39914
NPRM Comment Period Extended End09/25/09
Final Action 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Margo Schulze-Haugen, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-0234
Fax: 301 713-1917
Email: margo.schulze-haugen@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW65
_______________________________________________________________________
265. HALIBUT CHARTER VESSEL MORATORIUM
Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773k
Abstract: This action would implement a moratorium on the entry of
additional charter vessels into the guided sport fishery for Pacific
halibut in waters of International Pacific Halibut Commission
regulatory areas 2C (Southeast Alaska) and 3A (Central Gulf of Alaska).
If approved, this moratorium would limit the number of charter vessels
that may participate in the guided sport fishery for halibut in these
areas. NMFS would issue a moratorium permit to a licensed charter
vessel fishing business owner based on his or her past participation in
the charter vessel fishery for halibut and to a Community Quota Entity
representing specific rural communities. All moratorium permit holders
would be subject to limits on the number of permits they could hold and
on the number of charter vessel anglers who could catch and retain
halibut on the permitted charter vessel. This action is proposed to
achieve the halibut fishery management goals of the North Pacific
Fishery Management Council. The intended effect is to curtail growth of
fishing capacity in the guided sport fishery for halibut.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/21/09 74 FR 18178
NPRM Comment Period End 06/05/09
Final Rule 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW92
_______________________________________________________________________
266. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; 2009 NORTH AND SOUTH ATLANTIC
COMMERCIAL QUOTAS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This rule would establish the 2009 fishing season quotas for
North and South Atlantic swordfish based on recent updated landings
information and recommendations from the 2008 annual 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 and reserve transfer from the 2008 fishing
year, consistent with regulations at 50 CFR part 635 and ICCAT
recommendations that establish the U.S. North and South Atlantic
swordfish allocations. This proposed rule may also include other minor
regulatory clarifications.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/05/09 74 FR 39032
NPRM Comment Period End 09/04/09
Final Rule 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Margo Schulze-Haugen, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-0234
Fax: 301 713-1917
Email: margo.schulze-haugen@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX07
_______________________________________________________________________
267. AMENDMENT 29 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR REEF FISH RESOURCES
OF THE GULF OF MEXICO
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Grouper and tilefish species in the Gulf of Mexico are
managed
[[Page 64409]]
under the reef fish fishery management plan. Past management practices
under the plan have contributed to overcapitalization in these
fisheries, which the Council now seeks to address. The amendment
creates an individual fishing quota (IFQ) program to further control
effort in the commercial grouper and tilefish fisheries in the Gulf of
Mexico. The IFQ program was supported by over 80% of all eligible
fishermen voting in a referendum for the IFQ program. The proposed rule
would implement the IFQ program, establish design elements for the
program, and allow consolidation of commercial permit landings history
through permit stacking.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/30/09 74 FR 20134
NPRM Comment Period End 06/15/09
Final Action 08/31/09 74 FR 44732
Final Action Effective 09/30/09
Final Action--Correction 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX39
_______________________________________________________________________
268. WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES FOR HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES;
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE LONGLINE CATCH LIMITS ADOPTED AT THE FIFTH SESSION
OF THE WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES COMMISSION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 6901 et seq
Abstract: This rule would implement the decisions adopted at the Fifth
Session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission
(Commission) to reduce or otherwise control the fishing mortality rate
from longline fishing of bigeye tuna and potentially other highly
migratory fish species in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean.
Pursuant to the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention
Implementation Act, the Secretary of Commerce is authorized to
implement regulations to carry out the obligations of the United States
under the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention
(Convention), including the implementation of Commission decisions. At
its Fifth Regular Session, in December 2008, the Commission adopted
specific catch limits in longline fisheries for certain highly
migratory fish species in the Convention's area of application for
2009, 2010, and 2011. This rule would fulfill the international
obligations of the United States regarding these catch limits.
Moreover, this rule could establish a framework for implementing future
Commission decisions of a similar nature.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/08/09 74 FR 32521
NPRM Comment Period End 08/07/09
Final Action 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: charles.karnella@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX59
_______________________________________________________________________
269. <> SNAPPER-GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN OF THE
SOUTH ATLANTIC
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: On March 23, 2009, the South Atlantic Fishery Management
Council requested NOAA Fisheries Service to implement a prohibition on
the harvest of red snapper for 180 days to address overfishing of red
snapper, through interim measures.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 07/06/09 74 FR 31906
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 08/05/09
Final Action 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX75
_______________________________________________________________________
270. <> AMENDMENT 10 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID,
AND BUTTERFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 10 is to: (1) Develop a rebuilding
program that allows the butterfish stock to rebuild in the shortest
amount of time possible (but not to exceed ten years) and permanently
protects the long-term health and stability of the rebuilt stock; (2)
minimize bycatch and the fishing mortality of unavoidable bycatch, to
the extent practicable, in MSB fisheries; and (3) minimize the race to
fish and promote efficient use of fishing capital in Loligo and Illex
fisheries while providing a means for the industry to proactively
engage in resource governance and to provide greater flexibility in
developing management measures that fit localized needs through the
development of sectors in the Loligo and Illex fisheries.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 07/13/09 74 FR 40812
NPRM 09/03/09 74 FR 45597
NPRM Comment Period End 10/19/09
Final Action 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY00
[[Page 64410]]
_______________________________________________________________________
271. PROVIDE REGULATIONS FOR PERMITS FOR CAPTURE, TRANSPORT, IMPORT, AND
EXPORT OF PROTECTED SPECIES FOR PUBLIC DISPLAY, AND FOR MAINTAINING A
CAPTIVE MARINE MAMMAL INVENTORY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1372(c)
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
Final Action 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7235
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: michael.payne@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AH26
_______________________________________________________________________
272. <> TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO SPECIFIED
ACTIVITIES; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO TRAINING OPERATIONS
CONDUCTED WITHIN THE GULF OF MEXICO RANGE COMPLEX
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq
Abstract: NMFS has received requests from the U.S. Navy (Navy) for
authorizations for the take of marine mammals incidental to training
and operational activities conducted by the Navy's Atlantic Fleet
within Gulf of Mexico (GOMEX) Range Complex for the period beginning
December 3, 2009 and ending December 2, 2014. Pursuant to the
implementing regulations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA),
NMFS is proposing regulations to govern that take and requesting
information, suggestions, and comments on these proposed regulations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/14/09 74 FR 33960
NPRM Comment Period End 08/13/09
Final Action 01/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Fax: 301 427-2520
Email: jim.lecky@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX86
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Long-Term Actions
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
________________________________
273. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR REGULATING OFFSHORE MARINE AQUACULTURE
IN THE GULF OF MEXICO
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
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. 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) siting requirements and
conditions; (7) restricted access zones for aquaculture facilities; (8)
recordkeeping and reporting requirements; and (9) biological reference
points and status determination criteria; and (10) framework procedures
for modifying status determination criteria and regulatory measures.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 06/04/09 74 FR 26829
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 08/03/09
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AS65
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Completed Actions
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
274. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE TILEFISH FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Tilefish
Fishery would implement Individual Fishing Quotas in the tilefish
fishery.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 05/04/09 74 FR 20448
NPRM 05/18/09 74 FR 23147
NPRM Comment Period End 07/02/09
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 07/06/09
Final Action 08/24/09 74 FR 42580
[[Page 64411]]
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AS25
_______________________________________________________________________
275. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); REDUCING SEA TURTLE TAKES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 971; 16 USC 1801 et seq
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
Withdrawn 07/29/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Fax: 301 713-0596
Email: alan.risenhoover@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AS49
_______________________________________________________________________
276. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Duplicate of 0648-AY00 08/13/09
RIN: 0648-AT58
_______________________________________________________________________
277. AMERICAN LOBSTER DATA COLLECTION AND BROODSTOCK PROTECTION MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq
Abstract: NMFS is considering the implementation of management measures
in the Federal lobster fishery, consistent with recommendations for
Federal action as specified in the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries
Commission's Interstate Fishery Management Plan for American Lobster.
These proposed management measures include: 100 percent mandatory
dealer reporting requirements for Federal lobster dealers;
implementation of a maximum size limit (maximum carapace length
restriction) in several Lobster Management Areas (LMA); and, revision
to the definition of a V-notch for protection of egg-bearing female
lobsters in several LMAs in the Federal American lobster fishery.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 09/19/07 72 FR 53978
ANPRM Comment Period End 10/22/07
NPRM 10/06/08 73 FR 58099
NPRM Comment Period End 11/20/08
Final Rule 07/29/09 74 FR 37530
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV77
_______________________________________________________________________
278. AMENDMENT 7 TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC SHRIMP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council is proposing to
take action to maintain a viable rock shrimp fishery in the South
Atlantic region. Actions in the amendment would: (1) Remove the 15,000-
pound landing requirement; (2) reinstate all endorsements lost due to
not meeting the landing requirement in one of four consecutive calendar
years; (3) reinstate limited access endorsements for vessel owners who
renewed their open access permit in the year in which they failed to
renew their limited access endorsement; (4) rename the limited access
endorsement and the open access permit of the existing permit system to
reduce confusion; and (5) require all South Atlantic shrimp permit
holders to provide economic data if selected.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 06/01/09 74 FR 26170
NPRM 06/24/09 74 FR 30034
NPRM Comment Period End 07/24/09
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 07/31/09
Final Action 10/01/09 74 FR 50699
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW19
_______________________________________________________________________
279. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES; HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES FISHERIES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: This action will establish the authority to collect permit
fees under the Fishery Management Plan for U.S. West Coast Fisheries
for Highly Migratory Species. This rule will amend the FMP regulations
under 50 CFR 660.707 to establish a permit fee collection framework for
HMS
[[Page 64412]]
commercial and recreational charter vessels operating off the West
Coast. The action is consistent with and implements elements of the
NMFS Permit Fee National Policy Directive 30-120.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/19/08 73 FR 77589
NPRM Comment Period End 01/20/09
Final Action 07/28/09 74 FR 37177
Final Action Effective 08/27/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: mark.helvey@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW50
_______________________________________________________________________
280. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; COMPENSATION TO NORTHWESTERN
HAWAIIAN ISLANDS BOTTOMFISH AND LOBSTER FISHERMEN DUE TO FISHERY CLOSURE
IN THE PAPAHANAUMOKUAKEA MARINE NATIONAL MONUMENT
Legal Authority: PL 110-161
Abstract: The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2008 authorizes the
Secretary of Commerce to provide compensation to bottomfish and lobster
fishery participants who will be displaced by the 2011 fishery closure
resulting from the establishment by Presidential Proclamation of the
Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, Northwestern Hawaiian
Islands. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) (designee of the
Secretary) is required to promulgate regulations to implement a
voluntary capacity reduction program that: (1) Identifies eligible
participants as those individuals holding Federal fishing permits for
lobster or bottomfish in the designated waters within the monument; (2)
provides a mechanism to compensate eligible participants for no more
than the economic value of their permits; and (3) at the option of each
eligible permit holder, provides an optional mechanism for additional
compensation based on the value of the fishing vessel and gear of
eligible participants who decide to receive these additional funds,
provided that the vessels of such participants will not be used for
fishing. For this purpose, $6,697,500 is authorized to be appropriated
to the NMFS.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/07/09 74 FR 15685
NPRM Comment Period End 05/04/09
Final Action 09/15/09 74 FR 47119
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: alvin.katekaru@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW52
_______________________________________________________________________
281. AMENDMENT 16 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER GROUPER
FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The need for action through Amendment 16 is to end
overfishing of gag and vermilion snapper. Species in the fishery
management unit are assessed on a routine basis and stock status may
change as new information becomes available. In addition, changes in
management regulations, fishing techniques, and social/economic
structure can result in shifts in the percentage of harvest between
user groups over time. These amendments to the regulations for gag and
vermilion snapper would: implement measures to end overfishing of gag
and vermilion snapper; allow the Regional Administrator to make
adjustments to commercial and recreational management measures based on
the reduction in harvest needed to achieve yield at Foy pending the
outcome of a new benchmark assessment for vermillion snapper; specify
the total allowable catch and define interim allocations for gag and
vermilion snapper; update management reference points for gag and
vermilion snapper; and reduce bycatch of snapper grouper species.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 12/24/08 73 FR 79037
NPRM 02/06/09 74 FR 6257
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 02/23/09
NPRM Comment Period End 03/09/09
Final Action 06/29/09 74 FR 30964
Final Action Effective 07/29/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW64
_______________________________________________________________________
282. AMENDMENT 27 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA/ALEUTIAN
ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRABS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 27 to the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) would amend
the FMP to allow processors to modify use caps that limit the amount of
individual processor quota (IPQ) shares that may be used by persons
processing crab. Specifically, Amendment 27 would allow persons holding
IPQ shares to process their crab at processing facilities they do not
own through contractual arrangements with the facility owners to have
their crab custom processed at that facility. Any crab processed under
such a custom processing arrangement would not be applied against the
IPQ use cap of the facility owners. This action is intended to promote
the goals and objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation
and Management Act, the FMP, and other applicable law.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/19/08 73 FR 54346
NPRM Comment Period End 11/03/08
Final Rule 05/28/09 74 FR 25449
Final Action Effective 06/29/09
[[Page 64413]]
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW73
_______________________________________________________________________
283. AMENDMENT 28 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA AND
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRAB
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1862; PL 109-241; PL 109-479
Abstract: This action would implement Amendment 28 to the Fishery
Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King and Tanner
Crabs to allow unlimited post-delivery transfers of shares to cover
overages within the crab fishing year ending June 30. Under the crab
rationalization program, harvesters receive annual allocations of
individual fishing quota that provide an exclusive privilege to harvest
a specific number of pounds of crab from a fishery. Any harvest in
excess of an individual fishing quota allocation is a regulatory
violation punishable by confiscation of crab or other penalties.
Precisely estimating of catch at sea during the fishery is difficult
and costly due to variation in size of crab, and sorting and
measurement requirements. Overages can result from inadvertent mistakes
by participants attempting to accurately estimate catch. A provision
allowing for post-delivery transfer of individual fishing quota to
cover overages could reduce the number of inadvertent violations,
allowing for more complete harvest of allocations, and reduce
enforcement costs without increasing the risk of overharvest of
allocations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 11/25/08 73 FR 71598
NPRM 12/12/08 73 FR 75661
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 12/25/08
NPRM Comment Period End 01/26/09
Final Action 08/14/09 74 FR 41092
Final Action Effective 09/14/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW97
_______________________________________________________________________
284. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); 2009 ATLANTIC BLUEFIN TUNA
QUOTA SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This rule would set Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) quota
specifications and seasonal management measures for the 2009 fishing
year (January 1, 2009-December 31, 2009), and amend the BFT
regulations. This action would implement the U.S. annual BFT quota as
recommended by the International Commission for the Conservation of
Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) and allocate that quota among the domestic
fishing categories. The seasonal management measures would set 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. Other BFT regulatory amendments would be made
within the framework procedures of the FMP.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/18/09 74 FR 7577
NPRM Comment Period End 03/20/09
Final Rule 06/01/09 74 FR 26110
Correction 06/17/09 74 FR 28635
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Fax: 301 713-0596
Email: alan.risenhoover@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX12
_______________________________________________________________________
285. AMENDMENT 92 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA/ALEUTIAN
ISLANDS GROUNDFISH AND AMENDMENT 82 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR
GULF OF ALASKA GROUNDFISH
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendments 92/82 would remove trawl gear endorsements on
licenses issued under the license limitation program in specific
management areas if those licenses have not been used on vessels that
meet minimum recent landing requirements using trawl gear. This action
would provide exemptions to this requirement for licenses that are used
in trawl fisheries subject to quota-based management. This action would
issue new area endorsements for trawl catcher vessels in the Aleutian
Islands if minimum recent landing requirements in the Aleutian Islands
were met. This action is intended to promote the goals and objectives
of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the
FMPs, and other applicable law.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability of
Fishery Management Plan 12/12/08 73 FR 75659
NPRM 12/30/08 73 FR 79773
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 02/10/09
NPRM Comment Period End 02/13/09
Final Action 08/14/09 74 FR 41080
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX14
[[Page 64414]]
_______________________________________________________________________
286. ONE-FISH DAILY BAG LIMIT FOR THE GUIDED SPORT CHARTER VESSEL
FISHERY FOR HALIBUT IN REGULATORY AREA 2C
Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773K
Abstract: The regulatory action would implement a one-fish daily bag
limit to reduce the charter halibut fishery harvest in Area 2C to the
guideline harvest limit.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/22/08 73 FR 78276
NPRM Comment Period End 01/21/09
Final Rule 05/06/09 74 FR 21194
Final Rule Effective 06/05/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX17
_______________________________________________________________________
287. AMENDMENT 90 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA/ALEUTIAN
ISLANDS GROUNDFISH AND AMENDMENT 78 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR
GULF OF ALASKA GROUNDFISH
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendments 90/78 would allow post-delivery transfers of
cooperative quota to cover overages in the Amendment 80 Program and the
Central Gulf of Alaska Rockfish Program. This action is necessary to
mitigate potential overages, reduce enforcement costs, and provide for
more precise total allowable catch management. This action is intended
to promote the goals and objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery
Conservation and Management Act, the FMPs, and other applicable law.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/05/09 74 FR 254
NPRM Comment Period End 02/19/09
Final Action 08/21/09 74 FR 42178
Final Action Effective 09/21/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau,
AK 99801
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7465
Email: jim.balisger@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX25
_______________________________________________________________________
288. AMENDMENT 85 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR GROUNDFISH OF THE
GULF OF ALASKA
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 3631; 16 USC 773; PL 108-199; PL
109-479
Abstract: Amendment 85 to the FMP would remove a provision that
restricts participation of Central Gulf of Alaska Rockfish Program
catcher processors (CPs) in Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI)
groundfish fisheries. The participation restriction was developed to
prevent rockfish program CPs from unfairly benefiting from their
rockfish harvesting privileges by increasing effort in BSAI fisheries
that remained subject to a race for fish. Since the implementation of
the rockfish program, most BSAI groundfish target species have been
allocated among participating sectors, and most CPs in the rockfish
program received exclusive privileges for harvesting these BSAI
species. Consequently, the July stand down may no longer be required as
a protection measure for other BSAI participants and its removal would
enable the rockfish program CPs to more efficiently manage their
harvesting activities. This action is intended to promote the goals and
objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management
Act, the FMP, and other applicable law.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availabilty 03/24/09 74 FR 12300
NPRM 04/06/09 74 FR 15420
Comment Period Extension 05/13/09 74 FR 22507
NPRM Comment Period End 05/21/09
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 05/26/09
Final Action 11/03/09 74 FR 56728
Final Rule Effective 12/04/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX42
_______________________________________________________________________
289. 2009 ATLANTIC BLUEFISH SPECIFICATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission manage the Atlantic
bluefish fishery jointly through the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery
Management Plan (FMP). The FMP includes a specification process that
requires the Council to recommend, on an annual basis, a total
allowable catch (TAC) and total allowable landings (TAL) that are
consistent with the stock rebuilding program. The TAL is composed of a
commercial quota (allocated to the states from Maine to Florida in
specified shares) and a coastwide recreational harvest limit. The
Council may also specify a research set-aside (RSA) quota. The FMP also
requires the Council to recommend annual fishing measures, such as
possession limits, to assure that the recommended quotas will not be
exceeded. The Council has submitted proposed specifications for the
2009 Atlantic bluefish fishery. In summary, the specifications propose:
(1) A TAC for bluefish of 34.081 million lb (an increase from 31.887
million lb in 2008); (2) an overall TAL of 29.356 million lb (an
increase from 28.156 million lb in 2008); (3) zero transfer from the
recreational sector to the commercial sector, to achieve a commercial
quota of 4.991 million lb (a reduction from 7.692 million lb in 2008)
and a recreational harvest limit of 24.366 million lb (an increase from
20.415 million lb in 2008); (4) an RSA quota of 97,750 lb (would
further reduce quota and limit above); and (5) a recreational
possession limit of 15 fish.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/02/09 74 FR 9072
[[Page 64415]]
NPRM Comment Period End 03/17/09
Final Action 05/04/09 74 FR 20423
Final Action Effective 06/03/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX49
_______________________________________________________________________
290. DEFINITION OF U.S. CITIZEN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The current definition of ``U.S. Citizen'' at 50 CFR 679.2 is
critical for permits and licenses, some of which are intended to be
issued only to, and held only by, persons who are U.S. citizens. The
current definition for general applicability refers only to individual
persons and lacks reference to non-individuals, such as corporations,
partnerships, or associations. For consistency and to avoid confusion
among permit applicants, NMFS proposes to revise the definition of U.S.
Citizen.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM- 6-15-09 Withdraw AKR 06/15/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX52
_______________________________________________________________________
291. 2009 SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR THE SPINY DOGFISH
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: This action would set the 2009 fishing year annual quota and
possession limit for the spiny dogfish fishery on the Atlantic coast of
the U.S. consistent with the rebuilding program in the Spiny Dogfish
Fishery Management Plan (FMP). The quota is divided semi-annually, with
quota period 1 (May 1 through October 31) being allocated 57.9% of the
annual quota, and quota period 2 (November 1 through April 30) being
allocated 42.1%.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/19/09 74 FR 11706
NPRM Comment Period End 04/03/09
Final Action 05/01/09 74 FR 20230
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Jamie Goen, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA
98115
Phone: 206 526-4646
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: jamie.goen@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX57
_______________________________________________________________________
292. WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES FOR HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES;
IMPLEMENTATION OF DECISIONS OF THE FIFTH SESSION OF THE WESTERN AND
CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES COMMISSION FOR PURSE SEINE FISHERIES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 6901 et seq
Abstract: This rule would implement the decisions adopted at the Fifth
Session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission
(Commission) to reduce or otherwise control the fishing mortality rate
of bigeye tuna and potentially other highly migratory fish species in
the Western and Central Pacific Ocean from purse seine and other
commercial fishing and to mitigate the impacts of fishing on non-target
species such as turtles. Pursuant to the Western and Central Pacific
Fisheries Convention Implementation Act, the Secretary of Commerce is
authorized to implement regulations to carry out the obligations of the
United States under the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries
Convention (Convention), including the implementation of Commission
decisions. At its Fifth Regular Session, in December 2008, the
Commission adopted specific provisions for purse seine and other
commercial fisheries that target highly migratory fish species in the
Convention's area of application for 2009, 2010, and 2011. The U.S.
implementation of these provisions could include (but is not limited
to) the following: (1) time-area closures for fishing on fish
aggregating devices; (2) requirements regarding observers on vessels;
(3) closure of specific areas of high seas; (4) limits on fishing
effort and/or catches; and (5) requirements aimed at reducing the
capture, injury, and mortality of sea turtles.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/01/09 74 FR 26160
NPRM Comment Period End 06/22/09
Final Action Effective 08/03/09
Final Rule 08/04/09 74 FR 38544
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: charles.karnella@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX60
_______________________________________________________________________
293. 2009 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS RECREATIONAL
MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This rulemaking will propose and implement recreational
management measures for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass
2009 recreational fisheries. The final rule will contain implementing
regulations that specify the minimum fish size, possession limit, and
fishing season for the three species.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/01/09 74 FR 14760
NPRM Comment Period End 05/01/09
Final Action 06/24/09 74 FR 30002
Final Action Effective 07/24/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
[[Page 64416]]
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX69
_______________________________________________________________________
294. REEF FISH AMENDMENT 30B TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF
FISH RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO: MEASURE TO ESTABLISH THE EDGES
SEASONAL-AREA CLOSURE
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The proposed rule for Amendment 30B published on November 18,
2008 (73 FR 68390) and Amendment 30B was approved on January 23, 2009.
Unfortunately, the proposed rule contained an error relative to the
``The Edges'' seasonal-area closure. Rather than just a 4-month closure
to all Council managed fishing activity, as supported by Amendment 30B,
the codified text would have also established a year-round prohibition
on the position of reef fish species in the area. Therefore, this
measure was removed from the final rule (RIN 0648-AV80) and a placed in
this second rulemaking (RIN 0648-AX73) that would establish ``The
Edges'' seasonal-area closure from January 1 through April 30
consistent with the contents of Amendment 30B.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/17/09 74 FR 17812
NPRM Comment Period End 05/04/09
Final Action 06/24/09 74 FR 30001
Final Action Effective 07/24/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX73
_______________________________________________________________________
295. <> ESTABLISH 2009 FISHERY SPECIFICATIONS FOR
PACIFIC WHITING; PACIFIC GROUNDFISH FISHERY; BIENNIAL SPECIFICATIONS AND
MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 7001
Abstract: This final rule establishes the 2009 fishery specifications
for Pacific whiting in the U.S. exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and state
waters off the coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California, as
authorized by the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan
(FMP). These specifications include the level of the acceptable
biological catch (ABC), optimum yield (OY), and allocations for the
non-tribal commercial sectors.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 04/30/09
Final Specifications 05/05/09 74 FR 20620
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: frank.lockhart@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX77
_______________________________________________________________________
296. <> PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH INSEASON ACTION FOR MAY
1, 2009
Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: On March 6, 2009, NMFS published a final rule to implement
the 2009-2010 West Coast groundfish harvest specifications and
management measures (74 FR 9874). This action takes routine and
frequent management action to modify harvest specifications and
management measures to meet the mandates outlined by the Magnuson
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Inseason Action 04/27/09 74 FR 19011
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: frank.lockhart@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX84
_______________________________________________________________________
297. <> ESTABLISH A CONTROL DATE FOR THE REEF FISH,
QUEEN CONCH, AND SPINY LOBSTER FISHERIES OF PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S.
VIRGIN ISLANDS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The Caribbean Fishery Management Council (Council) voted to
establish a control date of March 24, 2009, for the commercial sector
of the reef fish, queen conch, and spiny lobster fisheries of Puerto
Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This action announces that anyone
entering these fisheries after the control date will not be assured of
future access should a management regime that limits the number of
participants in the fisheries be prepared and implemented. The Council
requested that the control date be published in the Federal Register to
provide timely notice to the industry.
This action would inform participants in the U.S. Caribbean reef fish,
queen conch, and spiny lobster fisheries of the Council's intentions to
consider limiting access within the commercial sector of the U.S.
Caribbean reef fish, queen conch, and spiny lobster fisheries.
Specifically, the Council may consider requiring a permit to limit
fishing in the exclusive economic zone to participants that have catch
histories in excess of some minimum landings threshold or who possess a
valid Territorial/Commonwealth Permit. Should the Council take future
action to restrict participation in the commercial sector of the U.S.
Caribbean reef fish, queen conch, or spiny lobster fisheries, it
intends to use March 24, 2009, as a possible control date regarding the
eligibility of catch histories. This date was announced at the
Council?s March 2009 meeting.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 07/08/09 74 FR 32528
Comment Period End 08/07/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
[[Page 64417]]
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX92
_______________________________________________________________________
298. ATLANTIC PELAGIC LONGLINE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq
Abstract: With this action, the National Marine Fisheries Service
implements the Atlantic Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Plan in order
to reduce serious injuries and mortalities of long-finned pilot whales,
short-finned pilot whales, and Risso's dolphins in the Atlantic pelagic
longline fishery to insignificant levels approaching a zero mortality
and serious injury rate, within five years of its implementation. The
proposed plan is based on consensus recommendations and the draft plan
was by the Atlantic Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Team (Team) and
includes both regulatory and non-regulatory measures. Regulatory
measures include: (1) Limiting the mainline length to 20 nautical miles
or less within the Mid-Atlantic Bight; (2) designating a special
research area offshore of Cape Hatteras, NC; and (3) requiring all
pelagic longline vessels to post an informational placards on careful
handling and release of marine mammals in the wheelhouse and working
decks of the vessel. Non-regulatory measures of the plan include: (1)
Providing for 12-15 percent observer coverage throughout all Atlantic
pelagic longline fisheries that interact with pilot whales or Risso's
dolphins; (2) encouraging vessel operators throughout the fishery to
maintain daily communications with other local vessel captains; (3)
updating guidelines for careful handling and release of entangled or
hooked marine mammals; and (4) distributing quarterly reports of
bycatch of marine mammals in the pelagic longline fishery to the Team.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/24/08 73 FR 35623
NPRM Comment Period End 09/22/08
Final Action 05/19/09 74 FR 23349
Final Rule Effective 06/18/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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-AV65
_______________________________________________________________________
299. DESIGNATION OF CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE ENDANGERED U.S. DISTINCT
POPULATION SEGMENT (DPS) OF GUIDED SMALLTOOTH SAWFISH
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: This action would designate critical habitat for the U.S. DPS
of smalltooth sawfish, which was listed as endangered on April 1, 2003.
The designation would be located in Florida, within the current
geographic range of the species. Comments from the public on the
proposal, including information on the economic impacts, national
security, and other relevant documents, as well as the benefits to the
species from the designation will be solicited during a 60-day comment
period. A draft economic analysis and section 4(b)(2) report will be
conducted in support of this proposed rule.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/20/08 73 FR 70290
Notice 12/09/08 73 FR 74681
NPRM Comment Period End 01/20/09
Reopen Comment Period 03/13/09
Final Action 09/02/09 74 FR 45353
Final Action Effective 10/02/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Shelley L. Norton, Smalltooth Sawfish and Johnson's
Seagrass Coordinator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 253 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL
33701
Phone: 727 551-5781
Fax: 727 524-5309
Email: shelley.norton@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV74
_______________________________________________________________________
300. HARBOR PORPOISE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN REGULATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is preparing a proposed
rule to reduce the number of harbor porpoise taken in sink gillnet
fisheries in the Gulf of Maine and Mid-Atlantic. The Harbor Porpoise
Take Reduction Plan of 1999 implemented measures to reduce the
incidental capture of harbor porpoises in sink gillnets to below the
stock's Potential Biological Removal level (PBR). Measures included:
management areas in which deterrent devices (pingers) are required on
gillnets; gear modifications; and seasonal closures. Between 2001 and
2005, incidental takes of harbor porpoise showed an increasing trend,
and currently takes exceed PBR. The proposed rule will implement
measures developed through discussions with the Harbor Porpoise Take
Reduction Team, which was reconvened in 2007 when it was clear that
existing measures were not sufficient to keep porpoise bycatch to below
PBR. For the Gulf of Maine, this action would expand pinger use in
Massachusetts Bay to include November; establish Stellwagen Bank
Management Area, requiring pingers from November-May; establish Coastal
Gulf of Maine Consequence Closure Area and require closure in October
and November only if, after the most current two years, the average
bycatch rate exceeds the trigger rate of .031, identified from observed
compliant boats from the Mid-Coast, Massachusetts Bay, and Stellwagen
Bank Management Areas; create Southern New England Management Area
(includes current Cape Cod South Management Area); require pingers from
December-May; establish Cape Cod South Expansion and Eastern Cape Cod
Consequence Closure Areas; and require closure from February-April only
if, after the most current two years, the average bycatch rate exceeds
the trigger rate of 0.023, identified from observed compliant vessels
fishing in the Southern New England Management Area. For the Mid
Atlantic, this action would establish Mudhole South Management Area.
Close from February 1-March 15; and modify the tie-down requirement.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/21/09 74 FR 36058
[[Page 64418]]
NPRM Comment Period End 08/20/09
Correction Final Action 08/10/09 74 FR 39910
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Melissa Andersen, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: melissa.andersen@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW51
_______________________________________________________________________
301. RULEMAKING TO DESIGNATE CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE GULF OF MAINE
DISTINCT POPULATION SEGMENT OF ATLANTIC SALMON
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: Under section 4 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the
Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) shall designate critical habitat for
species listed as threatened or endangered. This rulemaking would
designate critical habitat in 45 specific areas occupied by Atlantic
salmon at the time of listing that comprise approximately 19,571 km of
perennial river, stream, and estuary habitat and 800 square km of lake
habitat within the range of the Gulf of Maine's distinct population
segment and on which are found those physical and biological features
essential to the conservation of the species.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/05/08 73 FR 51747
NPRM Comment Period End 11/04/08
Final Action 08/10/09 74 FR 39903
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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-AW77
_______________________________________________________________________
302. RULEMAKING TO DESIGNATE CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE THREATENED
SOUTHERN DISTINCT POPULATION SEGMENT OF NORTH AMERICAN GREEN STURGEON
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: Under section 4 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the
Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) shall designate critical habitat for
species listed as threatened or endangered. This rulemaking would
designate critical habitat for the threatened Southern Distinct
Population Segment of North American green sturgeon (Southern DPS),
including: the Sacramento River, lower Feather River, and lower Yuba
River in California; the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and Suisun, San
Pablo, and San Francisco Bays in California; certain coastal bays and
estuaries in California, Oregon, and Washington; and coastal marine
waters within 110 m depth off California, Oregon, and Washington. A
draft economic analysis, biological report, and ESA section 4(b)(2)
analysis report in support of the proposed rulemaking will be available
for public review and comment.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/08/08 73 FR 52084
Notice 10/07/08 73 FR 58527
NPRM Comment Period End 11/07/08
Final Rule 10/09/09 74 FR 52300
Final Action Effective 11/09/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
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
Fax: 301 427-2520
Email: jim.lecky@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX04
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Long-Term Actions
Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)
_______________________________________________________________________
303. EXAMINATION OF PATENT APPLICATIONS THAT INCLUDE CLAIMS CONTAINING
ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE
Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2)
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 08/10/07 72 FR 44992
NPRM Comment Period End 10/09/07
IRFA Comment Request 03/10/08 73 FR 12679
NPRM Comment Period End 04/09/08
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Fax: 571 273-0125
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov
RIN: 0651-AC00
[[Page 64419]]
_______________________________________________________________________
304. FISCAL YEAR 2009 REVISION OF REQUEST FOR CONTINUED EXAMINATION, 18-
MONTH PUBLICATION, AND OTHER MISCELLANEOUS COST-RECOVERY PATENT FEES
Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2); 35 USC 41(d); 35 USC 132(b)
Abstract: The USPTO is taking this action to revise the rules of
practice to adjust the fee or set a fee for certain processes and
services for which the USPTO is required to set a cost-recovery fee.
The USPTO is specifically adjusting the fee for a request for continued
examination, eighteen-month publication, and a certificate of
correction (applicant's mistake) fee, and set a fee for requesting a
corrected republication of a patent application publication. The rules
of practice currently do not set a fee, or do not set a fee that
recovers the USPTO?s costs, for these processes or services. The USPTO
is adjusting or setting these fee amounts such that they more
accurately reflect the Office costs for these processes or services.
Timetable: Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Fax: 571 273-0125
Email: robert.bahr@uspto.gov
RIN: 0651-AC29
[FR Doc. E9-28588 Filed 12-04-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-12-S
