07-917. Proposed Rule Changes of Self-Regulatory Organizations

AGENCY:

Securities and Exchange Commission.

ACTION:

Proposed rule.

SUMMARY:

The Securities and Exchange Commission (“Commission”) is proposing to require Self-Regulatory Organizations (“SROs”) that submit proposed rule changes pursuant to Section 19(b)(7)(A) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Act”) to file these rule changes electronically. In addition, the Commission is proposing to require SROs to post all such proposed rule changes on their Web sites. Together, the proposed amendments are designed to expand the electronic filing by SROs of proposed rule changes, making it more efficient and cost effective, and to harmonize the process of filings made under Section 19(b)(7)(A) with that already in place for filings made by SROs under Section 19(b)(1) of the Act.

DATES:

Comments should be submitted on or before April 30, 2007.

ADDRESSES:

Comments may be submitted by any of the following methods:

Electronic Comments

• Use the Commission's Internet comment form (http://www.sec.gov/​rules/​proposed.shtml); or
• Send an e-mail to [e-mail]. Please include File Number S7-06-07 on the subject line; or
• Use the Federal eRulemaking Portal (http://www.regulations.gov). Follow the instructions for submitting comments.

Paper Comments

• Send paper comments in triplicate to Nancy M. Morris, Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street, NE., Washington, DC 20549-1090.

All submissions should refer to File Number S7-06-07. This file number should be included on the subject line if e-mail is used. To help us process and review your comments more efficiently, please use only one method. The Commission will post all comments on the Commission's Internet Web site (http://www.sec.gov/​rules/​proposed.shtml). Comments are also available for public inspection and copying in the Commission's Public Reference Room, 100 F Street, NE., Washington, DC 20549. All comments received will be posted without change; we do not edit personal identifying information from submissions. You should submit only information that you wish to make available publicly.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

John Roeser, Assistant Director, at [phone], Timothy Fox, Special Counsel, at [phone], Michou Nguyen, Special Counsel, at [phone], Sherry Moore, Paralegal, at [phone], Division of Market Regulation, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street, NE., Washington, DC 20549-6628.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Background

Under Section 19(b)(7) of the Act and Rule 19b-7 thereunder, securities futures exchanges registered with the Commission under Section 6(g) of the Act and associations registered with the Commission for the limited purpose of regulating activities of members who are registered as broker-dealers in security futures ^[1] with respect to securities futures products under Section 15A(k) of the Act are required to file certain categories of proposed rule changes with the Commission.^[2] These proposed rule changes are published for comment and may take effect: (1) When a written certification has been filed with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC”) under Section 5c(c) of the Commodity Exchange Act; (2) when the CFTC determines that review of the proposed rule change is not necessary; or (3) when the CFTC approves the proposed rule change.^[3] Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 under the Act set forth the process for SROs to file proposed rule changes under Section 19(b)(7).

Currently, other SROs are required to electronically file proposed rule changes submitted to the Commission under Section 19(b)(1) of the Act.^[4] SROs are also required to post such proposed rule changes on their Web sites.^[5]

Proposed rule changes submitted by SROs under Section 19(b)(7) of the Act, in contrast, are submitted to the Commission in paper.^[6] In addition, SROs are not currently required to post proposed rule changes filed under Section 19(b)(7) on their Web sites. The Commission is now proposing to amend Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 to require electronic filing and Web posting of proposed rule changes filed under Section 19(b)(7) of the Act. These proposed requirements are consistent with the requirements already in place for proposed rule changes filed pursuant to Rule 19b-4 and Form 19b-4.

II. Proposed Amendments

A. Electronic Filing

The Commission is proposing to amend Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 to require that all Forms 19b-7, and any amendments thereto, be submitted electronically to the Commission. The proposal would modernize this rule filing process by expanding the types of proposed rule changes filed electronically with the Commission. Each SRO would have access to a secure Web site, known as the Electronic Form Filing System (“EFFS”), which would enable authorized individuals at the SRO to file with the Commission an electronic Form 19b-7 on the SRO's behalf.^[7] The current requirement in Form 19b-7 that SROs submit multiple, paper copies of proposed rule changes would be eliminated.^[8] Under the proposed amendments, a proposed rule change would be deemed filed with the Commission on the business day that it is submitted electronically, so long as the Commission receives it on or before 5:30 p.m., Eastern Standard Time or Eastern Daylight Savings Time, whichever is currently in effect, and it is filed in accordance with the requirements of Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7.

The Commission also proposes to amend Form 19b-7 so that SROs would be required to file their proposed rule changes with an electronic signature.^[9] Form 19b-7 currently requires a person who is “duly authorized” by an SRO to sign manually all rule filings.^[10] Under the proposal, each duly authorized signatory would be required to obtain a “digital ID,” which would provide both the Commission and the SRO with assurances of the authenticity and integrity of the electronically-submitted Form 19b-7.^[11] In addition, each signatory would be required to manually sign the Form 19b-7, authenticating, acknowledging, or otherwise adopting his or her electronic signature that is attached to or logically associated with the filing. In accordance with Rule 17a-1 under the Act,^[12] the SRO would be required to retain that manual signature page of the rule filing, authenticating the signatory's electronic signature, for not less than five years after the Form 19b-7 is filed with the Commission and, upon request, furnish a copy of it to the Commission or its staff.^[13]

Based on the Commission's experience receiving electronic Rule 19b-4 filings from SROs for nearly two years, the Commission believes that requiring SROs to file proposed rule changes on Form 19b-7 electronically would have many benefits. First, the Commission believes electronic filing would reduce the amount of time required by SROs to submit SRO rule filings by eliminating paper delivery, photocopying, and distribution. Under the current system, SROs send paper copies of proposed rule changes filed under Rule 19b-7 to the Commission via messenger, overnight delivery, or U.S. mail. Electronic filing would reduce costs for the SROs ^[14] because the SROs would no longer incur costs for delivery of paper filings or for the SRO staff time currently devoted to preparing filing packages. The Commission also would benefit from reducing the personnel time currently associated with manually processing paper filings.

Second, electronic filing would allow for a more efficient use of Commission resources by integrating the SRO electronic filing technology with SRO Rule Tracking System (“SRTS”), the internal Commission database that tracks these filings, the proposal would enable Commission staff to more easily monitor and process proposed rule changes. Pertinent information regarding proposed rule changes, as well as amendments, would be captured automatically by SRTS. As a result, Commission staff would be able to monitor electronically the progress of proposed rule changes filed on Form 19b-7 from initial receipt through final disposition and thereby enhance its management of the rule filing process.

B. Posting of Rule 19b-7 Proposed Rule Changes on SRO Web Sites

The Commission also is proposing to amend Rule 19b-7 to require each SRO to post proposed rule changes filed pursuant to that Rule, and any amendments thereto, on its public Web site no later than two business days after filing with the Commission.^[15] This requirement would provide interested persons with quick access to the proposed rule change, while at the same time providing SROs with sufficient time to comply with this posting requirement. The complete proposed rule change would be available in the Commission's Public Reference Room in electronic format. The Commission believes that Web site accessibility of SRO proposed rule changes filed under Section 19(b)(7) of the Act would (1) provide interested persons with faster access to proposed rule changes; (2) facilitate the ability of interested persons to comment on the proposals; and (3) save SRO resources currently used to monitor the Commission's Public Reference Room for competitors' proposed rule changes.

The Commission is also proposing to require an SRO to remove a proposed rule change from its Web site within two business days of Commission notification to the SRO that such proposed rule change was not properly filed,^[16] or of the SRO's withdrawal of such proposed rule change.

C. Requirement To Update Rule Text on SRO Web Sites

Currently, Rule 19b-4(m) under the Act ^[17] requires all SROs to post and maintain on their Web sites a complete and accurate copy of their rules. This requirement currently applies to SROs that file proposed rule changes under Section 19(b)(7) of the Act. The Commission is not proposing to change this requirement. All SROs would continue to be required to post and maintain a complete and accurate copy of their rules. The Commission is proposing to add paragraph (g) to Rule 19b-7 to clarify that an SRO would be required (1) to post and maintain a current and complete version of its rules on its Web site and (2) to update the rules posted on its Web site within two days after a rule change becomes effective. The Commission believes that this proposal clarifies when an SRO must update the rules posted on its Web site to reflect proposed rule changes filed under Rule 19b-7.

D. Form 19b-7 Amendments

1. Form 19b-7 Amendments

The Instructions to Form 19b-7 would be amended to eliminate the required submission of nine paper copies and instead require electronic filing of Form 19b-7.^[18] To access the secure Internet site for Web-based filing of the Form 19b-7, the SRO would submit to the Commission an External Application User Authentication Form (“EAUF”)^[19] to register each individual at the SRO who will be submitting Forms 19b-7 on behalf of the SRO. Upon receipt and verification of the information in the EAUF process, the Commission would issue each such person a User ID and Password to permit access to the Commission's secure Web site. As Form 19b-7 would be electronic, initially the authorized user at an SRO would access a screen containing a filing template, referenced as Page 1, in which it could identify the SRO, enter a brief description of the proposed rule change, and enter a brief description of the SRO governing body action approval.^[20] The SRO would provide contact information and place the electronic signature of a duly authorized officer on this Page 1 initial screen.^[21] Only a duly authorized officer of the SRO would be authorized to affix his or her digital signature to the Form 19b-7. The second screen of the electronic Form 19b-7 would provide the SRO with a means to attach the proposed rule change and related exhibits in Microsoft Word format.^[22] EAUF users would have electronic access to the general instructions for using the Form, as adapted for electronic filing.^[23] Finally, the SRO would use the electronic Form 19b-7 to amend or withdraw a rule filing pending with the Commission.

The Commission is also proposing a number of changes to Form 19b-7, unrelated to electronic filing, that are modeled after certain provisions in Form 19b-4, which the Commission preliminarily believes would facilitate an SRO's proper filing of Form 19b-7. For example, the format of the Instructions to Form 19b-7 would be organized according to the sections used for Form 19b-4 Instructions, instead of the combination of questions and titles that serve as subject heads in the Instructions to Form 19b-7 currently. The proposed Form 19b-7 would require the SRO to describe the purpose of the proposed rule change in sufficient detail to enable the public to provide meaningful public comment. The Form 19b-7 would direct the SRO to relevant sections of the Act that are appropriate for discussion in the Statutory Basis section of the Form 19b-7 and would clarify that a mere assertion that the proposed rule change is consistent with the Act is not sufficient to describe why the proposed rule change is consistent with the Act. The proposed Form 19b-7 would also provide updated instructions related to the solicitation of comments from interested persons regarding the proposed rule change. These updated instructions would include the new address where commenters may direct comments to Form 19b-7 filings in hard copy and describe the manner in which comments may submitted on the SEC Web site.

The proposed changes to Form 19b-7 would alter the way that the Exhibits are organized and the Instructions to such Exhibits are presented. For example, the proposed Instructions would direct an SRO to include the completed notice of the proposed rule change (“Form 19b-7 Notice” or “Notice”) as Exhibit 1, whereas such notice is not assigned to an Exhibit in the existing Form 19b-7. The instructions for the Form 19b-7 Notice would be amended to include more detailed guidance on the current requirement that the Notice must be formatted to comply with the requirements for Federal Register publication. For example, the proposed Instructions would provide guidance regarding Federal Register requirements relating to margin spacing, page numbering, and line spacing.

The subject of existing Exhibit 1, relating to communications with third parties on the subject of the proposed rule change, would move to Exhibit 2. The guidance in the existing Instructions to Exhibit 2 would be replaced, in Exhibit 3, with more detailed guidance as to how the SRO should present forms, reports, and questionnaires that the SRO proposes to use to implement the terms of the proposed rule change. The requirement to include the text of the proposed rule change would remain in Exhibit 4, but the requirement for the SRO to describe the anticipated effect of the proposed rule change would have on the application of other rules of the SRO would move to Section II(A)(1)(b) of the Form 19b-7 Notice. The requirements relating to Exhibit 5, regarding the effectiveness of the proposed rule change, would remain the same.

The Instructions to Form 19b-7 currently describe circumstances under which an SRO must file an amendment to a proposed rule change and the procedures an SRO must follow when submitting an amendment. The proposed changes to the Instructions to Form 19b-7 would describe the procedures an SRO would follow to submit an amendment electronically.

In addition, the Commission notes that Form 19b-7 will continue to require an SRO to: (1) Describe the text of the proposed rule change in a sufficiently detailed and specific manner as to permit interested persons to submit comments; (2) describe the reasons for adopting the proposed rule change, how the proposal will address any problems described in the proposed rule change, and the manner in which the proposed rule change will affect various market participants; (3) describe how the filing relates to existing rules of the SRO;^[24] and (4) provide an accurate statement of the authority and statutory basis for, and purpose of, the proposed rule change, as well as its impact on competition, if any, and a summary of any written comments received by the SRO.

As noted above, the Commission recognizes that in rare circumstances SROs may be unable to file certain documents electronically with the Commission. Therefore, under these limited circumstances, the Commission would allow SROs to file documents in paper format within five days of the electronic filing of all other required documents.^[25]

2. Accurate, Consistent, and Complete Forms 19b-7

The Commission firmly believes that, to provide the public with a meaningful opportunity to comment, a proposed rule change must be accurate, consistent, and complete. Form 19b-7 states that the form, including the exhibits, is intended to elicit information necessary for the public to provide meaningful comment on the proposed rule change and for the Commission to determine whether abrogation of the proposal is appropriate because it unduly burdens competition or efficiency, conflicts with the securities laws, or is inconsistent with the public interest and protection of investors.^[26] The SRO must provide all the information called for by the form, including the exhibits, and must present the information in a clear and comprehensible manner.

Currently, Commission staff devotes significant time to processing proposed rule changes, reviewing them for accuracy and completeness, and preparing them for publication. SRO staff should ensure that the filings: (1) Contain a properly completed Form 19b-7; (2) contain a clear and accurate statement of the authority for, and basis and purpose of, such rule change, including the impact on competition; (3) contain a summary of any written comments received by the SRO; (4) contain the proper certification submitted to the CFTC, any other appropriate determination made by the CFTC that a review of the proposed rule change is not necessary, or an indication that the CFTC has approved the proposed rule change; and (5) describe the impact of the proposed rule change on the existing rules of the SRO, including any other rules proposed to be amended. As described in the current Form 19b-7, filings that do not comply with the foregoing are deemed not filed and returned to the SRO. In the future, electronically filed proposed rule changes that do not comply with the foregoing would continue to be returned to the SRO, but in electronic format, and, consistent with current practice, would be deemed not filed with the Commission until all required information has been provided.

E. Rule 19b-4 and Form 19b-4 Conforming Changes

The Commission also is proposing to make certain conforming changes to Rule 19b-4 to account for the proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7. In particular, the Commission proposes to remove a reference in paragraph (m) of Rule 19b-4 relating to the requirement that SROs update their Web sites to reflect proposed rule changes filed pursuant to Section 19(b)(7) of the Act. This requirement is proposed to be incorporated into new paragraph (g) of Rule 19b-7. The Commission is also proposing to make other changes to paragraph (m) of Rule 19b-4 to clarify that the obligation for SROs to update their Web sites to reflect proposed rule changes under this provision applies only to proposed rule changes filed under Section 19(b)(1) of the Act.

The Commission further proposes to clarify on Form 19b-4 that an individual who signs the Form 19b-4 digitally must be an officer authorized by the SRO's governing body to sign proposed rule changes on behalf of the SRO. Accordingly, the Commission proposes to amend Page 1 of Form 19b-4 to add the word “officer” to follow the phrase “duly authorized” in the signature box appearing on that page.^[27] The Commission notes that this change does not create any new obligation. Section F of the Instructions to Form 19b-4 provides that a “duly authorized officer” sign Form 19b-4 submissions, but the word “officer” was inadvertently omitted from the signature box when the electronic Form 19b-4 was adopted.^[28]

III. Request for Comment

The Commission requests the views of commenters on all aspects of the proposed amendments, discussed above, to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7, and to Rule 19b-4 and Form 19b-4 under the Act:

• In particular, the Commission requests comment on whether there is a need for an exception to the electronic filing requirement of Exhibit 5 to Form 19b-7 (Date of Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change). If so, what specific situations should be excepted, and what accommodations should be made?
• Would the proposed amendment create additional costs or other burdens for SROs that submit Form 19b-7s?

IV. Paperwork Reduction Act

Certain provisions of the proposed rule and form contain “collection of information requirements” within the meaning of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.^[29] The Commission has submitted the information to the Office of Management and Budget (“OMB”) for review in accordance with 44 U.S.C. 3507 and 5 CFR 1320.11. The Commission has submitted revisions to the current collection of information titled “Rule 19b-7 Under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934” (OMB Control No. 3235-0553). The Commission has also submitted revisions to the current collection of information titled “Form 19b-7 Under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934” (OMB Control No. 3235-0553). In addition, the Commission has submitted revisions to the current collection of information titled “Rule 19b-4 Under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934” (OMB Control No. 3235-0045). Finally, the Commission has submitted revisions to the current collection of information titled “Form 19b-4 Under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934” (OMB Control No. 3235-0045). An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid control number.

A. Summary of Collection of Information

Rule 19b-7 currently requires an SRO that proposes to add, delete, or amend its rules relating to certain subjects ^[30] to submit such proposed rule change to the Commission on Form 19b-7. Form 19b-7 currently requires the respondent: (1) To state the purpose of the proposed rule change; (2) to state the authority and statutory basis for the proposed rule change; (3) to describe the proposal's impact on competition; (4) to provide a summary of any written comments on the proposed rule change received by the SRO; and (5) to describe the date upon which the proposed rule change becomes effective and provide supporting documentation relevant to the effectiveness date. The proposed amendments would add a technical requirement to Form 19b-7 that an SRO provide on Page 1 of Form 19b-7 more information about a staff member prepared to answer questions about the filing, such as the SRO staff member's title, email address and fax number. The proposed amendments would require Web site posting of all proposed rule changes, and any amendments thereto. In addition, the proposed amendments would codify in Rule 19b-7 the current requirement in Rule 19b-4(m) that SROs (1) post a current and complete set of their rules on their Web sites and (2) update their Web sites within two business days after a rule change becomes effective to reflect such rule changes filed pursuant to Section 19(b)(7) of the Act. The proposed amendment would also clarify that a mere assertion that the proposed rule change is consistent with the Act is not sufficient to describe why the proposed rule change is consistent with the Act. Rule 19b-4(m) would continue to require SROs to update their rules on their Web sites to reflect proposed rule changes filed pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) of the Act. All SROs that file Form 19b-4 and Form 19b-7 currently post this information on their Web sites. Therefore, SROs would not be required to provide additional information to comply with proposed Rule 19b-7(g) and current Rule 19b-4(m).

B. Proposed Use of Information

The information provided via EAUF, as required by the proposed amendments to Form 19b-7, would be used by the Commission to verify the identity of the SRO individual and provide such individual access to a secure Commission Web site for filing of the Form 19b-7. The Commission proposes to require that SROs post their proposed rule changes filed pursuant to Section 19(b)(7) of the Act on their Web sites, so that these proposals could be viewed by the general public, SRO members, competing SROs, other market participants, and Commission staff. The information would enable interested parties to more easily access SRO rules and rule filings, which would facilitate public comment on proposed SRO rules. Additionally, SRO staff, members, industry participants, and Commission staff would utilize the accurate and current version of SRO rules that are posted on the SRO Web site to facilitate compliance with such rules.

C. Respondents

There are currently five SROs ^[31] registered with the Commission as national securities exchanges under Section 6(g) of the Act or as a national securities association registered with the Commission under Section 15A(k) of the Act subject to the collection of information for Rule 19b-7, though that number may vary owing to the consolidation of SROs or the introduction of new entities. In a fiscal year, these respondents filed an average of 12 rule change proposals and 3 amendments to those proposed rule change proposals, for an average of 15 filings per fiscal year that are subject to the current collection of information.^[32] Of the 12 proposed rule changes filed by SROs, all 12 ultimately became effective because the SROs did not withdraw any proposed rule changes.

D. Total Annual Reporting and Recordkeeping Burden

1. Background

The proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 are designed to modernize the SRO rule filing process and to make the process more efficient by conserving both SRO and Commission resources. Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 would be amended to require SROs to electronically file their proposed rule changes. Form 19b-7 would be revised to accommodate electronic submission. In addition, SROs would be required to post on their Web sites proposed rule changes submitted on Form 19b-7 to the Commission and amendments thereto. A conforming amendment would codify in Rule 19b-7 the current requirement in Rule 19b-4(m) for SROs to maintain a current and complete set of their rules on their Web site.

2. Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7

The Commission does not expect that the amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 relating to electronic filing of proposed rule changes and amendments would impose any material upfront cost on SROs. The technology for electronic filing would be Web-based; therefore, the SROs should not have any material upfront technology expenditures for electronic filing because all SROs currently have access to the Internet.

However, each SRO would be required to obtain a digital ID from a certificating authority. The Commission staff estimates the annual cost of the ID to be $20 for each SRO.^[33] The Commission staff estimates that each SRO would purchase five such digital IDs for its staff. Thus, the annual cost of the ID for all SROs would be $500 (5 SROs × $20 × 5).

In addition, the Commission believes that SROs could incur some costs associated with training their personnel about the procedures for submitting proposed rule changes electronically via EFFS. However, the Commission believes that such costs will be one-time costs and relatively insubstantial since the SROs are already familiar with the information required in filing a proposed rule change with the Commission and would only be required to submit the same information electronically under this proposal. Based on the experience of the Commission staff in training SROs for the implementation of electronic Rule 19b-4 filings, the Commission estimates that each SRO would spend approximately two hours training each staff member who would use the EFFS to submit the proposed rule changes electronically. Accordingly, the Commission estimates that the upfront cost of training SRO staff members to use EFFS will be 50 hours (5 SROs × 2 hours × 5 staff members).

An SRO rule change proposal is generally filed with the Commission after an SRO's staff has obtained approval by its Board. The time required to complete a filing varies significantly and is difficult to separate from the time an SRO spends in developing internally the proposed rule change. However, the Commission estimates that 15.5 hours is the amount of time required to complete an average rule filing using present Form 19b-7.^[34] This figure includes an estimated 11.5 hours of in-house legal work and four hours of clerical work. The amount of time required to prepare amendments varies because some amendments are comprehensive, while other amendments are submitted in the form of a one-page letter. The Commission staff estimates that, under current rules, seven hours is the amount of time required to prepare an amendment to the rule proposal. This figure includes an estimated two hours of in-house legal work and five hours of clerical work.

Based upon the experience of electronic filing of proposed rule changes on Form 19b-4, the Commission expects that an electronic Form 19b-7 and new requirements to Form 19b-7 would reduce by three hours the amount of SRO clerical time required to prepare the average proposed rule change and by four hours for an amendment thereto. The Commission does not believe that the new instruction specifying that an SRO describe the purpose of the proposed rule change in sufficient detail to enable the Commission to determine whether abrogation is appropriate will add any additional burden to the Form 19b-7 filing process because the existing Instructions to Form 19b-7 provide an obligation that all information in the Form must be presented in a manner which will enable the Commission to make such a determination. The Commission does not believe that the additional contact information of an SRO staff member on Page 1 of the Form will add any measurable burden to an SRO submitting a Form 19b-7, because the information is so readily accessible to the party submitting the filing. With the proposed electronic filing, the Commission staff estimates that 12.5 hours is the amount of time that would be required to complete an average rule filing and that three hours is the amount of time required to complete an average amendment. These figures reflect the three hours in savings in clerical hours that would result from the use of an electronic form for rule filings and four hours for amendments.^[35] The Commission staff estimates that the reporting burden for filing rule change proposals and amendments with the Commission under the proposed amendments would be 159 hours (12 rule change proposals × 12.5 hours + 3 amendments × 3 hours).

3. Posting of Proposed Rule Changes Filed Under Rule 19b-7 on SRO Web Sites

The proposed amendments would also require SROs to post proposed rule changes filed under Rule 19b-7, and any amendments thereto, on their Web sites. The Commission staff estimates that 30 minutes is the amount of time that would be required to post a proposed rule on an SRO's Web site and that 30 minutes is the amount of time that would be required to post an amendment on an SRO's Web site.^[36] The Commission staff estimates that the reporting burden for posting rule change proposals and amendments on the SRO Web sites would be eight hours (12 rule change proposals × 0.5 hours + 3 amendments × 0.5 hours).

4. SRO Rule Text

Currently, all SROs are required to post their current rules on their Web sites pursuant to Rule 19b-4(m). The Commission estimates, based upon its analysis in the Electronic 19b-4 Adopting Release, that the amount of time required to update an SRO's rule text on its Web site after a proposed rule change becomes effective to be four hours. Proposed rule changes submitted under Section 19(b)(7)(A) become effective an average of 12 times a year. Therefore, the Commission staff estimates that the reporting burden for updating the posted SRO rules on the SRO Web site will be 48 hours (12 proposed rule changes submitted pursuant to Section 19(b)(7)(A) × 4 hours).

The proposal would move the burden associated with complying with this provision from Rule 19b-4(m) to Rule 19b-7(g). Based upon the Commission's reporting burden estimate described above, the Commission estimates that the proposal will reduce the burden associated with SROs' compliance with the requirement provided in Rule 19b-4 that SROs post current and complete rule text on their Web sites and update that rule text after it changes following the effectiveness of a proposed rule change by 48 hours annually and increase the corresponding burden for compliance with Rule 19b-7 by 48 hours.

5. Total Annual Reporting Burden

Thus, the Commission staff estimates that the total annual reporting burden under the proposed rule would be 167 hours (159 hours for filing proposed rule changes and amendments + 8 hours for posting proposed rule changes and amendments on the SROs' Web sites + 48 hours for posting and updating complete sets of SRO rule text pursuant to Rule 19b-7 − 48 hours for posting and updating complete sets of SRO rule text pursuant to Rule 19b-4).

In addition to the 155 hour annual burden, the Commission believes that SROs could incur some costs associated with training their personnel about the procedures for submitting proposed rule changes electronically and submission of the information via EFFS. However, the Commission believes that such costs would be one-time costs and relatively insubstantial since the SROs are already familiar with the information required in filing a proposed rule change with the Commission and would only be required to submit the same information electronically under this proposal. The Commission estimates that each SRO would spend approximately two hours training each staff member who will use the EFFS to submit the proposed rule changes electronically. Accordingly, the Commission estimates that the upfront cost of training SRO staff members to use EFFS would be 50 hours (5 SROs × 2 hours × 5 staff members).

The Commission does not expect that the proposed amendments with regard to electronic filing would impose any material additional costs on SROs. Instead, the Commission believes that the proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7, on balance, would reduce paperwork costs related to the submission of SRO proposed rule changes. The technology for electronic filing would be Web-based; therefore, the SROs should not have any technology expenditures for electronic filing because all SROs currently have access to the Internet.

As previously stated, the SROs could incur costs of eight hours annually to post on their Web site their proposed rules, and amendments thereto, no later than two business days after filing with the Commission. With regard to posting of and updating of accurate and complete text of SRO final rules, the Commission believes that the proposal would increase the burden associated with complying with Rule 19b-7 by 48 hours and reduce the burden associated with complying with Rule 19b-4 by 48 hours. In addition, the Commission does not anticipate that SROs would incur any additional costs in complying with the change to Form 19b-4, which proposes to add the word “officer” to the Signature Box because the addition of the word simply provides transparency to an obligation that already exists.^[37] Accordingly, the Commission does not believe that SROs would incur any additional costs in posting this information on their Web sites.

E. Retention Period of Recordkeeping Requirements

The SROs would be required to retain records of the collection of information (the manually signed signature page of the Form 19b-7) for a period of not less than five years, the first two years in an easily accessible place, according to the current recordkeeping requirements set forth in Rule 17a-1 under the Act.^[38] The SROs would be required to retain proposed rule changes, and any amendments, on their Web sites until 60 days after effectiveness of the proposed rule that is filed with both the Commission and the CFTC or abrogation of the proposed rule change.^[39] The SRO would be required at all times to maintain an accurate and up-to-date copy of all of its rules on its Web site.^[40]

F. Collection of Information Is Mandatory

Any collection of information pursuant to the proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 to require electronic filing with the Commission of SRO proposed rule changes would be a mandatory collection of information filed with the Commission as a means for the Commission to review, and, as required, take action with respect to SRO proposed rule changes. Any collection of information pursuant to the proposed amendments to require Web site posting by the SROs of their proposed and final rules would also be a mandatory collection of information.

G. Responses to Collection of Information Will Not Be Kept Confidential

Other than information for which an SRO requests confidential treatment and which may be withheld from the public in accordance with the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 522, the collection of information pursuant to the proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 under the Act would not be confidential and would be publicly available.^[41]

H. Request for Comment

Pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 3505(c)(2)(B), the Commission solicits comments to:

1. Evaluate whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility;

2. Evaluate the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information;

3. Enhance the quality, utility and clarity of the information to be collected; and

4. Minimize the burden of collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

Persons wishing to submit comments on the collection of information requirements should direct them to the following persons: (1) Desk Officer for the Securities and Exchange Commission, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, OMB, Room 3208, New Executive Office Building, Washington, DC 20503; and (2) Nancy M. Morris, Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, Station Place, 100 F Street, NE., Washington, DC 20549-1090 with reference to File No. S7-06-07. OMB is required to make a decision concerning the collection of information between 30 and 60 days after publication, so a comment to OMB is best assured of having its full effect if OMB receives it within 30 days of publication. The Commission has submitted the proposed collection of information to OMB for approval. Requests for the materials submitted to OMB by the Commission with regard to this collection of information should be in writing, refer to File No. S7-06-07, and be submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission, Records Management, Office of Filings and Information Services, Station Place, 100 F Street, NE., Washington, DC 20549.

V. Costs and Benefits of the Proposed Rulemaking

The Commission is considering the costs and benefits of the proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 discussed above. As noted above, the Commission staff estimates that the total annual paperwork reporting burden under the proposed rule would be 155 hours. The Commission staff, however, believes that there would be an overall reduction of costs based on the proposed amendments.^[42] The Commission encourages commenters to identify, discuss, analyze, and supply relevant data regarding any such costs or benefits.

A. Benefits

The proposed amendments are designed to modernize the filing, receipt, and processing of SRO proposed rule changes and to make the SRO rule filing process more efficient by conserving both SRO and Commission resources. The Commission believes that the proposed changes to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 would permit SROs to file proposed rule changes with the Commission more quickly and economically. For example, SROs are currently required to pay for delivery costs of multiple paper copies to the Commission, as well as the costs associated with monitoring the Commission's Public Reference Room for competitors' rule filings. Requiring SROs to electronically file proposed rule changes under Rule 19b-7 should reduce expenses associated with clerical time, postage, and copying and should increase the speed, accuracy, and availability of information beneficial to investors, other SROs, and financial markets.

The Commission does not expect that the proposed amendments would impose additional costs on SROs. Instead, the Commission believes that the proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7, on balance, would reduce costs related to the submission of SRO proposed rule changes. The technology for electronic filing would be web-based; therefore, the SRO should not have any material increase in technology expenditures for electronic filing because all SROs currently have access to the Internet. Accordingly, the Commission believes that the proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7, by requiring the SROs to submit proposed rule changes electronically, would reduce their costs.

Because Commission staff would no longer manually process the receipt and distribution of SRO rule filings submitted on Form 19b-7, electronic filing would also expedite the Commission's receipt of SRO proposed rule changes filed under Rule 19b-7 and provide the SROs with the certainty that the Commission has received the proposed rule changes and has captured pertinent information about the rule changes in SRTS. Based on the Commission's experience with electronic filing of Form 19b-4, the Commission believes that integrating this electronic filing technology with SRTS should also enhance the Commission's ability to monitor and process SRO proposed rule changes.

Moreover, requiring SROs to post proposed rule changes filed under Rule 19b-7 on their Web sites no later than two business days after filing with the Commission should increase availability of SRO proposed rules and thereby facilitate the ability of interested parties to comment on proposed rule changes. For instance, the posting of these proposed rule changes would provide the public with access to the filings on the SROs' Web sites and thereby reduce the burden on SRO and Commission staff of providing information about proposed rule changes to interested parties. The Commission believes that the posting of the proposed rule changes submitted on Form 19b-7 would also save SRO resources that are currently being used to monitor the Commission's Public Reference Room for competitors' proposed rule changes.

B. Costs

As noted, the Commission staff estimates that the annual paperwork reporting costs would be 155 hours under the proposed rule. If the proposed changes were adopted, the Commission believes that SROs could incur some costs associated with training their personnel about the procedures for submitting proposed rule changes electronically and submission of the information via EAUF. However, the Commission believes that such costs would be one-time costs and insubstantial since the SROs are already familiar with the information required in filing a proposed rule change with the Commission and would only be required to submit the same information electronically under this proposal. The Commission believes that the total amount of one-time costs that SROs would incur in training personnel how to use EAUF is 50 hours. The Commission staff believes that the SROs could also incur some minimal costs (currently $20 per year) associated with purchasing digital IDs for each duly authorized officer electronic signatories.^[43] The Commission also believes that the SROs would have to make temporary adjustments to their recordkeeping procedures since, under the proposal, the SROs would be required to print out the Form 19b-7 signature block, manually sign proposed rule changes, and retain the manual signature for not less than five years. However, there should be no additional costs associated with such recordkeeping as SROs are currently required to retain the Form 19b-7 for not less than five years. The Commission requests comment on the anticipated costs, if any, on SROs to comply with the proposed requirement of retaining a manual signature of each proposed rule change submitted electronically.

Moreover, the Commission believes that the proposed requirement that SROs post proposed rule changes on their Web sites would impose some but not substantial costs on most SROs. The Commission notes that no new costs will be associated with posting a current and complete version of their rules on their Web site because currently all SROs promptly post this information on their Web sites pursuant to Rule 19b-4(m). In addition, the Commission does not anticipate that SROs would incur any material additional costs in complying with the change to Form 19b-4, which proposes to add the word “officer” to the Signature Box because the addition of the word simply provides transparency to an obligation that already exists.^[44] Therefore, at all times, each SRO should maintain a current and complete set of its rules to facilitate compliance with this requirement. Accordingly, the Commission does not believe that SROs would incur substantial costs in simply posting this information on their Web sites because they should already be doing so.

C. Request for Comment

The Commission requests data to quantify the costs and the benefits above. The Commission seeks estimates of these costs and benefits, as well as any costs and benefits not already defined, which could result from the adoption of these proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7. Specifically, the Commission requests commenters to address whether proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 that would require electronic filing of SRO proposed rule changes and the posting of these proposed rule changes on the SROs' Web sites would generate the anticipated benefits or impose any unanticipated costs on the SROs and the public.

VI. Consideration of the Burden on Competition, Promotion of Efficiency, and Capital Formation

Section 3(f) of the Act ^[45] requires the Commission, whenever it engages in rulemaking and is required to consider or determine whether an action is necessary or appropriate in the public interest, to consider whether the action will promote efficiency, competition, and capital formation. In addition, Section 23(a)(2) of the Act ^[46] requires the Commission, when promulgating rules under the Act, to consider the impact any such rules would have on competition. Section 23(a)(2) further provides that the Commission may not adopt a rule that would impose a burden on competition not necessary or appropriate in furtherance of the purposes of the Act.

The proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 are intended to modernize the receipt and review of SRO proposed rule changes and to make the SRO rule filing process more efficient by conserving both SRO and Commission resources. They also are intended to improve the transparency of the SRO rule filing process and facilitate access to current and complete sets of SRO rules. In addition, none of these changes would have an adverse impact on competition or capital formation and they would therefore benefit investors.

The Commission generally requests comment on the competitive or anticompetitive effects of these amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 on any market participants if adopted as proposed. The Commission also requests comment on what impact the amendments, if adopted, would have on efficiency and capital formation. Commenters should provide analysis and empirical data to support their views on the costs and benefits associated with the proposal.

VII. Regulatory Flexibility Act Certifications

The Regulatory Flexibility Act (“RFA”) ^[47] requires Federal agencies, in promulgating rules, to consider the impact of those rules on small entities. Section 603(a) ^[48] of the Administrative Procedure Act,^[49] as amended by the RFA, generally requires the Commission to undertake a regulatory flexibility analysis of all proposed rules, or proposed rule amendments, to determine the impact of such rulemaking on “small entities.”^[50] Section 605(b) of the RFA specifically states that this requirement shall not apply to any proposed rule, or proposed rule amendment, which if adopted, would not “have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.”

Proposed amendments to Rules 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 would require SROs to electronically file proposed rule changes submitted pursuant to Section 19(b)(7)(A) of the Act and require SROs to post all such proposed rule changes on their Web sites. Only exchanges registered with the Commission under Section 6(g) of the Act and national securities associations registered with the Commission under Section 15A(k) of the Act would be subject to the proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7. None of the exchanges registered under Section 6(g) or national securities associations registered with the Commission under Section 15A(k) that would be subject to the proposed amendments are “small entities” for purposes of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.^[51]

In addition, the proposal would make certain conforming changes to Rule 19b-4 and Form 19b-4. National securities exchanges and national securities associations that would be subject to the proposed amendments to Rule 19b-4 and Form 19b-4 are not “small entities” for the purposes of the RFA.^[52]

For the above reasons, the Commission certifies that the proposed amendments to Rule 19b-4 and 19b-7 and Form 19b-4 and 19b-7, if adopted, would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities for purposes of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The Commission invites commenters to address whether the proposed rules would have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities, and, if so, what would be the nature of any impact on small entities. The Commission requests that commenters provide empirical data to support the extent of such impact.

VIII. Statutory Basis and Text of Proposed Amendments

The amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 under the Act are being proposed pursuant to 15 U.S.C. 78a et seq., particularly sections 3(b), 6, 15A, 19(b), and 23(a) of the Act.

List of Subjects in 17 CFR Parts 240 and 249

• Reporting and recordkeeping requirements
• Securities

In accordance with the foregoing, Title 17, Chapter II of the Code of Federal Regulations is proposed to be amended as follows:

PART 240—GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS, SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

1. The authority citation for Part 240 continues to read in part as follows:

Authority: 15 U.S.C. 77c, 77d, 77g, 77j, 77s, 77z-2, 77z-3, 77eee, 77ggg, 77nnn, 77sss, 77ttt, 78c, 78d, 78e, 78f, 78g, 78i, 78j, 78j-1, 78k, 78k-1, 78 l, 78m, 78n, 78o, 78p, 78q, 78s, 78u-5, 78w, 78x, 78 ll, 78mm, 80a-20, 80a-23, 80a-29, 80a-37, 80b-3, 80b-4, 80b-11, and 7201 et seq.; and 18 U.S.C. 1350, unless otherwise noted.

* * * * *

2. Section 240.19b-4 is amended by revising paragraph (m) to read as follows:

§ 240.19b-4

Filings with respect to proposed rule changes by self-regulatory organizations.

* * * * *

(m) Each self-regulatory organization shall post and maintain a current and complete version of its rules on its Web site. The self-regulatory organization shall update its Web site to reflect rule changes filed pursuant to section 19(b)(2) of the Act (15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(2)) within two business days after it has been notified of the Commission's approval of a proposed rule change, and to reflect rule changes filed pursuant to section 19(b)(3)(A) of the Act (15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(3)(A)) within two days of the Commission's notice of such proposed rule change. If a rule change is not effective for a certain period, the self-regulatory organization shall clearly indicate the effective date in the relevant rule text.

* * * * *

3. Section 240.19b-7 is amended by:

a. Adding a preliminary note;

b. Revising paragraphs (a) and (b)(1); and

c. Adding paragraphs (d), (e), (f) and (g).

The additions and revisions read as follows:

§ 240.19b-7

Filings with respect to proposed rule changes submitted pursuant to Section 19(b)(7) of the Act.

Preliminary Note: A self-regulatory organization also must refer to Form 19b-7 (17 CFR 249.822) for further requirements with respect to the filing of proposed rule changes.

(a) Filings with respect to proposed rule changes by a self-regulatory organization submitted pursuant to section 19(b)(7) of the Act (15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(7)) shall be made electronically on Form 19b-7 (17 CFR 249.822).

(b) * * *

(1) A completed Form 19b-7 (17 CFR 249.822) is submitted electronically; and

* * * * *

(d) Filings with respect to proposed rule changes by a self-regulatory organization submitted on Form 19b-7 (17 CFR 249.822) electronically shall contain an electronic signature. For the purposes of this section, the term electronic signature means an electronic entry in the form of a magnetic impulse or other form of computer data compilation of any letter or series of letters or characters comprising a name, executed, adopted or authorized as a signature. The signatory to an electronically submitted rule filing shall manually sign a signature page or other document, in the manner prescribed by Form 19b-7, authenticating, acknowledging or otherwise adopting his or her signature that appears in typed form within the electronic filing. Such document shall be executed before or at the time the rule filing is electronically submitted and shall be retained by the filer in accordance with 17 CFR 240.17a-1.

(e) If the conditions of this section and Form 19b-7 (17 CFR 249.822) are otherwise satisfied, all filings submitted electronically on or before 5:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time or Eastern Daylight Saving Time, whichever is currently in effect, on a business day, shall be deemed filed on that business day, and all filings submitted after 5:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time or Eastern Daylight Saving Time, whichever is currently in effect, shall be deemed filed on the next business day.

(f) The self-regulatory organization shall post the proposed rule change, and any amendments thereto, submitted on Form 19b-7 (17 CFR 249.822), on its Web site within two business days after the filing of the proposed rule change, and any amendments thereto, with the Commission. Unless the self-regulatory organization withdraws the proposed rule change or is notified that the proposed rule change is not properly filed, such proposed rule change and amendments shall be maintained on the self-regulatory organization's Web site until 60 days after:

(1) The filing of a written certification with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission under section 5c(c) of the Commodity Exchange Act (7 U.S.C. 7a-2(c));

(2) The Commodity Futures Trading Commission determines that review of the proposed rule change is not necessary; or

(3) The Commodity Futures Trading Commission approves the proposed rule change; and

(4) In the case of a proposed rule change, or any amendment thereto, that has been withdrawn or not properly filed, the self-regulatory organization shall remove the proposed rule change, or any amendment, from its Web site within two business days of notification of improper filing or withdrawal by the self-regulatory organization of the proposed rule change.

(g) Each self-regulatory organization shall post and maintain a current and complete version of its rules on its Web site. The self-regulatory organization shall update its Web site to reflect rule changes filed pursuant to section 19(b)(7) of the Act (15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(7)) within two business days after it takes effect upon filing of a written certification with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission under section 5c(c) of the Commodity Exchange Act (7 U.S.C. 7a-2(c)), upon a determination by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission that review of the proposed rule change is not necessary, or upon approval by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. If a rule change is not effective for a certain period, the self-regulatory organization shall clearly indicate the effective date in the relevant rule text.

PART 249—FORMS, SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

4. The authority citation for Part 249 continues to read in part as follows:

Authority: 15 U.S.C. 78a et seq. and 7201 et seq.; and 18 U.S.C. 1350, unless otherwise noted.

5. Section 249.822 is revised to read as follows:

§ 249.822

Form 19b-7, for electronic filing with respect to proposed rule changes by self-regulatory organizations under Section 19(b)(7)(A) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

This form shall be used by self-regulatory organizations, as defined in section 3(a)(25) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78c(a)(25)), to file electronically proposed rule changes with the Commission pursuant to section 19(b)(7) of the Act (15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(7)) and § 240.19b-7 of this chapter.

6. Form 19b-7 (referenced in § 249.822) is revised to read as follows:

[Note: Form 19b-7 is attached as Appendix A to this document.]

[Note: The text of Form 19b-7 will not appear in the Code of Federal Regulations.]

Dated: February 23, 2007.

By the Commission.

Nancy M. Morris,

Secretary.

Appendix A—General Instructions for Form 19b-7

A. Use of the Form

All self-regulatory organization proposed rule changes submitted pursuant to Section 19(b)(7) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Act”), shall be filed electronically through the Electronic Form Filing System (“EFFS”), a secure Web site operated by the Commission. This form shall be used for filings of proposed rule changes by all self-regulatory organizations pursuant to Section 19(b)(7) of the Act. National securities exchanges registered pursuant to Section 6(g) of the Act and limited purpose national securities associations registered pursuant to Section 15A(k) of the Act are self-regulatory organizations for purposes of this form.

B. Need for Careful Preparation of the Completed Form, Including Exhibits

This form, including the exhibits, is intended to elicit information necessary for the public to provide meaningful comment on the proposed rule change and for the Commission to determine whether abrogation of the proposal is appropriate because it unduly burdens competition or efficiency, conflicts with the securities laws, or is inconsistent with the public interest and the protection of investors. The self-regulatory organization must provide all the information called for by the form, including the exhibits, and must present the information in a clear and comprehensible manner.

The proposed rule change shall be considered filed with the Commission on the date on which the Commission receives the proposed rule change if the filing complies with all requirements of this form. Any filing that does not comply with the requirements of this form may be returned to the self-regulatory organization at any time before the issuance of the notice of filing. Any filing so returned shall for all purposes be deemed not to have been filed with the Commission. See also Rule 0-3 under the Act (17 CFR 240.0-3).

C. Documents Comprising the Completed Form

The completed form filed with the Commission shall consist of the Form 19b-7 Page 1, numbers and captions for all items, responses to all items, and exhibits required in Instruction H. In responding to an item, the completed form may omit the text of the item as contained herein if the response is prepared to indicate to the reader the coverage of the item without the reader having to refer to the text of the item or its instructions. Each filing shall be marked on the Form 19b-7 with the initials of the self-regulatory organization, the four-digit year, and the number of the filing for the year (i.e., SRO-YYYY-XX). If the self-regulatory organization is filing Exhibit 2 or 3 via paper, the exhibits must be filed within 5 business days of the electronic submission of all other required documents.

D. Amendments

If information on this form is or becomes inaccurate before the proposed rule change becomes effective, the self-regulatory organization shall file amendments correcting any such inaccuracy. Amendments shall be filed as specified in Instruction E.

Amendments to a filing shall include the Form 19b-7 Page 1 marked to number consecutively the amendments, numbers and captions for each amended item, amended response to the item, and required exhibits. The amended description in Section II. A. 1. of Exhibit 1 shall explain the purpose of the amendment and, if the amendment changes the purpose of or basis for the proposed rule change, the amended response shall also provide a revised purpose and basis statement for the proposed rule change. Exhibit 1 shall be re-filed if there is a material change from the immediately preceding filing in the language of the proposed rule change or in the information provided.

If the amendment alters the text of an existing rule, the amendment shall include the text of the existing rule, marked in the manner described in Section I. of Exhibit 1 using brackets to indicate words to be deleted from the existing rule and underscoring to indicate words to be added. The purpose of this marking requirement is to maintain a current copy of how the text of the existing rule is being changed.

If the self-regulatory organization is amending only part of the text of a lengthy proposed rule change, it may, with the Commission's permission, file only those portions of the text of the proposed rule change in which changes are being made if the filing (i.e., partial amendment) is clearly understandable on its face. Such partial amendment shall be clearly identified and marked to show deletions and additions.

If, after the rule change is filed but before it becomes effective, the self-regulatory organization receives or prepares any correspondence or other communications reduced to writing (including comment letters) to and from such self-regulatory organization concerning the proposed rule change, the communications shall be filed as Exhibit 2. If information in the communication makes the rule change filing inaccurate, the filing shall be amended to correct the inaccuracy. If such communications cannot be filed electronically in accordance with Instruction E, the communications shall be filed in accordance with Instruction F.

E. Signature and Filing of the Completed Form

All proposed rule changes, amendments, extensions, and withdrawals of proposed rule changes shall be filed through the EFFS. In order to file Form 19b-7 through EFFS, self-regulatory organizations must request access to the SEC's External Application Server by completing a request for an external account user ID and password for the use of the External Application User Authentication Form.

Initial requests will be received by contacting the Market Regulation Administrator located on our Web site (http://www.sec.gov). An e-mail will be sent to the requestor that will provide a link to a secure Web site where basic profile information will be requested.

A duly authorized officer of the self-regulatory organization shall electronically sign the completed Form 19b-7 as indicated on Page 1 of the Form. In addition, a duly authorized officer of the self-regulatory organization shall manually sign one copy of the completed Form 19b-7, and the manually signed signature page shall be maintained pursuant to Section 17 of the Act.

F. Procedures for Submission of Paper Documents for Exhibits 2 and 3

To the extent that Exhibit 2 or 3 cannot be filed electronically in accordance with Instruction E, four copies of Exhibit 2 or 3 shall be filed with the Division of Market Regulation, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street, NE., Washington, DC 20549-6628. Page 1 of the electronic Form 19b-7 shall accompany paper submissions of Exhibit 2 or 3. If the self-regulatory organization is filing Exhibit 2 or 3 via paper, they must be filed within five days of the electronic filing of all other required documents.

G. Withdrawals of Proposed Rule Changes

If a self-regulatory organization determines to withdraw a proposed rule change, it must complete Page 1 of the Form 19b-7 and indicate by selecting the appropriate check box to withdraw the filing.

H. Exhibits

List of exhibits to be filed, as specified in Instructions C and D:

Exhibit 1. Completed Notice of Proposed Rule Change for publication in the Federal Register. It is the responsibility of the self-regulatory organization to prepare Items I, II and III of the notice. Leave a 1-inch margin at the top, bottom, and right hand side, and a 11/2 inch margin at the left hand side. Number all pages consecutively. Double space all primary text and single space lists of items, quoted material when set apart from primary text, footnotes, and notes to tables. Amendments to Exhibit 1 should be filed in accordance with Instructions D and E.

Exhibit 2. (a) Copies of notices issued by the self-regulatory organization soliciting comment on the proposed rule change and copies of all written comments on the proposed rule change received by the self-regulatory organization (whether or not comments were solicited), presented in alphabetical order, together with an alphabetical listing of such comments. If such notices and comments cannot be filed electronically in accordance with Instruction E, the notices and comments shall be filed in accordance with Instruction F.

(b) Copies of any transcript of comments on the proposed rule change made at any public meeting or, if a transcript is not available, a copy of the summary of comments on the proposed rule change made at such meeting. If such transcript of comments or summary of comments cannot be filed electronically in accordance with Instruction E, the transcript of comments or summary of comments shall be filed in accordance with Instruction F.

(c) Any correspondence or other communications reduced to writing (including comment letters and e-mails) concerning the proposed rule change prepared or received by the self-regulatory organization. All correspondence or other communications should be presented in alphabetical order together with an alphabetical listing of the authors, and shall be filed in accordance with Instruction E. If such communications cannot be filed electronically in accordance with Instruction E, the communications shall be filed in accordance with Instruction F.

(d) If after the proposed rule change is filed but before it becomes effective, the self-regulatory organization prepares or receives any correspondence or other communications reduced to writing (including comment letters and e-mails) to and from such self-regulatory organization concerning the proposed rule change, the communications shall be filed in accordance with Instruction E. All correspondence or other communications should be presented in alphabetical order together with an alphabetical listing of the authors. If such communications cannot be filed electronically in accordance with Instruction E, the communications shall be filed in accordance with Instruction F.

Exhibit 3. If any form, report, or questionnaire is

(a) Proposed to be used in connection with the implementation or operation of the proposed rule change, or

(b) Prescribed or referred to in the proposed rule change, then the form, report, or questionnaire must be attached and shall be considered as part of the proposed rule change. If completion of the form, report or questionnaire is voluntary or is required pursuant to an existing rule of the self-regulatory organization, then the form, report, or questionnaire, together with a statement identifying any existing rule that requires completion of the form, report, or questionnaire, shall be attached as Exhibit 3. If the form, report, or questionnaire cannot be filed electronically in accordance with Instruction E, the documents shall be filed in accordance with Instruction F.

Exhibit 4. The self-regulatory organization must attach as Exhibit 4 proposed changes to its rule text. Changes in, additions to, or deletions from, any existing rule shall be set forth with brackets used to indicate words to be deleted and underscoring used to indicate words to be added. Exhibit 4 shall be considered part of the proposed rule change.

Exhibit 5. The self-regulatory organization must attach one of the following:

Certificate of Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change: Attach a copy of the certification submitted to the CFTC pursuant to Section 5c(c) of the Commodity Exchange Act.

CFTC Request or Determination that Review of the Proposed Rule Change is Not Necessary: Attach a copy of any request submitted to the CFTC for determination that review of the proposed rule change is not necessary and any indication from the CFTC that it has determined that review of the proposed rule change is not necessary.

Request for CFTC Approval of Proposed Rule Change: Attach a copy of any request submitted to the CFTC for approval of the proposed rule change and any indication received from the CFTC that the proposed rule change has been approved.

Information To Be Included in the Completed Exhibit 1

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

(Release No. 34-   File No. SR-[SRO Name]-[YYYY]-[XX])

Self-Regulatory Organizations; Proposed Rule Change by [Name of Self-Regulatory Organization] Relating to [brief description of the subject matter of the proposed rule change].

Pursuant to Section 19(b)(7) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Act”),^[53] notice is hereby given that on [date ^[54] ], the [name of self-regulatory organization] filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC” or “Commission”) the proposed rule change described in Items I, II, and III below, which Items have been prepared by the self-regulatory organization. The Commission is publishing this notice to solicit comments on the proposed rule change from interested persons. [Name of self-regulatory organization] also has filed this proposed rule change concurrently with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC”). [Section 19(b)(7)(B) provides that a proposed rule change may take effect upon the occurrence of one of three events. The self-regulatory organization should include one of the following sentences, whichever is applicable:]

The [name of self-regulatory organization] filed a written certification with the CFTC under Section 5c(c) of the Commodity Exchange Act on [date]; or

The [name of self-regulatory organization] on [date], has requested that the CFTC make a determination that review of the proposed rule change of the [self-regulatory organization] is not necessary. The CFTC has [made such determination on [date]]; or [has not made such determination]; or

The [name of self-regulatory organization] on [date] submitted the proposed rule change to the CFTC for approval. The CFTC [approved the proposed rule change on [date]]; or [has not approved the proposed rule change].

I. Self-Regulatory Organization's Description and Text of the Proposed Rule Change

[Supply a brief statement of the terms of substance of the proposed rule change.

If the proposed rule change is relatively brief, a separate statement need not be prepared, and the text of the proposed rule change may be inserted in lieu of the statement of the terms of substance. If the proposed rule change amends an existing rule, indicate the changes in the rule by brackets for words to be deleted and underscoring for words to be added.]

II. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for the Proposed Rule Change

In its filing with the Commission, the self-regulatory organization included statements concerning the purpose of and basis for the proposed rule change and discussed any comments it received on the proposed rule change. The text of these statements may be examined at the places specified in Item IV below. The self-regulatory organization has prepared summaries, set forth in sections A, B, and C below, of the most significant aspects of such statements.

A. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for the Proposed Rule Change

1. Purpose

[Provide a statement of the purpose of the proposed rule change. The statement must describe the text of the proposed rule change in a sufficiently detailed and specific manner as to enable the public to provide meaningful comment on the proposal. At a minimum, the statement should:

(a) [Describe the reasons for adopting the proposed rule change, any problems the proposed rule change is intended to address, the manner in which the proposed rule change will resolve those problems, the manner in which the proposed rule change will affect various persons (e.g. brokers, dealers, issuers, and investors), and any significant problems known to the self-regulatory organization that persons affected are likely to have in complying with the proposed rule change; and]

(b) [Describe how the proposed rule change relates to existing rules of the self-regulatory organization. If the self-regulatory organization reasonably expects that the proposed rule change will have any direct effect, or significant indirect effect, on the application of any other rule of the self-regulatory organization, set forth the designation or title of any such rule and describe the anticipated effect of the proposed rule change on the application of such other rule. Include the file numbers for prior filings with respect to any existing rule specified.]

2. Statutory Basis

[Explain why the proposed rule change is consistent with the requirements of the Act and the rules and regulations thereunder applicable to the self-regulatory organization. A mere assertion that the proposed rule change is consistent with those requirements is not sufficient. Certain limitations that the Act imposes on self-regulatory organizations are summarized in the notes that follow.

Note 1.

National Securities Exchanges. Under Section 6 of the Act, rules of a national securities exchange may not permit unfair discrimination between customers, issuers, brokers, or dealers, and may not regulate, by virtue of any authority conferred by the Act, matters not related to the purposes of the Act or the administration of the self-regulatory organization.

Note 2.

Limited Purpose National Securities Associations. Under Section 15A(k) of the Act, rules of a national securities association registered for the limited purpose of regulating the activities of members who are registered as brokers or dealers in security futures products must be designed to prevent fraudulent and manipulative acts and practices, to promote just and equitable principles of trade, and, in general to protect investors and the public interest, including rules governing sales practices and the advertising of security futures products reasonably comparable to those of other national securities associations registered pursuant to Section 15A(a) that are applicable to security futures products. The rules may not be designed to regulate, by virtue of any authority conferred by the Act, matters not related to the purposes of the Act or the administration of the association.]

B. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement on Burden on Competition

[The information required by this section must be sufficiently detailed and specific to support the premise that the proposed rule change does not unduly burden competition. In responding to this section, the self-regulatory organization must:

• State whether the proposed rule change will have an impact on competition and, if so

(i) State whether the proposed rule change will impose any burden on competition or whether it will relieve any burden on, or otherwise promote, competition, and

(ii) Specify the particular categories of persons and kinds of businesses on which any burden will be imposed and the ways in which the proposed rule change will affect them.

• Explain why any burden on competition is not undue; or, if the self-regulatory organization does not believe that the burden on competition is significant, explain why.

In providing those explanations, set forth and respond in detail to written comments as to any significant impact or burden on competition perceived by any person who has made comments on the proposed rule change to the self-regulatory organization.]

C. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement on Comments on the Proposed Rule Change Received From Members, Participants, or Others

[If written comments were received (whether or not comments were solicited) from members of or participants in the self-regulatory organization or others, summarize the substance of all such comments received and respond in detail to any significant issues that those comments raised about the proposed rule change.

If an issue is summarized and responded to in detail under Section II.A.1. or Section II.B. of this Form 19b-7 Notice, that response need not be duplicated if appropriate cross-reference is made to the place where the response can be found. If comments were not or are not to be solicited, so state.]

III. Date of Effectiveness of the Proposed Rule Change and Timing for Commission Action

[The self-regulatory organization shall include the following with the applicable phrase on the proposed rule change's effectiveness:]

The proposed rule change has become effective on [insert date of filing of written certification with the CFTC under Section 5c(c) of the Commodity Exchange Act; or the date of determination by the CFTC that review of the proposed rule change is not necessary; or the date of approval of the proposed rule change by the CFTC]. [or]

The proposed rule change is not effective because the CFTC [has not determined that review of the proposed rule changes is not necessary or has not approved the proposed rule change].

At any time within 60 days of the date of effectiveness of the proposed rule change, the Commission, after consultation with the CFTC, may summarily abrogate the proposed rule change and require that the proposed rule change be refiled in accordance with the provisions of Section 19(b)(1) of the Act.

IV. Solicitation of Comments

Interested persons are invited to submit written data, views, and arguments concerning the foregoing, including whether the proposed rule change is consistent with the Act. Comments may be submitted by any of the following methods:

Electronic Comments

• Use the Commission's Internet comment form (http://www.sec.gov/​rules/​sro.shtml); or
• Send an e-mail to [e-mail]. Please include File Number SR-[SRO]-[YYYY]-[XX] on the subject line.

Paper Comments

• Send paper comments in triplicate to Nancy M. Morris, Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, Station Place, 100 F Street, NE., Washington, DC 20549-1090.

All submissions should refer to File Number SR-[SRO]-[YYYY]-[XX]. This file number should be included on the subject line if e-mail is used. To help the Commission process and review your comments more efficiently, please use only one method. The Commission will post all comments on the Commission's Internet Web site (http://www.sec.gov/​rules/​sro.shtml). Copies of the submission, all subsequent amendments, all written statements with respect to the proposed rule change that are filed with the Commission, and all written communications relating to the proposed rule change between the Commission and any person, other than those that may be withheld from the public in accordance with the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552, will be available for inspection and copying in the Commission's Public Reference Room. Copies of such filing also will be available for inspection and copying at the principal office of the [SRO]. All comments received will be posted without change; the Commission does not edit personal identifying information from submissions. You should submit only information that you wish to make publicly available. All submissions should refer to File Number SR-[SRO]-[YYYY]-[XX] and should be submitted on or before March 22, 2007.

For the Commission, by the Division of Market Regulation, pursuant to delegated authority.^[55]

Secretary.

Appendix B

Footnotes

1.  See Section 15(b)(11) of the Act, 15 U.S.C. 78 o (b)(11).

2.  Section 19(b)(7) of the Act. 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(7). Specifically, under Section 19(b)(7), these SROs submit those proposed rule changes that relate to higher margin levels, fraud or manipulation, recordkeeping, reporting, listing standards, or decimal pricing for security futures products, sales practices for security futures products for persons who effect transactions in security futures products, or rules effectuating the SRO's obligation to enforce the securities laws. Id.

3.  Section 19(b)(7)(B) of the Act. 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(7)(B). Proposed rule changes that relate to margin, except for those that result in higher margin levels, must be filed pursuant to Sections 19(b)(1) of the Act. 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1).

4.  17 CFR 240.19b-4. See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 50486 (October 4, 2004), 69 FR 60287 (October 8, 2004) (File No. S7-18-04) (“Electronic 19b-4 Adopting Release”).

5.  17 CFR 240.19b-4(m).

6.  See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 44692 (August 13, 2001), 66 FR 43721 (August 20, 2001), (19b-7 Adopting Release).

7.  The SRO would determine which individuals would be supplied with User IDs and passwords to access the secure Web site. See infra note 11 and accompanying text.

8.  Occasionally, an SRO may find it necessary to file documents that cannot be submitted electronically, such as comment letters submitted to the Exchange before filing, or other exhibits. In addition, it may not be appropriate to require proprietary and other information subject to a request for confidential treatment to be filed electronically. Accordingly, the proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 would retain the flexibility to permit portions of a rule filing to be made in paper form under limited circumstances. For example, the Commission would permit SROs to file materials for which confidential treatment is requested in paper format.

9.  The Commission notes that the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act, 15 U.S.C. 7001, et seq. does not apply in this regard.

10.  The signature requirement of Form 19b-7 currently states that “pursuant to the requirements of the [Act], the [SRO] has duly caused the filing to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.” See 17 CFR 249.822. The Commission proposes to clarify on Form 19b-7 that this individual must be an officer of the SRO, who has been authorized by the SRO's governing body to sign proposed rule changes on behalf of the SRO. The General Instructions to Form 19b-7 currently provide that the “chief executive officer, general counsel, or other officer or director of the SRO that exercises similar authority must manually sign at least one copy of the completed Form 19b-7.” Therefore, the proposed clarification would not impose a new obligation for SRO officers.

11.  A digital ID, sometimes called a “digital certificate,” is a file on the computer that identifies the user. Computers can use a digital ID to create a digital signature that verifies both that the message originated from a specific person and that the message has not been altered either intentionally or accidentally. The user obtains a digital ID from a “Certificate Authority” (“CA”) for a modest sum (currently approximately $20 per year). When the SRO electronically sends the Form 19b-7 to the Commission, the digital ID will encrypt the data through a system that uses “key pairs.” With key pairs, the SRO's software application uses one key to encrypt the document. When the Commission receives the SRO's electronic document, the Commission's software will use a matching key to decrypt the document.

12.  17 CFR 240.17a-1.

13.  See Proposed Rule 19b-7(d). These requirements are substantially consistent with the requirements for Form 19b-4 filings, which were adapted from Section 232.302 of Regulation S-T, 17 CFR 232.302 for EDGAR filers.

14.  See infra notes 42-44 and accompanying text.

15.  Rule 19b-4 requires SROs to post proposed rule changes filed under Section 19(b)(1), and any amendments thereto, on their Web site within two business days after the filing of the proposed rule change. 17 CFR 240.19b-4(l).

16.  A screen within EFFS, the Web-based electronic rule filing system, would indicate that a rule filing has not been properly filed and has been returned to the SRO.

17.  17 CFR 240.19b-4(m).

18.  The proposed amendments to Form 19b-7 are attached as Appendix A.

19.  This Commission Web-based application currently exists and allows authorized external users to access select Commission systems.

20.  The authorized user also would be able to indicate if there would be a separate filing of any hard copy exhibits that are unable to be submitted electronically.

21.  As noted supra notes 9-11, and accompanying text, a person who is a “duly authorized officer” at the SRO would be required to place his or her “electronic signature” on the Form 19b-7 before it is transmitted electronically to the Commission.

22.  Exhibits 2, 3, and 5 may not be available in Microsoft Word and could be submitted in another acceptable electronic format, including Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Adobe Acrobat, or Corel WordPerfect.

23.  For example, the SRO would click separate boxes on the second screen to attach documents containing the various exhibits; notices, written comments, transcripts, other communications; form, report, or questionnaire; proposed rule text; CFTC certification; the completed notice of the proposed rule change for publication in the Federal Register; and, marked copies of amendments if applicable.

24.  17 CFR 249.822.

25.  This exception from electronic filing would not apply to Page 1 to Form 19b-7 or Exhibits 1 and 4 thereto but would only be applicable to Exhibits 2 and 3, and any documents filed pursuant to a request for confidential treatment pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. 552.

26.  Section 19(b)(7)(C) of the Act grants to the Commission, after consultation with the CFTC, the authority to summarily abrogate a proposed rule change that has taken effect pursuant to Section 19(b)(7)(B) of the Act if it appears to the Commission that such a rule change unduly burdens competition or efficiency, conflicts with the securities laws, or is inconsistent with the public interest and the protection of investors.

27.  The proposed amendment to Form 19b-4 is attached as Appendix B.

28.  See Electronic 19b-4 Adopting Release, supra note 4.

29.  44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.

30.  See 15 U.S.C. 78f(g)(4)(B)(i) and 78 o-3(k)(3)(A).

31.  The Board of Trade of the City of Chicago, Inc. (“CBOT”), Chicago Mercantile Exchange, Inc. (“CME”), CBOE Futures Exchange LLC (“CFE”), National Futures Association (“NFA”), and OneChicago LLC (“OC”).

32.  Since the implementation of the CFMA in 2001 to September 30, 2006, SROs have filed 62 proposed rule changes pursuant to Section 19(b)(7) of the Act and 13 amendments.

33.  This estimate is based upon the price displayed for the ID on VeriSign's Web site as of December 21, 2006.

34.  See 19b-7 Adopting Release supra note 6.

35.  The SROs' four hour time savings would result from the elimination of tasks, such as making multiple copies of the Form 19b-7 and amendments, arranging for couriers, and making follow-up telephone calls to ensure Commission receipt.

36.  This estimate is based on information from the Commission's Office of Information Technology.

37.  See Section F of the Instructions to Form 19b-4.

38.  SROs may also destroy or otherwise dispose of such records at the end of five years according to Rule 17a-5 under the Act. 17 CFR 240.17a-5.

39.  See proposed Rule 19b-7(f).

40.  See proposed Rule 19b-7(g).

41.  However, consistent with applicable law, proposed SRO rule changes containing proprietary or otherwise sensitive information may be kept confidential and nonpublic, including requests submitted pursuant to the protection afforded for such information in the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. 552.

42.  As noted in the Paperwork Reduction Act analysis, the Commission staff based this total reporting burden of 159 hours for filing proposed rule changes and amendments + 8 hours for posting proposed rule changes and amendments on the SROs' Web sites.

43.  The Commission staff estimates that each SRO will purchase five of their staff such digital IDs. Thus, the annual cost of the digital ID for all SROs would be $500 (5 SROs × $20 × 5).

44.  See Section F of the Instructions to Form 19b-4.

45.  15 U.S.C. 78c(f).

46.  15 U.S.C. 78w(a)(2).

47.  5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.

48.  5 U.S.C. 603(a).

49.  5 U.S.C. 551 et seq.

50.  Although Section 601(b) of the RFA defines the term “small entity,” the statute permits agencies to formulate their own definitions. The Commission has adopted definitions for the term small entity for the purposes of Commission rulemaking in accordance with the RFA. Those definitions, as relevant to this proposed rulemaking, are set forth in Rule 0-10, 17 CFR 240.0-10. See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 18451 (January 28, 1982), 47 FR 5215 (February 4, 1982).

51.  See 17 CFR 240.0-10(e). Paragraph (e) of Rule 0-10 states that the term “small business,” when referring to an exchange, means any exchange that has been exempted from the reporting requirements of Rule 601 of Regulation NMS, 17 CFR 242.601, and is not affiliated with any person (other than a natural person) that is not a small business or small organization as defined in Rule 0-10. Under this standard, none of the exchanges subject to the proposed amendments to Rule 19b-7 and Form 19b-7 is a “small entity” for the purposes of the RFA. In addition, the NFA is not a “small entity” for purposes of the RFA. See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 44279 (May 8, 2001), 66 FR 26978, 26990 (May 15, 2001) (S7-10-01) (Rule 19b-7 Proposing Release).

52.  See 17 CFR 240.0-10(e). Under this standard, described supra in note 51, none of the exchanges affected by the proposed amendments to Rule 19b-4 and Form 19b-4 is a small entity for the purposes of the RFA. The Commission has also found that NASD is not a small entity.

53.  15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(7).

54.  To be completed by the Commission. This date will be the date on which the Commission receives the proposed rule change filing if the filing complies with all requirements of this form. See General Instructions for Form 19b-7.

55.  17 CFR 200.30-3(a)(73).