E5-1672. Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Upon Written Request, Copies Available From: Securities and Exchange Commission, Office of Filings and Information Services, Washington, DC 20549.

Extension:

Rule 17f-2(e); SEC File No. 270-37; OMB Control No. 3235-0031.

Notice is hereby given that pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.) the Securities and Exchange Commission (“Commission”) is soliciting comments on the collection of information summarized below. The Commission plans to submit this existing collection of information to the Office of Management and Budget for extension and approval.

Rule 17f-2(e) requires members of national securities exchanges, brokers, dealers, registered transfer agents, and registered clearing agencies claiming exemption from the fingerprinting requirements of Rule 17f-2 to prepare and maintain a statement supporting their claim exemption.

Notices prepared pursuant to Rule 17f-2(e) must be maintained for as long as the covered entity claims an exemption from the fingerprinting requirements of Rule 17f-2. The recordkeeping requirement under Rule 17f-2(e) is mandatory to assist the Commission and other regulatory agencies with ensuring compliance with Rule 17f-2. This rule does not involve the collection of confidential information.

It is estimated that approximately 75 respondents will incur an average burden of 30 minutes per year to comply with this rule, for a total approximate burden of 38 hours.

Written comments are invited on: (a) Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information will have practical utility; (b) the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the collection of information; (c) ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information collected; and (d) ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on respondents, including through the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology. Consideration will be given to comments and suggestions submitted in writing within 60 days of this publication.

Please direct your written comments to R. Corey Booth, Director/Chief Information Officer, Securities and Exchange Commission, 450 5th Street, NW., Washington, DC 20549.

Dated: March 31, 2005.

Margaret H. McFarland,

Deputy Secretary.