E9-17859. Proposed Extension of Existing Collection; Comment Request

Upon Written Request, Copies Available From: U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Office of Investor Education and Advocacy, Washington, DC 20549-0213.

Extension:

Rule 17f-1(b), OMB Control No. 3235-0032, SEC File No. 270-28.

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 existing collection of information provided for in the following rule: Rule 17f-1(b)—Requirements for reporting and inquiry with respect to missing, lost, counterfeit, or stolen securities (17 CFR 240.17f-1(b)) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78a et seq.) (the “Exchange Act”). The Commission plans to submit this existing collection of information to the Office of Management and Budget (“OMB”) for extension and approval.

Rule 17f-1(b) (17 CFR 240.17f-1(b)) under the Exchange Act requires approximately 26,000 entities in the securities industry to register in the Lost and Stolen Securities Program (“Program”). Registration fulfills a statutory requirement that entities report and inquire about missing, lost, counterfeit, or stolen securities. Registration also allows entities in the securities industry to gain access to a confidential database that stores information for the Program.

We estimate that 1,000 new entities will register in the Program each year. The staff estimates that the average number of hours necessary to comply with the Rule 17f-1(b) is one-half hour. The total burden is therefore 500 hours (1,000 times one-half) annually for all participants.

Written comments are invited on: (a) Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Commission, including whether the information shall have practical utility; (b) the accuracy of the Commission's estimates of the burden of the proposed collection of information; (c) ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be 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.

Comments should be directed to Charles Boucher, Director/Chief Information Officer, Securities and Exchange Commission, c/o Shirley Martinson, 6432 General Green Way, Alexandria, Virginia 22312 or send an e-mail to: [e-mail].

Dated: July 21, 2009.

Florence E. Harmon,

Deputy Secretary.