Federal Register final rules — 1996-01-02

issue-1996-01-02Federal Register final rules — 1996-01-02Regulation

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FR Doc. 95-31573 Special Conditions; Fairchild Aircraft Incorporated Model SA227- CC and SA227-DC (C-26B) Airplanes
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 2, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 1-3]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-31573]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 23

[Docket No. 130CE, Special Condition 23-CE-85]

Special Conditions; Fairchild Aircraft Incorporated Model SA227-
CC and SA227-DC (C-26B) Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final special conditions; request for comments.

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SUMMARY: These special conditions are issued for the Fairchild Aircraft 
Incorporated Model SA227-CC and SA227-DC (C-26B) airplanes modified by 
Rockwell Collins, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. These airplanes will have novel 
and unusual design features when compared to the state of technology 
envisaged in the applicable airworthiness standards. These novel and 
unusual design features include the installation of electronic displays 
for which the applicable regulations do not contain adequate or 
appropriate airworthiness standards for the protection of these systems 
from the effects of high intensity radiated fields (HIRF). These 
special conditions contain the additional safety standards that the 
Administrator considers necessary to establish a level of safety 
equivalent to the airworthiness standards applicable to these 
airplanes.

DATES: The effective date of these special conditions is January 2, 
1996. Comments must be received on or before February 1, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Comments may be mailed in duplicate to: Federal Aviation 
Administration, Office of the Assistant Chief Counsel, ACE-7, 
Attention: Rules Docket Clerk, Docket No. 130CE, Room 1558, 601 East 
12th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. All comments must be marked: 
Docket No. 130CE. Comments may be inspected in the Rules Docket 
weekdays, except Federal holidays, between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Ervin Dvorak, Aerospace Engineer, Standards Office (ACE-110), Small 
Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service, Federal Aviation 
Administration, 601 East 12th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; 
telephone (816) 426-6941.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    Although this action is in the form of a final rule that involves 
requirements affecting flight safety, and, thus, was not preceded by 
notice and an opportunity for public comment, comments are invited on 
these special conditions.
    Interested persons are invited to submit such written data, views, 
or arguments as they may desire. Communications should identify the 
regulatory docket and special conditions number and be submitted in 
duplicate to the address specified above. All communications received 
on or before the closing date for comments will be considered by the 
Administrator. These special conditions may be changed in light of the 
comments received. All comments submitted will be available in 

[[Page 2]]
the rules docket for examination by interested parties, both before and 
after the closing date for comments. A report summarizing each 
substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerning this 
rulemaking will be filed in the docket. Persons wishing the FAA to 
acknowledge receipt of their comments, submitted in response to this 
request, must include a self-addressed and stamped postcard on which 
the following statement is made: ``Comments to Docket No. 130CE.'' The 
postcard will be date stamped and returned to the commenter.

Background

    On November 13, 1995, Rockwell Collins, 400 Collins Road NE, Cedar 
Rapids, Iowa 52498, made an application to the FAA for a supplemental 
type certificate (STC) for the Fairchild Aircraft Incorporated Model 
SA227-CC and SA227-DC (C-26B) airplanes. The proposed modification 
incorporates a novel or unusual design feature, such as digital 
avionics consisting of an electronic flight instrument system (EFIS), 
that is vulnerable to HIRF external to the airplane.

Type Certification Basis

    The type certification basis for the Fairchild Aircraft 
Incorporated Model SA227-CC and SA227-DC (C-26B) Airplanes is given in 
Type Certification Data Sheet No. A18SW, FAR 23 through Amendment 23-34 
plus Amendment 23-39; equivalent safety finding per FAA letter dated 
September 20, 1990: FAR Part 36, SFAR through Amendment 5, plus the 
following: Secs. 23.1309, 23.1311, and 23.1321 of Amendment 23-41 and 
Sec. 23.1322 of Amendment 23-43; exemptions, if any; and the special 
conditions adopted by this rulemaking action.

Discussion

    The FAA may issue and amend special conditions, as necessary, as 
part of the type certification basis if the Administrator finds that 
the airworthiness standards, designated according to Sec. 21.101(b), do 
not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards because of novel 
or unusual design features of an airplane. Special conditions are 
prescribed under the provisions of Sec. 21.16 to establish a level of 
safety equivalent to that established in the regulations. Special 
conditions are normally issued according to Sec. 11.49, after public 
notice, as required by Secs. 11.28 and 11.29(b), effective October 14, 
1980, and become a part of the type certification basis in accordance 
with Sec. 21.101(b)(2).
    Rockwell Collins, plans to incorporate certain novel and unusual 
design features into an airplane for which the airworthiness standards 
do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for protection 
from the effects of HIRF. These features include electronic systems, 
which are susceptible to the HIRF environment, that were not envisaged 
by the existing regulations for this type of airplane.

Protection of Systems From High Intensity Radiated Fields (HIRF)

    Recent advances in technology have given rise to the application in 
aircraft designs of advanced electrical and electronic systems that 
perform functions required for continued safe flight and landing. Due 
to the use of sensitive solid state advanced components in analog and 
digital electronics circuits, these advanced systems are readily 
responsive to the transient effects of induced electrical current and 
voltage caused by the HIRF. The HIRF can degrade electronic systems 
performance by damaging components or upsetting system functions.
    Furthermore, the HIRF environment has undergone a transformation 
that was not foreseen when the current requirements were developed. 
Higher energy levels are radiated from transmitters that are used for 
radar, radio, and television. Also, the number of transmitters has 
increased significantly. There is also uncertainty concerning the 
effectiveness of airframe shielding for HIRF. Furthermore, coupling to 
cockpit-installed equipment through the cockpit window apertures is 
undefined.
    The combined effect of the technological advances in airplane 
design and the changing environment has resulted in an increased level 
of vulnerability of electrical and electronic systems required for the 
continued safe flight and landing of the airplane. Effective measures 
against the effects of exposure to HIRF must be provided by the design 
and installation of these systems. The accepted maximum energy levels 
in which civilian airplane system installations must be capable of 
operating safely are based on surveys and analysis of existing radio 
frequency emitters. These special conditions require that the airplane 
be evaluated under these energy levels for the protection of the 
electronic system and its associated wiring harness. These external 
threat levels, which are lower than previous required values, are 
believed to represent the worst case to which an airplane would be 
exposed in the operating environment.
    These special conditions require qualification of systems that 
perform critical functions, as installed in aircraft, to the defined 
HIRF environment in paragraph 1 or, as an option to a fixed value using 
laboratory tests, in paragraph 2, as follows:
    (1) The applicant may demonstrate that the operation and 
operational capability of the installed electrical and electronic 
systems that perform critical functions are not adversely affected when 
the aircraft is exposed to the HIRF environment defined below:

                       Field Strength Volts/Meter                       
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       Frequency                         Peak    Average
------------------------------------------------------------------------
10-100 KHz............................................      50        50
100-500...............................................      60        60
500-2000..............................................      70        70
2-30 MHz..............................................     200       200
30-70.................................................      30        30
70-100................................................      30        30
100-200...............................................     150        33
200-400...............................................      70        70
400-700...............................................    4020       935
700-1000..............................................    1700       170
1-2 GHz...............................................    5000       990
2-4...................................................    6680       840
4-6...................................................    6850       310
6-8...................................................    3600       670
8-12..................................................    3500      1270
12-18.................................................    3500       360
18-40.................................................    2100       750
------------------------------------------------------------------------

or,
    (2) The applicant may demonstrate by a system test and analysis 
that the electrical and electronic systems that perform critical 
functions can withstand a minimum threat of 100 volts per meter, peak 
electrical field strength, from 10 KHz to 18 GHz. When using this test 
to show compliance with the HIRF requirements, no credit is given for 
signal attenuation due to installation.
    A preliminary hazard analysis must be performed by the applicant, 
for approval by the FAA, to identify electrical and/or electronic 
systems that perform critical functions. The term ``critical'' means 
those functions whose failure would contribute to, or cause, a failure 
condition that would prevent the continued safe flight and landing of 
the airplane. The systems identified by the hazard analysis that 
perform critical functions are candidates for the application of HIRF 
requirements. A system may perform both critical and non-critical 
functions. Primary electronic flight display systems, and their 
associated components, perform critical functions such as attitude, 
altitude, and airspeed indication. The HIRF requirements apply only to 
critical functions.

[[Page 3]]

    Compliance with HIRF requirements may be demonstrated by tests, 
analysis, models, similarity with existing systems, or any combination 
of these. Service experience alone is not acceptable since normal 
flight operations may not include an exposure to the HIRF environment. 
Reliance on a system with similar design features for redundancy as a 
means of protection against the effects of external HIRF is generally 
insufficient since all elements of a redundant system are likely to be 
exposed to the fields concurrently.

Conclusion

    In view of the design features discussed for the Fairchild Aircraft 
Incorporated Model SA227-CC and SA227-DC (C-26B) Airplanes, the 
following special conditions are issued. This action is not a rule of 
general applicability and affects only those applicants who apply to 
the FAA for approval of these features on these airplanes.
    The substance of these special conditions has been subject to the 
notice and public comment procedure in several prior rulemaking 
actions. For example, the Dornier 228-200 (53 FR 14782, April 26, 
1988), the Cessna Model 525 (56 FR 49396, September 30, 1991), and the 
Beech models 200, A200, and B200 airplanes (57 FR 1220, January 13, 
1992). It is unlikely that additional public comment would result in 
any significant change from those special conditions already issued and 
commented on. For these reasons, and because a delay would 
significantly affect the applicant's installation of the system and 
certification of the airplane, which is imminent, the FAA has 
determined that prior public notice and comment are unnecessary and 
impracticable, and good cause exists for adopting these special 
conditions without notice. Therefore, these special conditions are 
being made effective upon publication in the Federal Register. However, 
as previously indicated, interested persons are invited to comment on 
these special conditions if they so desire.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 23

    Aircraft, Aviation safety, Signs and symbols

Citation

    The authority citation for these special conditions is as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g); 40113, 44701, 44702, and 44704; 14 
CFR 21.16 and 21.101; and 14 CFR 11.28 and 11.49.

Adoption of Special Conditions

    Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the following special conditions are issued as part of 
the type certification basis for the modified Fairchild Aircraft 
Incorporated Model SA227-CC and SA227-DC (C-26B) Airplanes:
    1. Protection of Electrical and Electronic Systems from High 
Intensity Radiated Fields (HIRF). Each system that performs critical 
functions must be designed and installed to ensure that the operations, 
and operational capabilities of these systems to perform critical 
functions, are not adversely affected when the airplane is exposed to 
high intensity radiated electromagnetic fields external to the 
airplane.
    2. For the purpose of these special conditions, the following 
definition applies: Critical Functions: Functions whose failure would 
contribute to, or cause, a failure condition that would prevent the 
continued safe flight and landing of the airplane.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri on December 21, 1995.
Henry A. Armstrong
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 95-31573 Filed 12-29-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-M

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-31572 Establishment of Class E Airspace; Shell Lake, WI
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 2, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 3-4]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-31572]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
14 CFR Part 71

[Airspace Docket No. 95-AGL-11]

Establishment of Class E Airspace; Shell Lake, WI

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This action establishes Class E airspace to accommodate a Very 
High Frequency Omnidirectional Range (VOR) and Distance Measuring 
Equipment (DME) Standard Instrument Approach Procedure (SIAP) for 
runway 32 at Shell Lake Municipal Airport; Shell Lake, WI. Controlled 
airspace extending upward from 700 to 1200 feet above ground level 
(AGL) is needed for aircraft executing the approach. The intended 
effect of this action is to provide adequate controlled airspace for 
aircraft executing the SIAP.

EFFECTIVE DATE: 0901 UTC, February 29, 1996.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Eleanor J. Williams, Air Traffic Division, System Management Branch, 
AGL-530, Federal Aviation Administration, 2300 East Devon Avenue, Des 
Plaines, Illinois 60018, telephone (708) 294-7568.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

History

    On August 4, 1995, the FAA proposed to amend part 71 of the Federal 
Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 71) to establish Class E airspace at 
Shell Lake Municipal Airport, Shell Lake, WI (60 FR 39894). The 
proposal was to add controlled airspace extending upward from 700 to 
1200 feet AGL for Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operations.
    Interested parties were invited to participate in this rulemaking 
proceeding by submitting written comments on the proposal to the FAA. 
No comments objecting to the proposal were received. Class E airspace 
designations for airspace areas extending upward from 700 feet or more 
above the surface of the earth are published in paragraph 6005 of FAA 
Order 7400.9C dated August 17, 1995, and effective September 16, 1995, 
which is incorporated by reference in 14 CFR 71.1. The Class E airspace 
designation listed in this document will be published subsequently in 
the Order.
The Rule
    This amendment to part 71 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 
CFR part 71) establishes Class E airspace at Shell Lake Municipal 
Airport, Shell Lake, WI. Controlled airspace extending upward from 700 
to 1200 feet AGL is needed for aircraft executing the approach. The 
area will be depicted on appropriate aeronautical charts thereby 
enabling pilots to circumnavigate the area or otherwise comply with IFR 
procedures.
    The FAA has determined that this regulation only involves an 
established body of technical regulations for which frequent and 
routine amendments are necessary to keep them operationally current. 
Therefore, this regulation--(1) is not a ``significant regulatory 
action'' under Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ``significant rule'' 
under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034; February 26, 
1979); and (3) does not warrant preparation of a Regulatory Evaluation 
as the anticipated impact is so minimal. Since this is a routine matter 
that will only affect air traffic procedures and air navigation, it is 
certified that this rule will not have a significant economic impact on 
a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 71

    Airspace, Incorporation by reference, Navigation (air).
    
[[Page 4]]

Adoption of the Amendment

    In consideration of the foregoing, the Federal Aviation 
Administration amends 14 CFR part 71 as follows:

PART 71--[AMENDED]

    1. The authority citation for 14 CFR part 71 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40103, 40113, 40120; E.O. 10854, 24 
FR 9565, 3 CFR, 1959-1963 Comp., p. 389; 14 CFR 11.69.

Sec. 71.1  [Amended]

    2. The incorporation by reference in 14 CFR 71.1 of the Federal 
Aviation Administration Order 7400.9C, Airspace Designations and 
Reporting Points, dated August 17, 1995, and effective September 16, 
1995, is amended as follows:

Paragraph 6005  The class E airspace areas extending upward from 
700 feet or more above the surface of the earth.

* * * * *

AGL WI E5 Shell Lake, WI [New]

Shell Lake Municipal Airport, WI
    (Lat. 45 deg.43'53'' N, long. 91 deg.55'14'' W)

    That airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface 
within a 6.3-mile radius of the Shell Lake Municipal Airport and 
within 2.7 miles either side of the 143-degree bearing from the 
airport extending from the 6.3-mile radius to 7.4 miles southeast of 
the airport.
* * * * *
    Issued in Des Plaines, Illinois on December 6, 1995.
Jeffrey L. Griffith
Acting Manager, Air Traffic Division.
FR Doc. 95-31572 Filed 12-29-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-M

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-31571 Expansion of Restricted Area R-2917, De Funiak Springs, FL
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 2, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 4-5]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-31571]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
14 CFR Part 73

[Airspace Docket No. 93-ASO-8]

Expansion of Restricted Area R-2917, De Funiak Springs, FL

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This action expands the lateral and vertical dimensions of 
Restricted Area R-2917, De Funiak Springs, FL, to increase the size of 
the special use airspace around an existing Space Detection and 
Tracking Radar (FPS-85) system located at that site. A revision to U.S. 
Air Force safety regulations increased the size of special use airspace 
required around such installations to lessen any potential hazard to 
aircraft which are carrying electroexplosive devices.

EFFECTIVE DATE: 0901 UTC, February 29, 1996.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul Gallant, Military Operations 
Program Office, Office of Air Traffic System Management, Federal 
Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 
20591; telephone: (202) 267-9361.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

History

    On December 3, 1993, the FAA proposed to increase the lateral and 
vertical dimensions of R-2917 from a circular area with a 1.25-statute-
mile radius, extending from the surface to 5,000 feet mean sea level, 
to a 2.5-nautical-mile radius circle, extending to, but not including 
Flight Level 230 (58 FR 63908).
    Interested parties were invited to participate in this rulemaking 
proceeding by submitting written comments on the proposal to the FAA. 
No comments objecting to the proposal were received. Except for 
editorial changes, this amendment is the same as that proposed in the 
notice. The coordinates for this airspace docket are based on North 
American Datum 83. Section 73.29 of part 73 of the Federal Aviation 
Regulations was republished in FAA Order 7400.8C dated June 29, 1995.

The Rule

    This amendment to part 73 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 
CFR part 73) increases the lateral and vertical dimensions of 
Restricted Area R-2917, De Funiak Springs, FL, in order to expand the 
special use airspace around an FPS-85 radar facility. The amendment 
increases the size of R-2917 to a 2.5-nautical-mile radius circle, and 
raises the designated altitude to, but not including, Flight Level 230. 
The Radio Frequency (RF) energy transmitted by the FPS-85 radar 
potentially could ignite electroexplosive devices that may be carried 
on board certain aircraft. There has been no increase in the power 
output or change to the emission pattern of the radar. This expansion 
is necessary because the U.S. Air Force has adopted revised safety 
criteria which better define the limits of the RF emission pattern of 
the FPS-85 radar. The expanded R-2917 remains totally within the 
confines of another existing restricted area, R-2914A, which extends 
from the surface to unlimited altitude, with a ``continuous'' time of 
designation. Consequently, since the affected area remains continuously 
designated restricted airspace, there will be no impact on 
nonparticipating aircraft operations as a result of this expansion. 
This amendment replaces a temporary flight restriction which was 
implemented as an interim safety measure at the site. This amendment 
also changes the title of the using agency to ``U.S. Air Force, 
Commander, U.S. Space Command, Peterson AFB, CO,'' and adds a 
controlling agency for R-2917, with the title ``U.S. Air Force, Eglin 
Approach Control.''
    The FAA has determined that this regulation only involves an 
established body of technical regulations for which frequent and 
routine amendments are necessary to keep them operationally current. 
It, therefore--(1) is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under 
Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT 
Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034; February 26, 1979); 
and (3) does not warrant preparation of a regulatory evaluation as the 
anticipated impact is so minimal. Since this is a routine matter that 
will only affect air traffic procedures and air navigation, it is 
certified that this rule will not have a significant economic impact on 
a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act.

Environmental Review

    The U.S. Air Force completed an Environmental Impact Analysis of 
the proposed expansion action in accordance with Air Force Regulations, 
and applicable Federal Laws, regulations, and Executive Orders. The Air 
Force has determined that the action qualified for categorical 
exclusion 2R under Air Force Regulations: ``Continuation of actions, if 
there is not substantial, adverse change from previously existing 
conditions.''
    Because the expansion action is a minor adjustment to the internal 
boundaries of overlapping restricted areas, which does not change the 
outer limits of the restricted airspace as a whole, and the changes in 
the title of the using agency and addition of a controlling agency do 
not have potential environmental consequences, the FAA has determined 
that this action qualifies for categorical exclusion as a minor 
adjustment to a special-use airspace action under Paragraph 3(c) of 
Appendix 3 of FAA Order 1050.1D, ``Policies and Procedures for 
Considering Environmental Impacts'' and the regulations implementing 
the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, 40 CFR part 1500. A 
documented categorical exclusion has been prepared by the FAA and 
placed in the Docket for the Final Rule.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 73

    Airspace, Navigation (air). 
    
[[Page 5]]

Adoption of the Amendment

    In consideration of the foregoing, the Federal Aviation 
Administration amends 14 CFR part 73, as follows:

PART 73--[AMENDED]

    1. The authority citation for part 73 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g); 40103, 40113, 40120; E.O. 10854; 24 
FR 9565, 3 CFR, 1959-1963 Comp., p. 389; 14 CFR 11.69.

Sec. 73.29  [Amended]

R-2917 De Funiak Springs, FL [Revised]

Boundaries. A circle with a 2.5 NM radius centered at:
    Lat. 30 deg.32'55'' N., long. 86 deg.12'52'' W.

    Designated altitudes. Surface to but not including FL 230.
    Time of designation. Continuous.
    Controlling agency. U.S. Air Force, Eglin Approach Control.
    Using agency. U.S. Air Force, Commander, U.S. Space Command, 
Peterson AFB, CO.

    Issued in Washington, DC, on December 21, 1995.
Harold W. Becker,
Manager, Airspace-Rules and Aeronautical Information Division.
[FR Doc. 95-31571 Filed 12-29-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-31556 Food Additives Permitted in Feed and Drinking Water of Animals; Menadione Nicotinamide Bisulfite
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 2, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 5-6]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-31556]

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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Food and Drug Administration

21 CFR Part 573

[Docket No. 94F-0283]

Food Additives Permitted in Feed and Drinking Water of Animals; 
Menadione Nicotinamide Bisulfite

AGENCY: Food and Drug Administration, HHS.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is amending the food 
additive regulations to provide for the safe use of menadione 
nicotinamide bisulfite as a nutritional supplement for the prevention 
of vitamin K deficiency and as a source of supplemental niacin in 
chicken and turkey feed when used at a rate not to exceed 2 grams per 
ton (g/t) of complete feed. This action is in response to a food 
additive petition filed by Vanetta (U.S.A.) Inc.

DATES: Effective January 2, 1996; written objections and request for 
hearing by February 1, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Submit written objections to the Dockets Management Branch 
(HFA-305), Food and Drug Administration, rm. 1-23, 12420 Parklawn Dr., 
Rockville, MD 20857.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sharon A. Benz, Center for Veterinary 
Medicine (HFV-226), Food and Drug Administration, 7500 Standish Pl., 
Rockville, MD 20855, 301-594-1729.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In a notice published in the Federal 
Register of August 15, 1994 (59 FR 41769), FDA announced that a food 
additive petition (FAP 2228) had been filed by Vanetta (U.S.A.) Inc., 
1770 East Market St., York, PA 17402. The petition proposed to amend 
the food additives regulations in 21 CFR part 573 to provide for the 
safe use of menadione nicotinamide bisulfite as a nutritional 
supplement for the prevention of vitamin K deficiency in chickens and 
turkeys and as a source of supplemental niacin in chicken and turkey 
diets to be used at a level not to exceed 2 g/t of complete feed.
    The notice of filing provided for a 75-day comment period. No 
comments were received.
    FDA has evaluated the data and information in the petition and 
other relevant material. FDA concludes that the proposed use of the 
additive in chicken and turkey diets, not to exceed
2 g/t of complete feed, is safe. Therefore, the food additive 
regulations in part 573 are amended to add new Sec. 573.625 to reflect 
this approved use.
    In accordance with Sec. 571.1(h) (21 CFR 571.1(h)), the petition 
and the documents that FDA considered and relied upon in reaching its 
decision to approve the petition are available for inspection at the 
Center for Veterinary Medicine by appointment with the information 
contact person listed above. As provided in 21 CFR 571.1(h), the agency 
will delete from the documents any materials that are not available for 
public disclosure before making the documents available for inspection.
    The agency has carefully considered the potential environmental 
effects of this action. FDA has concluded that the action will not have 
a significant impact on the human environment, and that an 
environmental impact statement is not required. The agency's finding of 
no significant impact and the evidence supporting that finding, 
contained in an environmental assessment, may be seen in the Dockets 
Management Branch (address above) between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday 
through Friday.
    Any person who will be adversely affected by this regulation may at 
any time on or before February 1, 1996, file with the Dockets 
Management Branch (address above) written objections thereto. Each 
objection shall be separately numbered, and each numbered objection 
shall specify with particularity the provisions of the regulation to 
which objection is made and the grounds for the objection. Each 
numbered objection on which a hearing is requested shall specifically 
so state. Failure to request a hearing for any particular objection 
shall constitute a waiver of the right to a hearing on that objection. 
Each numbered objection for which a hearing is requested shall include 
a detailed description and analysis of the specific factual information 
intended to be presented in support of the objection in the event that 
a hearing is held. Failure to include such a description and analysis 
for any particular objection shall constitute a waiver of the right to 
a hearing on the objection. Three copies of all documents shall be 
submitted and shall be identified with the docket number found in 
brackets in the heading of this document. Any objections received in 
response to the regulation may be seen in the Dockets Management Branch 
between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

List of Subjects in 21 CFR Part 573

    Animal feeds, Food additives.
    Therefore, under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and under 
authority delegated to the Commissioner of Food and Drugs and 
redelegated to the Center for Veterinary Medicine, 21 CFR part 573 is 
amended as follows:

PART 573--FOOD ADDITIVES PERMITTED IN FEED AND DRINKING WATER OF 
ANIMALS

    1. The authority citation for 21 CFR part 573 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: Secs. 201, 402, 409 of the Federal Food, Drug, and 
Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 321, 342, 348).

    2. New Sec. 573.625 is added to subpart B to read as follows:

Sec. 573.625  Menadione nicotinamide bisulfite.

    The food additive may be safely used as follows:
    (a) Product. The additive is 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1,4-dioxo-
2-naphthalene sulfonic acid with 3-pyridine carboxylic acid amine (CAS 
No. 73581-79-0).
    (b) Conditions of use. As a nutritional supplement in chicken and 
turkey feeds for both the prevention of vitamin K deficiency and as a 
source of supplemental niacin.
    (c) Limitations. Not to exceed 2 grams per ton of complete feed. To 
assure safe use, the label and labeling shall bear adequate directions 
for use.

[[Page 6]]

    Dated: December 22, 1995.
Stephen F. Sundlof,
Director, Center for Veterinary Madicine.
[FR Doc. 95-31556 Filed 12-29-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4160-01-F

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-31544 Amendment of FIRMR Provisions To Ensure Currency and Relevancy
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 2, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 9-17]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-31544]

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[[Page 10]]

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

41 CFR Parts 201-1, 201-2, 201-3, 201-4, 201-6, 201-7, 201-17, 201-
18, 201-20, 201-21, 201-22, 201-24 and 201-39

[FIRMR Amendment 7]
RIN 3090-AF31

Amendment of FIRMR Provisions To Ensure Currency and Relevancy

AGENCY: Information Technology Service, GSA.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This document amends selected Federal Information Resources 
Management Regulation (FIRMR) provisions to ensure the currency and 
relevancy of the FIRMR. It is issued in accordance with Executive Order 
12866 of September 30, 1993, which requires agencies to periodically 
review their significant regulations to determine whether they should 
be modified or eliminated.
    This rule makes a number of changes to the FIRMR. Among the more 
significant changes, are the following: add, change, or remove FIRMR 
definitions and acronyms including redefining ``outdated equipment'' to 
mean Federal information processing equipment over six years old that 
is no longer in current production; revise provisions pertaining to 
accessibility by individuals with disabilities to implement the new 
focus in the Rehabilitation Act Amendment of 1992 on information rather 
than equipment; permit agency heads to grant exceptions to the 
mandatory use of a Federal Standard (FED-STD) after notification to 
GSA; clarify the intent of the FIRMR requirement for agencies to 
conduct requirements analyses ``commensurate with the size and 
complexity of the need''; allow agencies to substitute similar 
documentation prepared in response to programmatic needs for 
requirements analyses; establish a threshold below which agencies do 
not have to prepare a requirements analysis or analysis of 
alternatives; clarify that agencies need only perform an analysis of 
alternatives for those alternatives most feasible to implement; raise 
the threshold from $50,000 to $1,000,000 for doing an analysis of 
alternatives limited to demonstrating that the benefits of the 
acquisition will outweigh the costs; specify ratification procedures 
when a delegation of procurement authority (DPA) is required from GSA 
but has not been obtained; remove the reporting requirements to GSA for 
listening-in to or recording telephone conversations and toll-free 
telephone service; clarify procedures for economical capability and 
performance validation; revise the scope of obsolescence reviews to 
include equipment that may be obsolescing; expand the exception from 
$300,000 to $1,000,000 for award based on lowest offered purchase 
price; clarify that agencies must submit post delegation information to 
GSA for specific acquisition delegations; clarify procedures for 
evaluating outdated and obsolete information technology; and remove an 
antiquated clause concerning warranty exclusion and limitation of 
damages.

EFFECTIVE DATE: This rule is effective February 1, 1996.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Judy Steele, GSA, Center for 
Information Technology Policy and Regulations Management (KAR), 18th & 
F Streets, NW., Room 3224, Washington, DC 20405, telephone FTS/
Commercial (202) 501-3194 (v) or (202) 501-0657 (tdd).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: (1) This amendment incorporates provisions 
of two notices of proposed rulemaking (NPR's) published in the Federal 
Register (FR) on December 6, 1994 and January 10, 1995. The December 6, 
1994, FR notice proposed various changes to several sections of the 
FIRMR. The January 10, 1995, FR notice, erroneously published as an 
amendment to Part 39 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, provided 
clarification regarding ratification procedures for contracts that 
required a delegation of procurement authority (DPA) from GSA when the 
DPA had not been obtained initially. The following summarizes the 
changes being made as a result of these notices:
    (a) Sections 201-1.003(a), 201-3.000, 201-3.001(a), 201-3.101, 201-
3.201(d), 201-3.3 and the title to part 201-3 are amended to 
discontinue the opportunity for agencies to establish supplements to 
the FIRMR as part of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). GSA has 
determined that agencies have not issued such regulations in the CFR 
since the establishment of the FIRMR, and that the provisions are 
therefore unnecessary.
    (b) Section 201-1.003 paragraph (d) is amended by deleting 
responsibilities of the Archivist of the United States. It is the 
intent of the FIRMR to only implement GSA's authorities and 
responsibilities. Including the Archivist's responsibilities in the 
FIRMR is, therefore, unnecessary.
    (c) Section 201-2.001 paragraphs (a)(1) through (6) are removed. 
The original text was taken from the Paperwork Reduction Act. However, 
not all provisions were excerpted. This resulted in some confusion. 
Accordingly, the text is being removed so that agencies will refer to 
the Paperwork Reduction Act to learn the specific responsibilities of 
the designated senior official.
    (d) Section 201-2.001 paragraph (b) is amended by removing the last 
sentence which pertained to agencies not subject to the Paperwork 
Reduction Act. This information is adequately covered in Sec. 201-
2.002.
    (e) Section 201-2.002 is amended by changing the sequence of 
paragraphs (a) through (c). The revised sequence more accurately aligns 
the responsibilities of the agency designated senior official (DSO).
    (f) Section 201-3 discusses the organization of the FIRMR, how it 
is supplemented with other guidance issuances, and its relationship to 
the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). Section 201-3.001 is amended 
to remove unnecessary details which pertain to circumstances giving 
rise to interim rules. This information is more appropriately discussed 
in Sec. 201-3.203. Section 201-3.203 paragraph (c) replaces the term 
``temporary change'' with the words ``interim rule'' to standardize 
terminology pertaining to revising the FIRMR. Also removed for brevity 
is a redundant sentence that lists the various types of guidance 
material already described. For consistency, the enumeration of the 
types of guidance issuances contained in the FIRMR (Sec. 201-
3.001(b)(1) through (3)) is changed to small roman numerals.
    (g) Section 201-3.001 paragraph (b)(i) is amended to reflect the 
current availability of the FIRMR on CD-ROM.
    (h) Section 201-3.204 paragraph (a) is amended to update the phone 
number for the Government Printing Office (GPO) Bookstore.
    (i) In sections 201-4.001 and 201-39.201, the definition for 
outdated FIP equipment is revised to shorten the period for determining 
when FIP equipment is outdated. The FIRMR defines outdated FIP 
equipment as any FIP equipment over eight years old, based on the 
initial commercial installation date of that model of equipment, and 
that is no longer in current production. This definition has been in 
existence since 1986 when the product cycle of computer equipment was 
four years. Since that time, the product life cycle has decreased to 
about three years, and industry spokesmen state that this figure is 
decreasing even more. When microcomputers are upgraded, the 

[[Page 11]]
product cycle may be even less since typically they are upgraded by 
replacing internal components. The ``chip'' life cycle for these 
components is generally 18 to 24 months. Additionally, after five years 
most computer equipment has little or no market value. In recognition 
of these facts, the definition for outdated equipment is being revised 
to shorten the time interval from eight to six years after the first 
commercial installation at which point equipment no longer produced is 
considered to be outdated.
    (j) Section 201-4.001 is amended by adding a new definition for 
``Records management.'' The FIRMR discusses records management in 
subpart 201-9.1, but has never included a definition. The definition 
added is the same as contained in OMB Circular A-130. Also, the 
existing definitions of ``application software'' and ``common-use 
software'' are designated as subcategories (a) and (b) respectively of 
the larger term, ``Software'' for consistency of format.
    (k) Section 201-4.002 is revised to include the following new 
acronyms: CBD, FED-STD, FSTS, GAO, GSBCA, IRPMR, MOL, OAC, and POTS. 
These acronyms were used in the FIRMR index, but previously were not 
defined.
    (l) Section 201-4.003, Applicable OMB Circulars, is being added. In 
order to avoid future changes to FIRMR text caused by revisions of OMB 
Circular titles, this new section is added to include the current 
titles of all OMB Circulars referenced in the FIRMR.
    (m) Section 201-6.001 is revised to add a new item (a)(5) to more 
closely reflect the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act, as well 
as address matters raised in OMB Circular A-130. These include 
improving service delivery, dissemination of information, increasing 
productivity, improving the quality of decision making, reducing fraud 
and waste, and reducing the information collection burden on the 
public. Section 201-6.001 is also revised to redesignate the previous 
item (5) as new item (6).
    (n) A series of revisions are being made due to Public Law 102-569 
(dated October 29, 1992), which amended the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 
by broadening the scope of accessibility for individuals with 
disabilities. These revisions capture more thoroughly the intent of 
Pub. L. 102-569. The previous version of the Rehabilitation Act only 
required that GSA ensure those with disabilities can access 
``electronic office equipment.'' The revised statute recognizes that 
while equipment accessibility is important, that alone is not 
sufficient because an agency's applications software and user 
interfaces can impede the functional use of a computer if they do not 
have features permitting use by individuals with disabilities. The 
revised statutory provision emphasizes that all individuals must be 
able to use technology to accomplish the same end objectives.
    A new paragraph 201-6.002(g) is added to include as a predominant 
consideration in the management and use of information and records, the 
importance of ensuring that individuals with disabilities can produce 
information and data, and have access to information and data, 
comparable to the information and data, and access, respectively, of 
others. Section 201-6.002 is also revised to redesignate the previous 
item (g) as new item (h).
    In addition to the insertion of 201-6.002(g), discussed above, 
other provisions of the FIRMR pertaining to accessibility by 
individuals with disabilities are being revised to incorporate the 
statutory intent of Pub. L. 102-569. These other FIRMR provisions are:

--201-17.001(j)--Predominant Considerations in the Management and Use 
of Federal Information Processing (FIP) Resources;
--201-18.001(e), which generally describes the Federal Government's 
statutory responsibility to foster accessibility for individuals with 
disabilities;
--201-18.002(c), which pertains to adoption of accessibility guidelines 
in agency IRM plans; and
--201-20.103-7(a), which requires agencies to incorporate accessibility 
requirements in their acquisitions of FIP resources.

    (o) Section 201-7.001 paragraph (b) is revised to delete a 
reference to canceled OMB Circular A-3.
    (p) Section 201-7.002 paragraph (c) is revised to clarify when 
information needs are determined. The existing text suggested that 
information needs were to be determined before conducting a 
requirements analysis. The revised text reflects that determining 
information needs and analyzing requirements are frequently concurrent 
activities.
    (q) Section 201-9.202-1 paragraph (b)(9) is revised to update the 
current mailing address for the Supply Management Division.
    (r) The existing text in paragraph 201-20.001(d) referenced the 
specific subjects of requirements analysis and analysis of alternatives 
in the GSA Acquisition Guide series. The reference to the guide series 
is unnecessary and is being deleted.
    (s) Subpart 201-20.1 is revised to clarify GSA's intent regarding 
the preparation of requirements analyses. Currently, the FIRMR requires 
agencies to document their requirements for FIP resources ``by 
conducting a requirements analysis commensurate with the size and 
complexity of the need.'' Some agencies have questioned the necessity 
of conducting a requirements analysis and preparing the required 
documentation when a similar document has already been prepared in 
conformance with agency programmatic needs. The FIRMR is being revised 
to allow agencies to use such similar documents if they address the 
basic information required in a requirements analysis.
    Other agencies have misinterpreted the intent of the phrase 
``commensurate with the size and complexity of the need,'' and, in some 
cases, are over documenting requirements for small dollar acquisitions. 
These small dollar acquisitions are usually for commercial items 
readily available in the competitive marketplace. FAR planning 
provisions and agencies' internal procurement procedures provide 
sufficient information for requirements to justify small dollar value 
acquisitions. To ensure more expeditious and efficient acquisitions, 
this rule establishes a threshold for when agencies must conduct 
requirements analyses and analyses of alternatives. Sections 201-20.102 
and 201-20.202 are revised to eliminate the requirement to perform 
requirements analyses and analyses of alternatives for acquisitions of 
FIP resources when the total estimated system life costs of the FIP 
resources are less than $500,000. Agencies may establish internal 
documentation procedures when the acquisitions involve FIP resources 
valued at less than $500,000. However, agencies are encouraged to keep 
such documentation requirements to a minimum.
    Additionally, Sec. 201-20.103 is revised to require that agencies 
only consider the factors in this section if it is appropriate to do 
so. This allows agencies to exercise discretion regarding whether or 
not to include the factors in their requirements analyses.
    (t) Subpart 201-20.2 requires agencies to perform an analysis of 
alternatives based on the requirements analysis to determine the most 
advantageous alternative that will meet their needs. Like the 
requirements analysis, the analysis of alternatives must be 
``commensurate with the size and complexity of the agency's need''. As 
indicated in paragraph 201-20.203-1(a)(1), GSA's intention was that 
agencies only include in the analysis of alternatives those 
alternatives that are 

[[Page 12]]
truly feasible to implement. It has come to our attention, however, 
that some agencies are analyzing all alternatives, whether or not they 
are feasible in the specific circumstance. This unnecessarily 
complicates and lengthens the acquisition process. Accordingly, section 
201-20.202, which states the FIRMR policy on performing analyses of 
alternatives, is being revised to emphasize that agencies should limit 
the number of alternatives analyzed to those that are most feasible to 
implement. Other changes are also being made to this subpart. Section 
201-20.203-2 is being revised to increase from $50,000 to $1,000,000 
the threshold for performing a more detailed analysis of alternatives. 
Accordingly, agencies must perform an analysis including use of the 
present value of money if the estimated amount of their proposed 
acquisition is more than $1,000,000 or an analysis that demonstrates 
that the benefits of the acquisition will outweigh the costs if the 
acquisition is less than $1,000,000. This change will help to 
streamline the acquisition process by reducing documentation 
requirements for a greater number of smaller acquisitions.
    Additionally, paragraph 201-20.203-2(c) is being revised to delete 
the title of OMB Circular A-94 and to move it to the new section 201-
4.003.
    (u) Section 201-20.303 paragraph (d)(2) is revised to permit agency 
heads to grant exceptions to FED-STDS provided GSA is notified at least 
30 days prior to any granting of an exception to a FED-STD, e.g., in a 
solicitation. This change empowers agencies to accomplish their 
missions more effectively.
    (v) Section 201-20.304 paragraphs (a) and b(1) deal with capability 
and performance validation. They are revised to require use of 
validation techniques that are more economical to Government and 
industry than use of a benchmark or an operational capability 
demonstration (OCD). In the early years of computing, comprehensive 
benchmarks, stress tests, and OCDs were useful for validating 
reliability, performance and other requirements. In today's mature 
industry, the reliability and stability of the marketplace offerings 
are much higher. Also, there is substantial empirical data available 
from independent sources to assist agencies in assessing how a proposed 
system will perform in their environment and with their workloads. As a 
result, the use of benchmarks or OCDs may not be the most advantageous 
approach in many acquisitions. This is more likely to be the case for 
those acquisitions that do not require customized hardware and/or 
software. Agencies will now be required to select the most economical 
technique available that will meet their minimum needs. Additionally, 
paragraph 201-20.304(b)(2) is revised to delete the adjective 
``actual'' in front of the word ``requirements''. The word ``actual'' 
caused some confusion about the meaning of ``When a benchmark is used 
as part of performance validation, agencies shall ensure, that the FIP 
software selected for benchmarks is representative of actual 
requirements . . . '' In fact, agencies acquire systems to accommodate 
a workload over a life cycle of some years. An agency's definition of 
its requirements at the time of acquisition is its best estimate of 
workload that will ultimately occur over the ensuing years.
    (w) Section 201-20.305 is being amended to recognize the fact that 
GSA will, at the request of an agency, grant authority to the agency to 
ratify a contract awarded without the necessary specific acquisition 
DPA. The amendment also clarifies that procurement actions taken prior 
to contract award do not necessarily have to be repeated. It should be 
noted that the agency designated officials already have the authority 
to permit ratification of contracts valued at less than the agencies' 
regulatory or specific agency delegation thresholds.
    (x) Section 201-20.305-3 is revised to emphasize the agency 
requirement for the submission of post delegation information to GSA 
for specific delegations. With the increased emphasis on results 
oriented performance, GSA will seek information demonstrating that 
agencies are obtaining the benefits cited in their agency procurement 
requests. Also, this section's reference to a specific acquisition DPA 
under the Trail Boss program is being deleted. Although the Trail Boss 
approach is being retained and its use encouraged, special DPAs will no 
longer be required.
    (y) Section 201-21.201 paragraph (b) is revised to reflect the 
current name and symbol of a GSA organization.
    (z) Section 201-21.301 paragraphs (a) and (d) are revised to delete 
references to OMB Circular A-130, Appendix III.
    (aa) Section 201-21.401 paragraph (c) is revised to remove 
references to OMB Circular A-130, Appendix II, which is proposed for 
revision; and to remove the title of the Circular since it appears in 
the new section 201-4.003.
    (bb) Section 201-21.403 is amended to change the annual report date 
from November 30 to October 20 for reporting the dollar amount charged 
to users for the sharing of excess FIP resources. This earlier due date 
allows for more timely submission of GSA's consolidated Governmentwide 
report to Congress.
    (cc) Section 201-21.601(c)(3) is amended to change the reference 
from 5 CFR 735.205 to 5 CFR 2635.704, to reflect a change in the 
regulations covering the use of telephone calls placed over Government 
provided telephone systems.
    (dd) Section 201-21.603 is amended to delete the agency reporting 
requirement. Agencies that listen-in or record conversations for public 
safety, public service monitoring or to assist individuals with 
disabilities must notify GSA in writing at least 30 days before the 
operational date. This notification provision is being removed because 
it places an unnecessary burden on agencies. GSA does not have any 
affirmative enforcement or other function with regard to listening-in 
that would make this reporting requirement necessary. Such 
responsibilities rest solely with the reporting agency. Accordingly, in 
line with placing authority and responsibility at the appropriate 
level, this reporting requirement will be removed as will the provision 
that GSA will periodically review agency listening-in activities.
    (ee) Section 201-21.604, requires agencies to forward to GSA copies 
of each order for toll free telephone service. Documentation submitted 
is to include estimates of monthly costs and usage, and cite the 
relevant statute, Executive Order, or other regulation directing the 
toll free service. This provision is being removed because the use of 
toll-free telephone services is sufficiently routine that close 
supervision by GSA is no longer needed. Removal of this provision 
reduces costly and burdensome over-regulation and places authority and 
responsibility with the agency.
    (ff) Section 201-22.303 is revised to expand the scope of the 
subpart. Currently, this provision requires agencies to review the use 
of equipment that is already outdated and to determine if continued use 
is economical. This provision is revised also to expand the scope of 
the review to include equipment that may be obsolescent. This change is 
made to encourage agencies to ensure that their FIP equipment always 
remains economical and efficient. Guidelines are provided to assist 
agencies in identifying obsolescent equipment. Agencies are encouraged 
to replace their obsolescent equipment if the cost of continued use 
exceeds the cost of acquiring and operating newer technology. 

[[Page 13]]

    (gg) Section 201-39.1001-1 is amended by removing the words ``OMB 
Bulletin 88-16'' in paragraph (i) and adding in their place ``OMB 
Bulletin 90-08''.
    (hh) Sections 201-39.1402-2 paragraph (c) and 201-39.1501-2 
paragraph (c) are revised to increase the thresholds below which 
certain factors need not be considered in determining the lowest bid or 
total proposed cost, respectively. In determining the lowest bid in a 
sealed bidding acquisition, Sec. 201-39.1402-1 requires agencies to 
factor in costs pertaining to life cycle support and conversion. In 
determining the total cost of a proposal in a negotiated acquisition, 
Sec. 201-39.1501-1 requires agencies to factor in costs pertaining to 
life cycle support and conversion. These thresholds are increased from 
$300,000 to $1,000,000 in order to give agencies greater discretion in 
managing their acquisitions. For the same reason, the ``per item'' 
thresholds are increased from $25,000 to $100,000.
    (ii) Subpart 201-39.46 is amended to delete provisions that are 
more adequately addressed in FAR Subpart 46. This subpart addresses 
quality assurance and provides guidance limiting contractor liability 
in contracts for FIP resources. Unless circumstances warrant otherwise, 
contracting officers are instructed to insert a limitation of liability 
clause found at Sec. 201-39.5206. FAR Subpart 46 also provides guidance 
on limitation of contractor liability. The FAR's guidance is more 
comprehensive and flexible than is the FIRMR's. The FAR provides 
multiple contractual clauses from which a contracting officer must 
choose. One clause applies to contracts for the delivery of non-high 
value end items, a second to the delivery of high-value end items, and 
a third to the provision of services. Contracting officers are 
instructed to combine relevant parts of each clause for contracts 
involving more than one of these categories. Accordingly, the FIRMR 
provision and clause found at section 201-39.5202-6 are removed so that 
the corresponding FAR provision will apply.
    (2) This rule was submitted to, and reviewed by, the Office of 
Management and Budget in accordance with Executive Order 12866, 
Regulatory Planning and Review. This rule will not have a significant 
economic impact upon a substantial number of small entities under the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (5 U.S.C. 601, et seq.). GSA has 
determined that this rule is not a significant rule for the purposes of 
Executive Order 12866 of October 4, 1993, because it is not likely to 
result in any of the impacts noted in Executive Order 12866, affect the 
rights of specified individuals, or raise issues arising from the 
policies of the Administration. GSA has based all administrative 
decisions underlying this rule on adequate information concerning the 
need for and consequences of this rule; has determined that the 
potential benefits to society from this rule outweigh the potential 
costs; has maximized the net benefits; and has chosen the alternative 
approach involving the least net cost to society.

List of Subjects in 41 CFR Parts 201-1, 201-2, 201-3, 201-4, 201-6, 
201-7, 201-17, 201-18, 201-20, 201-21, 201-22, 201-24, and 201-39

    Archives and records, Computer technology, Telecommunications, 
Government procurement, Property management, Records management, and 
Federal information processing resources activities.

    Accordingly 41 CFR parts 201-1, 201-2, 201-3, 201-4, 201-6, 201-7, 
201-17, 201-18, 201-20, 201-21, 201-22, 201-24, and 201-39 are amended 
as follows:

PART 201-1--APPLICABILITY AND AUTHORITY

    1. The authority citation for part 201-1 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and 751(f).

Sec. 201-1.003  [Amended]

    2. Section 201-1.003 is amended by removing the word ``system'' in 
paragraph (a) and removing paragraph (d).

PART 201-2--DESIGNATED SENIOR OFFICIALS

    3. The authority citation for part 201-2 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and 751(f).

    4. Section 201-2.001 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 201-2.001  General.

    The PRA requires that the head of each executive agency designate a 
senior official who shall report directly to the agency head. The 
designated official is responsible for carrying out the IRM function 
assigned to the agency by the PRA.

Sec. 201-2.002  [Amended]

    5. Section 201-2.002 is amended by redesignating paragraphs (a), 
(b), and (c) as paragraphs (c), (a), and (b) respectively.

Sec. 201-2.003  [Amended]

    6. Section 201-2.003 is amended by removing the words ``18th and F 
Streets, NW.,'' in paragraph (a).

PART 201-3--THE FIRMR

    7. Part 201-3 is amended by revising the heading to read as set 
forth above.
    8. The authority citation for part 201-3 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and 751(f).

    9. Section 201-3.000 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 201-3.000  Scope of part.

    This part describes the Federal Information Resources Management 
Regulation.
    10. Section 201-3.001 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 201-3.001  General.

    (a) The Federal Information Resources Management Regulation (FIRMR) 
is codified in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and includes 
interim rules which have the same effect as final rules.
    (b) From time to time, the General Services Administration (GSA) 
will issue nonregulatory publications to provide guidance and 
information:
    (1) FIRMR bulletins contain guidance and information on various 
information resources management areas. FIRMR bulletins do not 
constitute binding authority, but should be used as an aid in 
understanding GSA programs and the FIRMR. FIRMR bulletins are published 
in Appendix B of the looseleaf edition of the FIRMR and are available 
along with the FIRMR from GPO by subscription or on GSA's CD-ROM.
    (2) Handbooks and reports address specific program or technical 
areas where the audience generally will be defined by the subject 
matter.
    (3) Appendix C of the looseleaf edition of the FIRMR contains a 
listing of current bulletins, handbooks, and reports and information on 
how to obtain them.

Sec. 201-3.101  [Amended]

    11. Section 201-3.101, is amended by removing the word ``system''.
    12. Section 201-3.201 is amended by revising paragraph (d) to read 
as follows:

Sec. 201-3.201  Issuance.

* * * * *
    (d) The FIRMR is issued as chapter 201 of title 41, CFR.
    13. Section 201-3.203 is amended by revising paragraph (c) to read 
as follows:

Sec. 201-3.203  Maintenance.

* * * * * 

[[Page 14]]

    (c) The Administrator of General Services may issue an interim rule 
to the FIRMR when solicitation of comments is impractical due to urgent 
and compelling circumstances (e.g., when a new statute must be 
implemented in a relatively short period of time). However, the interim 
rule will make provision for a public comment period of at least 30 
days for consideration in the formulation of the final change to the 
FIRMR.

Sec. 201-3.204  [Amended]

    14. Section 201-3.204 is amended by removing the phone number 
``275-2091'' in paragraph (a) and adding in its place ``512-0132''.

Subpart 201-3.3--[Removed and Reserved]

    15. Subpart 201-3.3 is removed and reserved.

PART 201-4--DEFINITIONS, ACRONYMS AND OMB CIRCULARS

    16. The heading for part 201-4 is revised as set forth above.
    17. The authority citation for Part 201-4 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and 751(f).

    18. Section 201-4.000 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 201-4.000  Scope of part.

    This part defines words, terms, acronyms, and OMB Circulars used in 
the FIRMR.

Sec. 201-4.001  [Amended]

    19. Section 201-4.001 is amended in the definition Information 
resources management by adding ``(IRM)'' preceding the word ``means''.
    20. Section 201-4.001 is amended by removing the word ``eight'' in 
the definition Outdated FIP equipment and adding in its place ``six''.
    21. Section 201-4.001 is amended by adding a new definition in 
alphabetical order to read as follows:

Sec. 201-4.001  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Records management means the planning, controlling, directing, 
organizing, training, promoting, and other managerial activities 
involved with records creation, records maintenance and use, and 
records disposition in order to achieve adequate and proper 
documentation of the policies and transactions of the Federal 
Government and effective and economical management of agency operations 
(44 U.S.C. 2901(2)).
* * * * *
    22. Section 201-4.001 is amended by removing the undesignated 
center heading ``Software'', adding a definition for Software in its 
place, designating entries Application software and Common-use software 
as paragraphs (a) and (b) under the definition for Software, to read as 
follows:
* * * * *
    Software includes--
    (a) Application software * * *
    (b) Common-use software * * *
* * * * *
    23. Section 201-4.002 is amended by adding in alphabetical order 
new acronyms and by placing the acronyms ``GSA'' and ``GPO'' in 
alphabetical order to read as follows:

Sec. 201-4.002  Acronyms.

* * * * *
    CBD means Commerce Business Daily.
* * * * *
    FED-STD means Federal Telecommunications Standards.
* * * * *
    FSTS means Federal Secure Telephone Service.
* * * * *
    GAO means General Accounting Office.
* * * * *
    GSBCA means General Services Board of Contract Appeals.
* * * * *
    IRPMR means Information Resources Procurement and Management 
Review.
* * * * *
    MOL means Maximum Ordering Limitation.
* * * * *
    OAC means Original Acquisition Cost.
* * * * *
    POTS means Purchase of Telephones and Services.
* * * * *
    24. Section 201-4.003 is added to read as follows:

Sec. 201-4.003  Applicable OMB Circulars.

    The following applicable OMB Circulars may be obtained from the OMB 
Publications office by calling (202) 395-7332:

A-11  Preparation and submission of budget estimates.
A-94  Benefit-cost analysis of Federal programs; guidelines and 
discounts.
A-109  Major system acquisition.
A-127  Financial management systems.
A-130  Management of Federal information resources.

PART 201-6--PREDOMINANT CONSIDERATIONS

    25. The authority citation for part 201-6 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and 751(f).

    26. Section 201-6.001 is amended by revising paragraphs (a)(3) and 
(a)(5) and adding paragraph (a)(6) to read as follows:

Sec. 201-6.001  General.

    (a) * * *
    (3) Maximize the usefulness of information collected, maintained, 
and disseminated by the Federal Government;
* * * * *
    (5) Ensure that FIP resources are acquired and used by the Federal 
Government in a manner which improves service delivery and program 
management, increases productivity, improves the quality of 
decisionmaking, reduces waste and fraud, and reduces the information 
collection burden on the public; and
    (6) Ensure that the collection, maintenance, use, and dissemination 
of information by the Federal Government is consistent with applicable 
laws, regulations, and executive orders.
* * * * *
    27. Section 201-6.002 is amended by redesignating paragraphs (g) 
through (m) as paragraphs (h) through (n), respectively, and adding a 
new paragraph (g) to read as follows:

Sec. 201-6.002  Predominant considerations.

* * * * *
    (g) Ensure that individuals with disabilities can produce 
information and data, and have access to information and data, 
comparable to the information and data, and access, respectively, of 
other individuals;
* * * * *

PART 201-7--PLANNING

    28. The authority citation for part 201-7 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and 751(f).

    29. Section 201-7.001 is amended by revising the first sentence of 
paragraph (b) to read as follows:

Sec. 201-7.001  General.

* * * * *
    (b) The Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35) OMB Circular 
No. A-11, and No. A-130, and the Computer Security Act of 1987 (Public 
Law 100-235, 101 Stat. 1724 (40 U.S.C. 759 note)) require agencies to 
conduct various information resources management (IRM) planning 
activities. * * *
* * * * * 

[[Page 15]]

    30. Section 201-7.002 is amended by revising paragraph (c) to read 
as follows:

Sec. 201-7.002  Policies.

* * * * *
    (c) Ensure that the agency's information needs are documented on a 
timely basis, for example when conducting a requirements analysis for 
FIP resources.

PART 201-17--PREDOMINANT CONSIDERATIONS

    31. The authority citation for part 201-17 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and 751(f).

    32. Section 201-17.001 is amended by revising paragraph (j) to read 
as follows:

Sec. 201-17.001  Predominant considerations.

* * * * *
    (j) Provide individuals with disabilities (employees and others who 
create and/or use the agency's information and data) the ability to 
produce information and data, and have access to information and data, 
comparable to the information and data produced and accessed by other 
individuals;
* * * * *

PART 201-18--PLANNING AND BUDGETING

    33. The authority citation for part 201-18 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and 751(f).

    34. Section 201-18.001 is amended by revising paragraph (e) to read 
as follows:

Sec. 201-18.001  General.

* * * * *
    (e) Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act Amendment of 1992 (Pub L. 
102-569, 29 U.S.C. 794d) requires the Federal Government to adopt 
guidelines for information and data accessibility designed to ensure 
that individuals with disabilities can produce information and data, 
and have access to information and data, comparable to information and 
data, and access, respectively, of other individuals. This Act requires 
that agencies comply with such guidelines. FIRMR Bulletin C-8, provides 
guidance on planning for FIP resources to accommodate the needs of 
individuals with disabilities.
* * * * *
    35. Section 201-18.002 is amended by revising paragraph (c) to read 
as follows:

Sec. 201-18.002  Policies.

* * * * *
    (c) Agencies shall adopt information and data accessibility 
guidelines similar to those described in FIRMR Bulletin C-8 in their 
planning process.
* * * * *

PART 201-20--ACQUISITION

    36. The authority citation for part 201-20 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and 751(f).

Sec. 201-20.001  [Amended]

    37. Section 201-20.001 is amended by removing paragraph (d).
    38. Section 201-20.102 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 201-20.102  Policy.

    Agencies shall establish and document requirements for FIP 
resources by conducting a requirements analysis, or similar study, 
commensurate with the size and complexity of the need except for those 
acquisitions when the total dollar value of the FIP resources, 
including all optional quantities and periods over the life of the 
contract, does not exceed $500,000. A requirements analysis shall not 
be performed when the value of the FIP resources does not exceed the 
$500,000 threshold. An agency may follow its own internal procedure for 
documenting requirements valued at less than $500,000. Agencies shall 
justify all requirements for other than full and open competition in 
accordance with FAR Part 6 whether or not a requirements analysis is 
performed.
    39. Section 201-20.103 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 201-20.103  Procedures.

    Agencies shall consider the factors in Secs. 201-20.103-1 through 
201-20.103-11 in establishing requirements, as applicable.
    40. Section 201-20.103-7 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to 
read as follows:

Sec. 201-20.103-7  Accessibility requirements for individuals with 
disabilities.

    (a) Agencies shall acquire FIP resources that allow individuals 
with disabilities to produce information and data, and have access to 
information and data, comparable to the information and data, and 
access, respectively, of other individuals. Agency plans shall address 
both present and future needs.
* * * * *
    41. Section 201-20.202 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 201-20.202  Policy.

    Using the results of the requirements analysis as the basis, 
agencies shall conduct an analysis of alternatives commensurate with 
the size and complexity of the requirement to identify the most 
advantageous alternative to the Government. The number of alternatives 
analyzed should be limited to those considered the most feasible to be 
implemented. Agencies shall not conduct analyses of alternatives for 
those acquisitions where the total dollar value of the FIP resources, 
including all optional quantities and periods over the life of the 
contract, does not exceed $500,000. Agencies shall instead follow their 
own internal procedures to identify the most advantageous alternative.
    42. Section 201-20.203-2 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 201-20.203-2  Cost for each alternative.

    (a) In the analysis of alternatives, agencies shall calculate the 
total estimated cost, using the present value of money, for each of the 
most feasible alternatives unless the anticipated cost of the 
acquisition is $1,000,000 or less. The total estimated cost for each 
alternative shall include system life cost for that alternative and any 
other costs that can be identified with the alternative incurred either 
before or after the system life period.
    (b) When the anticipated cost of the acquisition is $1,000,000 or 
less, the analysis may be limited to demonstrating that the benefits of 
the acquisition will outweigh the costs.
    (c) Agencies shall follow guidance in OMB Circular No. A-94, when 
calculating the cost of each alternative.
    43. Section 201-20.303 is amended by revising paragraph (d)(2) to 
read as follows:

Sec. 201-20.303  Standards.

* * * * *
(d) * * *
    (2) Exceptions. An agency head may grant an exception to the 
mandatory use of a FED-STD upon receipt of adequate documentation. If 
an agency head grants an exception to the use of an individual FED-STD, 
a deviation from the FIRMR is not required. However, GSA must be 
notified at least 30 days prior to issuing a solicitation for which an 
exception has been granted. Notification shall be sent to: General 
Services Administration, Office of Technology Policy and Leadership 
(KAR), 18th & F Streets, NW., Washington, DC 20405.
    44. Section 201-20.304 is amended by removing paragraph (b)(1), 
redesignating paragraph (b)(2) as paragraph (b)(1), revising paragraph 
(a) and adding new paragraph (b)(2) to read as follows:

Sec. 201-20.304  Capability and performance validation.

    (a) Policy. When acquiring FIP resources, an agency shall use the 
most 

[[Page 16]]
economical technique available to provide reasonable assurance that 
capability and performance requirements are met.
    (b) * * *
    (2) When a benchmark is used as part of performance validation, 
agencies shall ensure that the FIP software selected for the benchmark 
is representative of the requirements and requires the minimum amount 
of reprogramming or conversion.
    45. Section 201-20.305 is amended by adding paragraph (b)(5) to 
read as follows:

Sec. 201-20.305  Delegation of GSA's exclusive procurement authority.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (5) If an agency awards a contract that requires a DPA from GSA but 
a DPA has not been obtained from GSA, the agency may request authority 
from GSA's Office of Technology Policy and Leadership (KAA) to ratify 
the contract in accordance with FAR 1.602-3 (48 CFR 1.602-3). 
Procurement actions taken by the agency prior to receiving the 
authority do not need to be repeated.
    46. Section 201-20.305-3 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 201-20.305-3  Specific acquisition delegations.

    (a) Agencies shall submit an agency procurement request (APR) to 
GSA and receive a specific acquisition DPA if the acquisition is not 
covered by a regulatory or specific agency DPA. Procedures for 
requesting a DPA for a specific acquisition are provided in FIRMR 
Bulletin C-5.
    (b) GSA may require agencies to submit post delegation information 
such as contract award, milestone schedules, contract costs, program 
performance measures, and technology costs.

PART 201-21--OPERATIONS

    47. The authority citation for part 201-21 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and 751(f).

Sec. 201-21.201  [Amended]

    48. Section 201-21.201 is amended by removing the words ``Federal 
Equipment Data Center (WKHE)'' in paragraph (b) and adding in their 
place ``Federal Data Systems Division (WKH)''.

Sec. 201-21.301  [Amended]

    49. Section 201-21.301 is amended by removing the words ``Appendix 
III to'' in paragraph (a).

Sec. 201-21.303  [Amended]

    50. Section 201-21.303 is amended by removing the words ``Appendix 
III'' in paragraph (d).
    51. Section 201-21.401 is amended by revising paragraph (c) to read 
as follows:

Sec. 201-21.401  General.

* * * * *
    (c) OMB Circular No. A-130, establishes Governmentwide procedures 
for cost accounting and recovery for shared resources.

Sec. 201-21.403  [Amended]

    52. Section 201-21.403 is amended by removing the date ``November 
30'' in paragraph (a)(2)(ii) and adding in its place ``October 20''.

Sec. 201-21.601  [Amended]

    53. Section 201-21.601 is amended by removing the CFR cite ``5 CFR 
735.205'' in paragraph (c)(3) introductory text and adding in its place 
``5 CFR 2635.704''.
    54. Section 201-21.603 is amended by revising paragraphs (d)(1) and 
(d)(2), removing paragraph (d)(3), redesignating paragraphs (d)(4) and 
(d)(5) as paragraphs (d)(3) and (d)(4), respectively, and removing 
paragraph (d)(6), to read as follows:

Sec. 201-21.603  Listening-in to or recording telephone conversations.

* * * * *
    (d) Procedures. (1) Agencies that plan to listen-in to or record 
telephone conversations under paragraph (c)(2), (3), or (4) of this 
section shall prepare a determination of need. A determination as used 
in this section means a written justification signed by the agency head 
or the agency head's designee, that specifies the operational need for 
listening-in to or recording telephone conversations; indicates the 
specific system and location where monitoring is to be performed; lists 
the number of telephones or recorders involved; and establishes 
operating times and an expiration date for the monitoring.
    (2) Agencies shall review, at least every 2 years, the need for 
each determination authorizing listening-in or recording. Agency 
documentation to continue or terminate the program shall be maintained 
in agency files.
* * * * *

Sec. 201-21.604  [Removed]

    55. Section 201-21.604 is removed.

PART 201-22--REVIEW AND EVALUATION

    56. The authority citation for part 201-22 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and 751(f).

    57. Section 201-22.303 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 201-22.303  Procedures.

    (a) Agencies shall evaluate their existing outdated and/or 
obsolescent FIP resources to determine whether the cost of operating 
them is greater than the cost of acquiring and operating 
technologically newer resources. FIRMR Bulletin C-27 provides guidance 
that can be used for identifying obsolescent equipment.
    (b) When the cost of operating existing outdated and/or obsolescent 
FIP resources is greater than the cost of acquiring and operating 
technologically newer resources, agencies shall replace the existing 
less cost effective resources.

PART 201-24--GSA SERVICES AND ASSISTANCE

    58. The authority citation for part 201-24 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and 751(f).

Sec. 201-24.001  [Amended]

    59. Section 201-24.001 is amended by removing paragraph (g).

PART 201-39--ACQUISITION OF FEDERAL INFORMATION PROCESSING (FIP) 
RESOURCES BY CONTRACTING

    60. The authority citation for part 201-39 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and 751(f).

    61. The heading of subpart 201-39.1 is amended by removing the word 
``System''.
    62. Section 201-39.001 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 201-39.001  General.

    (a) In addition to this part 201-39, contracting officers should 
review and be familiar with the policies and procedures contained in 
the complete FIRMR, for example, parts 201-20 and 201-24 of this 
chapter.
    (b) To assist Federal agencies in preparing solicitations for FIP 
resources, the General Services Administration (GSA) prepares standard 
solicitations and other guidance. Federal agencies can obtain copies of 
the standard solicitations by contacting: U.S. Government Printing 
Office, Attn: Electronic Products, P.O. Box 37082, Washington, DC 
20013-7082, Telephone number: (202) 512-1530, Facsimile number: (202) 
512-1262. For information on obtaining acquisition guides contact the 
Federal IT Reference Center at (202) 501-4860. 

[[Page 17]]

Sec. 201-39.201  [Amended]

    63. Section 201-39.201 is amended by removing the word ``eight'' in 
the definition Outdated FIP equipment, and adding in its place the word 
``six''.

Sec. 201-39.1001-1  [Amended]

    64. Section 201-39.1001-1 is amended by removing the numbers ``88-
16'' in paragraph (i), and adding in their place ``90-08''.

Sec. 201-39.1402-2  [Amended]

    65. Section 201-39.1402-2 is amended by removing the number 
``$25,000'' in paragraph (b) and adding in its place ``$100,000'', and 
also by removing the number ``$300,000'' in paragraph (c) and adding in 
its place ``$1,000,000''.

Sec. 201-39.1501-2  [Amended]

    66. Section 201-39.1501-2 is amended by removing the number 
``$25,000'' in paragraph (b) and adding in its place ``$100,000'', and 
also by removing the number ``$300,000'' in paragraph (c) and adding in 
its place ``$1,000,000''.

Subpart 201-39.46--[Removed and Reserved]

    67. Subpart 201-39.46 is removed and reserved.

Sec. 201-39.5202-6  [Removed and Reserved]

    68. Section 201-39.5202-6 is removed and reserved.

    Dated: October 27, 1995.
Roger W. Johnson,
Administrator of General Services.
[FR Doc. 95-31544 Filed 12-29-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-25-P

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-31540 Endangered and Threatened Wildlife; Status Reviews of Listed Sea Turtles
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 2, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 17]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-31540]

=======================================================================
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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

50 CFR Parts 222 and 227

[I.D. 101995A]

Endangered and Threatened Wildlife; Status Reviews of Listed Sea 
Turtles

AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce.

ACTION: Notice of availability.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: NMFS and the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), Department of 
the Interior (collectively, the Services), announce the availability of 
the status reviews of endangered and threatened sea turtles, as 
required by the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA). Based upon these 
reviews and any written comments received, the Services may consider 
changes in the listing status for the olive ridley (Lepidochelys 
olivacea) sea turtle. The status review for the green (Chelonia mydas) 
sea turtle is currently under Service evaluation and is not available 
with this notice. Upon completion of their evaluation, the Services 
will make the green sea turtle status review available under separate 
notice in the Federal Register.

DATES: February 1, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Requests for copies of the status reviews may be submitted 
to the Chief, Endangered Species Division, Office of Protected 
Resources, NMFS, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Phil Williams, 301-713-1401, or Richard Byles, 505-248-6647.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Background

    The ESA is administered jointly by the Services. NMFS has 
jurisdiction over species in the marine system while FWS has 
jurisdiction elsewhere. Listed endangered and threatened species under 
NMFS jurisdiction are enumerated in 50 CFR 222.23(a) and 50 CFR 227.4, 
respectively. The List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife (List) 
which contains species under the jurisdiction of both Services, is 
found in 50 CFR part 17.
    Pursuant to a Memorandum of Agreement between the two Services, the 
jurisdiction over listed sea turtles is shared: FWS has responsibility 
for sea turtles primarily in the terrestrial environment, while NMFS 
has responsibility for sea turtles primarily in the marine environment. 
Presently, all sea turtle species found in the United States are listed 
as follows: Kemp's ridley (Lepidochelys kempii), leatherback 
(Dermochelys coriacea), and hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) are 
listed as endangered; loggerhead (Caretta caretta), green (Chelonia 
mydas), and olive ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) turtles are listed as 
threatened, except for breeding populations of green turtles in Florida 
and on the Pacific coast of Mexico, and breeding populations of olive 
ridleys on the Pacific coast of Mexico, which are listed as endangered.
    Section 4(c)(2) of the ESA requires that, at least once every 5 
years, a review of the species on the List be conducted to determine 
whether any species should be (1) removed from the List, (2) changed in 
status from an endangered species to a threatened species, or (3) 
changed in status from a threatened species to an endangered species. 
Criteria for determining a reclassification are found at 50 CFR 
424.11(c).
    The status reviews of sea turtles listed under the ESA are 
available (see ADDRESSES). Based upon the status reviews, the Services 
are considering the following listing change.
    Olive Ridley Turtles. The western North Atlantic population would 
be classified as endangered, rather than threatened. This 
reclassification was first considered in a notice published on November 
9, 1984 (49 FR 44775), at which time the western North Atlantic 
(Surinam and adjacent areas) nesting population was reported to have 
declined 80 percent since 1967. This rate of decline continues despite 
over 2 decades of protection by personnel from the Surinam Nature 
Protection Foundation. This area is heavily trawled for shrimp, and 
trawlers have been the principal source of returned tags that had been 
applied to nesting females on the local beaches. Consequently, 
incidental capture in trawls is a likely cause of the progressive 
depletion of this population. Pursuant to Public Law 101-162, the 
importation of shrimp and shrimp products from Surinam and French 
Guiana was banned in 1993 because those countries failed to demonstrate 
that they had adopted a regulatory program that governed the incidental 
taking of sea turtles comparable to that of the United States. During 
an annual review in May 1995, shrimp imports were again embargoed from 
both countries due to their lack of turtle excluder device use. The 
incidental capture of turtles in trawls is a major concern in this 
area.

    Dated: December 22, 1995.
Ann D. Terbush,
Acting Director, Office of Protected Resources, National Marine 
Fisheries Service.
[FR Doc. 95-31540 Filed 12-29-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-22-M

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-31529 Practices and Procedures
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 2, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 1]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-31529]

========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents 
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed 
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published 
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.

The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. 
Prices of new books are listed in the first FEDERAL REGISTER issue of each 
week.

========================================================================

Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 1 / Tuesday, January 2, 1996 / Rules 
and Regulations

[[Page 1]]

MERIT SYSTEMS PROTECTION BOARD

5 CFR Part 1201

Practices and Procedures

AGENCY: Merit Systems Protection Board.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The Board is amending its rules at 5 CFR part 1201 to update 
statutory and regulatory citations for various appealable personnel 
actions and to make a conforming amendment to the regulation describing 
appealable reduction-in-force actions.

EFFECTIVE DATE: January 2, 1996.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robert E. Taylor, Clerk of the Board, 
202-653-7200.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Merit Systems Protection Board is 
amending its rules at 5 CFR part 1201 to update the citations for 
various appealable actions listed at section 1201.3(a) and to make a 
conforming amendment to the regulation describing appealable reduction-
in-force actions. The amendments at paragraphs (a)(7), (a)(12), and 
(a)(13) reflect changes made by the Office of Personnel Management in 
its regulations at 5 CFR parts 731, 353, and 330, respectively. The 
amendment at paragraph (a)(8)(ii) reflects a statutory amendment to 
title 38 of the United States Code. The amendment at paragraph (a)(10) 
conforms the language of this regulation to that of Office of Personnel 
Management regulations at 5 CFR part 351.
    The Board is publishing this rule as a final rule pursuant to 5 
U.S.C. 1204(h).

List of Subjects in 5 CFR Part 1201

    Administrative practice and procedure, Civil rights, Government 
employees.

    Accordingly, the Board amends 5 CFR part 1201 as follows:

PART 1201--[AMENDED]

    1. The authority citation for part 1201 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 1204, and 7701 unless otherwise noted.

Sec. 1201.3  [Amended]

    2. Section 1201.3 is amended at paragraph (a)(7) by deleting 
``731.508'' in the citation and by adding in its place ``731.501.''
    3. Section 1201.3 is amended at paragraph (a)(8)(ii) by deleting 
``38 U.S.C. 2014(b)(1)(D)'' in the citation and by adding in its place 
``38 U.S.C. 4214(b)(1)(E).''
    4. Section 1201.3 is amended at paragraph (a)(10) by deleting the 
phrase ``reduction in grade'' and by adding in its place ``demotion.''
    5. Section 1201.3 is amended at paragraph (a)(12) by deleting ``5 
CFR 353.401'' in the citation and by adding in its place ``38 U.S.C. 
4324, 5 CFR 353.211 and 304.''
    6. Section 1201.3 is amended at paragraph (a)(13) by deleting ``5 
CFR 330.202'' in the citation and by adding in its place 5 CFR 
330.209.''

    Dated: December 26, 1995.
Robert E. Taylor,
Clerk of the Board.
[FR Doc. 95-31529 Filed 12-29-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7400-01-M

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-31522 Removal of 72 COLREGS Text From CFR and Revision of Subchapter D Note
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 2, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 8-9]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-31522]

=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Coast Guard

33 CFR Subchapter D and Part 81

[CGD 95-053]
RIN 2115-AF16

Removal of 72 COLREGS Text From CFR and Revision of Subchapter D 
Note

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DOT.

ACTION: Direct final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: In furtherance of the President's Regulatory Reinvention 
Initiative by this direct final rule, the Coast Guard is removing the 
text of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 
1972 (72 COLREGS) from the CFR. That text merely duplicates text found 
in the United States Code. This rule also will update the note 
containing a list of U.S. territories and possessions where the 72 
COLREGS apply. This rulemaking represents the Coast Guard's first use 
of direct final rulemaking as recommended to agencies by the National 
Performance Review.

DATES: This rule is effective on April 1, 1996, unless the Coast Guard 
receives written adverse comments or written notice of intent to submit 
adverse comments on or before March 4, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Comments may be mailed to the Executive Secretary, Marine 
Safety Council (G-LRA/3406) (CGD 95-053), U.S. Coast Guard 
Headquarters, 2100 Second Street SW., Washington, DC 20593-0001, or may 
be delivered to room 3406 at the same address between 8 a.m. and 3 
p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The telephone 
number is (202) 267-1477.
    The Executive Secretary maintains the public docket for this 
rulemaking. Comments will become part of this docket and will be 
available for inspection or copying at room 3406, U.S. Coast Guard 
Headquarters, between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, except 
Federal holidays.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Diane Schneider Appleby, Project Manager, at (202) 267-0352.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Request for Comments

    Any comments must identify the names and address of the person 
submitting the comment, specify the rulemaking docket (CGD 95-053) and 
the specific section of this rule to which each comment applies, and 
give the reason for each specific comment. Please submit two copies of 
all comments and attachments in an unbound format, no larger than 8\1/
2\ by 11 inches, suitable for copying and electronic filing. Persons 
wanting acknowledgment of receipt of comments should enclose stamped, 
self-addressed postcards or envelopes.

Regulatory Information

    The Coast Guard is publishing a direct final rule, the procedures 
of which are outlined in 33 CFR 1.05-55, because no adverse comments 
are anticipated. If no adverse comments or any written notice of intent 
to submit adverse comments are received within the specified comment 
period, the rule will become effective as stated in the DATES section. 
In that case, prior to the effective date, the Coast Guard will publish 
a notice in the Federal Register stating that no adverse comment was 
received and confirming that the rule will become 

[[Page 9]]
effective as scheduled. However, if the Coast Guard receives written 
adverse comment or written notice of intent to submit adverse comment, 
the Coast Guard will publish a notice in the Federal Register to 
announce withdrawal of all or part of the direct final rule. If adverse 
comments apply to only part of this rule, and it is possible to remove 
that part without defeating the purpose of the rule, the Coast Guard 
may adopt as final those parts of this rule on which no adverse comment 
were received. The part of the rule that is the subject of adverse 
comment will be withdrawn. If the Coast Guard decides to proceed with a 
rulemaking following receipt of adverse comments, a separate Notice of 
Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) will be published and a new opportunity for 
comment provided.
    A comment is considered ``adverse'' if the comment explains why the 
rule would be inappropriate, including a challenge to the rule's 
underlying premise or approach or would be ineffective or unacceptable 
without a change. A comment submitted in support of a rule is not 
adverse. A comment suggesting that the policy requirements of the rule 
should or should not be extended to other Coast Guard programs is 
outside the scope of the rule and is not adverse.

Background and Purpose

    This project resulted from a review of the Code of Federal 
Regulations (CFR) required by the Presidential Regulatory Reinvention 
Initiative review to rid the CFR of unnecessary regulations. This rule 
will remove Appendix A or Part 81 of 33 CFR which reprints the text of 
the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 
(72 COLREGS) published at 33 U.S.C. Sec. 1602. The 72 COLREGS implement 
the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing 
Collisions at Sea, 1972 which was adopted by Presidential Proclamation 
in 1972. The text in the CFR which will be eliminated by this rule 
exactly duplicates the text set out in the United States Code. 
Therefore, the Coast Guard believes that it is both unnecessary for the 
text to be reprinted in the Code of Federal Regulations. Additionally, 
the practical effect of this elimination should be minimal as the text 
of the 72 COLREGS is also reprinted in Commandant Instruction 
(COMDTINST M16672.2B) which is available to the public through the 
Government Printing Office. Since these laws are available in the 
United States Code (U.S.C.) and can be acquired through the Government 
Printing Office, the Coast Guard has determined that Appendix A should 
be eliminated as unnecessary.
    Additionally, the list of U.S. territories where the 72 COLREGS 
apply, contained in the special note to Subchapter D in 33 CFR, is 
being updated to remove the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. 
This is an administrative update being made because the Trust Territory 
of the Pacific Islands is no longer a U.S. territory.
    The Coast Guard is retaining in 33 CFR the interpretative rulings 
regarding the 72 COLREGS as well as the demarcation lines delineating 
the boundaries where the 72 COLREGS apply.

Regulatory Evaluation

    This rule is not a significant regulatory action under section 3(f) 
of Executive Order 12866 and does not require an assessment of 
potential costs and benefits under section 6(a)(3) of that order. It 
has not been reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget under that 
order. It is not significant under the regulatory policies and 
procedures of the Department of Transportation (DOT) (44 FR 11040; 
February 26, 1979). The Coast Guard expects the economic impact of this 
rule to be so minimal that a full Regulatory Evaluation under paragraph 
10e of the regulatory policies and procedures of DOT is unnecessary. 
The Coast Guard determined that a full Regulatory Evaluation was 
unnecessary because this rule is simply an administrative action 
eliminating unnecessary text from the CFR and will have no significant 
impact on the maritime community.

Small Entities

    Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), the 
Coast Guard must consider the economic impact on small entities of a 
rule for which a general notice of proposed rulemaking is required. 
``Small entities'' may include (1) small businesses and not-for-profit 
organizations that are independently owned and operated and are not 
dominant in their fields and (2) governmental jurisdictions with 
populations of less than 50,000.
    This project will not impose any cost on the marine industry. 
Mariners have easy access to these laws through Coast Guard 
publications which are available from the Government Printing Office as 
well as through the United States Code. This change will serve an 
indirect benefit to the Federal Government by saving the cost of 
printing seventeen pages in the Code of Federal Regulations.
    Therefore, the Coast Guard finds that this rule will not have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. 
Any comments submitted in response to this finding will be evaluated 
under the criteria described earlier in the preamble for comments.

Collection of Information

    This rule contains no collection-of-information requirements under 
the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.).

Federalism

    The Coast Guard has analyzed this rule under the principles and 
criteria contained in Executive Order 12612 and has determined that 
this rule does not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant 
the preparation of a Federalism Assessment.

Environment

    The Coast Guard considered the environmental impact of this rule 
and concluded that, under paragraph 2.B.2.e(34)(a) of The NEPA 
Implementing Procedures, COMDTINST M16475.1B. (as revised by 59 FR 
38654, July 29, 1994), this rule is categorically excluded from further 
environmental documentation. A ``Categorical Exclusion Determination'' 
is available in the docket for inspection or copying where indicated 
under ADDRESSES.

List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 81

    Navigation (water), Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, 
Treaties.

    For the reasons set out in the preamble and under the authority of 
33 U.S.C. 1602, the Coast Guard amends 33 CFR chapter 1 and part 81 as 
follows:

Subchapter D  [Amended]

    1. The special note at the beginning of subchapter D is amended by 
removing ``The Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands'' from the 
listing in paragraph a.

PART 81--[AMENDED]

    2. The authority for part 81 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1607; E.O. No. 11964; 44 CFR 1.46.

    3. Appendix A to part 81 is removed.

    Dated: December 22, 1995.
Rudy K. Peschel,
Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard, Chief, Office of Navigation Safety and 
Waterway Services.
[FR Doc. 95-31522 Filed 12-29-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-14-M

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-31517 Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Area; Extension of Allocations to Inshore and Offshore Components; Correction
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 2, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 20]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-31517]

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
50 CFR Part 675

[Docket No. 950905226-5282-02; I.D. 122695A]
RIN 0648-AH00

Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Area; 
Extension of Allocations to Inshore and Offshore Components; Correction

AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce.

ACTION: Correcting amendment.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This document contains a correction to the final rule (I.D. 
083095A) that was published Tuesday, December 12, 1995, (60 FR 63654). 
The regulation related to an extension of the allocation of pollock for 
processing by the inshore and offshore components from January 1, 1996 
through December 31, 1998.

EFFECTIVE DATE: January 1, 1996.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: David Ham, 907-586-7228.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

Need for Publication

    At 60 FR 63654, December 12, 1995, a final rule to extend the 
inshore-offshore and Community Development Quota programs in the Bering 
Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area for 3 years, from January 1, 
1996, through December 31, 1998, was published. Unintentionally, in 
that final rule, a paragraph was excluded from an extension of the 
expiration date and is corrected here.

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 675

    Fisheries, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

    Dated: December 26, 1995.
Gary Matlock,
Program Management Officer, National Marine Fisheries Service.

PART 675--GROUNDFISH OF THE BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS AREA

    Accordingly, 50 CFR part 675 is corrected by making the following 
correcting amendment:
    1. The authority citation for part 675 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.

    2. Section 675.25 paragraph (b) heading is revised to read as 
follows:

Sec. 675.25  Observer requirements.

* * * * *
    (b) Additional observer coverage requirements applicable through 
December 31, 1998. * * *
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 95-31517 Filed 12-29-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-22-P

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-31497 Telephone Regulations and Inmate Financial Responsibility
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 2, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 90-91]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-31497]

=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Bureau of Prisons

28 CFR Parts 540 and 545

[BOP-1049-I]
RIN 1120-AA39

Telephone Regulations and Inmate Financial Responsibility

AGENCY: Bureau of Prisons, Justice.

ACTION: Interim Rule With Request for Comments, and Withdrawal of 
Effective Date-Delayed Provisions.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: In this document, the Bureau of Prisons (Bureau) is 
withdrawing the provisions in its regulations relating to limitations 
on telephone privileges for inmates who have refused participation in 
the inmate financial responsibility program, (IFRP) which were to 
become effective January 4, 1996. In addition, the Bureau is increasing 
to $75.00 the amount of money to be excluded from assessment in an 
inmate's financial responsibility plan. These actions are made pursuant 
to the terms of a settlement approved by the District Court in a 
nationwide federal prisoner class action, Washington v. Reno, Nos. 93-
217, 93-290 (E.D.KY.).

DATES: The withdrawal of 28 CFR 540.105(c) and 545.11(d)(10), and the 
amendment to 28 CFR 540.100(a) is effective January 2, 1996; the 
amendment to 28 CFR 545.11(b) introductory text is effective January 3, 
1996. Comments on 28 CFR 545.11(b) are due on March 4, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Office of General Counsel, Bureau of Prisons, HOLC Room 754, 
320 First Street, NW., Washington, DC 20534.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Roy Nanovic, Office of General 
Counsel, Bureau of Prisons, telephone (202) 514-6655.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Bureau of Prisons (Bureau) is 
withdrawing certain provisions in its rules on telephone regulations 
and on the inmate financial responsibility program (IFRP) which were 
published in the Federal Register on April 4, 1994 (59 FR 15812).
    In the April 4, 1994, revision of its rules on telephone 
regulations and on the IFRP, the Bureau delayed the effective date for 
provisions in Secs. 540.105(c) and 545.11(d)(10) which imposed 
limitations on the telephone privileges of inmates refusing to 
participate in the IFRP. These provisions were to become effective 
January 3, 1995. Due to ongoing litigation in Washington v. Reno, the 
effective date for these provisions was further delayed until January 
4, 1996 (60 FR 240). In accordance with the Court-approved settlement 
in Washington v. Reno, the Bureau is withdrawing these provisions and 
the reference to the IFRP telephone restrictions contained in 28 CFR 
540.100(a), and is publishing elsewhere in today's Federal Register a 
new proposed rule to impose a different restriction on the telephone 
privileges of inmates who refuse to participate in the IFRP.
    In accordance with the settlement in Washington v. Reno, the Bureau 
is also amending, on an interim basis with request for comments, the 
provision in 28 CFR 545.11(b) which relates to the exclusion of certain 
funds from an inmate's financial responsibility plan. Under this 
provision, unit team staff currently exclude $50.00 per month from 
assessment in developing the inmate's payment plan in the IFRP. This 
provision is revised to raise the exclusion to $75.00 per month, per 
the terms of the settlement in Washington v. Reno and, for 
clarification purposes, the third and fourth sentences of this 
paragraph are being combined into one sentence.
    Because the revisions to 28 CFR 545.11(b) are made pursuant to the 
court-approved settlement in Washington v. Reno, the Bureau is issuing 
the revisions as an interim rule pursuant to the ``good cause'' 
exemption of 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3). Interested persons may participate in 
this rulemaking by submitting data, views, or arguments in writing to 
the Bureau of Prisons, 320 First Street, NW., HOLC Room 754, 
Washington, DC 20534. Comments received on the interim rule provisions 
during the comment period will be considered before final action is 
taken. All comments received remain on file for public inspection at 
the above address.
    The Bureau of Prisons has determined that this rule is not a 
significant regulatory action for the purpose of E.O. 12866, and 
accordingly this rule has not been reviewed by the Office of Management 
and Budget pursuant to E.O. 12866. After review of the law and 
regulations, the Director, Bureau of Prisons has certified that this 
rule, for the purpose of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (Pub. L. 96-
354), does not have a significant impact on a substantial number of 
small entities.

List of Subjects in 28 CFR Parts 540 and 545

    Prisoners.
Kathleen M. Hawk,
Director, Bureau of Prisons.
    Accordingly, pursuant to the rulemaking authority vested in the 
Attorney General in 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and delegated to the Director, 
Bureau of Prisons in 28 CFR 0.96(p), parts 540 and 545 in subchapter C 
of 28 CFR, chapter V are amended as set forth below.

SUBCHAPTER C--INSTITUTIONAL MANAGEMENT

PART 540--CONTACT WITH PERSONS IN THE COMMUNITY

    1. The authority citation for 28 CFR part 540 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301, 551, 552a; 18 U.S.C. 1791, 3013, 3571, 
3572, 3621, 3622, 3624, 3663, 4001, 4042, 4081, 4082 (Repealed in 
part as to offenses committed on or after November 1, 1987), 5006-
5024 (Repealed October 12, 1984 as to offenses committed after that 
date), 5039; 28 U.S.C. 509, 510; 28 CFR 0.95-0.99.

    2. In Sec. 540.100, paragraph (a) is amended by revising the fifth 
sentence to read as follows:

Sec. 540.100  Purpose and scope.

* * * * *
    (a) * * * In addition to the procedures set forth in this subpart, 
inmate telephone use is subject to those limitations which the Warden 
determines are necessary to ensure the security or good order, 
including discipline, of the institution or to protect the public. * * 
*

Sec. 540.105  [Amended]

    3. In Sec. 540.105, paragraph (c), which was previously to become 
effective January 4, 1996, (59 FR 15824, 60 FR 240) is removed and 
reserved.

PART 545--WORK AND COMPENSATION

    4. The authority citation for 28 CFR part 545 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 18 U.S.C. 3013, 3571, 3572, 3621, 3622, 
3624, 3663, 4001, 4042, 4081, 4082 (Repealed in part as to offenses 
committed on or after November 1, 1987), 4126, 5006-5024 (Repealed 
October 12, 1984 as to offenses committed after that date), 5039; 28 
U.S.C. 509, 510; 28 CFR 0.95-0.99.

[[Page 91]]

    5. In Sec. 545.11, the introductory text of paragraph (b) is 
amended by revising the dollar amount ``$50.00'' in the fifth sentence 
to read ``$75.00''; by removing the third and fourth sentences; by 
adding a new third sentence to read as follows; and in addition, 
paragraph (d)(10), which was to become effective January 4, 1996, (59 
FR 15825, 60 FR 240) is removed and reserved.

Sec. 545.11  Procedures.

* * * * *
    (b) Payment. * * * In developing an inmate's financial plan, the 
unit team shall exclude from its assessment $75.00 a month deposited 
into the inmate's trust fund account after subtracting from the trust 
fund account the inmate's IFRP minimum payment schedule for UNICOR or 
non-UNICOR work assignments, set forth below in paragraph (b)(1) and 
(b)(2) of this section.
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 95-31497 Filed 12-29-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410-05-P

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-31496 Administrative Remedy Program
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 2, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 86-90]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-31496]

[[Page 85]]

_______________________________________________________________________

Part II

Department of Justice

_______________________________________________________________________

Bureau of Prisons

_______________________________________________________________________

28 CFR Parts 540, 542, and 545

Inmate Control, Custody, Care, etc.; Rules and Proposed Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 1 / Tuesday, January 2, 1996 / Rules 
and Regulations

[[Page 86]]

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Bureau of Prisons

28 CFR Part 542

[BOP-1014-F]
RIN 1120-AA20

Administrative Remedy Program

AGENCY: Federal Bureau of Prisons, Justice.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: In this document, the Bureau of Prisons is revising its 
regulations on the Administrative Remedy Program. These regulations 
describe the process through which inmates may seek formal review of 
any issue related to their confinement. The changes are deemed 
necessary in order to attend to increased numbers of remedy requests 
occasioned by the continued growth of the inmate population. Specific 
procedural changes include increases in the time limits set for inmate 
filing of requests and for Bureau responses; additional specifications 
for the provision of assistance to inmates; and increased access to 
Administrative Remedy indexes.

EFFECTIVE DATE: February 5, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Office of General Counsel, Bureau of Prisons, HOLC Room 754, 
320 First Street, NW., Washington, DC 20534.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Roy Nanovic, Office of General 
Counsel, Bureau of Prisons, phone (202) 514-6655.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Bureau of Prisons (Bureau) is amending 
its regulations on the Administrative Remedy Procedure for Inmates. A 
proposed rule on this subject was published in the Federal Register on 
October 3, 1994 (59 FR 50179). The Bureau received comment from six 
individuals. In general, the comments expressed dissatisfaction in 
varying degrees on the following points: informal resolution, time 
limits, handling of appeals and responses by staff, and administrative 
matters (such as the posting of the proposed rule at the institution). 
A summary of the comments and the Bureau's responses follow.
    The proposed rule had included increased time limits for submission 
of an initial remedy request by an inmate (20 calendar days following 
the date on which the basis for the request had occurred, rather than 
the 15 calendar days then currently specified). The proposed rule also 
increased the time limits for agency responses at the institution level 
(20 rather than 15 calendar days) and at the Central Office level (40 
rather than 30 calendar days).
    There were no objections to the increased time limit for submission 
of an initial remedy request by an inmate. Several commenters, however, 
objected to the extension of the time limits for Bureau response, 
stating these were too long, or were ``slanted completely in favor of 
the BOP.''
    Commenters recommended a variety of procedural changes intended to 
extend the effective filing time for submission of inmate appeals by 
linking the filing time to an event other than the date of the Bureau's 
response. For example, commenters suggested that the filing time should 
exclude any time past the date the appeal is handed over to the 
institution mailroom, or the filing time for an appeal should not begin 
until the inmate has actually received a Bureau response.
    The Bureau believes it is not currently practicable to date stamp 
outgoing mail or to verify the date inmates receive Bureau responses. 
The proposed filing times include adequate adjustment for mail time. 
The Bureau also believes that the extended response times for its staff 
are realistic and reasonable. Good reason exists for the different 
filing time limits. While the inmate is responsible for preparing his 
or her individual request(s) or appeal(s), Bureau staff must prepare 
responses to whatever requests or appeals have been submitted from the 
inmate population. Furthermore, in those instances where staff need 
more time to respond to an appeal, staff may currently claim an 
extension as allowed by the regulations (see Sec. 542.14). In claiming 
the extension, staff notify the inmate in writing. Increasing the 
initial time limit for response should reduce the necessity for 
claiming extensions. In either case, the actual time taken to respond 
would likely be the same. With the increased time limit, staff would 
spend less time completing the administrative paperwork necessary for 
claiming extensions.
    Some commenters expressed the belief that the mandatory filing of a 
complaint initially at the institutional level was cumbersome and 
unnecessary. One commenter recommended that an inmate be allowed to 
make an appeal ``directly to the level of management that has 
jurisdiction and the authority to make the decision.''
    The Bureau believes that such amendment is not necessary. The 
principle underlying the administrative remedy procedure is that the 
resolution of problems can be remedied at the lowest possible level. If 
informal resolution is successful, the formal administrative remedy 
procedure would not be necessary. Moreover, those few issues that can 
only be remedied at certain levels are permitted, per policy, to go 
directly to that level. Similarly, responses to emergency appeals are 
expedited. The administrative remedy procedure typically is used to 
address questions regarding the application of policy to individual 
inmates. Provisions for appeal help ensure consistency in application 
and can also serve to measure the adequacy of policy. The primary 
vehicle for inmate participation in the general formulation of Bureau 
policy remains through the rulemaking process (for example, through 
comment on the October 3, 1994 proposed rule).
    Some commenters recommended that either a receipt for a filed 
complaint be given by the correctional counselor who ``accepts'' the 
complaint or that the inmate be allowed to file the initial request 
with the institution's administrative remedy coordinator. These 
commenters expressed the concern that extensive delays may occur before 
the counselor forwards the administrative remedy to the institution's 
administrative remedy coordinator. The Bureau believes that no change 
is necessary, as the counselor is responsible for forwarding the 
administrative remedy to the appropriate staff in a timely manner and 
internal instructions to staff require that this occur ordinarily no 
later than the next business day.
    Two commenters objected to the form of receipt acknowledgements or 
responses returned to the inmate. One of these commenters expressed 
concern that because the receipt acknowledgements are not signed, these 
receipts do not prove that the appeals ever left the institution. In 
response, the Bureau notes that receipts from the regional and central 
offices are generated electronically from those offices. Therefore, a 
receipt acknowledgement indicates that the administrative remedy 
reached its intended destination.
    The second commenter objected to the provisions in 
Sec. 542.11(a)(4) relating to the delegation of signatory authority, 
which had been previously issued as an administrative amendment. This 
commenter stated that, at a minimum, the regulation should require that 
the name and title of the person signing the response be typed below 
the signature rather than have the person sign ``for'' the official as 
is the Bureau's practice in this administrative detail. The commenter 
presumably believes this change is important in the pursuit of further 
judicial action involving an 

[[Page 87]]
inmate's complaint. The Bureau believes its standard procedures for the 
exercise of delegated authority is adequate and no further amendment is 
necessary in this matter.
    One commenter objected to the omission of a requirement that staff 
responses be in good faith, honest, and straightforward, as is required 
for inmate submissions (see Sec. 542.11(b)). There is no necessity to 
address this matter in these regulations because Bureau staff are 
trained professionals governed by the Standards of Conduct for Bureau 
employees, which are sufficient to support the integrity of staff 
responses.
    One commenter objected to a variety of specific administrative 
procedures. Section 542.14(c)(2) states that the inmate shall place a 
single complaint or a reasonable number of closely related issues on 
the appropriate form. This is intended to facilitate indexing of remedy 
requests and to simplify the resolution process by presenting remedy 
requests as discrete matters. The commenter claimed that inmate access 
to forms at one institution was limited by requiring one form to be 
filled out and submitted before staff would issue another to the same 
inmate. We note that this institution practice does not necessarily 
limit access (i.e., it merely requires the inmate to follow through on 
one complaint before starting another). Nevertheless, because the 
Bureau does not wish to encourage such a perception, the Bureau is 
issuing internal instructions to staff advising against such 
institutional administrative practice.
    This same commenter also objected to limiting the length of inmate 
complaints by only allowing one additional page per form. The Bureau 
believes that limiting additions to one page is useful and reasonable. 
This emphasis on brevity along with the above-mentioned requirement 
limiting the inmate to the presentation of a single complaint or a 
reasonable number of closely related issues is intended to encourage 
inmates to submit their concerns in a straightforward manner. The 
commenter also objected to requirements in Sec. 542.14(c)(3) regarding 
the submission of exhibits with a request. The commenter suggested that 
the provision was ambiguous as to the number of required copies at 
different stages of the remedy appeals process. The Bureau's procedure 
is to require only one copy of an exhibit with the request. If the 
inmate appeals a response, the inmate is responsible for furnishing a 
copy of the exhibit with the appeal along with copies of the 
previously-submitted complaints.
    One commentator objected to the provision in Sec. 542.17 allowing 
the administrative remedy coordinator at any level to reject a request 
or appeal. This commenter, presumably focusing on an example at the 
institution level, stated that only the Warden may sign responses and 
consequently should be the only one to reject the request or appeal. 
The Bureau wishes to note that the very purpose of Sec. 542.17 is to 
provide the administrative remedy coordinator with this authority. 
Paragraph (b) of this section provides the inmate with the opportunity 
to correct the defects, when possible, so that the matter can be 
resubmitted.
    Three commenters raised questions about the lack of detail provided 
in these regulations for the informal resolution of complaints. Two 
commenters objected to the lack of a specified time limit for informal 
resolution. One commenter recommended 48 hours as a reasonable time 
period for that purpose. Another commenter stated that paperwork 
associated with informal resolution at one particular institution 
appeared to be duplicative of the paperwork generated for an initial 
request submitted after an adverse decision on the informal resolution.
    In response, the Bureau notes that by its very definition, 
procedures for informal resolution should not be formalized. The 
informal resolution policy is not explicitly detailed in these 
regulations in order to preserve maximum flexibility for institution 
staff in attempting to resolve complaints. As for the particular 
informal resolution procedures at particular institutions, the Bureau 
wishes to preserve the Warden's discretion in formulating these 
procedures and adds language to the rule providing for the exercise of 
the Warden's discretion.
    In response to the concerns over the lack of a specified time limit 
for informal resolution, the Bureau has revised the provisions in 
Sec. 542.14(a) to include informal resolution under the deadline for 
the submission of an initial filing. This is intended to encourage 
quick informal resolution. Because a lengthy period of time for 
attempted informal resolution constitutes a valid reason for the 
granting of an extension in filing time, including informal resolution 
under this deadline should not unduly impair the inmate's ability to 
file the initial request in instances where the informal resolution 
attempt has failed.
    Two commenters raised concerns about the posting of the proposed 
rule changes at one particular Bureau institution, stating that their 
access to the proposed rule, and consequently their ability to timely 
comment on it, were intentionally hindered. We have been assured by 
institution staff that pursuant to Bureau policy, the proposed rule was 
posted in the inmate law library and was also maintained by unit case 
managers. Inmates at this institution were advised through postings in 
their housing units that they could review the proposed rule either in 
the inmate law library or through a request to the case manager. The 
two commenters stated that their requests to review the proposed rule 
were not answered in a timely fashion. The Bureau believes that the 
institution's posting procedures do not constitute intentional 
hinderance to public comment. The two requests in question came from 
inmates in the same housing areas, which suggests that any problem was 
of a local, not systemic, nature. In addition, the proposed rule was 
also available at the institution's law library. In any event, the 
Bureau has considered these comments in finalizing these regulations.
    One commenter, expressing general dissatisfaction with Bureau 
regulations, stated that Bureau regulations were so poorly written that 
two different institutions would interpret them differently on the same 
day to fit their particular desire. It is the Bureau's intent that the 
Administrative Remedy Program helps to ensure the consistent 
application of Bureau rules and policies by allowing for hierarchial 
review of inmate complaints.
    The Bureau of Prisons has determined that this rule is not a 
significant regulatory action for the purpose of E.O. 12866, and 
accordingly this rule was not reviewed by the Office of Management and 
Budget. After review of the law and regulations, the Director, Bureau 
of Prisons has certified that this rule, for the purpose of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act (Pub. L. 96-354), does not have a 
significant impact on a substantial number of small entities.

List of Subjects in 28 CFR Part 542

    Prisoners.
Kathleen M. Hawk,
Director, Bureau of Prisons.

    Accordingly, pursuant to the rulemaking authority vested in the 
Attorney General in 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and delegated to the Director, 
Bureau of Prisons in 28 CFR 0.96(p), it is proposed to amend part 542 
in subchapter C of 28 CFR, chapter V as set forth below.

SUBCHAPTER C--INSTITUTIONAL MANAGEMENT

    1. 28 CFR part 542 is revised to read as follows: 
    
[[Page 88]]

PART 542--ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDY

Subpart A--[Reserved]

Subpart B--Administrative Remedy Program

Sec.
542.10  Purpose and scope.
542.11  Responsibility.
542.12  Excluded matters.
542.13  Informal resolution.
542.14  Initial filing.
542.15  Appeals.
542.16  Assistance.
542.17  Resubmission.
542.18  Response time.
542.19  Access to indexes and responses.

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 18 U.S.C. 3621, 3622, 3624, 4001, 4042, 
4081, 4082 (Repealed in part as to offenses committed on or after 
November 1, 1987), 5006-5024 (Repealed October 12, 1984 as to 
offenses committed after that date), 5039; 28 U.S.C. 509, 510; 28 
CFR 0.95-0.99.

Subpart A--[Reserved]

Subpart B--Administrative Remedy Program

Sec. 542.10  Purpose and scope.

    The Administrative Remedy Program is a process through which 
inmates may seek formal review of an issue which relates to any aspect 
of their confinement, except as excluded in Sec. 542.12, if less formal 
procedures have not resolved the matter. This Program applies to all 
inmates confined in institutions operated by the Bureau of Prisons, to 
inmates designated to contract Community Corrections Centers (CCCs) 
under Bureau of Prisons' responsibility, and to former inmates for 
issues that arose during their confinement, but does not apply to 
inmates confined in other non-federal facilities.

Sec. 542.11  Responsibility.

    (a) The Community Corrections Manager (CCM), Warden, Regional 
Director, and General Counsel are responsible for the implementation 
and operation of the Administrative Remedy Program at the Community 
Corrections Center (CCC), institution, regional and Central Office 
levels, respectively, and shall:
    (1) Establish procedures for receiving, recording, reviewing, 
investigating, and responding to Administrative Remedy Requests 
(Requests) or Appeals (Appeals) submitted by an inmate;
    (2) Acknowledge receipt of a Request or Appeal by returning a 
receipt to the inmate;
    (3) Conduct an investigation into each Request or Appeal;
    (4) Respond to and sign all Requests or Appeals filed at their 
levels. At the regional level, signatory authority may be delegated to 
the Deputy Regional Director. At the Central Office level, signatory 
authority may be delegated to the National Inmate Appeals 
Administrator. Signatory authority extends to staff designated as 
acting in the capacities specified in this Sec. 542.11, but may not be 
further delegated without the written approval of the General Counsel.
    (b) Inmates have the responsibility to use this Program in good 
faith and in an honest and straightforward manner.

Sec. 542.12  Excluded matters.

    (a) An inmate may not use this Program to submit a Request or 
Appeal on behalf of another inmate. This program is intended to address 
concerns that are personal to the inmate making the Request or Appeal, 
but shall not prevent an inmate from obtaining assistance in preparing 
a Request or Appeal, as provided in Sec. 542.16 of this part.
    (b) Requests or Appeals will not be accepted under the 
Administrative Remedy Program for claims for which other administrative 
procedures have been established, including tort claims, Inmate 
Accident Compensation claims, and Freedom of Information or Privacy Act 
requests. Staff shall inform the inmate in writing of the appropriate 
administrative procedure if the Request or Appeal is not acceptable 
under the Administrative Remedy Program.

Sec. 542.13  Informal resolution.

    (a) Informal Resolution. Except as provided in Sec. 542.13(b), an 
inmate shall first present an issue of concern informally to staff, and 
staff shall attempt to informally resolve the issue before an inmate 
submits a Request for Administrative Remedy. Each Warden shall 
establish procedures to allow for the informal resolution of inmate 
complaints.
    (b) Exceptions. Inmates in CCCs are not required to attempt 
informal resolution. An informal resolution attempt is not required 
prior to submission to the Regional or Central Office as provided for 
in Sec. 542.14(d) of this part. An informal resolution attempt may be 
waived in individual cases at the Warden or institution Administrative 
Remedy Coordinator's discretion when the inmate demonstrates an 
acceptable reason for bypassing informal resolution.

Sec. 542.14  Initial filing.

    (a) Submission. The deadline for completion of informal resolution 
and submission of a formal written Administrative Remedy Request, on 
the appropriate form (BP-9), is 20 calendar days following the date on 
which the basis for the Request occurred.
    (b) Extension. Where the inmate demonstrates a valid reason for 
delay, an extension in filing time may be allowed. In general, valid 
reason for delay means a situation which prevented the inmate from 
submitting the request within the established time frame. Valid reasons 
for delay include the following: an extended period in-transit during 
which the inmate was separated from documents needed to prepare the 
Request or Appeal; an extended period of time during which the inmate 
was physically incapable of preparing a Request or Appeal; an unusually 
long period taken for informal resolution attempts; indication by an 
inmate, verified by staff, that a response to the inmate's request for 
copies of dispositions requested under Sec. 542.19 of this part was 
delayed.
    (c) Form.
    (1) The inmate shall obtain the appropriate form from CCC staff or 
institution staff (ordinarily, the correctional counselor).
    (2) The inmate shall place a single complaint or a reasonable 
number of closely related issues on the form. If the inmate includes on 
a single form multiple unrelated issues, the submission shall be 
rejected and returned without response, and the inmate shall be advised 
to use a separate form for each unrelated issue. For DHO and UDC 
appeals, each separate incident report number must be appealed on a 
separate form.
    (3) The inmate shall complete the form with all requested 
identifying information and shall state the complaint in the space 
provided on the form. If more space is needed, the inmate may use up to 
one letter-size (8\1/2\'' by 11'') continuation page. The inmate must 
provide an additional copy of any continuation page. The inmate must 
submit one copy of supporting exhibits. Exhibits will not be returned 
with the response. Because copies of exhibits must be filed for any 
appeal (see Sec. 542.15(b)(3)), the inmate is encouraged to retain a 
copy of all exhibits for his or her personal records.
    (4) The inmate shall date and sign the Request and submit it to the 
institution staff member designated to receive such Requests 
(ordinarily a correctional counselor). CCC inmates may mail their 
Requests to the CCM.
    (d) Exceptions to Initial Filing at Institution.
    (1) Sensitive Issues. If the inmate reasonably believes the issue 
is sensitive and the inmate's safety or well-being would be placed in 
danger if the 

[[Page 89]]
Request became known at the institution, the inmate may submit the 
Request directly to the appropriate Regional Director. The inmate shall 
clearly mark ``Sensitive'' upon the Request and explain, in writing, 
the reason for not submitting the Request at the institution. If the 
Regional Administrative Remedy Coordinator agrees that the Request is 
sensitive, the Request shall be accepted. Otherwise, the Request will 
not be accepted, and the inmate shall be advised in writing of that 
determination, without a return of the Request. The inmate may pursue 
the matter by submitting an Administrative Remedy Request locally to 
the Warden. The Warden shall allow a reasonable extension of time for 
such a resubmission.
    (2) DHO Appeals. DHO appeals shall be submitted initially to the 
Regional Director for the region where the inmate is currently located.
    (3) Control Unit Appeals. Appeals related to Executive Panel 
Reviews of Control Unit placement shall be submitted directly to the 
General Counsel.
    (4) Controlled Housing Status Appeals. Appeals related to the 
Regional Director's review of controlled housing status placement may 
be filed directly with the General Counsel.

Sec. 542.15  Appeals.

    (a) Submission. An inmate who is not satisfied with the Warden's 
response may submit an Appeal on the appropriate form (BP-10) to the 
appropriate Regional Director within 20 calendar days of the date the 
Warden signed the response. An inmate who is not satisfied with the 
Regional Director's response may submit an Appeal on the appropriate 
form (BP-11) to the General Counsel within 30 calendar days of the date 
the Regional Director signed the response. When the inmate demonstrates 
a valid reason for delay, these time limits may be extended. Valid 
reasons for delay include those situations described in Sec. 542.14(b) 
of this part. Appeal to the General Counsel is the final administrative 
appeal.
    (b) Form.
    (1) Appeals to the Regional Director shall be submitted on the form 
designed for regional Appeals (BP-10) and accompanied by one complete 
copy or duplicate original of the institution Request and response. 
Appeals to the General Counsel shall be submitted on the form designed 
for Central Office Appeals (BP-11) and accompanied by one complete copy 
or duplicate original of the institution and regional filings and their 
responses. Appeals shall state specifically the reason for appeal.
    (2) An inmate may not raise in an Appeal issues not raised in the 
lower level filings. An inmate may not combine Appeals of separate 
lower level responses (different case numbers) into a single Appeal.
    (3) An inmate shall complete the appropriate form with all 
requested identifying information and shall state the reasons for the 
Appeal in the space provided on the form. If more space is needed, the 
inmate may use up to one letter-size (8\1/2\'' x 11'') continuation 
page. The inmate shall provide two additional copies of any 
continuation page and exhibits with the regional Appeal, and three 
additional copies with an Appeal to the Central Office (the inmate is 
also to provide copies of exhibits used at the prior level(s) of 
appeal). The inmate shall date and sign the Appeal and mail it to the 
appropriate Regional Director, if a Regional Appeal, or to the National 
Inmate Appeals Administrator, Office of General Counsel, if a Central 
Office Appeal (see 28 CFR part 503 for addresses of the Central Office 
and Regional Offices).

Sec. 542.16  Assistance.

    (a) An inmate may obtain assistance from another inmate or from 
institution staff in preparing a Request or an Appeal. An inmate may 
also obtain assistance from outside sources, such as family members or 
attorneys. However, no person may submit a Request or Appeal on the 
inmate's behalf, and obtaining assistance will not be considered a 
valid reason for exceeding a time limit for submission unless the delay 
was caused by staff.
    (b) Wardens shall ensure that assistance is available for inmates 
who are illiterate, disabled, or who are not functionally literate in 
English. Such assistance includes provision of reasonable accommodation 
in order for an inmate with a disability to prepare and process a 
Request or an Appeal.

Sec. 542.17  Resubmission.

    (a) Rejections. The Coordinator at any level (CCM, institution, 
region, Central Office) may reject and return to the inmate without 
response a Request or an Appeal that is written by an inmate in a 
manner that is obscene or abusive, or does not meet any other 
requirement of this part.
    (b) Notice. When a submission is rejected, the inmate shall be 
provided a written notice, signed by the Administrative Remedy 
Coordinator, explaining the reason for rejection. If the defect on 
which the rejection is based is correctable, the notice shall inform 
the inmate of a reasonable time extension within which to correct the 
defect and resubmit the Request or Appeal.
    (c) Appeal of Rejections. When a Request or Appeal is rejected and 
the inmate is not given an opportunity to correct the defect and 
resubmit, the inmate may appeal the rejection, including a rejection on 
the basis of an exception as described in Sec. 542.14(d), to the next 
appeal level. The Coordinator at that level may affirm the rejection, 
may direct that the submission be accepted at the lower level (either 
upon the inmate's resubmission or direct return to that lower level), 
or may accept the submission for filing. The inmate shall be informed 
of the decision by delivery of either a receipt or rejection notice.

Sec. 542.18  Response time.

    If accepted, a Request or Appeal is considered filed on the date it 
is logged into the Administrative Remedy Index as received. Once filed, 
response shall be made by the Warden or CCM within 20 calendar days; by 
the Regional Director within 30 calendar days; and by the General 
Counsel within 40 calendar days. If the Request is determined to be of 
an emergency nature which threatens the inmate's immediate health or 
welfare, the Warden shall respond not later than the third calendar day 
after filing. If the time period for response to a Request or Appeal is 
insufficient to make an appropriate decision, the time for response may 
be extended once by 20 days at the institution level, 30 days at the 
regional level, or 20 days at the Central Office level. Staff shall 
inform the inmate of this extension in writing. Staff shall respond in 
writing to all filed Requests or Appeals. If the inmate does not 
receive a response within the time allotted for reply, including 
extension, the inmate may consider the absence of a response to be a 
denial at that level.

Sec. 542.19  Access to indexes and responses.

    Inmates and members of the public may request access to 
Administrative Remedy indexes and responses, for which inmate names and 
Register Numbers have been removed, as indicated below. Each 
institution shall make available its index, and the indexes of its 
regional office and the Central Office. Each regional office shall make 
available its index, the indexes of all institutions in its region, and 
the index of the Central Office. The Central Office shall make 
available its index and the indexes of all institutions and regional 
offices. Responses may be 

[[Page 90]]
requested from the location where they are maintained and must be 
identified by Remedy ID number as indicated on an index. Copies of 
indexes or responses may be inspected during regular office hours at 
the locations indicated above, or may be purchased in accordance with 
the regular fees established for copies furnished under the Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA).

[FR Doc. 95-31496 Filed 12-29-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410-05-P

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-31459 Cash Reporting by Court Clerks
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 2, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 6-8]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-31459]

=======================================================================
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DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY

Internal Revenue Service

26 CFR Parts 1 and 602

[TD 8652]
RIN 1545-AT06

Cash Reporting by Court Clerks

AGENCY: Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Treasury.

ACTION: Final regulations.

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SUMMARY: This document contains final regulations concerning the 
information reporting requirements of Federal and State court clerks 
upon receipt of more than $10,000 in cash as bail for any individual 
charged with a specified criminal offense. The final regulations 
reflect changes to the law made by the Violent Crime Control and Law 
Enforcement Act of 1994, and affect court clerks who receive more than 
$10,000 in cash as bail.

EFFECTIVE DATE: These regulations are effective February 13, 1995.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Susie K. Bird, (202) 622-4960 (not a 
toll-free number).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Paperwork Reduction Act

    The collection of information contained in these final regulations 
has been reviewed and approved by the Office of Management and Budget 
in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3507) under 
control number 1545-1449. Responses to this collection of information 
are required to implement the statutory requirements of section 
6050I(g).
    An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required 
to respond to, a collection of information unless the collection of 
information displays a valid control number.
    The time estimates for the reporting requirements contained in this 
regulation are reflected in the burden estimates for Form 8300.
    Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden estimate and 
suggestions for reducing this burden should be sent to the Internal 
Revenue Service, Attn: IRS Reports Clearance Officer, T:FP, Washington, 
DC 20224, and to the Office of Management and Budget, Attn: Desk 
Officer for the Department of the Treasury, Office of Information and 
Regulatory Affairs, Washington, DC 20503.
    Books and records relating to this collection of information must 
be retained as long as their contents may become material in the 
administration of any internal revenue law. Generally, tax returns and 
tax return information are confidential, as required by 26 U.S.C. 6103.

Background

    This document provides final Income Tax Regulations (26 CFR parts 1 
and 602) under section 6050I(g) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 
(Code). This provision was added by section 20415 of the Violent Crime 
Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 (the Act) (Public Law 103-322).
    On December 15, 1994, the IRS published in the Federal Register 
temporary regulations (TD 8572, 59 FR 64572) with a cross-reference to 
a notice of proposed rulemaking (IA-57-94, 59 FR 64635).
    Written comments responding to the notice were received. No public 
hearing was requested or held. After consideration of all comments, the 
proposed regulations are adopted as revised by this Treasury decision, 
and the corresponding temporary regulations are removed.

Explanation of Revisions and Summary of Comments

    Under the temporary and proposed regulations, reporting may be 
required when more than $10,000 in cash is received as bail by a clerk 
of a Federal or State court. The temporary and proposed regulations 
provide that a clerk is the clerk's office or the office, department, 
division, branch, or unit of the court that is authorized to receive 
bail. One commentator suggested that the regulations clarify whether 
reporting under section 6050I(g) is required by a clerk if an entity 
that is not a part of the court receives bail. In some jurisdictions, 
for example, a sheriff receives bail. The final regulations provide 
that if someone other than a clerk receives bail on behalf of a clerk, 
the clerk is treated as receiving the bail. Thus, the clerk must make 
the return of information if the other requirements of section 6050I(g) 
are satisfied.
    Under the temporary and proposed regulations, a statement must be 
sent to each payor of bail reporting certain information, including the 
``aggregate amount of reportable cash received during the calendar year 
by the clerk who made the information return required by [section 
6050I(g)] in all cash transactions relating to the payor of bail.'' The 
temporary and proposed regulations reflect the statutory requirement in 
section 6050I(g)(5)(B) that clerks provide the aggregate amount of 
reportable cash. A commentator asked whether separately reported 
amounts satisfy this aggregate amount requirement. The final 
regulations clarify that the aggregate amount requirement can be 
satisfied either by sending a single written statement with an 
aggregate amount listed or by furnishing a copy of each Form 8300 
relating to that payor of bail.
    In addition, the final regulations clarify that, if multiple 
payments are made to satisfy bail reportable under this section and the 
initial payment does not exceed $10,000, the initial payment and 
subsequent payments must be aggregated and the information return 
required by section 6050I(g) must be filed by the 15th day after 
receipt of the payment that causes the aggregate amount to exceed 
$10,000. However, payments made to satisfy separate bail requirements 
are not required to be aggregated.

Special Analyses

    It has been determined that this Treasury decision is not a 
significant regulatory action as defined in EO 12866. Therefore, a 
regulatory assessment is not required. It has also been determined that 
section 553(b) of the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. chapter 5) 
and the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. chapter 6) do not apply to 
these regulations, and, therefore, a Regulatory Flexibility Analysis is 
not required. Pursuant to section 7805(f) of the Internal Revenue Code, 
the notice of proposed rulemaking preceding these regulations was 
submitted to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business 
Administration for comment on their impact on small businesses.

Drafting Information

    The principal author of these regulations is Susie K. Bird, Office 
of Assistant Chief Counsel (Income Tax and Accounting). However, other 
personnel from the IRS and Treasury Department participated in their 
development.

List of Subjects

26 CFR Part 1

    Income taxes, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

26 CFR Part 602

    Reporting and recordkeeping requirements. 
    
[[Page 7]]

Adoption of Amendments to the Regulations

    Accordingly, 26 CFR parts 1 and 602 are amended as follows:

PART 1--INCOME TAXES

    Paragraph 1. The authority citation for part 1 is amended by 
removing the entry for Sec. 1.6050I-2T and adding an entry in numerical 
order to read as follows:

    Authority: 26 U.S.C. 7805 * * *
    Section 1.6050I-2 also issued under 26 U.S.C. 6050I. * * *

Secs. 1.6050I-0T and 1.6050I-2T  [Removed]

    Par. 2. Sections 1.6050I-0T and 1.6050I-2T are removed.
    Par. 3. Sections 1.6050I-0 and 1.6050I-2 are added to read as 
follows:

Sec. 1.6050I-0  Table of contents.

    This section lists the major captions that appear in Secs. 1.6050I-
1 and 1.6050I-2.

Sec. 1.6050I-1  Returns relating to cash in excess of $10,000 
received in a trade or business.

    (a) Reporting requirement.
    (1) In general.
    (2) Cash received for the account of another.
    (3) Cash received by agents.
    (i) General rule.
    (ii) Exception.
    (iii) Example.
    (b) Multiple payments.
    (1) Initial payment in excess of $10,000.
    (2) Initial payment of $10,000 or less.
    (3) Subsequent payments.
    (4) Example.
    (c) Meaning of terms.
    (1) Cash.
    (i) Amounts received prior to February 3, 1992.
    (ii) Amounts received on or after February 3, 1992.
    (iii) Designated reporting transaction.
    (iv) Exception for certain loans.
    (v) Exception for certain installment sales.
    (vi) Exception for certain down payment plans.
    (vii) Examples.
    (2) Consumer durable.
    (3) Collectible.
    (4) Travel or entertainment activity.
    (5) Retail sale.
    (6) Trade or business.
    (7) Transaction.
    (8) Recipient.
    (d) Exceptions to the reporting requirements of section 6050I.
    (1) Receipt of cash by certain financial institutions.
    (2) Receipt of cash by certain casinos having gross annual 
gaming revenue in excess of $1,000,000.
    (i) In general.
    (ii) Casinos exempt under 31 CFR 103.45(c).
    (iii) Reporting of cash received in a nongaming business.
    (iv) Example.
    (3) Receipt of cash not in the course of the recipient's trade 
or business.
    (4) Receipt is made with respect to a foreign cash transaction.
    (i) In general.
    (ii) Example.
    (e) Time, manner, and form of reporting.
    (1) Time of reporting.
    (2) Form of reporting.
    (3) Manner of reporting.
    (i) Where to file.
    (ii) Verification.
    (iii) Retention of returns.
    (f) Requirement of furnishing statements.
    (1) In general.
    (2) Form of statement.
    (3) When statement is to be furnished.
    (g) Cross-reference to penalty provisions.
    (1) Failure to file correct information return.
    (2) Failure to furnish correct statement.
    (3) Criminal penalties.

Sec. 1.6050I-2  Returns relating to cash in excess of $10,000 
received as bail by court clerks.

    (a) Reporting requirement.
    (b) Meaning of terms.
    (c) Time, form, and manner of reporting.
    (1) Time of reporting.
    (i) In general.
    (ii) Multiple payments.
    (2) Form of reporting.
    (3) Manner of reporting.
    (i) Where to file.
    (ii) Verification of identity.
    (d) Requirement to furnish statements.
    (1) Information to Federal prosecutors.
    (i) In general.
    (ii) Form of statement.
    (2) Information to payors of bail.
    (i) In general.
    (ii) Form of statement.
    (iii) Aggregate amount.
    (e) Cross-reference to penalty provisions.
    (f) Effective date.

Sec. 1.6050I-2  Returns relating to cash in excess of $10,000 received 
as bail by court clerks.

    (a) Reporting requirement. Any clerk of a Federal or State court 
who receives more than $10,000 in cash as bail for any individual 
charged with a specified criminal offense must make a return of 
information with respect to that cash receipt. For purposes of this 
section, a clerk is the clerk's office or the office, department, 
division, branch, or unit of the court that is authorized to receive 
bail. If someone other than a clerk receives bail on behalf of a clerk, 
the clerk is treated as receiving the bail for purposes of this 
paragraph (a).
    (b) Meaning of terms. The following definitions apply for purposes 
of this section--
    Cash means--
    (1) The coin and currency of the United States, or of any other 
country, that circulate in and are customarily used and accepted as 
money in the country in which issued; and
    (2) A cashier's check (by whatever name called, including 
treasurer's check and bank check), bank draft, traveler's check, or 
money order having a face amount of not more than $10,000.
    Specified criminal offense means--
    (1) A Federal criminal offense involving a controlled substance (as 
defined in section 802 of title 21 of the United States Code), provided 
the offense is described in Part D of Subchapter I or Subchapter II of 
title 21 of the United States Code;
    (2) Racketeering (as defined in section 1951, 1952, or 1955 of 
title 18 of the United States Code);
    (3) Money laundering (as defined in section 1956 or 1957 of title 
18 of the United States Code); and
    (4) Any State criminal offense substantially similar to an offense 
described in this paragraph (b).
    (c) Time, form, and manner of reporting--(1) Time of reporting--(i) 
In general. The information return required by this section must be 
filed with the Internal Revenue Service by the 15th day after the date 
the cash bail is received.
    (ii) Multiple payments. If multiple payments are made to satisfy 
bail reportable under this section and the initial payment does not 
exceed $10,000, the initial payment and subsequent payments must be 
aggregated and the information return required by this section must be 
filed with the Internal Revenue Service by the 15th day after receipt 
of the payment that causes the aggregate amount to exceed $10,000. 
However, if payments are made to satisfy separate bail requirements, no 
aggregation is required. Thus, if in Month 1 a clerk receives $6,000 in 
bail for an individual charged with a specified criminal offense and 
later, in Month 2, receives $7,000 in bail for that same individual 
charged with another specified criminal offense, no aggregation is 
required.
    (2) Form of reporting. The return of information required by 
paragraph (a) of this section must be made on Form 8300 and must 
contain the following information--
    (i) The name, address, and taxpayer identification number (TIN) of 
the individual charged with the specified criminal offense;
    (ii) The name, address, and TIN of each person posting the bail 
(payor of bail), other than a person posting bail who is licensed as a 
bail bondsman in the jurisdiction in which the bail is received;
    (iii) The amount of cash received;
    (iv) The date the cash was received; and 
    
[[Page 8]]

    (v) Any other information required by Form 8300 or its 
instructions.
    (3) Manner of reporting--(i) Where to file. Returns required by 
this section must be filed with the Internal Revenue Service office 
designated in the instructions for Form 8300. A copy of the information 
return required to be filed under this section must be retained for 
five years from the date of filing.
    (ii) Verification of identity. A clerk required to make an 
information return under this section must, in accordance with 
Sec. 1.6050I-1(e)(3)(ii), verify the identity of each payor of bail 
listed in the return.
    (d) Requirement to furnish statements--(1) Information to Federal 
prosecutors--(i) In general. A clerk required to make an information 
return under this section must furnish a written statement to the 
United States Attorney for the jurisdiction in which the individual 
charged with the specified crime resides and the United States Attorney 
for the jurisdiction in which the specified criminal offense occurred 
(applicable United States Attorney(s)). The written statement must be 
filed with the applicable United States Attorney(s) by the 15th day 
after the date the cash bail is received.
    (ii) Form of statement. The written statement must include the 
information required by paragraph (c)(2) of this section. The 
requirement of this paragraph (d)(1)(ii) will be satisfied if the clerk 
provides to the applicable United States Attorney(s) a copy of the Form 
8300 that is filed with the Internal Revenue Service pursuant to this 
section.
    (2) Information to payors of bail--(i) In general. A clerk required 
to make an information return under this section must furnish a written 
statement to each payor of bail whose name is set forth in a return 
required by this section. A statement required under this paragraph 
(d)(2) must be furnished to a payor of bail on or before January 31 of 
the year following the calendar year in which the cash is received. A 
statement will be considered furnished to a payor of bail if it is 
mailed to the payor's last known address.
    (ii) Form of statement. The statement required by this paragraph 
(d)(2) need not follow any particular format, but must contain the 
following information--
    (A) The name and address of the clerk's office making the return;
    (B) The aggregate amount of reportable cash received during the 
calendar year by the clerk who made the information return required by 
this section in all cash transactions relating to the payor of bail; 
and
    (C) A legend stating that the information contained in the 
statement has been reported to the Internal Revenue Service and the 
applicable United States Attorney(s).
    (iii) Aggregate amount. The requirement of furnishing the aggregate 
amount in paragraph (d)(2)(ii)(B) of this section will be satisfied if 
the clerk provides to the payor of bail either a single written 
statement listing the aggregate amount, or a copy of each Form 8300 
relating to that payor of bail.
    (e) Cross-reference to penalty provisions. See sections 6721 
through 6724 for penalties relating to the failure to comply with the 
provisions of this section.
    (f) Effective date. This section applies to cash received by court 
clerks on or after February 13, 1995.

PART 602--OMB CONTROL NUMBERS UNDER THE PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT

    Par. 4. The authority citation for part 602 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 26 U.S.C. 7805.

Sec. 602.101  [Amended]

    Par. 5. In Sec. 602.101, paragraph (c) is amended by removing the 
entry ``1.6050I-2T'' from the table and adding the entry ``1.6050I-2 
......1545-1449'' in numerical order in the table.
Margaret Milner Richardson,
Commissioner of Internal Revenue.
    Approved: December 12, 1995.
Leslie Samuels,
Assistant Secretary of the Treasury.
[FR Doc. 95-31459 Filed 12-29-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4830-01-U

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-31410 Reef Fish Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico; 1996 Red Snapper Season
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 2, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 17-20]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-31410]

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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
50 CFR Part 641

[Docket No. 951221305-5305-01; I.D. 112995A]

Reef Fish Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico; 1996 Red Snapper Season

AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce.

ACTION: Emergency interim rule.

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SUMMARY: NMFS issues this emergency interim rule at the request of the 
Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council 

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(Council) to delay the opening of the commercial fishery for red 
snapper until February 1, 1996; to establish a commercial quota for red 
snapper of 1.00 million lb (0.45 million kg) for the period February 1 
through March 31, 1996, with a closure of the commercial fishery during 
that period when the commercial quota is reached; and to continue the 
red snapper endorsement regime through March 31, 1996. This rule is 
intended to avoid a derby style fishery of very short duration, which 
could result in a quota overrun for the overfished red snapper resource 
and in negative social and economic impacts on fishery participants.

EFFECTIVE DATE: December 29, 1995 through March 31, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Copies of documents supporting this action, including an 
environmental assessment, may be obtained from Robert Sadler, Southeast 
Regional Office, NMFS, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, 
FL 33702.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robert Sadler or Michael Justen, 813-
570-5305.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The reef fish fishery of the Gulf of Mexico 
is managed under the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish 
Resources of the Gulf of Mexico (FMP). The FMP was prepared by the 
Council and is implemented through regulations at 50 CFR part 641 under 
the authority of the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act 
(Magnuson Act).

Delayed Opening of the Commercial Red Snapper Fishery

    The 1995 red snapper commercial fishery was closed April 15, 1995, 
and will remain closed through December 31, 1995. Without further 
action, the commercial fishery would reopen on January 1, 1996. 
However, at the September 1995 Council meeting, commercial fishermen 
testified that they are dependent upon income from red snapper harvest 
during the Lenten season, which begins in February. Based upon this 
testimony, the Council requested emergency action to delay the 
reopening until February 1 to increase the chances of the fishery being 
open during the Lenten season, when higher prices and more favorable 
fishing weather (compared to January) are expected.

Interim Commercial Quota for Red Snapper

    The Council requested an interim commercial quota of 1.00 million 
lb (0.45 million kg) for the period February 1, 1996, through March 31, 
1996, based upon input from the public, to provide income to industry 
before the individual transferable quota (ITQ) system, which was 
approved under Amendment 8 to the FMP, is implemented on April 1, 1996. 
If the interim quota is not made available before the ITQ system is 
implemented, the fishery would remain closed for almost 12 months 
(April 15, 1995, through March 31, 1996). The Council believes that a 
closure of this duration would result in adverse social and economic 
impacts to those who depend on red snapper harvest, particularly during 
the Lenten season.
    The Council requested that, when the interim quota is taken or 
projected to be taken, the fishery be closed until it is reopened under 
the ITQ system on April 1, 1996. If implementation of the ITQ system is 
substantially delayed (2 months or more), the Council intends that the 
balance of the 1996 commercial quota be taken under the endorsement 
provisions and permit moratorium.

Continue the Red Snapper Endorsement Regime

    Management measures in effect for 1995 limit landings of red 
snapper to 2,000 lb (907 kg) per trip or day for vessels with red 
snapper endorsements on their reef fish permits. Other permitted 
vessels are limited to 200 lb (91 kg) per trip or day. The Council 
requested that these provisions be continued as part of the emergency 
action, to spread out harvest over a longer period of time and avoid 
the negative social and economic impacts that would otherwise result 
from a derby fishery of very short duration. Monitoring of landings 
under these conditions would be difficult, increasing the likelihood 
that the quota would be exceeded. The Council is concerned that this 
could adversely impact stock recovery. Accordingly, by January 20, 
1996, NMFS intends to reissue the red snapper endorsements that were in 
effect on December 31, 1995. Reissued endorsements will be effective 
for February and March 1996.

Permit Moratorium

    The Council requested that the current moratorium on the issuance 
of new reef fish permits be continued during the effectiveness of this 
emergency interim rule. However, because a new permit moratorium under 
Amendment 11 to the FMP will become effective January 1, 1996, there is 
no need to extend the current moratorium by this emergency rule.

Compliance With NMFS Guidelines for Emergency Rules

    The Council and NMFS have concluded that the present situation 
constitutes an emergency, which is properly addressed by this emergency 
interim rule, and that the situation meets NMFS's policy guidelines for 
the use of emergency rules, published on January 6, 1992 (57 FR 375). 
The situation (1) results from recent, unforeseen events or recently 
discovered circumstances; (2) presents a serious management problem; 
and (3) realizes immediate benefits from the emergency interim rule 
that outweigh the value of prior notice, opportunity for public 
comment, and deliberative consideration expected under the normal 
rulemaking process.

Recent, Unforeseen Events or Recently Discovered Circumstances

    The Council requested that this action be implemented by emergency 
rule because of several unforeseen events and unresolved circumstances 
that disrupted planning of the 1996 fishing season. The first is the 
unanticipated and unavoidable delays that have adversely affected 
implementation of the ITQ system under Amendment 8, which was designed 
to achieve more orderly prosecution of the fishery. The Southeast 
Regional Office estimates that the appeals process and issuance of 
shares and coupons cannot be completed before April 1, 1996. 
Consequently, implementation of the ITQ system will be delayed until 
that date. The extent of this delay, which was not known nor formally 
communicated to the Council until its September 1995 meeting, disrupted 
the Council's plans regarding optimal timing of the opening of the 1996 
season under controlled harvest conditions.
    The Council, in developing this proposed course of action at the 
September 1995 meeting, also faced a major management problem in that 
it did not know if the moratoriums or delays in implementing ITQ 
systems being considered by Congress would be enacted or whether such 
action would adversely affect Amendment 8. If the Council had decided 
at that time to delay action until this issue was resolved, it would 
not have had sufficient time to implement an alternative system before 
unrestricted harvest by fishermen aboard permitted reef fish vessels 
would begin on January 1, 1996.
    Finally, the NMFS red snapper stock assessment was not available 
until the Council's November 1995 meeting, thereby preventing any 
possible 

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framework implementation of the delayed season by the start of the 
fishing year. The endorsement provisions were implemented as part of 
the FMP. Continuation of the endorsement provisions, therefore, 
requires emergency action, or an additional FMP amendment.
    Given all of these circumstances, emergency action is the only 
option for optimizing the timing of the season opening.

Serious Conservation or Management Problems in the Fishery--
Appropriateness of Emergency Action

    The Council, prior to its September 1995 meeting, announced the 
1996 season as an agenda item for Council action. The general public 
and, in particular, commercial red snapper fishermen, were actively 
involved in the deliberative process of forming the Council request. 
The fishermen endorsed the action to avoid a derby fishery in January 
when prices are lower and unfavorable weather in the Gulf of Mexico is 
more prevalent compared to the Lenten season, which begins in February. 
The Council believes that this emergency interim rule is necessary to 
avoid adverse social and economic impacts and conservation problems 
that could affect stock recovery. The red snapper endorsement system, 
which includes vessel trip limits, terminates on December 31, 1995. 
Without this action, when the commercial red snapper fishery opens, 
permitted vessels will have no restrictions on landing levels. The 
Council believes that this would result in a derby fishery of very 
short duration. Monitoring of landings under these conditions would be 
difficult, increasing the likelihood that the quota would be exceeded. 
The Council is concerned that this would adversely impact stock 
recovery. In addition, fishermen would suffer significant economic 
losses due to lower season ex-vessel prices as demonstrated in previous 
fishing years. Vessel safety would also be jeopardized by the 
competitive pressure to maximize harvest rates despite marginal weather 
conditions that are typical in January.
    To avoid these problems, this emergency interim rule delays the 
season until a more appropriate time, continues the trip limits to 
constrain vessel landings to the total allowable catch, provides for 
better prices, and optimizes yield in the fishery. The immediate 
benefits of the emergency interim rule greatly outweigh the value of 
prior notice and opportunity for public comment which would occur under 
normal rulemaking.
    NMFS concurs with the Council's findings about the emergency and 
the need for immediate regulatory action. Accordingly, NMFS issues this 
emergency interim rule, effective initially for 90 days, as authorized 
by section 305(c) of the Magnuson Act. By agreement between NMFS and 
the Council, this emergency interim rule may be extended for an 
additional period of 90 days.

Classification

    The Assistant Administrator for Fisheries, NOAA (AA), has 
determined that this rule is necessary to respond to an emergency 
situation and is consistent with the Magnuson Act and other applicable 
law.
    The AA finds that failure to implement the actions requested by the 
Council would result in economic hardships, would encourage fishing 
operations during marginal weather conditions, and the resulting rapid 
rate of harvest could contribute to overfishing of red snapper. The 
foregoing constitutes good cause to waive the requirement to provide 
prior notice and the opportunity for public comment, pursuant to 
authority set forth at 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(B), as such procedures would be 
contrary to the public interest. Similarly, the need to implement these 
measures in a timely manner to address the economic and social 
emergencies constitutes good cause under authority contained in 5 
U.S.C. 553(d)(3) to establish an effective date less than 30 days after 
date of publication.
    This emergency interim rule has been determined to be not 
significant for purposes of E.O. 12866.
    This emergency interim rule is exempt from the procedures of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act because the rule is issued without prior 
notice and opportunity for public comment.

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 641

    Fisheries, Fishing, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

    Dated: December 21, 1995.
Nancy Foster,
Deputy Assistant Administrator for Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries 
Service.
    For the reasons set out in the preamble, 50 CFR part 641 is amended 
as follows:

PART 641--REEF FISH FISHERY OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

    1. The authority citation for part 641 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.

    2. In Sec. 641.7, paragraphs (nn) through (qq) are added to read as 
follows:

Sec. 641.7  Prohibitions.

* * * * *
    (nn) During a closure of the commercial fishery for red snapper--
    (1) Exceed the bag and possession limits for red snapper; or
    (2) Purchase, barter, trade, or sell red snapper, or attempt to 
purchase, barter, trade, or sell red snapper--as specified in 
Sec. 641.31(c).
    (oo) Exceed the vessel trip or landing limits for red snapper, as 
specified in Sec. 641.32(a) and (b).
    (pp) Transfer a red snapper at sea, as specified in Sec. 641.32(c).
    (qq) Purchase, barter, trade, or sell, or attempt to purchase, 
barter, trade, or sell, a red snapper possessed or landed in excess of 
a trip or landing limit, as specified in Sec. 641.32(d).
    3. Sections 641.31 through 641.34 are added to read as follows:

Sec. 641.31  Red snapper commercial closures and quota.

    Other provisions of this part 641 notwithstanding, the following 
provisions apply:
    (a) The commercial fishery for red snapper is closed from January 
1, 1996, through January 31, 1996.
    (b) Persons who are fishing under a commercial reef fish permit 
issued under Sec. 641.4, provided they are not subject to the bag 
limits specified in Sec. 641.24, are subject to a quota of 1.00 million 
lb (0.45 million kg) for the period February 1, 1996, through March 31, 
1996. When this quota is reached, or is projected to be reached, the 
Assistant Administrator will file a notification to that effect with 
the Office of the Federal Register. On and after the effective date of 
such notification, through March 31, 1996, the commercial fishery for 
red snapper is closed.
    (c) During a closure of the commercial fishery for red snapper 
under paragraph (a) or (b) of this section, red snapper harvested from 
or possessed in the EEZ, and each vessel for which a currently valid 
commercial reef fish permit has been issued under Sec. 641.4, are 
subject to the following:
    (1) The bag and possession limits, as specified in 
Sec. 641.24(b)(1) and (c); and
    (2) The prohibition of purchase, barter, trade, or sale of red 
snapper taken under the bag limit, or attempted purchase, barter, 
trade, or sale of such red snapper, as specified in Sec. 641.28(a). 
This prohibition does not apply to trade in red snapper taken under the 
commercial quota that were harvested, landed, and bartered, traded, or 
sold prior to the closure.

Sec. 641.32  Red snapper trip limits.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, a vessel 
that has on 

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board a valid commercial reef fish permit may not possess on any trip 
or land in any day red snapper in excess of 200 lb (91 kg), whole or 
eviscerated.
    (b) A vessel that has on board a valid commercial reef fish permit 
and a valid red snapper endorsement may not possess on any trip or land 
in any day red snapper in excess of 2,000 lb (907 kg), whole or 
eviscerated.
    (c) A red snapper may not be transferred at sea from one vessel to 
another.
    (d) No person may purchase, barter, trade, or sell, or attempt to 
purchase, barter, trade, or sell, a red snapper possessed or landed in 
excess of the trip or landing limits specified in paragraphs (a) and 
(b) of this section.

Sec. 641.33  Red snapper endorsement.

    (a) As a prerequisite for exemption from the trip limit for red 
snapper specified in Sec. 641.32(a), a vessel for which a commercial 
reef fish permit has been issued under Sec. 641.4 must have a red 
snapper endorsement on such permit and such permit and endorsement must 
be aboard the vessel.
    (b) A red snapper endorsement is invalid upon sale of the vessel; 
however, an owner of a vessel with a commercial reef fish permit may 
transfer the red snapper endorsement to another vessel with a 
commercial reef fish permit owned by the same entity by returning the 
existing endorsement with an application for an endorsement for the 
replacement vessel.
    (c) The provisions of paragraph (b) of this section 
notwithstanding, special provisions apply in the event of the 
disability or death of the owner of a vessel with a red snapper 
endorsement or the disability or death of an operator whose presence on 
board the vessel is a condition for the validity of a red snapper 
endorsement.
    (1) In the event that a vessel with a red snapper endorsement has a 
change of ownership that is directly related to the disability or death 
of the owner, the Regional Director may issue a red snapper 
endorsement, temporarily or permanently, with the commercial reef fish 
permit that is issued for the vessel under the new owner. Such new 
owner will be the person specified by the owner or his/her legal 
guardian, in the case of a disabled owner, or by the will or executor/
administrator of the estate, in the case of a deceased owner. (Change 
of ownership of a vessel with a commercial reef fish permit upon 
disability or death of an owner is considered a purchase of a permitted 
vessel and Sec. 641.4(m)(3) applies regarding a commercial reef fish 
permit for the vessel under the new owner.)
    (2) In the event of the disability or death of an operator whose 
presence aboard a vessel is a condition for the validity of a red 
snapper endorsement, the Regional Director may revise and reissue an 
endorsement, temporarily or permanently, to the permitted vessel. Such 
revised endorsement will contain the name of a substitute operator 
specified by the operator or his/her legal guardian, in the case of a 
disabled operator, or by the will or executor/administrator of the 
estate, in the case of a deceased operator. As was the case with the 
replaced endorsement, the presence of the substitute operator aboard 
and in charge of the vessel is a condition for the validity of the 
revised endorsement. Such revised endorsement will be reissued only 
with the concurrence of the vessel owner.

Sec. 641.34  Condition of a permit.

    As a condition of a commercial reef fish permit issued under 
Sec. 641.4, without regard to where red snapper are harvested or 
possessed, a vessel with such permit--
    (a) May not exceed the appropriate vessel trip or landing limit for 
red snapper, as specified in Sec. 641.32(a) and (b); and
    (b) May not transfer a red snapper at sea, as specified in 
Sec. 641.32(c).
[FR Doc. 95-31410 Filed 12-29-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-22-F

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