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Proposed Rule2023-02023

Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, Fall 2022

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Published

February 22, 2023

Issuing agencies

Agriculture Department

Abstract

This agenda provides summary descriptions of significant and not significant regulations being developed in agencies of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in conformance with Executive Orders (E.O.) 12866, "Regulatory Planning and Review," and 13563, "Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review." The agenda also describes regulations affecting small entities as required by section 602 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act, Public Law 96-354. This agenda also identifies regulatory actions that are being reviewed in compliance with section 610(c) of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We invite public comment on those actions as well as any regulation consistent with Executive Order 13563. USDA has attempted to list all regulations and regulatory reviews pending at the time of publication except for minor and routine or repetitive actions, but some may have been inadvertently missed. There is no legal significance to the omission of an item from this listing. Also, the dates shown for the steps of each action are estimated and are not commitments to act on or by the date shown. USDA's complete regulatory agenda is available online at www.reginfo.gov. Because publication in the Federal Register is mandated for the regulatory flexibility agendas required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 602), USDA's printed agenda entries include only: (1) Rules that are likely to have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities; and (2) Rules identified for periodic review under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. For this edition of the USDA regulatory agenda, the most important regulatory actions are summarized in a Statement of Regulatory Priorities that is included in the Regulatory Plan, which appears in both the online regulatory agenda and in part II of the Federal Register that includes the abbreviated regulatory agenda.

Full Text

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[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 35 (Wednesday, February 22, 2023)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 11194-11200]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2023-02023]

[[Page 11193]]

Vol. 88

Wednesday,

No. 35

February 22, 2023

Part III

Department of Agriculture

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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 35 / Wednesday, February 22, 2023 /
UA: Reg Flex Agenda

[[Page 11194]]

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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Office of the Secretary

2 CFR Subtitle B, Ch. IV

5 CFR Ch. LXXIII

7 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I-XI, XIV-XVIII, XX, XXV-
XXXVIII, XLII

9 CFR Chs. I-III

36 CFR Ch. II

48 CFR Ch. 4

Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, Fall 2022

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, USDA.

ACTION: Semiannual Regulatory Agenda.

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

SUMMARY: This agenda provides summary descriptions of significant and
not significant regulations being developed in agencies of the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) in conformance with Executive Orders
(E.O.) 12866, ``Regulatory Planning and Review,'' and 13563,
``Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review.'' The agenda also
describes regulations affecting small entities as required by section
602 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act, Public Law 96-354. This agenda
also identifies regulatory actions that are being reviewed in
compliance with section 610(c) of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We
invite public comment on those actions as well as any regulation
consistent with Executive Order 13563.
USDA has attempted to list all regulations and regulatory reviews
pending at the time of publication except for minor and routine or
repetitive actions, but some may have been inadvertently missed. There
is no legal significance to the omission of an item from this listing.
Also, the dates shown for the steps of each action are estimated and
are not commitments to act on or by the date shown.
USDA's complete regulatory agenda is available online at
<a href="http://www.reginfo.gov">www.reginfo.gov</a>. Because publication in the Federal Register is
mandated for the regulatory flexibility agendas required by the
Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 602), USDA's printed agenda
entries include only:
(1) Rules that are likely to have a significant economic impact on
a substantial number of small entities; and
(2) Rules identified for periodic review under section 610 of the
Regulatory Flexibility Act.
For this edition of the USDA regulatory agenda, the most important
regulatory actions are summarized in a Statement of Regulatory
Priorities that is included in the Regulatory Plan, which appears in
both the online regulatory agenda and in part II of the Federal
Register that includes the abbreviated regulatory agenda.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information on any
specific entry shown in this agenda, please contact the person listed
for that action. For general comments or inquiries about the agenda,
please contact Mr. Michael Poe, Office of Budget and Program Analysis,
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, (202) 720-3257.

Dated: September 30, 2022.
Michael Poe,
Legislative and Regulatory Staff.

Agricultural Marketing Service--Prerule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
227....................... Inert Ingredients in 0581-AE02
Pesticides for Organic
Production (AMS-NOP-21-
0008).
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
228....................... Inclusive Competition and 0581-AE05
Market Integrity Under
the Packers and
Stockyards Act (AMS-FTPP-
21-0045) (Reg Plan Seq
No. 2).
229....................... Natural Grass Sod 0581-AE07
Promotion, Research, and
Information Order (AMS-LP-
21-0028).
230....................... Organic Market Development 0581-AE13
for Mushrooms and Pet
Food (AMS-NOP-22-0063).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in The Regulatory Plan in part II of this
issue of the Federal Register.

Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
231....................... Strengthening Organic 0581-AD09
Enforcement (AMS-NOP-17-
0065).
232....................... Dairy Donation Program 0581-AE00
(AMS-DA-21-0013).
233....................... Preserving Trust Benefits 0581-AE01
Under the Packers and
Stockyards Act (AMS-FTPP-
21-0015).
234....................... Transparency in Poultry 0581-AE03
Grower Contracting and
Tournaments (AMS-FTPP-21-
0044) (Reg Plan Seq No.
4).
235....................... Organic Livestock and 0581-AE06
Poultry Standards (AMS-
NOP-21-0073) (Reg Plan
Seq No. 5).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in The Regulatory Plan in part II of this
issue of the Federal Register.

Agricultural Marketing Service--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
236....................... Organic Aquaculture 0581-AD34
Standards.
237....................... Organic Apiculture 0581-AE12
Production Standards.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 11195]]

Agricultural Marketing Service--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
238....................... Organic Mushroom Standards 0581-AE14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
239....................... Animal Disease 0579-AE64
Traceability; Electronic
Identification.
240....................... Revision to Horse 0579-AE70
Protection Act
Regulations.
241....................... AQI User Fees............. 0579-AE71
242....................... Importation of Bovine Meat 0579-AE73
From Paraguay.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
243....................... Establishing AWA Standards 0579-AE61
for Birds.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
244....................... National List of 0579-AE39
Reportable Animal
Diseases.
245....................... Microchipping, Verifiable 0579-AE58
Signatures, Government
Official Endorsement, and
Mandatory Forms for
Importation of Live Dogs;
Cage Standards for
Domestic Dogs.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Food and Nutrition Service--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
246....................... Special Supplemental 0584-AE85
Nutrition Program for
Women, Infants and
Children (WIC): WIC
Online Ordering and
Transactions and Food
Delivery Revisions to
Meet the Needs of a
Modern, Data-Driven
Program.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Food and Nutrition Service--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
247....................... National School Lunch and 0584-AE11
School Breakfast
Programs: School Food
Service Account Revenue
Amendments Related to the
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids
Act of 2010.
248....................... Modernizing Supplemental 0584-AE37
Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP) Benefit
Redemption Systems.
249....................... Providing Regulatory 0584-AE61
Flexibility for Retailers
in the Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP).
250....................... Strengthening Integrity 0584-AE71
and Reducing Retailer
Fraud in the Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP).
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Forest Service--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
251....................... Special Uses-- 0596-AD43
Communications Uses Rent.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 11196]]

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Prerule Stage

227. Inert Ingredients in Pesticides for Organic Production (AMS-NOP-
21-0008) [0581-AE02]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6524
Abstract: Based on comments received from the advance notice of
proposed rulemaking, this proposed rule seeks public comment on
recommendations to replace outdated references in USDA's organic
regulations to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) policy on
inert ingredients in pesticides. Inerts, also known as other
ingredients, are any substances other than the active ingredient that
are intentionally added to pesticide products. References to outdated
EPA policy appear in the USDA organic regulations in the National List
of Allowed and Prohibited Substances (National List) and identify the
inert ingredients allowed in pesticides for organic production.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM............................... 09/02/22 87 FR 54173
ANPR Comment Period Extended........ 10/11/22 87 FR 61268
ANPRM Comment Period End............ 11/01/22 .......................
ANPRM Comment Period Extended End... 12/31/22 .......................
NPRM................................ 09/00/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, Deputy Administrator, USDA
National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural
Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250,
Phone: 202 260-8077, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#abc1cec5c5c2cdced985dfdec8c0ced9ebded8cfca85ccc4dd">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE02

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Proposed Rule Stage

228. Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and
Stockyards Act (AMS-FTPP-21-0045) [0581-AE05]

Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 2 in part II of this issue
of the Federal Register.
RIN: 0581-AE05

229. Natural Grass Sod Promotion, Research, and Information Order (AMS-
LP-21-0028) [0581-AE07]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 7411 to 7425
Abstract: This action invites comments on the establishment of an
industry-funded promotion, research, and information program for
natural grass sod products. The proposed Natural Grass Sod Promotion,
Research, and Information Order was submitted to the U.S. Department of
Agriculture by Turfgrass Producers International, a group of natural
grass sod producers. The program would conduct research, marketing, and
promotion activities that will benefit the entire industry. Primary
goals of the program include educating consumers and stakeholders of
the benefits of natural grass and providing producers with marketing
tools they can use to grow their business. The goals identified in this
proposed rule would only attainable through a national research and
promotion program for natural grass sod.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 04/00/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jeana Harbison, Deputy Director of Livestock and
Poultry Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
Service, Washington, DC 20024, Phone: 202 690-3192, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#8de7e8ece3eca3e0a3e5ecffefe4fee2e3cdf8fee9eca3eae2fb">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE07

230. Organic Market Development for Mushrooms and Pet Food (AMS-NOP-22-
0063) [0581-AE13]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: This action seeks comments on the proposed amendments to
USDA organic regulations that would (a) develop organic pet food
standards and (b) establish standards for the organic production and
certification of mushrooms. The title and scope of proposed action
``Organic Pet Food Standards'' has been revised to include the
establishment of standards for the production and certification of
mushrooms, which was previously proposed under withdrawn RIN 0851-AE14.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 05/00/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, Deputy Administrator, USDA
National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural
Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250,
Phone: 202 260-8077, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#d7bdb2b9b9beb1b2a5f9a3a2b4bcb2a597a2a4b3b6f9b0b8a1">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE13

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Final Rule Stage

231. Strengthening Organic Enforcement (AMS-NOP-17-0065) [0581-AD09]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: The Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) final rule
will amend the USDA organic regulations to strengthen oversight and
enforcement of the production, handling, and sale of organic
agricultural products.
Topics addressed in this rule include: Applicability of the
regulations and exemptions from organic certification; National Organic
Program Import Certificates; recordkeeping and product traceability;
certifying agent personnel qualifications and training; standardized
certificates of organic operation; unannounced on-site inspections of
certified operations; oversight of certification activities; foreign
conformity assessment systems; certification of grower group
operations; labeling of nonretail containers; annual update
requirements for certified operations; compliance and appeals
processes; and calculating organic content of multi-ingredient
products.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proposed Rule....................... 08/05/20 85 FR 47536
Comment Period End.................. 10/05/20 .......................
Final Rule.......................... 12/00/22 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, Deputy Administrator, USDA
National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural
Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250,
Phone: 202 260-8077, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#19737c7777707f7c6b376d6c7a727c6b596c6a7d78377e766f">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AD09

[[Page 11197]]

232. Dairy Donation Program (AMS-DA-21-0013) [0581-AE00]

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 116-260, sec. 762
Abstract: This rulemaking will finalize the Dairy Donation Program,
which was authorized in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021.
The Dairy Donation Program is a voluntary program that reimburses
eligible dairy organizations for milk used to make eligible dairy
products donated to non-profit groups for distribution to low-income
persons.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule.................. 09/01/21 86 FR 48887
Interim Final Rule Comment Period 11/01/21 .......................
End.
Final Rule.......................... 02/00/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Erin Taylor, Acting Director, Order Formulation and
Enforcement Division, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
Service, Dairy Program, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 2969-S,
Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 720-7311, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#7411061d1a5a00150d181b06341519075a010710155a131b02">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE00

233. Preserving Trust Benefits Under the Packers and Stockyards Act
(AMS-FTPP-21-0015) [0581-AE01]

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 116-260, sec. 763
Abstract: This action will revise the Packers and Stockyards
regulations to add provisions for written notifications related to the
new livestock dealer trust. The revisions will outline the process for
livestock sellers to notify livestock dealers and the Secretary of the
seller's intent to preserve their interest in trust benefits should the
dealer fail to pay for livestock purchased. The revisions will also
require livestock sellers to acknowledge in writing that they forfeit
rights to the dealer trust under the terms of credit sales to dealers.
These provisions will mirror existing regulatory provisions related to
livestock and poultry sales under the Packers and Stockyards Act.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 05/05/22 87 FR 26695
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/06/22 .......................
Final Rule.......................... 01/00/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Stuart Frank, Division Director, Packers and
Stockyards Division, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
Service, Federal Building; Room 917, 210 Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA
50309, Phone: 515 323-2586, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#4c3f38392d3e38622a3e2d22270c393f282d622b233a">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE01

234. Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments (AMS-
FTPP-21-0044) [0581-AE03]

Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 4 in part II of this issue
of the Federal Register.
RIN: 0581-AE03

235. Organic Livestock and Poultry Standards (AMS-NOP-21-0073) [0581-
AE06]

Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 5 in part II of this issue
of the Federal Register.
RIN: 0581-AE06

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Long-Term Actions

236. Organic Aquaculture Standards [0581-AD34]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6522
Abstract: This action proposes to establish standards for organic
production and certification of farmed aquatic animals and their
products in the USDA organic regulations. This action would also add
aquatic animals as a scope of certification and accreditation under the
National Organic Program (NOP).
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, Phone: 202 260-8077, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#b8d2ddd6d6d1deddca96cccddbd3ddcaf8cdcbdcd996dfd7ce">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AD34

237. Organic Apiculture Production Standards [0581-AE12]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: This action proposes to amend the USDA organic
regulations to reflect an October 2010 recommendation submitted to the
Secretary by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) concerning the
production of organic apicultural (or beekeeping) products.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, Phone: 202 260-8077, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#6208070c0c0b0407104c16170109071022171106034c050d14">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE12

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Completed Actions

238. Organic Mushroom Standards [0581-AE14]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6524
Abstract: This action, proposing to establish standards for the
organic production and certification of mushrooms in the USDA organic
regulations, is being withdrawn and combined with the action proposing
to develop organic pet food standards (RIN 0581-AE13).
Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn........................... 09/15/22 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, Phone: 202 260-8077, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#056f606b6b6c6360772b7170666e607745707661642b626a73">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE14

BILLING CODE 3410-02-P

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Proposed Rule Stage

239. Animal Disease Traceability; Electronic Identification [0579-AE64]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8301 et seq.
Abstract: This action would amend APHIS' animal disease
traceability regulations, currently codified at 9 CFR part 86. The
primary proposed change would require that beginning June 30, 2023,
APHIS would only recognize identification devices (e.g., eartags) as
official identification for cattle and bison covered by the regulations
if the devices have both visual and electronic

[[Page 11198]]

readability (EID). Other proposed changes are intended to clarify
language and requirements in several sections of part 86. These changes
would enhance the U.S. traceability system to better achieve goals of
rapidly tracing diseased and exposed animals and containing outbreaks.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 12/00/22 .......................
NPRM Comment Period End............. 02/00/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Dr. Aaron Scott Ph.D., DACVPM, Director, Department
of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, National
Animal Disease Traceability and Veterinary Accreditation Center, APHIS
Veterinary Services Strategy and Policy, 2150 Centre Avenue, Building B
(Mail Stop 3E87), Fort Collins, CO 80526, Phone: 970 494-7249, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#9de9effcfef8fcfff4f1f4e9e4dde8eef9fcb3faf2eb">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0579-AE64

240. Revision to Horse Protection Act Regulations [0579-AE70]

Legal Authority: 15 U.S.C. 1823
Abstract: Current Horse Protection Act (HPA) regulations require
Designated Qualified Persons (DQPs) to be licensed directly through
Horse Industry Organizations (HIOs). DQPs conduct inspections of horses
at HIO-affiliated shows, sales, auctions, and exhibitions to determine
compliance with the HPA. We are proposing to amend the Horse Protection
regulations by eliminating the role of HIOs and DQPs as inspectors at
horse shows, exhibitions, sales, and auctions, and assigning inspection
authority solely to Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Veterinary Medical Officers and other persons authorized by APHIS.
Other changes are also being contemplated.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 12/00/22 .......................
NPRM Comment Period End............. 02/00/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Lance Bassage, VMD, Director, National Policy
Staff, Animal Care, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health
Inspection Service, 4700 River Road Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737,
Phone: 301 851-3748, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#f79b96999492d99fd995968484969092b782849396d9909881">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0579-AE70

241. AQI User Fees [0579-AE71]

Legal Authority: 21 U.S.C. 136a
Abstract: We are proposing multiple revisions to our AQI user fee
regulations in order to facilitate full cost recovery as required by 21
U.S.C. 136a. We are proposing to update the fees using more current
operational data, as well as update the fees to incorporate recurring
costs such as capital improvements and staffing needs. Inflation would
also be incorporated into our model. Other changes are also being
contemplated.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 03/00/23 .......................
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/00/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: George Balady, PEIP Cost and Fee Analysis, PPQ,
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service,
4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737, Phone: 301 851-2338.
RIN: 0579-AE71

242. Importation of Bovine Meat From Paraguay [0579-AE73]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781
to 7786; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701
Abstract: We are proposing to amend the regulations governing the
importation of certain animals, meat, and other animal products by
allowing, under certain conditions, the importation of fresh (chilled
or frozen) beef from Paraguay. Based on the evidence from a risk
analysis, we have determined that fresh beef can safely be imported
from Paraguay, provided certain conditions are met. This action would
provide for the importation of fresh beef from Paraguay into the United
States while continuing to protect the United States against the
introduction of foot-and-mouth disease.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/00/23 .......................
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/00/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Ingrid Kotowski, Regionalization Evaluation
Services, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health
Inspection Service, 920 Main Campus Drive, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC
27606, Phone: 919 855-7732.
RIN: 0579-AE73

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Final Rule Stage

243. Establishing AWA Standards for Birds [0579-AE61]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 2131 to 2159
Abstract: This rulemaking would extend APHIS enforcement of the
Animal Welfare Act (AWA) to birds, other than birds bred for use in
research. This would help ensure the humane care and treatment of such
birds.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/22/22 87 FR 9880
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/25/22 .......................
NPRM Comment Period Extended........ 04/22/22 87 FR 24072
NPRM Comment Period Extended End.... 05/25/22 .......................
Final Rule.......................... 02/00/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Dr. Cody Yager, DVM, MPH, Avian Specialist, Animal
Care, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection
Service, 4700 River Road Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737, Phone: 970 494-
7478, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#761519120f581b580f17111304360305121758111900">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0579-AE61

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Long-Term Actions

244. National List of Reportable Animal Diseases [0579-AE39]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317
Abstract: This rulemaking amends our disease regulations to provide
for a National List of Reportable Animal Diseases, along with reporting
responsibilities for animal health professionals that encounter or
suspect cases of communicable animal diseases and disease agents. The
changes are necessary to streamline State and Federal cooperative
animal disease detection, response, and control efforts. This action
will consolidate and enhance current disease reporting

[[Page 11199]]

mechanisms, and it will complement and supplement existing animal
disease tracking and reporting at the State level.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 04/02/20 85 FR 18471
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/01/20 .......................
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 08/18/20 85 FR 50796
NPRM Comment Period Reopened End.... 08/21/20 .......................
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jane Rooney, Phone: 970 494-7397
RIN: 0579-AE39

245. Microchipping, Verifiable Signatures, Government Official
Endorsement, and Mandatory Forms for Importation of Live Dogs; Cage
Standards for Domestic Dogs [0579-AE58]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 2131 to 2159
Abstract: We are proposing to amend the regulations regarding the
importation of live dogs by requiring all live dogs imported into the
United States for resale purposes to be microchipped for permanent
identification, and to require importers to procure a microchip reader
and make it available to port-of-entry officials as requested. This
action would also add microchipping as one of three identification
options for dogs and cats used by dealers, exhibitors and research
facilities. In addition, APHIS is proposing to require a verifiable
signature on the health certificate and rabies certificate accompanying
imported live dogs, an endorsement of the health certificate by a
government official in the country of origin, and the mandatory use of
forms provided by APHIS. Additionally, we are proposing to update cage
standards for dogs held domestically by dealers or exhibitors who are
licensed under the Animal Welfare Act or used in research at registered
facilities. Other changes are also being contemplated.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 12/00/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Lance Bassage, Phone: 301 851-3748, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#0b676a65686e256325696a78786a6c6e4b7e786f6a256c647d">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0579-AE58

BILLING CODE 3410-34-P

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)

Proposed Rule Stage

246. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and
Children (WIC): WIC Online Ordering and Transactions and Food Delivery
Revisions To Meet the Needs of a Modern, Data-Driven Program [0584-
AE85]

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111-296
Abstract: This rule addresses key regulatory barriers to online
ordering in the WIC Program by making changes to the provisions that
prevent online transactions and types of online capable stores from
participating in the Program. This rule will also allow FNS to
modernize WIC vendor regulations that do not reflect current technology
and facilitate the Program's transition to EBT.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/00/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, Department of Agriculture, Food and
Nutrition Service, 1320 Braddock Place, Alexandria, VA 22314, Phone:
703 305-2876, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#305d59535851555c1e54554059425f70454354511e575f46">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition
Service, 1320 Braddock Place, Alexandria, VA 22314, Phone: 703 457-
7713, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#98f5f9edeafdfdf6b6f4e1fcf7f6d8edebfcf9b6fff7ee">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE85

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)

Long-Term Actions

247. National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs: School Food
Service Account Revenue Amendments Related to the Healthy, Hunger-Free
Kids Act of 2010 [0584-AE11]

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111-296
Abstract: This rule amends National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
regulations to conform to requirements contained in the Healthy,
Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 regarding equity in school lunch pricing
and revenue from non-program foods sold in schools. This rule requires
school food authorities (SFAs) participating in the NSLP to provide the
same level of financial support for lunches served to students who are
not eligible for free or reduced-price lunches as is provided for
lunches served to students eligible for free lunches. This rule also
requires that all food sold in a school and purchased with funds from
the nonprofit school food service account other than meals and
supplements reimbursed by the Department of Agriculture must generate
revenue at least proportionate to the cost of such foods.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule.................. 06/17/11 76 FR 35301
Interim Final Rule Effective........ 07/01/11 .......................
Interim Final Rule Comment Period 09/15/11 .......................
End.
Final Rule.......................... 05/00/24 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, Phone: 703 305-2876, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#402d29232821252c6e24253029322f00353324216e272f36">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#d6bbb7a3a4b3b3b8f8baafb2b9b896a3a5b2b7f8b1b9a0">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE11

248. Modernizing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Benefit Redemption Systems [0584-AE37]

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79
Abstract: The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) will propose changes
that collectively modernize SNAP benefit issuance and increase program
integrity while streamlining program administration, offering greater
flexibility to State agencies, and improving customer service. The rule
will propose to codify provisions of the 2014 Farm Bill, the 2018 Farm
Bill, and respond to 2018 OIG audit findings. The rule will propose to
codify 2014 Farm Bill provisions requiring most SNAP-authorized
retailers to pay the costs associated with EBT equipment, supplies and
related services and requirements pertaining to the online SNAP payment
option. This rule would also propose to codify waivers that have been
granted to State agencies to implement practices that have proven
beneficial as the EBT system has developed and matured, address
Disaster-SNAP requirements for on-going households, and update EBT
system technical and functional requirements.
Timetable:

[[Page 11200]]

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 05/00/24 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#a8cbc0c9dac4cddb86dfc9dccec7dacce8dddbccc986cfc7de">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#026f63777067676c2c6e7b666d6c42777166632c656d74">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE37

249. Providing Regulatory Flexibility for Retailers in the Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) [0584-AE61]

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79; 7 U.S.C. 2011 to 2036
Abstract: The Agricultural Act of 2014 amended the Food and
Nutrition Act of 2008 to increase the requirement that certain
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) authorized retail food
stores have available on a continuous basis at least three varieties of
items in each of four staple food categories, to a mandatory minimum of
seven varieties. The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) codified these
mandatory requirements. Subsequent annual Agency appropriations bill
language prohibited implementation of certain final rule provisions. In
response, this change will provide some retailers participating in SNAP
as authorized food stores with more flexibility in meeting the enhanced
SNAP eligibility requirements.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 04/05/19 84 FR 13555
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/04/19 .......................
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 06/14/19 84 FR 27743
NPRM Comment Period Reopen End...... 06/20/19 .......................
Final Action........................ 04/00/25 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#d6b5beb7a4bab3a5f8a1b7a2b0b9a4b296a3a5b2b7f8b1b9a0">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#7b161a0e091e1e155517021f14153b0e081f1a551c140d">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE61

250. Strengthening Integrity and Reducing Retailer Fraud in the
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) [0584-AE71]

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79; Pub. L. 115-334
Abstract: This proposed rule would implement statutory provisions
of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (the 2008 Farm Bill),
the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (the 2018 Farm Bill), and other
language intended to deter retailer fraud, abuse, and non-compliance in
the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 07/00/24 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#7f1c171e0d131a0c51081e0b19100d1b3f0a0c1b1e51181009">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#b8d5d9cdcaddddd696d4c1dcd7d6f8cdcbdcd996dfd7ce">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE71

BILLING CODE 3410-30-P

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Forest Service (FS)

Completed Actions

251. Special Uses--Communications Uses Rent [0596-AD43]

Legal Authority: 43 U.S.C. 1761 to 1771
Abstract: Consistent with the requirement in title V, section 504
(g) of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act, the proposed rule
would update the Forest Service's rental fee schedule for
communications uses based on market value. Updated rental fees that
exceed 100 percent of current rental fees would be phased in over a 3-
year period. USDA is coordinating development of the information base
to support this rulemaking with the Department of the Interior. This
proposed rule is being removed from the Forest Service's regulatory
agenda because the Forest Service will revise the existing rental fee
schedule for communications uses in Forest Service Handbook 2709.11,
chapter 90, by publishing a proposed directive for public comment under
36 CFR part 216, rather than by publishing a proposed rule. This
approach is consistent with implementation of the rental fee schedule
for communications uses in 1996. The Forest Service and the U.S.
Department of the Interior's Bureau of Land Management have the same
rental fee schedule for communications uses and will coordinate
updating of the schedule through public notice and comment.
Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn........................... 11/16/22 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Edwina Howard-Agu, Phone: 202 205-1419, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#8de8e9fae4e3eca3e5e2faecffe9a0eceaf8cdf8fee9eca3eae2fb">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0596-AD43

[FR Doc. 2023-02023 Filed 2-21-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-11-P

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