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Proposed Rule2024-00517

Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, Fall 2023

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Published

February 9, 2024

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," 13563, "Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review," and 14094, "Modernizing 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 Orders 13563 and 14094. 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 89, Number 28 (Friday, February 9, 2024)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 9540-9546]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2024-00517]

[[Page 9539]]

Vol. 89

Friday,

No. 28

February 9, 2024

Part III

Department of Agriculture

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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

Federal Register / Vol. 89 , No. 28 / Friday, February 9, 2024 / UA:
Reg Flex Agenda

[[Page 9540]]

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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 2023

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,'' 13563, ``Improving
Regulation and Regulatory Review,'' and 14094, ``Modernizing 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 Orders 13563 and 14094.
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 28, 2023.
Michael Poe,
Legislative and Regulatory Staff.

Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
233....................... Natural Grass Sod 0581-AE07
Promotion, Research, and
Information Order (AMS-LP-
21-0028).
234....................... Organic Market Development 0581-AE13
for Mushrooms and Pet
Food (AMS-NOP-22-0063).
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
235....................... Inclusive Competition and 0581-AE05
Market Integrity Under
the Packers and
Stockyards Act (AMS-FTPP-
21-0045) (Reg Plan Seq
No. 2).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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....................... Inert Ingredients in 0581-AE02
Pesticides for Organic
Production (AMS-NOP-21-
0008).
238....................... Organic Apiculture 0581-AE12
Production Standards.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Agricultural Marketing Service--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
239....................... Dairy Donation Program 0581-AE00
(AMS-DA-21-0013).
240....................... Preserving Trust Benefits 0581-AE01
Under the Packers and
Stockyards Act (AMS-FTPP-
21-0015).
241....................... Transparency in Poultry 0581-AE03
Grower Contracting and
Tournaments (AMS-FTPP-21-
0044).
242....................... Organic Livestock and 0581-AE06
Poultry Standards (AMS-
NOP-21-0073).
243....................... Economic Adjustment 0581-AE26
Assistance for Textile
Mills.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 9541]]

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
244....................... National List of 0579-AE39
Reportable Animal
Diseases.
245....................... Revision to Horse 0579-AE70
Protection Act
Regulations.
246....................... AQI User Fees............. 0579-AE71
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
247....................... Animal Disease 0579-AE64
Traceability; Electronic
Identification.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
249....................... Importation of Bovine Meat 0579-AE73
From Paraguay.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Food and Nutrition Service--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
250....................... 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.
251....................... Technical Changes for 0584-AE37
Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program (SNAP)
Benefit Redemption
Systems.
252....................... Providing Regulatory 0584-AE61
Flexibility for Retailers
in the Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP).
253....................... Strengthening Integrity 0584-AE71
and Reducing Retailer
Fraud in the Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP).
254....................... 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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Proposed Rule Stage

233. 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 would establish 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 would 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 the
proposed rule would only be attainable through a national research and
promotion program for natural grass sod.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 10/16/23 88 FR 71306
Proposed Rule: Referendum Procedures 10/16/23 88 FR 71302
NPRM Comment Period End............. 12/15/23 .......................
Comment Period End: Referendum 12/15/23 .......................
Procedures.
Final Action........................ 04/00/24 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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#e38986828d82cd8ecd8b8291818a908c8da396908782cd848c95">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE07

234. 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 proposed amendments to the
USDA organic regulations that would clarify production and handling
requirements for a) organic pet food standards and b) organic
mushrooms. These products are currently certified organic to the
standards for similar products like those

[[Page 9542]]

for human consumption (pet food) or for crops (mushrooms). The proposed
action seeks to increase regulatory certainty for these markets. Past
National Organic Standards Board recommendations, public comments from
the National Organic Program's March 2022 public listening session, and
input from mushroom and pet food stakeholders have indicated a need for
this rule.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/00/24 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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#7c16191212151a190e5208091f17190e3c090f181d521b130a">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE13

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Final Rule Stage

235. 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

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 would 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#6a000f0404030c0f18441e1f09010f182a1f190e0b440d051c">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AD34

237. 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 September 2022
Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and recommendations from the
National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) expected in Fall 2024, this
action would replace outdated references in USDA's organic regulations
to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) policy on inert
ingredients in pesticides. Inerts, also identified as ``other
ingredients'' on pesticide labels, 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
ANPRM 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................................ To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, Phone: 202 260-8077, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#a4cec1cacacdc2c1d68ad0d1c7cfc1d6e4d1d7c0c58ac3cbd2">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE02

238. 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#3d57585353545b584f1349485e56584f7d484e595c135a524b">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE12

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Completed Actions

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

Legal Authority: Pub. L. 116-260, sec. 762
Abstract: This rulemaking would 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.
Completed:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Erin Taylor, Phone: 202 720-7311, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#2441564d4a0a50455d484b56644549570a515740450a434b52">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE00

240. 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 revised the Packers and Stockyards
regulations to add provisions for written notifications related to the
new livestock dealer trust. The revisions outlined 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 also required
livestock sellers to acknowledge in writing that they forfeit rights to
the dealer trust under the terms

[[Page 9543]]

of credit sales to dealers. These provisions mirror existing regulatory
provisions related to livestock and poultry sales under the Packers and
Stockyards Act.
Completed:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Stuart Frank, Phone: 515 323-2586, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#7e0d0a0b1f0c0a50180c1f10153e0b0d1a1f50191108">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE01

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

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 181 to 229c
Abstract: This action would amend regulations issued under the
Packers and Stockyards Act (P&S Act), revising the list of disclosures
and information live poultry dealers must furnish to poultry growers
and sellers with whom dealers make poultry growing arrangements. The
rule would establish parameters for the use of poultry grower ranking
systems by dealers to determine settlement payments for poultry
growers. Amendments are intended to promote transparency in poultry
production contracting and to give poultry growers relevant information
with which to make business decisions.
Completed:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael V. Durando, Phone: 202 720-0219.
RIN: 0581-AE03

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

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6524
Abstract: This action would establish additional practice standards
for organic livestock and poultry production. The rule would amend the
USDA organic regulations related to: livestock and poultry living
conditions (for example, outdoor access, housing environment, and
stocking densities); animal health care (for example, physical
alterations, administering medical treatment, and euthanasia); animal
transport; and slaughter.
Completed:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Erin Healy, Phone: 202 617-4942, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#583d2a313676303d393421182d2b3c39763f372e">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE06

243. Economic Adjustment Assistance for Textile Mills [0581-AE26]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 9037(c)
Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) revises the
regulation providing guidance for domestic manufacturers that consume
Upland Cotton and voluntarily participate in the Economic Adjustment
Assistance for Textile Mills Program. The revisions add definitions and
codify certain participant responsibilities currently outlined in the
existing user Agreement. The changes made by this rule are intended to
strengthen management controls that have been added into the Agreement
to prevent fraud, waste, and abuse. This action provides the necessary
legal support for program administration.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule; With request for 10/31/23 88 FR 74330
Comments.
Final Rule Effective................ 10/31/23 .......................
Final Rule Comment Period End....... 11/30/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Dan Schofer, Cotton Program Manager, AMS, Fair
Trade Practice Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural
Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250,
Phone: 202 690-2434.
RIN: 0581-AE26
BILLING CODE 3410-02-P

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Proposed Rule Stage

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 Federal cooperative animal disease
detection, response, and control efforts. This action will consolidate
and enhance current disease reporting mechanisms, and it will
complement and supplement existing animal disease tracking and
reporting at the State level. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection
Service is evaluating the comments received during the revised proposed
rule in fall 2023 and the reopening of the comment period.
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 .......................
Revising Proposed Rule and Reopening 08/28/23 88 FR 58524
Comment Period.
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/27/23 .......................
Reviewing Comments from Revised 11/27/23 .......................
Proposed Rule.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jane Rooney, NLRAD Coordinator, Center for
Epidemiology and Animal Health, Strategy and Policy, VS, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 2150 Centre
Avenue, Building B, Mailstop 2E6, Fort Collins, CO 80526, Phone: 970
494-7397.
RIN: 0579-AE39

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

Legal Authority: 15 U.S.C. 1823

[[Page 9544]]

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 assigning inspection
authority solely to Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Veterinary Medical Officers and other third parties authorized and
trained by APHIS. Other changes are also being contemplated. APHIS
hosted a Tribal webinar to determine whether this rule would adversely
impact Tribes, and received no concerns.
Timetable:

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#a6cac7c8c5c388ce88c4c7d5d5c7c1c3e6d3d5c2c788c1c9d0">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0579-AE70

246. 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. APHIS conducted a Tribal listening session to determine
whether this action could adversely impact Tribes, and received no
concerns.
Timetable:

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

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Final Rule Stage

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

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8301 et seq.
Abstract: This action amends APHIS' animal disease traceability
regulations, currently codified at 9 CFR part 86. The primary change
requires that APHIS will only recognize identification devices (e.g.,
ear tags) as official identification for cattle and bison covered by
the regulations if the devices have both visual and electronic
readability (EID). Other changes clarify language and requirements in
several sections of part 86. These changes will enhance the U.S.
traceability system to better achieve goals of rapidly tracing diseased
and exposed animals and containing outbreaks. APHIS' Animal Disease
Traceability program has a long-standing relationship with Tribal
nations to ensure the program incorporates Tribal feedback. APHIS
provided webinars to Tribal nations in 2021 and 2022 to notify Tribes
of this rulemaking and solicit requests for consultation. APHIS
subsequently was in contact with an alliance of Western Tribes to
apprise them of the status of the proposed rule.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/19/23 88 FR 3320
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/20/23 .......................
NPRM Comment Period Extended........ 03/20/23 88 FR 16576
NPRM Comment Period Extended End.... 04/19/23 .......................
Final Rule.......................... 04/00/24 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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#7a0e081b191f1b181316130e033a0f091e1b541d150c">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0579-AE64

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Long-Term Actions

248. 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................................ To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Lance Bassage, Phone: 301 851-3748, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#b0dcd1ded3d59ed89ed2d1c3c3d1d7d5f0c5c3d4d19ed7dfc6">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0579-AE58

[[Page 9545]]

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Completed Actions

249. 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 amending 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 will 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.
Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule.......................... 11/14/23 88 FR 77883
Final Rule Effective................ 12/14/23 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Ingrid Kotowski, Phone: 919 855-7732.
RIN: 0579-AE73

BILLING CODE 3410-34-P

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)

Long-Term Actions

250. 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 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 snacks
reimbursed by the Department of Agriculture must generate revenue at
least proportionate to the cost of such foods. This rulemaking will
impact schools that participate in NSLP and households with students
who participate in NSLP at the paid rate. USDA received stakeholder
input on this rulemaking through the public comment process on the
interim final rule.
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.......................... 09/00/25 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, Phone: 703 305-2876, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#9ff2f6fcf7fefaf3b1fbfaeff6edf0dfeaecfbfeb1f8f0e9">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#325f53474057575c1c5e4b565d5c72474156531c555d44">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE11

251. Technical Changes for 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 and update EBT
system technical and functional requirements. FNS has not held any
stakeholder engagement initiatives related to this rule but will
evaluate the need for future initiatives as rule-making progresses. FNS
does not anticipate any significant impacts on communities by this
rule, as the proposed changes seek to codify existing program
requirements.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/00/25 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, Phone: 703 305-2876, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#9ff2f6fcf7fefaf3b1fbfaeff6edf0dfeaecfbfeb1f8f0e9">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#ff929e8a8d9a9a91d193869b9091bf8a8c9b9ed1989089">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE37

252. 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 in 2016 though these provisions were
subsequently blocked by Congress. This change will propose to provide
some retailers participating in SNAP as authorized food stores with
more flexibility in meeting the enhanced SNAP eligibility requirements.
The stakeholder community includes SNAP applicant and authorized
retailers required to meet eligibility requirements, public health and
access focused advocacy organizations, and SNAP participants.
Stakeholder engagement may include listening sessions with these
stakeholders, though significant feedback is also available in comments
submitted to the previously published proposed rule.
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 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 9546]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, Phone: 703 305-2876, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#224f4b414a43474e0c4647524b504d62575146430c454d54">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#dcb1bda9aeb9b9b2f2b0a5b8b3b29ca9afb8bdf2bbb3aa">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE61

253. 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). Stakeholders are
SNAP retailers and communities in which SNAP retailers provide SNAP
participants access to food, other Programs that require SNAP
authorization or where reciprocal actions impact participation, and
SNAP participants. Stakeholder engagement may include listening
sessions; however, significant feedback from stakeholders is also
available in the public comments submitted on previously proposed rule.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 11/00/24 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, Phone: 703 305-2876, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#87eaeee4efe6e2eba9e3e2f7eef5e8c7f2f4e3e6a9e0e8f1">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#bfd2decacddadad191d3c6dbd0d1ffcaccdbde91d8d0c9">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE71

254. 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 final rulemaking 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. To inform
the development of the proposed rule, FNS reviewed materials developed
by a variety of WIC stakeholders, including WIC providers, vendors,
manufacturers, EBT processors, advocacy organizations, and WIC
participants; as well as a report issued by a task force convened by
USDA comprised of 18 organizations from multiple sectors to ensure a
diverse range of input. FNS will consider public comments received
during the proposed rulemaking stage in development of this final rule.
Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, Phone: 703 305-2876, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#127f7b717a73777e3c7677627b607d52676176733c757d64">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#5d303c282f3838337331243932331d282e393c733a322b">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE85

[FR Doc. 2024-00517 Filed 2-8-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-30-P

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