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Proposed Rule2024-16448

Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, Spring 2024

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Published

August 16, 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 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 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.

Full Text

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<title>Federal Register, Volume 89 Issue 159 (Friday, August 16, 2024)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 159 (Friday, August 16, 2024)]
[Unknown Section]
[Pages 66772-66777]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2024-16448]

[[Page 66771]]

Vol. 89

Friday,

No. 159

August 16, 2024

Part III

Department of Agriculture

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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

Federal Register / Vol. 89 , No. 159 / Friday, August 16, 2024 / UA:
Reg Flex Agenda

[[Page 66772]]

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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, Spring 2024

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
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 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 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: May 15, 2024.
Michael Poe,
Legislative and Regulatory Staff.

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

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

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

Agricultural Marketing Service--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6......................... Inclusive Competition and 0581-AE05
Market Integrity Under
the Packers and
Stockyards Act (AMS-FTPP-
21-0045).
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
7......................... Revise Conditions for 0579-AE79
Payment of Indemnity and
Compensation for HPAI.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 66773]]

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
8......................... National List of 0579-AE39
Reportable Animal
Diseases.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
9......................... Microchipping, Verifiable 0579-AE58
Signatures, Government
Official Endorsement, and
Mandatory Forms for
Importation of Live Dogs;
Cage Standards for
Domestic Dogs.
10........................ Animal Disease 0579-AE64
Traceability; Electronic
Identification.
11........................ Revision to Horse 0579-AE70
Protection Act
Regulations.
12........................ AQI User Fees............. 0579-AE71
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Food and Nutrition Service--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
13........................ 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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
14........................ 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.
15........................ Technical Changes for 0584-AE37
Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program (SNAP)
Benefit Redemption
Systems.
16........................ Providing Regulatory 0584-AE61
Flexibility for Retailers
in the Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP).
17........................ Strengthening Integrity 0584-AE71
and Reducing Retailer
Fraud in the Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP).
------------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Proposed Rule Stage

1. 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 propose to 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................................ 04/00/25
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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#b5dfd0dbdbdcd3d0c79bc1c0d6ded0c7f5c0c6d1d49bd2dac3">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE02

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Final Rule Stage

2. 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 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

[[Page 66774]]

promotion program for natural grass sod.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proposed Rule: Referendum Procedures 10/16/23 88 FR 71302
Proposed Rule: Establish Order...... 10/16/23 88 FR 71306
Comment Period End: Referendum 12/15/23
Procedures.
Comment Period End: Establish Order. 12/15/23
Final Rule: Referendum Procedures... 07/00/24
Proposed Rule 2: Establish Order.... 09/00/24
Final Rule.......................... 03/00/25
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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#bfd5daded1de91d291d7decdddd6ccd0d1ffcaccdbde91d8d0c9">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE07

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

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: This action would amend the USDA organic regulations to
clarify production and handling requirements for a) organic pet food
standards and b) organic mushrooms. Specific standards for these
products do not currently exist. Instead, these products are currently
certified organic to the standards for similar products like those for
human consumption (pet food) or for crops (mushrooms). This action
proposes to add specific standards for these products to respond to
recommendations from the National Organic Standards Board and
stakeholder comments received during the National Organic Program's
March 2022 public listening session. AMS expects the changes would
increase regulatory certainty for these markets that would, in turn,
support these and related (ingredient/input) 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:

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#d8b2bdb6b6b1bebdaaf6acadbbb3bdaa98adabbcb9f6bfb7ae">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE13

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Long-Term Actions

4. Organic Aquaculture Standards [0581-AD34]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6524
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#49232c2727202f2c3b673d3c2a222c3b093c3a2d28672e263f">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AD34

5. 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#87ede2e9e9eee1e2f5a9f3f2e4ece2f5c7f2f4e3e6a9e0e8f1">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0581-AE12

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Completed Actions

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

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 181 to 229c
Abstract: This final rule would supplement a recent revision to
regulations issued under the Packers and Stockyards Act (Act) (7 U.S.C.
181 229c) that provided criteria for the Secretary to consider when
determining whether certain conduct or action by packers, swine
contractors, or live poultry dealers is unduly or unreasonably or
advantageous. Supplemental amendments would clarify the conduct the
Department considers unfair, preferential, unjustly discriminatory, or
deceptive and a violation of sections 202(a) and (b) of the Act. The
rule would also clarify the criteria and types of conduct that would be
considered unduly or unreasonably preferential, advantageous,
prejudicial, or disadvantageous and violations of the Act, including
retaliatory practices that interfere with lawful communications,
assertion of rights, and associational participation.
Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule.......................... 03/06/24 89 FR 16092
Final Rule Effective................ 05/06/24
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael V. Durando, Phone: 202 720-0219.
RIN: 0581-AE05

BILLING CODE 3410-02-P

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Final Rule Stage

7. <bullet> Revise Conditions for Payment of Indemnity and Compensation
for HPAI [0579-AE79]

Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8301, et seq.

[[Page 66775]]

Abstract: The current HPAI indemnity regulations require producers
above de minimis thresholds to have a biosecurity plan as a condition
for indemnification. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
(APHIS) intends this interim rule to require a successful biosecurity
audit for HPAI-infected premises intending to restock and for buffer
zone (uninfected) premises that wish to request that poultry be moved
onto the premises. Other changes are also being considered.
Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule.................. 08/00/24
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Leonardo Sevilla, DVM, Veterinary Medical Officer,
Poultry Health Team, Strategy & Policy, VS, Department of Agriculture,
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 920 Main Campus Drive,
Raleigh, NC 27606, Phone: 984 766-1528, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#d3bfb6bcbdb2a1b7bcfda0b6a5babfbfb293a6a0b7b2fdb4bca5">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0579-AE79

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Long-Term Actions

8. 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.
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
Final Rule.......................... 06/00/25
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Oriana Beemer, Phone: 970 494-7426, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#3e514c575f505f1053105c5b5b535b4c7e4b4d5a5f10595148">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0579-AE39

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Completed Actions

9. 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.
Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn........................... 03/08/24
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Lance Bassage, Phone: 301 851-3748, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#3458555a57511a5c1a5655474755535174414750551a535b42">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0579-AE58

10. 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.
Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule.......................... 05/09/24 89 FR 39540
Final Action Effective.............. 11/05/24
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Alexander K. Turner, Phone: 970 494-7353.
RIN: 0579-AE64

11. 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 amending 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

[[Page 66776]]

authorized and trained by APHIS. This final rule also makes other
changes to the regulations in accordance with the provisions of the
HPA.
Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule.......................... 05/08/24 89 FR 39194
Final Rule; Correction.............. 06/05/24 89 FR 48131
Final Action Effective.............. 02/01/25
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Aaron Rhyner, Phone: 970 494-7484, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#a6cec9d4d5c3d6d4c9d2c3c5d2cfc9c8e6d3d5c2c788c1c9d0">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0579-AE70

12. AQI User Fees [0579-AE71]

Legal Authority: 21 U.S.C. 136a
Abstract: We are making multiple revisions to our AQI user fee
regulations in order to facilitate full cost recovery as required by 21
U.S.C. 136a.
Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule.......................... 05/07/24 89 FR 38596
Final Action Effective.............. 10/01/24 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: George Balady, Phone: 301 851-2338.
RIN: 0579-AE71

BILLING CODE 3410-02-P

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)

Final Rule Stage

13. 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 Electronic
Benefit Transfer (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 and 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, Specialist, 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#5b363238333a3e37753f3e2b3229341b2e283f3a753c342d">[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#543935212631313a7a382d303b3a14212730357a333b22">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE85

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)

Long-Term Actions

14. 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: sec. 12(p)(3)(B) of the Richard B. Russell
National School Lunch Act, 42 U.S.C. 1760(p)(B)(3); Healthy, Hunger-
Free Kids Act of 2010, Pub. L. 111-296
Abstract: This rule amends National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
regulations to conform to amendments made to section 12(p)(3)(B) of the
Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, 42 U.S.C. 1760(p)(3)(B)
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 Action........................ 06/00/26
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, Phone: 703 305-2876, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#2f42464c474e4a43014b4a5f465d406f5a5c4b4e01484059">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#771a160205121219591b0e131819370204131659101801">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE11

15. 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 Electronic Benefit Transfer
(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

[[Page 66777]]

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#ef82868c878e8a83c18b8a9f869d80af9a9c8b8ec1888099">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#cda0acb8bfa8a8a3e3a1b4a9a2a38db8bea9ace3aaa2bb">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE37

16. 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 via RIN 0584-AE61. 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........................ 11/00/25
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, Phone: 703 305-2876, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#c2afaba1aaa3a7aeeca6a7b2abb0ad82b7b1a6a3eca5adb4">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#cba6aabeb9aeaea5e5a7b2afa4a58bbeb8afaae5aca4bd">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
RIN: 0584-AE61

17. 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................................ 10/00/25
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, Phone: 703 305-2876, Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#6904000a01080c05470d0c19001b06291c1a0d08470e061f">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713. Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#afc2cedaddcacac181c3d6cbc0c1efdadccbce81c8c0d9">[email&#160;protected]</a>,
RIN: 0584-AE71

[FR Doc. 2024-16448 Filed 8-15-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-30-P

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