, 21749-21771 [2010-8930]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 79 (Monday, April 26, 2010)]
[Unknown Section]
[Pages 21749-21771]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-8930]


[[Page 21749]]

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Part IV





Department of Commerce





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###Semiannual Regulatory Agenda###

[[Page 21750]]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

_______________________________________________________________________

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Office of the Secretary

13 CFR Ch. III

15 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I, II, III, VII, VIII, IX, and XI

19 CFR Ch. III

37 CFR Chs. I, IV, and V

48 CFR Ch. 13

50 CFR Chs. II, III, IV, and VI

Spring 2010 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Commerce.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: In compliance with Executive Order 12866, entitled 
``Regulatory Planning and Review,'' and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 
as amended, the Department of Commerce (Department), in the spring and 
fall of each year, publishes in the Federal Register an agenda of 
regulations under development of review over the next 12 months. 
Rulemaking actions are grouped according to prerulemaking, proposed 
rules, final rules, long-term actions, and rulemaking actions completed 
since the fall 2009 agenda. The purpose of the agenda is to provide 
information to the public on regulations currently under review, being 
proposed, or issued by the Department. The agenda is intended to 
facilitate comments and views by interested members of the public.

    The Department's spring 2010 regulatory agenda includes 
regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the 
period April 1, 2010, through March 31, 2011.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 

    Specific: For additional information about specific regulatory 
actions listed in the agenda, contact the individual identified as 
the contact person.

    General: Comments or inquiries of a general nature about the 
agenda should be directed to Tricia Choe, Acting Chief Counsel for 
Regulation, Office of the Assistant General Counsel for Legislation 
and Regulation, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230; 
telephone: 202-482-3151.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Executive Order 12866 requires agencies to 
publish an agenda of those regulations that are under consideration 
pursuant to this order. By memorandum of January 15, 2010, the Office 
of Management and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the 
preparation and publication of the spring 2010 Unified Agenda of 
Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions. The Regulatory Flexibility 
Act, 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., requires agencies to publish, in the spring 
and fall of each year, a regulatory flexibility agenda that contains a 
brief description of the subject of any rule likely to have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. 
The agenda also identifies those entries that have been selected for 
periodic review under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

    In addition, beginning with the fall 2007 edition, the Internet 
became the basic means for disseminating the Unified Agenda. The 
complete Unified Agenda will be available online at 
www.reginfo.gov, in a format that offers users a greatly enhanced 
ability to obtain information from the Agenda database.

    Because publication in the Federal Register is mandated for the 
regulatory flexibility agendas required by the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 602), the Department of Commerce's 
printed agenda entries include only:

    (1) Rules that are in the Agency's regulatory flexibility 
agenda, in accordance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act, because 
they are likely to have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities; and

    (2) Rules that the Agency has identified for periodic review 
under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

    Printing of these entries is limited to fields that contain 
information required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act's Agenda 
requirements. Additional information on these entries is available 
in the United Agenda published on the Internet. In addition, for 
fall editions of the Agenda, the entire Regulatory Plan will 
continue to be printed in the Federal Register, as in past years, 
including the Department of Commerce's Regulatory Plan.

    Within the Department, the Office of the Secretary and various 
operating units may issue regulations. Operating units, such as the 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Bureau 
of Industry and Security, and the Patent and Trademark Office issue 
the greatest share of the Department's regulations.

    A large number of regulatory actions reported in the agenda 
deal with fishery management programs of NOAA's National Marine 
Fisheries Service (NMFS). To avoid repetition of programs and 
definitions, as well as to provide some understanding of the 
technical and institutional elements of the NMFS programs, an 
``Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries'' 
is provided below.

Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries

    The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act 
(16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) (the Act) governs the management of 
fisheries within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The EEZ refers 
to those waters from the outer edge of the State boundaries, 
generally 3 nautical miles, to a distance of 200 nautical miles. 
Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) are to be prepared for fisheries 
that require conservation and management measures. Regulations 
implementing these FMPs regulate domestic fishing and foreign 
fishing where permitted. Foreign fishing may be conducted in a 
fishery in which there is no FMP only if a preliminary fishery 
management plan has been issued to govern that foreign fishing. 
Under the Act, eight Regional Fishery Management Councils 
(Councils) prepare FMPs or amendments to FMPs for fisheries within 
their respective areas. In the development of such plans or 
amendments and their implementing regulations, the Councils are 
required by law to conduct public hearings on the draft plans and 
to consider the use of alternative means of regulating.

    The Council process for developing FMPs and amendments makes it 
difficult for NMFS to determine the significance and timing of some 
regulatory actions under consideration by the Councils at the time 
the semiannual regulatory agenda is published.

    The Department's spring 2010 regulatory agenda follows.

 Cameron F. Kerry,

General Counsel.

[[Page 21751]]



                              International Trade Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
50          Commercial Availability of Fabric and Yarn............................................    0625-AA59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                      National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
51          Maximize Retention and Monitoring Program in the Shore-Based Pacific Whiting Fishery..    0648-AR63
52          American Lobster Fishery; Fishing Effort Control Measures To Complement Interstate        0648-AT31
            Lobster Management Recommendations by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.
53          South Atlantic Fishery Ecosystem Plan Comprehensive Amendment.........................    0648-AV31
54          Collection and Use of Tax Identification Numbers From Holders of and Applicants for       0648-AV76
            National Marine Fisheries Service Permits.............................................
55          Amendment 17 to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery     0648-AW11
            Management Plan.......................................................................
56          Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Queen Conch Fishery of Puerto Rico     0648-AW15
            and the U.S. Virgin Islands...........................................................
57          Marine Mammal Protection Act Stranding Regulation Revisions...........................    0648-AW22
58          Amendment 4 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan...........................    0648-AW75
59          Allowable Modifications to the Turtle Excluder Device (TED) Requirements..............    0648-AW93
60          Regulatory Amendment To Correct and Clarify Amendment 13 and Subsequent Frameworks of     0648-AW95
            the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan....................................
61          Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Fishery Management Plan......    0648-AX05
62          Amendment 30 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King      0648-AX47
            and Tanner Crabs Arbitration Regulations..............................................
63          Salmon Bycatch Reduction Management Measures for the Fishery Management Plan 91 in the    0648-AX89
            Bering Sea Aleutian Islands...........................................................
64          Revoke Inactive Quota Share and Annual Individual Fishing Quota From a Holder of Quota    0648-AX91
            Share Under the Pacific Halibut and Sablefish Fixed Gear Individual Fishing Quota
            Program...............................................................................
65          2010 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Recreational Management Measures.......    0648-AY04
66          Maximized Retention Monitoring Program for Catcher Vessels in the Pacific Whiting         0648-AY17
            Mothership Fishery in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery............................
67          Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, South Atlantic; Gulf of Mexico Fisheries;     0648-AY22
            Generic Amendment for Annual Catch Limits.............................................
68          Regulatory Amendment To Revise Charter Halibut Logbook Submission Requirements........    0648-AY38
69          Addendum IV to the Weakfish Interstate Management Plan--Bycatch Trip Limit............    0648-AY41
70          Framework 21 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan......................    0648-AY43
71          Fishery Management Plan Amendment 95 for Skates Management in the Groundfish Fisheries    0648-AY48
            of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands................................................
72          Amendment 2; Fishery Management Plan for Queen Conch Fishery of Puerto Rico and U.S.      0648-AY55
            Virgin Islands, and Amendment 5; Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan of Puerto Rico and
            U.S. Virgin Islands...................................................................
73          Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Interim 2010 Tribal    0648-AY59
            Whiting Regulations...................................................................
74          Fisheries Off West Coast States; West Coast Salmon Fisheries; 2010 Management Measures    0648-AY60
75          Marine Mammal Protection Act Permit Regulation Revisions..............................    0648-AV82
76          Take and Import Marine Mammals: Proposed Rule for Take of Marine Mammals Incidental to    0648-AW59
            Routine Operations of 13 Power Generating Stations in Central and Southern California.
77          Reduce Sea Turtle Bycatch in Atlantic Trawl Fisheries.................................    0648-AY61
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                        National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
78          Certification of Nations Whose Fishing Vessels Are Engaged in IUU Fishing or Bycatch      0648-AV51
            of Protected Living Marine Resources..................................................
79          Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA)           0648-AV53
            Environmental Review Procedure........................................................
80          Revise Regulations Governing the North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program............    0648-AW24

[[Page 21752]]

 
81          Amendment 3 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan....................    0648-AW30
82          Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Shark Management Measures.................    0648-AW65
83          Amendment 31 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of    0648-AX67
            Mexico................................................................................
84          Snapper-Grouper Fishery Management Plan of the South Atlantic.........................    0648-AX75
85          Framework Adjustment 44 and Specifications for the Northeast Multispecies Fishery         0648-AY29
            Management Plan.......................................................................
86          FY 2010 Atlantic Deep-Sea Red Crab Specifications.....................................    0648-AY51
87          Provide Regulations for Permits for Capture, Transport, Import, and Export of             0648-AH26
            Protected Species for Public Display, and for Maintaining a Captive Marine Mammal
            Inventory.............................................................................
88          Protective Regulations for Killer Whales in the Northwest Region Under the Endangered     0648-AV15
            Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act..........................................
89          Rulemaking To Establish Take Prohibitions for the Threatened Southern Distinct            0648-AV94
            Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon...................................
90          Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City        0648-AW80
            Division Mission Activities...........................................................
91          Rule To Revise the Critical Habitat Designation for the Endangered Leatherback Sea        0648-AX06
            Turtle................................................................................
92          Critical Habitat Designation for Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Under the Endangered Species     0648-AX50
            Act...................................................................................
93          Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals        0648-AX86
            Incidental to Training Operations Conducted Within the Gulf of Mexico Range Complex...
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
94          Fishery Management Plan for Regulating Offshore Marine Aquaculture in the Gulf of         0648-AS65
            Mexico................................................................................
95          Amendment 5 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan...........................    0648-AY47
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
96          Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Pelagic Fisheries; Squid Jig Fisheries..............    0648-AS71
97          Modifying Maximum Retainable Amounts (MRAs) for Selected Groundfish Species Caught by     0648-AV32
            the Non-American Fishing Act Trawl Catcher Processor Sector...........................
98          Initial Implementation of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention            0648-AV63
            Implementation Act....................................................................
99          Amendment 15B to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery    0648-AW12
            Management Plan.......................................................................
100         Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Western Pacific Pelagic Fisheries; Amendment 18 to      0648-AW49
            the Pelagics Fishery Management Plan; Shallow-Set Longline Swordfish Fishery..........
101         Halibut Charter Vessel Moratorium.....................................................    0648-AW92
102         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; 2009 North and South Atlantic Commercial Quotas....    0648-AX07
103         Amendment 29 to the Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of        0648-AX39
            Mexico................................................................................
104         Western and Central Pacific Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species; Implementation of     0648-AX59
            the Longline Catch Limits Adopted at the Fifth Session of the Western and Central
            Pacific Fisheries Commission..........................................................
105         Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Data Collection for    0648-AX98
            the Trawl Rationalization Program.....................................................
106         Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan..    0648-AY00
107         Fishing Restrictions in the Longline and Purse Seine Fisheries in the Eastern Pacific     0648-AY08
            Ocean in 2009, 2010, and 2011.........................................................
108         2010 Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Specifications and Management       0648-AY13
            Measures..............................................................................
109         2010 Pacific Halibut Fisheries; Catch Sharing Plan....................................    0648-AY31
110         Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction Plan Regulations.......................................    0648-AW51
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 21753]]


                                Patent and Trademark Office--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
111         Revision of USPTO Fees for Fiscal Year 2011...........................................    0651-AC43
112         Revision of USPTO Fees for Fiscal Year 2012...........................................    0651-AC44
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Patent and Trademark Office--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
113         Interim Increase on Patent Fees for Fiscal Year 2011..................................    0651-AC42
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Patent and Trademark Office--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
114         Examination of Patent Applications That Include Claims Containing Alternative Language    0651-AC00
115         Fiscal Year 2009 Revision of Request for Continued Examination, 18-Month Publication,     0651-AC29
            and Other Miscellaneous Cost-Recovery Patent Fees.....................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions
International Trade Administration (ITA)
_______________________________________________________________________

50. COMMERCIAL AVAILABILITY OF FABRIC AND YARN

Legal Authority: PL 106-200, sec 112(b)(5)(B); PL 106-200, sec 211; EO 
13191; PL 107-210, sec 3103

Abstract: This rule implements certain provisions of the Trade and 
Development Act of 2000 (the Act). Title I of the Act (the African 
Growth and Opportunity Act or AGOA), title II of the Act (the United 
States-Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act or CBTPA), and title XXXI 
of the Trade Act of 2002 (the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug 
Eradication Act or ATPDEA) provide for quota- and duty-free treatment 
for qualifying apparel products from designated beneficiary countries. 
AGOA and CBTPA authorize quota- and duty-free treatment for apparel 
articles that are both cut (or knit-to-shape) and sewn or otherwise 
assembled in one or more designated beneficiary countries from yarn or 
fabric that is not formed in the United States or a beneficiary 
country, provided it has been determined that such yarn or fabric 
cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial quantities in 
a timely manner. The President has delegated to the Committee for the 
Implementation of Textile Agreements (the Committee), which is chaired 
by the Department of Commerce, the authority to determine whether yarn 
or fabric cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial 
quantities in a timely manner under the AGOA, the ATPDEA, and the 
CBTPA, and has authorized the Committee to extend quota- and duty-free 
treatment to apparel of such yarn or fabric. The rule provides the 
procedure for interested parties to submit a request alleging that a 
yarn or fabric cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in 
commercial quantities in a timely manner, the procedure for public 
comments, and relevant factors that will be considered in the 
Committee's determination. The rule also outlines the factors to be 
considered by the Committee in extending quota- and duty-free 
treatment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Janet Heinzen
Phone: 202 482-4006
Email: janet_heinzen@ita.doc.gov

RIN: 0625-AA59

[[Page 21754]]

_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________

NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
____________________________________________________
51. MAXIMIZE RETENTION AND MONITORING PROGRAM IN THE SHORE-BASED PACIFIC 
WHITING FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The Pacific Fishery Management Council (Pacific Council) at 
their October 21-25, 1996, meeting in San Francisco, California 
addressed the treatment and disposition of salmon in the groundfish 
trawl fisheries, specifically the shore-based whiting fishery. At that 
meeting, the Pacific Council discussed the retention of salmon in the 
shore-based whiting fishery and took action to maintain a viable shore-
based whiting fishery by using exempted fishing permits (EFPs). These 
EFPs allowed the shore-based whiting fleet to temporarily deliver 
unsorted catch to processing plants and provided for the monitoring of 
incidentally taken salmon until a permanent monitoring program could be 
implemented. In keeping with the Pacific Council's recommendation, NMFS 
is proceeding with implementing a monitoring program for the shore-
based whiting fishery. This action will aid in the sustainable 
management of Pacific Coast salmon and groundfish fisheries while 
providing an important economic opportunity to those associated with 
the harvest, processing, and selling of whiting taken by the shore-
based whiting fleet. The need for implementing a permanent monitoring 
program in the shore-based Pacific whiting fishery is to provide for a 
full retention fishery by enabling the shore-based whiting fleet, 
comprised exclusively of catcher vessels, to deliver unsorted catch to 
processing plants. This practice is necessary to ensure that whiting 
landings are of market quality, while abiding by Federal groundfish 
regulations and those implementing the Pacific Coast salmon and 
groundfish fishery management plans (FMPs).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Regional Administrator, Northwest Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Building 1, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426
Email: barry.thom@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AR63
_______________________________________________________________________

52. AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY; FISHING EFFORT CONTROL MEASURES TO 
COMPLEMENT INTERSTATE LOBSTER MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE ATLANTIC 
STATES MARINE FISHERIES COMMISSION

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service announces that it is 
considering, and seeking public comment on, revisions to Federal 
American lobster regulations for the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) 
associated with effort control measures as recommended for Federal 
implementation by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission 
(ASFMC), as outlined in the Interstate Fishery Management Plan (ISFMP) 
for American Lobster. This action will evaluate effort control measures 
in certain Lobster Conservation Management Areas including: limits on 
future access based on historic participation criteria; procedures to 
allow trap transfers among qualifiers and impose a trap reduction or 
conservation tax on any trap transfers; and a trap reduction schedule 
to meet the goals of the ISFMP.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/10/05                    70 FR 24495
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/09/05
NPRM                            05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AT31
_______________________________________________________________________

53. SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY ECOSYSTEM PLAN COMPREHENSIVE AMENDMENT

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The purpose of this action is to develop an ecosystem-based 
approach to resource management. The South Atlantic Council plans to 
develop a Fishery Ecosystem Plan (FEP) Comprehensive Amendment, which 
would modify all its Fishery Management Plans (FMPs). The initial 
amendment would include the following: (1) Various actions to comply 
with new essential fish habitat requirements; (2) establishment of deep 
water coral Habitat Areas of Particular Concern, with gear limitations, 
such as the establishment of allowable trawl areas; and (3) other 
possible actions necessary to implement ecosystem-based fishery 
management.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV31
_______________________________________________________________________

54. COLLECTION AND USE OF TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS FROM HOLDERS OF AND 
APPLICANTS FOR NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE PERMITS

Legal Authority: 31 USC 7701; 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 1361 et seq; 
16 USC 1531 et seq

Abstract: In conformance with the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 
1996 (Debt Collection Act), the National Marine Fisheries Service 
(NMFS) will issue a rule to require that each existing holder of and 
future applicant for a permit, license, endorsement, authorization, 
transfer or like instrument issued by the agency provide a Taxpayer 
Identification Number (TIN) (business, employer identification number 
or individual,

[[Page 21755]]

social security number) and Date of Incorporation or Date of Birth, as 
appropriate. Under the Debt Collection Act, NMFS is required to collect 
the TIN to report on and collect any delinquent non-tax debt owed to 
the Federal Government. NMFS plans to use Date of Incorporation or Date 
of Birth information for administrative aspects of permitting 
procedures with appropriate confidentiality safeguards pursuant to the 
Privacy Act. The rule will specify: (a) The particular uses that may be 
made of the reported TIN; (b) the effects, if any, of not providing the 
required information; (c) how the information will be used to ascertain 
if the permit holder or applicant owes delinquent non-tax debt to the 
Government pursuant to the Debt Collection Act; (d) the effects on the 
permit holder or applicant when such delinquent debts are owed; and (e) 
the agency's intended communications with the permit holder or 
applicant regarding the relationship of such delinquent debts to its 
permitting process and the need to resolve such debts as a basis for 
completing permit issuance or renewal. The rule will amend existing 
agency permit regulations and contain all appropriate modified and new 
collections-of-information pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
Fax: 301 713-0596
Email: alan.risenhoover@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV76
_______________________________________________________________________

55. AMENDMENT 17 TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL 
SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Amendment 17 is intended to establish management reference 
points (MSY, OY) for red snapper; establish a rebuilding plan 
(rebuilding timeframe and rebuilding strategy) for red snapper; specify 
Annual Catch Limits (ACL), Annual Catch Targets (ACT), and 
Accountability Measures (AM) for 10 species undergoing overfishing; and 
modify management measures to ensure future catch is equal to or below 
the ACL.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AW11
_______________________________________________________________________

56. AMENDMENT 2 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE QUEEN CONCH 
FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: St. Croix queen conch landings by commercial fishermen alone 
have exceeded sustainable harvest levels since the 2000-2001 fishing 
season. In 2005-2006, the commercial harvest was over four times 
sustainable levels. Additionally, there is an unknown but significant 
recreational harvest. Overfishing of queen conch has led to resource 
collapse in other regions and in some cases, long-term resource loss. 
According to the NMFS Report on the Status of the U.S. Fisheries for 
2006, queen conch is overfished and undergoing overfishing. Under 
current fishing practices, reductions in mortality are not expected to 
be sufficient in the queen conch fishery. Without a reduction in 
mortality, queen conch are not expected to achieve the rebuilding goals 
established in the Sustainable Fisheries Amendment of 2005. Therefore, 
a change in fishing practices is needed to help achieve the necessary 
reductions in queen conch fishing mortality.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Intent                10/11/07                    72 FR 58057
NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/10
Final Action                    08/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AW15
_______________________________________________________________________

57. MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT STRANDING REGULATION REVISIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1379; 16 USC 1382; 16 USC 1421

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering 
proposing changes to its implementing regulations (50 CFR 216) 
governing the taking of stranded marine mammals under section 109(h), 
section 112(c), and title IV of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and is 
soliciting public comment to better inform the process. NMFS intends to 
clarify the requirements and procedures for responding to stranded 
marine mammals and for determining the disposition of rehabilitated 
marine mammals, which includes the procedures for the placement of non-
releasable animals and for authorizing the retention of releasable 
rehabilitated marine mammals for scientific research, enhancement, or 
public display. This action will be analyzed under the National 
Environmental Policy Act with an Environmental Assessment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           01/31/08                     73 FR 5786
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/31/08
NPRM                            05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: David Cottingham, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric

[[Page 21756]]

Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: david.cottingham@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AW22
_______________________________________________________________________

58. AMENDMENT 4 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The goal of Amendment 4 is to improve catch monitoring and 
ensure compliance with the Reauthorized Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act (MSRA). The management measures 
developed in this amendment may address one or more of the following 
objectives: (1) To implement measures to improve the long-term 
monitoring of catch (landings and bycatch) in the herring fishery; (2) 
to implement annual catch limits and accountability measures consistent 
with the MSRA; (3) to implement other management measures as necessary 
to ensure compliance with the new provisions of the MSRA; (4) to 
develop a sector allocation process or other limited access privilege 
program for the herring fishery; and (5) in the context of objectives 
1-4 (above), to consider the health of the herring resource and the 
important role of herring as a forage fish and a predator fish 
throughout its range.
The New England Fishery Management Council will develop conservation 
and management measures to address the issues identified above and meet 
the goals/objectives of the amendment. Any conservation and management 
measures developed in this amendment also must comply with all 
applicable laws.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Intent                05/08/08                    73 FR 26082
Notice of Intent Comment Period 
End                             06/30/08
NPRM                            05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AW75
_______________________________________________________________________

59. ALLOWABLE MODIFICATIONS TO THE TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICE (TED) 
REQUIREMENTS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

Abstract: NMFS proposes to revise the TED requirements to allow new 
materials and modifications to existing approved TED designs. 
Specifically, proposed allowable modifications include the use of flat 
bar, box pipe, and oval pipe for use in currently-approved TED grids; 
an increase in mesh size on escape flaps from 1-5/8 inches to 2 inches; 
the use of the Boone single straight cut and triangular escape 
openings; specifications on the use of TED grid brace bars; and the use 
of the Chauvin Shrimp Kicker to improve shrimp retention.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michael Barnette, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, 
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 551-5794
Email: michael.barnette@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AW93
_______________________________________________________________________

60. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO CORRECT AND CLARIFY AMENDMENT 13 AND 
SUBSEQUENT FRAMEWORKS OF THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT 
PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This action would make corrections and clarifications to the 
final rule implementing Amendment 13 to the Northeast Multispecies 
Fishery Management Plan, as well as subsequent groundfish actions. 
These corrections are administrative in nature and are intended to 
correct inaccurate references and other inadvertent errors and to 
clarify specific regulations to maintain consistency with the intent of 
Amendment 13 and subsequent actions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AW95
_______________________________________________________________________

61. AMENDMENT 11 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, BUTTERFISH FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendment 11 may consider: (1) Limited access in the Atlantic 
mackerel (mackerel) fishery; (2) implementation of annual catch limits 
(ACLs) and accountability measures (AMs) for mackerel and butterfish 
required under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management 
Reauthorization Act of 2006 (MSRA); (3) updating of the description and 
identification of essential fish habitat (EFH) for all life stages of 
mackerel, Loligo squid, Illex squid, and butterfish (including gear 
impacts on Loligo squid egg EFH); and (4) possible limitations on at-
sea processing of mackerel.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Intent                08/11/08                    73 FR 46590
Notice of Intent Comment Period 
End                             09/10/08
NPRM                            05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AX05

[[Page 21757]]

_______________________________________________________________________

62. AMENDMENT 30 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA AND 
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRABS ARBITRATION REGULATIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1862; PL 109-241; PL 109-479

Abstract: The proposed action would implement Amendment 30 to the 
Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King and 
Tanner Crabs to make minor modifications to the arbitration system used 
to settle price and other disputes among harvesters and processors in 
the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands crab rationalization program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
Notice of Availability          05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/10
Notice of Availability Comment 
Period End                      07/00/10
Final Rule                      11/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AX47
_______________________________________________________________________

63. SALMON BYCATCH REDUCTION MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR THE FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN 91 IN THE BERING SEA ALEUTIAN ISLANDS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 3631 et seq; 16 USC 773 et 
seq; PL 108-447

Abstract: This fishery management plan amendment and rulemaking will 
implement the North Pacific Fishery Management Council's 
recommendations for management measures to minimize to the extent 
practicable Chinook salmon bycatch in the Bering Sea pollock fishery. 
These management measures provide two options for the pollock sectors 
(e.g., inshore catcher vessels, offshore catcher-processors, catcher 
vessels delivering to motherships, or CDQ entities): fish under a lower 
Chinook salmon cap or participate in an incentive program and fish 
under a higher cap. Under the first option, the fleet as a whole may 
choose to fish under a transferable cap of 47,591 Chinook salmon, which 
would be allocated by season and sector. Once each sector reaches its 
specific cap, it would be prohibited from continuing to fish for 
pollock for the remainder of the season. Alternatively, vessels or CDQ 
entities may choose to participate in private contracts called 
incentive plan agreements (IPA) which would describe how participants 
would maintain low bycatch even when their bycatch levels are well 
below the hard cap approved. Those vessels or CDQ entities 
participating in an IPA would be allocated a transferable share of up 
to 60,000 Chinook salmon. This cap would be reduced for any vessels or 
CDQ entities not participating in an IPA and those vessels and CDQ 
entities would fish under a lower, non-transferable cap. In addition to 
the annual cap levels, if any sector operating under an IPA exceeds its 
proportion of 47,591 Chinook salmon three times in any seven-year 
period, the sector's maximum bycatch limit will be permanently reduced 
to its proportional share of the 47,591 cap. If the FMP amendments and 
proposed rule are approved, fishing under the new Chinook salmon 
bycatch management measures would start in 2011.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability          02/18/10                     75 FR 7228
NPRM                            03/23/10                    75 FR 14016
Notice of Availability Comment 
Period End                      04/19/10
NPRM Comment Period End         05/07/10
Final Rule                      11/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AX89
_______________________________________________________________________

64. REVOKE INACTIVE QUOTA SHARE AND ANNUAL INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA FROM 
A HOLDER OF QUOTA SHARE UNDER THE PACIFIC HALIBUT AND SABLEFISH FIXED 
GEAR INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA PROGRAM

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 773 (Halibut Act)

Abstract: This action would amend existing commercial fishing 
regulations for the fixed-gear Pacific Halibut and sablefish individual 
fishing quota program at 50 CFR 679. The amendment would revoke 
inactive quota share unless the quota share permit holder affirmatively 
notices NMFS in writing within 60 days of the agency's preliminary 
determination of inactivity that they choose to (a) retain the inactive 
IFQ quota share, (b) activate the quota share through transfer or by 
fishing, or (c) appeal the preliminary determination. Quota share that 
is not activated through this process and is revoked would be 
proportionally distributed to the quota share pool. This regulatory 
revision is based on the recommendations of the North Pacific Fishery 
Management Council in June 2006 and again in February 2009. Amending 
the regulations would improve the efficiency of the Pacific Halibut and 
Sablefish IFQ program and augment operational flexibility of 
participating fisherman.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/10
Final Rule                      11/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AX91
_______________________________________________________________________

65. 2010 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS RECREATIONAL 
MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

[[Page 21758]]

Abstract: This action will propose and implement the 2010 recreational 
management measures (minimum fish size, fishing seasons, and possession 
limits) for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AY04
_______________________________________________________________________

66. MAXIMIZED RETENTION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR CATCHER VESSELS IN THE 
PACIFIC WHITING MOTHERSHIP FISHERY IN THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH 
FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The action would implement a monitoring program for catcher 
vessels in the mothership sector of the Pacific whiting fishery off the 
coast of Washington, Oregon, and California. The monitoring program 
would consist of a camera and other sensors to monitor fishing activity 
in order to maintain the integrity of the maximized retention 
requirements found at 50 CFR 660.306 (f)(7). Maximized retention 
encourages full retention of all catch while allowing minor discard 
events to occur. This ensures that unsorted catch is available for 
observers to monitor on board the mothership processors and thereby 
maintains the integrity of data collected under the observer program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand 
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: frank.lockhart@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AY17
_______________________________________________________________________

67. FISHERIES OF THE CARIBBEAN, GULF OF MEXICO, SOUTH ATLANTIC; GULF OF 
MEXICO FISHERIES; GENERIC AMENDMENT FOR ANNUAL CATCH LIMITS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The generic amendment is intended to modify five of the 
Council's Fishery Management Plan (FMPs). These include FMPs for: Reef 
Fish Resources, Shrimp, Stone Crab, Coral and Coral Reef Resources, and 
Red Drum. NMFS and the Council will develop these Annual Catch Limits 
(ACLs) in co-operation with the Scientific and Statistical Committee 
and the Southeast Fisheries Science Center. NMFS, in collaboration with 
the Council, will develop a DEIS to evaluate alternatives and actions 
for the ACLs. Some examples of these actions include: establishing 
sector specific ACLs, selecting levels of risk associated with species 
yields, considering removal or withdrawal of species from FMPs, and 
delegating species or species assemblages to state regulators.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Intent                08/04/09                    74 FR 47206
NPRM                            11/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AY22
_______________________________________________________________________

68.  REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REVISE CHARTER HALIBUT 
LOGBOOK SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 2431 et seq; 31 USC 9701 et seq

Abstract: Clarifies and revises the charter halibut logbook submission 
requirements at 50 CFR part 300 to better match the submission schedule 
and reporting format of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game 
saltwater charter logbook.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AY38
_______________________________________________________________________

69.  ADDENDUM IV TO THE WEAKFISH INTERSTATE MANAGEMENT 
PLAN--BYCATCH TRIP LIMIT

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101

Abstract: NMFS takes this action to modify management restrictions in 
the Federal weakfish fishery in a manner consistent with the 
Commission's Weakfish Management Board's (Board) approved Addendum IV 
to Amendment 4 to the ISFMP for Weakfish. In short, the proposed 
Federal regulatory change would decrease the incidental catch allowance 
for weakfish in the EEZ in non-directed fisheries using smaller mesh 
sizes, from 150 pounds to no more than 100 pounds per day or trip, 
whichever is longer in duration. In addition it would impose a one fish 
possession limit on recreational fishers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13362, 1315

[[Page 21759]]

East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
Fax: 301 713-0596
Email: alan.risenhoover@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AY41
_______________________________________________________________________

70.  FRAMEWORK 21 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Framework Adjustment 21 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery 
Management Plan (Framework 21) will set specifications for the 2010 
scallop fishing year, which begins March 1, 2010, including adjustments 
to the total allowable catch, days-at-sea (DAS) allocations, scallop 
access area rotation schedule, and access area trip allocations. This 
framework is for a single year because the Council is working on 
Amendment 15, which will establish a process for implementing annual 
catch limits that are required to be in place in 2011 for the scallop 
fishery. Framework 21 must also comply with the requirements of the 
March 14, 2008 (amended February 5, 2009), Biological Opinion completed 
for the Atlantic Sea Scallop fishery, which requires the amount of 
allocated scallop fishing effort by limited access DAS scallop vessels 
that can be used in the Mid-Atlantic to be limited during the time of 
year when sea turtle distribution overlaps with scallop fishing 
activity. In addition, Framework 21 considers minor adjustments to the 
limited access general category individual fishing quota program, 
scheduled to be implemented March 1, 2010, and the observer set-aside 
program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AY43
_______________________________________________________________________

71.  FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN AMENDMENT 95 FOR SKATES 
MANAGEMENT IN THE GROUNDFISH FISHERIES OF THE BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN 
ISLANDS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq; PL 108-447; PL 106-31; PL 106-554; 
PL 109-479; PL 105-277; 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 1540

Abstract: NMFS proposes regulations to implement Amendment 95 to the 
Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian 
Islands Management Area (FMP). If approved, Amendment 95 would move 
skates from the ``other species'' category to the target species list 
in the FMP. By listing skates as target species, a directed fishery for 
skates in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area (BSAI) 
may be managed to reduce the potential for overfishing skates. This 
proposed action is intended to promote the goals and objectives of the 
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the FMP, and 
other applicable laws.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/10
Final Action                    11/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: doug.mecum@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AY48
_______________________________________________________________________

72.  AMENDMENT 2; FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR QUEEN 
CONCH FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS, AND AMENDMENT 5; 
REEF FISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN OF PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act 
(MSRA: Pub. L. 94-265), as amended through January 12, 2007, requires 
the establishment of annual catch limits (ACLs) and accountability 
measures (AMs) during 2010 for all species that are considered to be 
overfished or undergoing overfishing. The present amendment is being 
promulgated to meet those MSRA mandates as well as to establish 
framework procedures with which to effect future changes to the 
management plan and to restructure the fisheries management units for 
grouper and snapper. Various alternatives are included in the draft 
amendment, including maintenance of the status quo for each action as 
well as various alternatives regarding the year-sequences used to 
establish ALCs and the strategies to be employed to account for 
overages and to respond to needed changes in management methods.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrat