Regulated Navigation Areas; Bars Along the Coasts of Oregon and Washington, 40963-40966 [2013-16248]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 131 / Tuesday, July 9, 2013 / Rules and Regulations Office of Navigation Standards (CG– NAV–3), email Burt.A.Lahn@uscg.mil, telephone 202–372–1526. If you have questions on viewing or submitting material to the docket, call Barbara Hairston, Program Manager, Docket Operations, telephone 202–366–9826. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 177 [Docket No. USCG–2013–0216] RIN 1625–AC01 Table of Contents for Preamble Regulated Navigation Areas; Bars Along the Coasts of Oregon and Washington I. Public Participation and Request for Comments A. Submitting comments B. Viewing comments and documents C. Privacy Act D. Public meeting II. Abbreviations III. Regulatory History and Information IV. Basis and Purpose V. Discussion of the Interim Rule VI. Regulatory Analyses A. Regulatory Planning and Review B. Small Entities C. Assistance for Small Entities D. Collection of Information E. Federalism F. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act G. Taking of Private Property H. Civil Justice Reform I. Protection of Children J. Indian Tribal Governments K. Energy Effects L. Technical Standards M. Environment Coast Guard, DHS. Interim rule with request for comments. AGENCY: ACTION: The Coast Guard is amending its regulations by removing the wave height and surface current provisions and regulated boating areas for bar crossing locations along the coasts of Oregon and Washington because they conflict with more recently promulgated wave height provisions and regulated boating areas for the same bar crossings. This amendment is necessary in order to remove confusion as to which safety requirements apply to recreational vessels, uninspected passenger vessels, small passenger vessels, and commercial fishing vessels when operating within the regulated navigation areas. DATES: This interim rule is effective August 8, 2013. Comments and related material must reach the Docket Management Facility on or before September 9, 2013. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by docket number USCG– 2013–0216 using any one of the following methods: (1) Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov. (2) Fax: 202–493–2251. (3) Mail: Docket Management Facility (M–30), U.S. Department of Transportation, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590– 0001. (4) Hand delivery: Same as mail address above, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The telephone number is 202–366–9329. To avoid duplication, please use only one of these four methods. See the ‘‘Public Participation and Request for Comments’’ portion of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below for instructions on submitting comments. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES SUMMARY: If you have questions on this rule, email or call Mr. Burt Lahn, U.S. Coast Guard FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:51 Jul 08, 2013 Jkt 229001 I. Public Participation and Request for Comments We encourage you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting comments and related materials. All comments received will be posted, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov and will include any personal information you have provided. A. Submitting comments If you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this rulemaking (USCG–2013–0216), indicate the specific section of this document to which each comment applies, and provide a reason for each suggestion or recommendation. You may submit your comments and material online, or by fax, mail or hand delivery, but please use only one of these means. We recommend that you include your name and a mailing address, an email address, or a phone number in the body of your document so that we can contact you if we have questions regarding your submission. To submit your comments online, go to https://www.regulations.gov and insert ‘‘USCG–2013–0216’’ in the ‘‘Search’’ box. Locate this document in the search results, click on ‘‘Submit a Comment,’’ and follow the instructions to submit your comments. If you submit your comments by mail or hand delivery, PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 40963 submit them in an unbound format, no larger than 81⁄2 by 11 inches, suitable for copying and electronic filing. If you submit them by mail and would like to know that they reached the Facility, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard or envelope. We will consider all comments and material received during the comment period and may change this rule based on your comments. B. Viewing comments and documents To view comments, as well as documents mentioned in this preamble as being available in the docket, go to https://www.regulations.gov and insert ‘‘USCG–2013–0216’’ in the ‘‘Search’’ box and locate this document in the search results. Open the docket folder and use the filters on the left side of the page to view public comments or other types of documents. If you do not have access to the internet, you may view the docket online by visiting the Docket Management Facility in Room W12–140 on the ground floor of the Department of Transportation West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. We have an agreement with the Department of Transportation to use the Docket Management Facility. C. Privacy Act Anyone can search the electronic form of comments received into any of our dockets by the name of the individual submitting the comment (or signing the comment, if submitted on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review a Privacy Act notice regarding our public dockets in the January 17, 2008, issue of the Federal Register (73 FR 3316). D. Public meeting We do not now plan to hold a public meeting. But you may submit a request for one using one of the methods specified under ADDRESSES. In your request, explain why you believe a public meeting would be beneficial. If we determine that one would aid this rulemaking, we will hold one at a time and place announced by a later notice in the Federal Register. II. Abbreviations CFR Code of Federal Regulations DHS Department of Homeland Security FR Federal Register NPRM Notice of Proposed Rulemaking NTSB National Transportation Safety Board RNA Regulated Navigation Area U.S.C. United States Code § Section E:\FR\FM\09JYR1.SGM 09JYR1 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES 40964 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 131 / Tuesday, July 9, 2013 / Rules and Regulations III. Regulatory History & Information The bars along the coasts of Oregon and Washington are a maritime operating environment unique to the Pacific Northwest. The bars can and very often do become extremely hazardous for maritime traffic. On February 12, 2009, the Coast Guard published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal Register (74 FR 7022) that proposed to establish Regulated Navigation Areas (RNAs) in 33 CFR 165.1325 for bars along the coasts of Oregon and Washington. The proposals in the NPRM were designed to help ensure the safety of persons and vessels operating on or in the vicinity of the bars. The Coast Guard subsequently published a final rule in the Federal Register on November 17, 2009 (74 FR 59098), adopting most of the NPRM’s proposals. Certain provisions in the final rule superseded other existing regulatory provisions. Specifically, 33 CFR 165.1325(a) sets forth the specific locations for the RNAs that cover the bars along the Oregon and Washington coasts, and supersedes the regulated boating areas in 33 CFR 177.08. Additionally, 33 CFR 165.1325(b)(13) defines the term unsafe condition to include certain wave height conditions, and supersedes the unsafe wave height formula and surface current provisions in 33 CFR 177.07(f). The purpose of this interim rule is to remove those superseded provisions from the CFR. The Coast Guard is issuing this interim rule without prior notice and opportunity to comment pursuant to section 4(a) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 U.S.C. 553(b)). This provision authorizes an agency to issue a rule without prior notice and opportunity to comment when the agency for good cause finds that those procedures are ‘‘impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public interest.’’ Under 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(B), the Coast Guard finds that good cause exists for not publishing an NPRM with respect to this rule because that procedure would be contrary to the public interest. Failure to amend 33 CFR part 177 will result in confusion as to which safety requirements apply to recreational and small commercial vessels when operating in certain bar crossing locations along the coasts of Oregon and Washington. This rulemaking is necessary to remove the conflicting provisions under 33 CFR 177.07(f) and 177.08 that have been superseded by 33 CFR 165.1325 and to eliminate confusion regarding which requirements apply specific to the bars along the VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:51 Jul 08, 2013 Jkt 229001 coasts of Oregon and Washington. Delaying this action in order to publish an NPRM would be contrary to the public interest, as further delay would perpetuate confusion. In addition, as discussed in the aforementioned 2009 NPRM, the Coast Guard determined that the wave height and surface current provisions in 33 CFR 177.07(f), and the regulated boating areas in 33 CFR 177.08, did not provide a sufficient measure of safety for persons and vessels operating in those areas. In addition, multiple Coast Guard and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) casualty investigations indicated a need for additional regulations to mitigate the risks associated with the bars and to enhance the safety of the persons and vessels operating on and in the bars’ vicinity. Thus, continuing to keep these regulations in effect while publishing an NPRM would also be contrary to the public interest in making boating operations as safe as possible. IV. Basis and Purpose Under 46 U.S.C. 4302, the Coast Guard is authorized to establish regulations to promulgate minimum safety standards and procedures for recreational vessels. Under 46 U.S.C. 4105(a), uninspected passenger vessels are also subject to Chapter 43 of Title 46, U.S. Code. This rulemaking is necessary in order to remove the wave height and surface current provisions under 33 CFR 177.07(f) and the geographic coordinates in 33 CFR 177.08 that have been superseded by 33 CFR 165.1325, to eliminate confusion regarding which provisions apply specific to the bars along the coasts of Oregon and Washington. The regulations in 33 CFR 165.1325 establish clear procedures for restricting and/or closing the bars as well as mandating additional safety requirements for recreational and uninspected commercial vessels operating on or in the vicinity of the bars, when certain conditions exist. The RNAs established in 33 CFR 165.1325 help to expedite bar restrictions and closures and include a mariner notification process that helps keep vessels away from hazardous bars. The RNAs also require the use and/or making ready of safety equipment, as well as additional reporting requirements when certain conditions exist, which help safeguard the persons and vessels that operate on or in the vicinity of hazardous bars. V. Discussion of the Interim Rule Certain provisions of 33 CFR part 177, governing maritime traffic operating on PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 and in the vicinity of the bars along the coasts of Oregon and Washington, provide insufficient safety measures for the persons and vessels that operate in those areas. As discussed in the February 12, 2009 NPRM (74 FR 7022), multiple Coast Guard and NTSB casualty investigations indicated a need for additional regulations to mitigate the risks associated with the bars and to enhance the safety of the persons and vessels operating on and in the bars’ vicinity. To fulfill this need, in 2009, the Coast Guard established the RNAs in 33 CFR 165.1325. The provisions in 33 CFR 165.1325 establish an increased measure of safety and supersede the existing provisions in 33 CFR 177.07(f) and 177.08. Accordingly, the Coast Guard, through this interim rule, removes the wave height provisions in 33 CFR 177.07(f)(1) and (2), the surface current provision in 33 CFR 177.07(f)(3), and the regulated boating areas in 33 CFR 177.08. VI. Regulatory Analyses We developed this interim rule after considering numerous statutes and executive orders related to rulemaking. Below we summarize our analyses based on these statutes and executive orders. A. Regulatory Planning and Review Executive Orders 12866 (‘‘Regulatory Planning and Review’’) and 13563 (‘‘Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review’’) direct agencies to assess the costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, public health and safety effects, distributive impacts, and equity). Executive Order 13563 emphasizes the importance of quantifying both costs and benefits, of reducing costs, of harmonizing rules, and of promoting flexibility. This interim rule has not been designated a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866. Accordingly, the interim rule has not been reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget. The Coast Guard does not expect any economic impact as a result of this interim rule because the rule is only removing two criteria for unsafe conditions in 33 CFR part 177 that have been superseded by 33 CFR 165.1325. B. Small Entities Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601–612), we have considered whether this rule would have a significant economic impact on a E:\FR\FM\09JYR1.SGM 09JYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 131 / Tuesday, July 9, 2013 / Rules and Regulations substantial number of small entities. The term ‘‘small entities’’ comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 50,000. This rule does not require a general notice of proposed rulemaking and, therefore, is exempt from the requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. Although this rule is exempt, we have reviewed it for potential economic impact on small entities. The Coast Guard does not expect any economic impact as a result of this interim rule because the rule is only removing certain provisions of 33 CFR part 177 that have been superseded by 33 CFR 165.1325. The Coast Guard anticipates this interim rule will have no impacts, hence, no costs to the affected population, including any small entities. If you think that your business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction qualifies as a small entity and that this rule will have a significant economic impact on it, please submit a comment to the Docket Management Facility at the address under ADDRESSES. In your comment, explain why you think it qualifies and how and to what degree this rule would economically affect it. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES C. Assistance for Small Entities Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104–121), we want to assist small entities in understanding this rule so that they can better evaluate its effects on them and participate in the rulemaking. If the rule would affect your small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you have questions concerning its provisions or options for compliance, please consult Burt Lahn, U.S. Coast Guard Office of Navigation Standards (CG–NAV–3), email Burt.A.Lahn@uscg.mil, telephone 202– 372–1526. The Coast Guard will not retaliate against small entities that question or complain about this rule or any policy or action of the Coast Guard. D. Collection of Information This rule calls for no new collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501– 3520). E. Federalism A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132, Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:51 Jul 08, 2013 Jkt 229001 between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. We have analyzed this rule under that Order and have determined that it is consistent with the fundamental federalism principles and preemption requirements described in Executive Order 13132. Our analysis is explained below. Under 46 U.S.C. 4306, Federal regulations promulgated under the authority of 46 U.S.C. 4302 preempt State law unless the State law is identical to a Federal regulation or a State is specifically provided an exemption to those regulations, or permitted to regulate marine safety articles carried or used to address a hazardous condition or circumstance unique to that State. As noted above, this interim rule simply removes superseded regulations regarding wave height and surface current provisions, and certain regulated boating areas from 33 CFR part 177. Additionally, there are no existing State laws that are identical to these Federal regulations, nor have the States been provided an exemption to those regulations or permitted to regulate marine safety articles. Therefore, the rule is consistent with the principles of federalism and preemption requirements in Executive Order 13132. While it is well settled that States may not regulate in categories in which Congress intended the Coast Guard to be the sole source of a vessel’s obligations, the Coast Guard recognizes the key role that State and local governments may have in making regulatory determinations. Additionally, for rules with implications and preemptive effect, Executive Order 13132 specifically directs agencies to consult with State and local governments during the rulemaking process. Therefore, the Coast Guard invites affected State and local governments and their representative national organizations to indicate their desire for participation and consultation in this rulemaking process by submitting comments to this interim rule. In accordance with Executive Order 13132, the Coast Guard will provide a federalism impact statement to document: (1) The extent of the Coast Guard’s consultation with State and local officials who submit comments to this proposed rule; (2) a summary of the nature of any concerns raised by State or local governments and the Coast Guard’s position thereon; and (3) a statement of the extent to which the concerns of State and local officials have been met. We will also report to the Office of Management and Budget PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 40965 any written communications with the States. F. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531–1538) requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 (adjusted for inflation) or more in any one year. This rule will not result in such expenditure. G. Taking of Private Property This rule will not cause a taking of private property or otherwise have taking implications under Executive Order 12630, Governmental Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property Rights. H. Civil Justice Reform This rule meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize litigation, eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden. I. Protection of Children We have analyzed this rule under Executive Order 13045, Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks. This rule is not an economically significant rule and does not create an environmental risk to health or risk to safety that may disproportionately affect children. J. Indian Tribal Governments This rule does not have tribal implications under Executive Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments, because it does not have a substantial direct effect on one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. K. Energy Effects We have analyzed this rule under Executive Order 13211, Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use. We have determined that it is not a ‘‘significant energy action’’ under that order because it is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866 and is not likely to have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy. The Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs has not designated it as a significant E:\FR\FM\09JYR1.SGM 09JYR1 40966 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 131 / Tuesday, July 9, 2013 / Rules and Regulations § 177.04 energy action. Therefore, it does not require a Statement of Energy Effects under Executive Order 13211. [Amended] 2. In § 177.04(a), remove the text ‘‘§ 177.07(g)’’ and add, in its place, the text ‘‘§ 177.07(f)’’. ■ L. Technical Standards The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note) directs agencies to use voluntary consensus standards in their regulatory activities unless the agency provides Congress, through the Office of Management and Budget, with an explanation of why using these standards would be inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical. Voluntary consensus standards are technical standards (e.g., specifications of materials, performance, design, or operation; test methods; sampling procedures; and related management systems practices) that are developed or adopted by voluntary consensus standards bodies. This rule does not use technical standards. Therefore, we did not consider the use of voluntary consensus standards. § 177.07 M. Environment 40 CFR Part 52 We have analyzed this rule under Department of Homeland Security Management Directive 023–01 and Commandant Instruction M16475.lD, which guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321–4370f), and have concluded that this action is one of a category of actions that do not individually or cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment. This rule is categorically excluded, under section 2.B.2, Figure 2– 1, paragraph 34(g), of the Instruction because it involves regulations establishing, disestablishing, or changing RNAs. An environmental analysis checklist and a categorical exclusion determination are available in the docket where indicated under ADDRESSES. [EPA–R06–OAR–2009–0710; FRL–9831–1] List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 177 Marine safety. For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard amends 33 CFR part 177 as follows: mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES Title 33—Navigation and Navigable Waters PART 177—CORRECTION OF ESPECIALLY HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS 1. The authority citation for part 177 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 46 U.S.C. 4302, 4311; Pub. L. 103–206, 107 Stat. 2439. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:51 Jul 08, 2013 Jkt 229001 [Amended] 3. In § 177.07, remove paragraph (f) and redesignate paragraph (g) as new paragraph (f). ■ § 177.08 ■ § 177.09 ■ [Removed] 4. Remove § 177.08. [Redesignated as § 177.08] 5. Redesignate § 177.09 as § 177.08. Dated: June 28, 2013. Dana A. Goward, Director, Marine Transportation Systems, U.S. Coast Guard. [FR Doc. 2013–16248 Filed 7–8–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9110–04–P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; New Mexico; Interstate Transport of Fine Particulate Matter Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: EPA is approving a portion of a State Implementation Plan (SIP) submittal from the State of New Mexico to address Clean Air Act (CAA or Act) requirements that prohibit air emissions which will contribute significantly to nonattainment or interfere with maintenance in any other state for the 2006 fine particulate matter (PM2.5) national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS). EPA has determined that the existing SIP for New Mexico contains adequate provisions to prohibit air emissions from significantly contributing to nonattainment or interfering with maintenance of the 2006 24-hour PM2.5 NAAQS (2006 PM2.5 NAAQS) in any other state as required by the Act. DATES: This final rule is effective on August 8, 2013. ADDRESSES: EPA has established a docket for this action under Docket ID No. EPA–R06–OAR–2009–0710. All documents in the docket are listed on the https://www.regulations.gov Web site. Although listed in the index, some information is not publicly available, e.g., Confidential Business Information SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Certain other material, such as copyrighted material, is not placed on the Internet and will be publicly available only in hard copy form. Publicly available docket materials are available either electronically through https:// www.regulations.gov or in hard copy at the Air Planning Section (6PD–L), Environmental Protection Agency, 1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 700, Dallas, Texas 75202–2733. The file will be made available by appointment for public inspection in the Region 6 Freedom of Information Act Review Room between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays except for legal holidays. Contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT paragraph below to make an appointment. If possible, please make the appointment at least two working days in advance of your visit. There will be a 15 cent per page fee for making photocopies of documents. On the day of the visit, please check in at the EPA Region 6 reception area at 1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 700, Dallas, Texas. Mr. Carl Young, Air Planning Section (6PD– L), U.S. EPA Region 6, 214–665–6645, young.carl@epa.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Throughout this document, ‘‘we,’’ ‘‘us,’’ and ‘‘our’’ means EPA. Table of Contents I. Background II. Final Action III. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews I. Background The background for today’s action is discussed in detail in our March 12, 2013 proposal (78 FR 15664). In that notice, we proposed to approve a portion of a SIP submittal dated June 12, 2009, from the State of New Mexico to address CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I) requirements that prohibit air emissions which will contribute significantly to nonattainment or interfere with maintenance in any other state for the 2006 PM2.5 NAAQS. Specifically, we proposed to determine that the existing SIP for New Mexico contains adequate provisions to prohibit air emissions from significantly contributing to nonattainment or interfering with maintenance of the 2006 PM2.5 NAAQS. We received one comment from a citizen supporting our proposal. The comment letter is available for review in the docket for this rulemaking. We did not receive any adverse comments regarding our proposal. E:\FR\FM\09JYR1.SGM 09JYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 131 (Tuesday, July 9, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 40963-40966]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-16248]



[[Page 40963]]

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DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Coast Guard

33 CFR Part 177

[Docket No. USCG-2013-0216]
RIN 1625-AC01


Regulated Navigation Areas; Bars Along the Coasts of Oregon and 
Washington

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.

ACTION: Interim rule with request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: The Coast Guard is amending its regulations by removing the 
wave height and surface current provisions and regulated boating areas 
for bar crossing locations along the coasts of Oregon and Washington 
because they conflict with more recently promulgated wave height 
provisions and regulated boating areas for the same bar crossings. This 
amendment is necessary in order to remove confusion as to which safety 
requirements apply to recreational vessels, uninspected passenger 
vessels, small passenger vessels, and commercial fishing vessels when 
operating within the regulated navigation areas.

DATES: This interim rule is effective August 8, 2013. Comments and 
related material must reach the Docket Management Facility on or before 
September 9, 2013.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by docket number USCG-
2013-0216 using any one of the following methods:
    (1) Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov.
    (2) Fax: 202-493-2251.
    (3) Mail: Docket Management Facility (M-30), U.S. Department of 
Transportation, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001.
    (4) Hand delivery: Same as mail address above, between 9 a.m. and 5 
p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The telephone 
number is 202-366-9329.
    To avoid duplication, please use only one of these four methods. 
See the ``Public Participation and Request for Comments'' portion of 
the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below for instructions on 
submitting comments.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this rule, 
email or call Mr. Burt Lahn, U.S. Coast Guard Office of Navigation 
Standards (CG-NAV-3), email Burt.A.Lahn@uscg.mil, telephone 202-372-
1526. If you have questions on viewing or submitting material to the 
docket, call Barbara Hairston, Program Manager, Docket Operations, 
telephone 202-366-9826.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Table of Contents for Preamble

I. Public Participation and Request for Comments
    A. Submitting comments
    B. Viewing comments and documents
    C. Privacy Act
    D. Public meeting
II. Abbreviations
III. Regulatory History and Information
IV. Basis and Purpose
V. Discussion of the Interim Rule
VI. Regulatory Analyses
    A. Regulatory Planning and Review
    B. Small Entities
    C. Assistance for Small Entities
    D. Collection of Information
    E. Federalism
    F. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
    G. Taking of Private Property
    H. Civil Justice Reform
    I. Protection of Children
    J. Indian Tribal Governments
    K. Energy Effects
    L. Technical Standards
    M. Environment

I. Public Participation and Request for Comments

    We encourage you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting 
comments and related materials. All comments received will be posted, 
without change, to https://www.regulations.gov and will include any 
personal information you have provided.

A. Submitting comments

    If you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this 
rulemaking (USCG-2013-0216), indicate the specific section of this 
document to which each comment applies, and provide a reason for each 
suggestion or recommendation. You may submit your comments and material 
online, or by fax, mail or hand delivery, but please use only one of 
these means. We recommend that you include your name and a mailing 
address, an email address, or a phone number in the body of your 
document so that we can contact you if we have questions regarding your 
submission.
    To submit your comments online, go to https://www.regulations.gov 
and insert ``USCG-2013-0216'' in the ``Search'' box. Locate this 
document in the search results, click on ``Submit a Comment,'' and 
follow the instructions to submit your comments. If you submit your 
comments by mail or hand delivery, submit them in an unbound format, no 
larger than 8\1/2\ by 11 inches, suitable for copying and electronic 
filing. If you submit them by mail and would like to know that they 
reached the Facility, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard 
or envelope.
    We will consider all comments and material received during the 
comment period and may change this rule based on your comments.

B. Viewing comments and documents

    To view comments, as well as documents mentioned in this preamble 
as being available in the docket, go to https://www.regulations.gov and 
insert ``USCG-2013-0216'' in the ``Search'' box and locate this 
document in the search results. Open the docket folder and use the 
filters on the left side of the page to view public comments or other 
types of documents. If you do not have access to the internet, you may 
view the docket online by visiting the Docket Management Facility in 
Room W12-140 on the ground floor of the Department of Transportation 
West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. We have an agreement with the Department of Transportation to 
use the Docket Management Facility.

C. Privacy Act

    Anyone can search the electronic form of comments received into any 
of our dockets by the name of the individual submitting the comment (or 
signing the comment, if submitted on behalf of an association, 
business, labor union, etc.). You may review a Privacy Act notice 
regarding our public dockets in the January 17, 2008, issue of the 
Federal Register (73 FR 3316).

D. Public meeting

    We do not now plan to hold a public meeting. But you may submit a 
request for one using one of the methods specified under ADDRESSES. In 
your request, explain why you believe a public meeting would be 
beneficial. If we determine that one would aid this rulemaking, we will 
hold one at a time and place announced by a later notice in the Federal 
Register.

II. Abbreviations

CFR Code of Federal Regulations
DHS Department of Homeland Security
FR Federal Register
NPRM Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
NTSB National Transportation Safety Board
RNA Regulated Navigation Area
U.S.C. United States Code
Sec.  Section

[[Page 40964]]

III. Regulatory History & Information

    The bars along the coasts of Oregon and Washington are a maritime 
operating environment unique to the Pacific Northwest. The bars can and 
very often do become extremely hazardous for maritime traffic. On 
February 12, 2009, the Coast Guard published a Notice of Proposed 
Rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal Register (74 FR 7022) that proposed to 
establish Regulated Navigation Areas (RNAs) in 33 CFR 165.1325 for bars 
along the coasts of Oregon and Washington. The proposals in the NPRM 
were designed to help ensure the safety of persons and vessels 
operating on or in the vicinity of the bars. The Coast Guard 
subsequently published a final rule in the Federal Register on November 
17, 2009 (74 FR 59098), adopting most of the NPRM's proposals.
    Certain provisions in the final rule superseded other existing 
regulatory provisions. Specifically, 33 CFR 165.1325(a) sets forth the 
specific locations for the RNAs that cover the bars along the Oregon 
and Washington coasts, and supersedes the regulated boating areas in 33 
CFR 177.08. Additionally, 33 CFR 165.1325(b)(13) defines the term 
unsafe condition to include certain wave height conditions, and 
supersedes the unsafe wave height formula and surface current 
provisions in 33 CFR 177.07(f). The purpose of this interim rule is to 
remove those superseded provisions from the CFR.
    The Coast Guard is issuing this interim rule without prior notice 
and opportunity to comment pursuant to section 4(a) of the 
Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 U.S.C. 553(b)). This provision 
authorizes an agency to issue a rule without prior notice and 
opportunity to comment when the agency for good cause finds that those 
procedures are ``impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public 
interest.''
    Under 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(B), the Coast Guard finds that good cause 
exists for not publishing an NPRM with respect to this rule because 
that procedure would be contrary to the public interest. Failure to 
amend 33 CFR part 177 will result in confusion as to which safety 
requirements apply to recreational and small commercial vessels when 
operating in certain bar crossing locations along the coasts of Oregon 
and Washington. This rulemaking is necessary to remove the conflicting 
provisions under 33 CFR 177.07(f) and 177.08 that have been superseded 
by 33 CFR 165.1325 and to eliminate confusion regarding which 
requirements apply specific to the bars along the coasts of Oregon and 
Washington. Delaying this action in order to publish an NPRM would be 
contrary to the public interest, as further delay would perpetuate 
confusion.
    In addition, as discussed in the aforementioned 2009 NPRM, the 
Coast Guard determined that the wave height and surface current 
provisions in 33 CFR 177.07(f), and the regulated boating areas in 33 
CFR 177.08, did not provide a sufficient measure of safety for persons 
and vessels operating in those areas. In addition, multiple Coast Guard 
and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) casualty investigations 
indicated a need for additional regulations to mitigate the risks 
associated with the bars and to enhance the safety of the persons and 
vessels operating on and in the bars' vicinity. Thus, continuing to 
keep these regulations in effect while publishing an NPRM would also be 
contrary to the public interest in making boating operations as safe as 
possible.

IV. Basis and Purpose

    Under 46 U.S.C. 4302, the Coast Guard is authorized to establish 
regulations to promulgate minimum safety standards and procedures for 
recreational vessels. Under 46 U.S.C. 4105(a), uninspected passenger 
vessels are also subject to Chapter 43 of Title 46, U.S. Code.
    This rulemaking is necessary in order to remove the wave height and 
surface current provisions under 33 CFR 177.07(f) and the geographic 
coordinates in 33 CFR 177.08 that have been superseded by 33 CFR 
165.1325, to eliminate confusion regarding which provisions apply 
specific to the bars along the coasts of Oregon and Washington. The 
regulations in 33 CFR 165.1325 establish clear procedures for 
restricting and/or closing the bars as well as mandating additional 
safety requirements for recreational and uninspected commercial vessels 
operating on or in the vicinity of the bars, when certain conditions 
exist. The RNAs established in 33 CFR 165.1325 help to expedite bar 
restrictions and closures and include a mariner notification process 
that helps keep vessels away from hazardous bars. The RNAs also require 
the use and/or making ready of safety equipment, as well as additional 
reporting requirements when certain conditions exist, which help 
safeguard the persons and vessels that operate on or in the vicinity of 
hazardous bars.

V. Discussion of the Interim Rule

    Certain provisions of 33 CFR part 177, governing maritime traffic 
operating on and in the vicinity of the bars along the coasts of Oregon 
and Washington, provide insufficient safety measures for the persons 
and vessels that operate in those areas. As discussed in the February 
12, 2009 NPRM (74 FR 7022), multiple Coast Guard and NTSB casualty 
investigations indicated a need for additional regulations to mitigate 
the risks associated with the bars and to enhance the safety of the 
persons and vessels operating on and in the bars' vicinity. To fulfill 
this need, in 2009, the Coast Guard established the RNAs in 33 CFR 
165.1325.
    The provisions in 33 CFR 165.1325 establish an increased measure of 
safety and supersede the existing provisions in 33 CFR 177.07(f) and 
177.08. Accordingly, the Coast Guard, through this interim rule, 
removes the wave height provisions in 33 CFR 177.07(f)(1) and (2), the 
surface current provision in 33 CFR 177.07(f)(3), and the regulated 
boating areas in 33 CFR 177.08.

VI. Regulatory Analyses

    We developed this interim rule after considering numerous statutes 
and executive orders related to rulemaking. Below we summarize our 
analyses based on these statutes and executive orders.

A. Regulatory Planning and Review

    Executive Orders 12866 (``Regulatory Planning and Review'') and 
13563 (``Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review'') direct agencies 
to assess the costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives 
and, if regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that 
maximize net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, 
public health and safety effects, distributive impacts, and equity). 
Executive Order 13563 emphasizes the importance of quantifying both 
costs and benefits, of reducing costs, of harmonizing rules, and of 
promoting flexibility. This interim rule has not been designated a 
``significant regulatory action'' under section 3(f) of Executive Order 
12866. Accordingly, the interim rule has not been reviewed by the 
Office of Management and Budget.
    The Coast Guard does not expect any economic impact as a result of 
this interim rule because the rule is only removing two criteria for 
unsafe conditions in 33 CFR part 177 that have been superseded by 33 
CFR 165.1325.

B. Small Entities

    Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601-612), we have 
considered whether this rule would have a significant economic impact 
on a

[[Page 40965]]

substantial number of small entities. The term ``small entities'' 
comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations that are 
independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their fields, 
and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 50,000. 
This rule does not require a general notice of proposed rulemaking and, 
therefore, is exempt from the requirements of the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act. Although this rule is exempt, we have reviewed it for 
potential economic impact on small entities.
    The Coast Guard does not expect any economic impact as a result of 
this interim rule because the rule is only removing certain provisions 
of 33 CFR part 177 that have been superseded by 33 CFR 165.1325. The 
Coast Guard anticipates this interim rule will have no impacts, hence, 
no costs to the affected population, including any small entities.
    If you think that your business, organization, or governmental 
jurisdiction qualifies as a small entity and that this rule will have a 
significant economic impact on it, please submit a comment to the 
Docket Management Facility at the address under ADDRESSES. In your 
comment, explain why you think it qualifies and how and to what degree 
this rule would economically affect it.

C. Assistance for Small Entities

    Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement 
Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-121), we want to assist small 
entities in understanding this rule so that they can better evaluate 
its effects on them and participate in the rulemaking. If the rule 
would affect your small business, organization, or governmental 
jurisdiction and you have questions concerning its provisions or 
options for compliance, please consult Burt Lahn, U.S. Coast Guard 
Office of Navigation Standards (CG-NAV-3), email Burt.A.Lahn@uscg.mil, 
telephone 202-372-1526. The Coast Guard will not retaliate against 
small entities that question or complain about this rule or any policy 
or action of the Coast Guard.

D. Collection of Information

    This rule calls for no new collection of information under the 
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520).

E. Federalism

    A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132, 
Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on the States, on the 
relationship between the national government and the States, or on the 
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of 
government. We have analyzed this rule under that Order and have 
determined that it is consistent with the fundamental federalism 
principles and preemption requirements described in Executive Order 
13132. Our analysis is explained below.
    Under 46 U.S.C. 4306, Federal regulations promulgated under the 
authority of 46 U.S.C. 4302 preempt State law unless the State law is 
identical to a Federal regulation or a State is specifically provided 
an exemption to those regulations, or permitted to regulate marine 
safety articles carried or used to address a hazardous condition or 
circumstance unique to that State. As noted above, this interim rule 
simply removes superseded regulations regarding wave height and surface 
current provisions, and certain regulated boating areas from 33 CFR 
part 177. Additionally, there are no existing State laws that are 
identical to these Federal regulations, nor have the States been 
provided an exemption to those regulations or permitted to regulate 
marine safety articles. Therefore, the rule is consistent with the 
principles of federalism and preemption requirements in Executive Order 
13132.
    While it is well settled that States may not regulate in categories 
in which Congress intended the Coast Guard to be the sole source of a 
vessel's obligations, the Coast Guard recognizes the key role that 
State and local governments may have in making regulatory 
determinations. Additionally, for rules with implications and 
preemptive effect, Executive Order 13132 specifically directs agencies 
to consult with State and local governments during the rulemaking 
process.
    Therefore, the Coast Guard invites affected State and local 
governments and their representative national organizations to indicate 
their desire for participation and consultation in this rulemaking 
process by submitting comments to this interim rule. In accordance with 
Executive Order 13132, the Coast Guard will provide a federalism impact 
statement to document: (1) The extent of the Coast Guard's consultation 
with State and local officials who submit comments to this proposed 
rule; (2) a summary of the nature of any concerns raised by State or 
local governments and the Coast Guard's position thereon; and (3) a 
statement of the extent to which the concerns of State and local 
officials have been met. We will also report to the Office of 
Management and Budget any written communications with the States.

F. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538) 
requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary 
regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may 
result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in 
the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 (adjusted for 
inflation) or more in any one year. This rule will not result in such 
expenditure.

G. Taking of Private Property

    This rule will not cause a taking of private property or otherwise 
have taking implications under Executive Order 12630, Governmental 
Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property 
Rights.

H. Civil Justice Reform

    This rule meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) 
of Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize litigation, 
eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden.

I. Protection of Children

    We have analyzed this rule under Executive Order 13045, Protection 
of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks. This rule 
is not an economically significant rule and does not create an 
environmental risk to health or risk to safety that may 
disproportionately affect children.

J. Indian Tribal Governments

    This rule does not have tribal implications under Executive Order 
13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments, 
because it does not have a substantial direct effect on one or more 
Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and 
Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities 
between the Federal Government and Indian tribes.

K. Energy Effects

    We have analyzed this rule under Executive Order 13211, Actions 
Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, 
Distribution, or Use. We have determined that it is not a ``significant 
energy action'' under that order because it is not a ``significant 
regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866 and is not likely to 
have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use 
of energy. The Administrator of the Office of Information and 
Regulatory Affairs has not designated it as a significant

[[Page 40966]]

energy action. Therefore, it does not require a Statement of Energy 
Effects under Executive Order 13211.

L. Technical Standards

    The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) (15 
U.S.C. 272 note) directs agencies to use voluntary consensus standards 
in their regulatory activities unless the agency provides Congress, 
through the Office of Management and Budget, with an explanation of why 
using these standards would be inconsistent with applicable law or 
otherwise impractical. Voluntary consensus standards are technical 
standards (e.g., specifications of materials, performance, design, or 
operation; test methods; sampling procedures; and related management 
systems practices) that are developed or adopted by voluntary consensus 
standards bodies.
    This rule does not use technical standards. Therefore, we did not 
consider the use of voluntary consensus standards.

M. Environment

    We have analyzed this rule under Department of Homeland Security 
Management Directive 023-01 and Commandant Instruction M16475.lD, which 
guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National Environmental 
Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and have concluded 
that this action is one of a category of actions that do not 
individually or cumulatively have a significant effect on the human 
environment. This rule is categorically excluded, under section 2.B.2, 
Figure 2-1, paragraph 34(g), of the Instruction because it involves 
regulations establishing, disestablishing, or changing RNAs. An 
environmental analysis checklist and a categorical exclusion 
determination are available in the docket where indicated under 
ADDRESSES.

List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 177

    Marine safety.

    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard amends 
33 CFR part 177 as follows:

Title 33--Navigation and Navigable Waters

PART 177--CORRECTION OF ESPECIALLY HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS

0
1. The authority citation for part 177 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 4302, 4311; Pub. L. 103-206, 107 Stat. 
2439.


Sec.  177.04  [Amended]

0
2. In Sec.  177.04(a), remove the text ``Sec.  177.07(g)'' and add, in 
its place, the text ``Sec.  177.07(f)''.


Sec.  177.07  [Amended]

0
3. In Sec.  177.07, remove paragraph (f) and redesignate paragraph (g) 
as new paragraph (f).


Sec.  177.08  [Removed]

0
4. Remove Sec.  177.08.


Sec.  177.09  [Redesignated as Sec.  177.08]

0
5. Redesignate Sec.  177.09 as Sec.  177.08.

    Dated: June 28, 2013.
Dana A. Goward,
Director, Marine Transportation Systems, U.S. Coast Guard.
[FR Doc. 2013-16248 Filed 7-8-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9110-04-P
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