Double Hull Tanker Escorts on the Waters of Prince William Sound, Alaska, 50335-50340 [2013-20075]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 160 / Monday, August 19, 2013 / Rules and Regulations reference ASTM F406–13). In addition, for firewalled third party conformity assessment bodies, the firewalled third party conformity assessment body must be one that the Commission, by order, has accredited on or before the time that the children’s product was tested, even if the order did not include ASTM F406–13 or 16 CFR Part 1221 (incorporating by reference ASTM F406–13) at the time of initial Commission acceptance. For governmental third party conformity assessment bodies, accreditation of the body must be accepted by the Commission on or before the time that the children’s product was tested, even if the scope of accreditation did not include ASTM F406–13 or 16 CFR Part 1221 (incorporating by reference ASTM F406–13) at the time of initial CPSC acceptance. • The test results show compliance with ASTM F406–13 or 16 CFR Part 1221 (incorporating by reference ASTM F406–13). • The play yard was tested on or after May 1, 2013, the date that ASTM approved ASTM F406–13, and before February 19, 2014. • The laboratory’s accreditation remains in effect through February 19, 2014. List of Subjects in 16 CFR Part 1221 Consumer Protection, Imports, Incorporation by reference, Infants and children, Labeling, Law enforcement, Safety and toys. Therefore, the Commission amends Title 16 of the Code of Federal Regulations as follows: PART 1221—SAFETY STANDARD FOR PLAY YARDS Register approves this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. You may obtain a copy from ASTM International, 100 Bar Harbor Drive, P.O. Box 0700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428; https:// www.astm.org. You may inspect a copy at the Office of the Secretary, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Room 820, 4330 East West Highway, Bethesda, MD 20814, telephone 301– 504–7923, or at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741– 6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/ federal_register/code_of_federal regulations/ibr_locations.html. (b) Comply with the ASTM F406–13 standard with the following exclusions: (1) Do not comply with section 5.17 of ASTM F406–13. (2) Do not comply with section 5.20 of ASTM F406–13. (3) Do not comply with section 6, Performance Requirements for RigidSided Products, of ASTM F406–13, in its entirety. (4) Do not comply with sections 8.1 through 8.10.5 of ASTM F406–13. (5) Instead of complying with section 9.4.2.10 of ASTM F406–13, comply only with the following: (i) 9.4.2.10 For products that have a separate mattress that is not permanently fixed in place: Use ONLY mattress/pad provided by manufacturer. (ii) [Reserved] (6) Do not comply with section 10.1.1.1 of ASTM F406–13. Dated: August 13, 2013. Todd A. Stevenson, Secretary, Consumer Product Safety Commission [FR Doc. 2013–19964 Filed 8–16–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6355–01–P ■ 2. Revise § 1221.1 to read as follows: § 1221.1 pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES ■ § 1221.2 Requirements for play yards. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, each play yard must comply with all applicable provisions of ASTM F406–13, Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Non-Full-Size Baby Cribs/Play Yards, approved on May 1, 2013. The Director of the Federal VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:00 Aug 16, 2013 Jkt 229001 DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 168 [Docket No. USCG–2012–0975] RIN 1625–AB96 Double Hull Tanker Escorts on the Waters of Prince William Sound, Alaska DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Fiscal Service SUMMARY: Sale and Issue of Marketable BookEntry Treasury Bills, Notes, and Bonds 3. Revise § 1221.2 to read as follows: BILLING CODE 1505–01–D Coast Guard, DHS. Interim rule with request for comments. [Docket No. Fiscal-BPD–2013–0001] This part establishes a consumer product safety standard for play yards manufactured or imported on or after February 19, 2014. [FR Doc. C1–2013–18178 Filed 8–16–13; 8:45 am] ACTION: 31 CFR Part 356 Scope. 2. On the same page, in the second column, in the sixth line from the bottom, ‘‘a1’’ should read ‘‘ai’’. 3. On the same page, in the same column, in the third line from the bottom, ‘‘T1’’ should read ‘‘Ti’’. 4. On the same page, in the third column, in the seventh line above Table 3, ‘‘0.004278267 + 0.00472818’’ should read ‘‘0.004278267 + 0.004472818’’. 5. On page 46438, in the first column, in the third line, ‘‘Ti-1’’ should read ‘‘Ti ¥ Ti-1’’. 6. On the same page, in the same column, in the ninth line, ‘‘Ai = 61 × 0.000625077 = 0.038129697’’ should read ‘‘A1 = 61 × 0.000625077 = 0.038129697’’. 7. One the same page, in the second column, in the fourth line, ‘‘Bi = 1 + (r + m) × (Ti ¥ 1)/360’’, should read ‘‘Bi = 1 + (r + m) × (Ti ¥ Ti-1)/360’’. 8. On page 46441, in Table 6, in the second column, in the first line, ‘‘TO ¥ T-1 = 31’’ should read ‘‘T0 ¥ T¥1 = 31’’. 9. On the same page, in the second column, the tenth line above Table 4, ‘‘Ti-1 and T1’’ should read ‘‘Ti-1 and Ti’’. AGENCY: 1. The authority citation for part 1221 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, Pub. L. 110–314, section 104, 122 Stat. 3016 (August 14, 2008). 50335 Correction In rule document 2013–18178 appearing on pages 46426–46445 in the issue of July 31, 2013, make the following corrections: Appendix B to Part 356 [Corrected] 1. On page 46437, in the first column, in the third line from the bottom, ‘‘a1 = 100 × max(r + s, 0)/360’’ should read ‘‘ai = 100 × max(r + s, 0)/360’’. PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 The Coast Guard is amending the escort requirements for certain tankers operating on the waters of Prince William Sound, Alaska (PWS). This interim rule is necessary to implement section 711 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 (Act), which mandates two tug escorts for double hull tankers over 5,000 gross tons transporting oil in bulk in PWS. The Act directed the Coast Guard to promulgate interim regulations as soon and practicable to ensure that tug escort requirements apply to certain double hull tankers. DATES: This interim rule is effective September 18, 2013. Comments and related material must either be submitted to our online docket via http: E:\FR\FM\19AUR1.SGM 19AUR1 50336 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 160 / Monday, August 19, 2013 / Rules and Regulations //www.regulations.gov on or before November 18, 2013 or reach the Docket Management Facility by that date. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by docket number USCG– 2012–0975 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. Kevin Tone, Office of Operating and Environmental Standards, Coast Guard; email Kevin.P.Tone@uscg.mil, telephone 202– 372–1441. If you have questions on viewing or submitting material to the docket, call Ms. Barbara Hairston, Program Manager, Docket Operations, telephone 202–366–9826. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES 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 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 15:00 Aug 16, 2013 Jkt 229001 A. Submitting Comments If you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this rulemaking (USCG–2012–0975), 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 comment online, go to https://www.regulations.gov and insert ‘‘USCG–2012–0975’’ in the ‘‘Search’’ box. Click the ‘‘Search’’ button. Locate the title of this rule in the search results. Click on the ‘‘Comment Now!’’ button to the right of the title. Complete the required fields, include your comment, and click on the ‘‘Submit’’ button. If you submit your comments by mail or hand delivery, 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 I. Public Participation and Request for Comments We encourage you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting VerDate Mar<15>2010 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. 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–2012–0975’’ in the ‘‘Search’’ box. Click ‘‘Search.’’ Click the ‘‘Open Docket Folder’’ in the ‘‘Actions’’ column. 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. PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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. You may submit a request for one to the docket 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 APA Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553) CFR Code of Federal Regulations DHS Department of Homeland Security FR Federal Register GT Gross tons NAICS North American Industry Classification System NEPA National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 NPRM Notice of proposed rulemaking NTTAA National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act OPA 90 Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (Pub. L. 101–380, 104 Stat. 484) PWS Prince William Sound, Alaska RFA Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (5 U.S.C. 601–612) § Section symbol SBA Small Business Administration U.S.C. United States Code III. Regulatory History The Coast Guard is issuing this interim rule without prior notice and opportunity to comment pursuant to section 711 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 (Pub. L. 111– 281, 124 Stat. 2905)(Act) that mandates the requirements in this rule. The Act requires that interim regulations be issued without notice and hearing pursuant to section 553 of title 5 of the United States Code. Because of this congressional directive, publication of an NPRM is unnecessary. Although this interim rule will become effective 30 days after publication in the Federal Register, we are issuing this rule with a request for comments to solicit and consider information from those entities that may be impacted by this rule. See Section I.A. of this rule for information regarding the submission of comments. E:\FR\FM\19AUR1.SGM 19AUR1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 160 / Monday, August 19, 2013 / Rules and Regulations IV. Basis and Purpose The basis of this rulemaking is section 711 of the Act. In section 711, Congress directed the Coast Guard to revise its regulations to require all double hull tankers over 5,000 gross tons (GT) transporting oil in bulk in Prince William Sound, Alaska (PWS) to be escorted by at least two towing vessels or other vessels considered to be appropriate by the Secretary. This requirement is intended to increase the protection of the environment and the safety of vessels transiting PWS by reducing the risk of groundings, allisions or collisions when escort vessels are readily available to assist a tanker in distress. pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES Background Section 4116(c) of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (Pub. L. 101–380, 104 Stat. 484)(OPA 90) required the two vessel escort system for single hull tank vessels over 5,000 GT transporting oil in bulk in PWS. These regulations are found in 33 CFR part 168. OPA 90 also mandated the phase-out of single hull tank vessels by January 1, 2015, and required that newly built tank vessels be double hulled. With the phase-out of the single hull tank vessels, there would be no requirement for any tank vessel to maintain an escort system. Section 711 of the Act extends the escort system requirement to double hull tank vessels over 5,000 GT transporting oil in bulk in PWS. A double hull provides a tank vessel with added protection from an oil spill as a result of a hull breach due to a grounding, allision or collision. While double hull tank vessels provide greater protection from oil spills over single hull tank vessels, with section 711 of the Act Congress further intended to increase the protection of the environment and the safety of vessels transiting PWS. V. Discussion of the Interim Rule The purpose of the existing regulations in 33 CFR part 168, Escort Requirements for Certain Tankers, is to reduce the risk of oil spills from laden, single hull tankers over 5,000 GT by requiring that these tankers be escorted by at least two suitable escort vessels in applicable waters. The applicable waters are defined in § 168.40. The requirement of two escort vessels has contributed to a reduction in spill incidents because the escort vessels are immediately available to influence the tanker’s speed and course in the event VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:00 Aug 16, 2013 Jkt 229001 of a steering or propulsion equipment failure, thereby reducing the possibility of a grounding, allision or collision. This interim rule amends part 168 so that it also applies to double hull tankers over 5,000 GT transporting oil in PWS. This rule codifies established industry practice for escorting double hull tank vessels on transits in and out of PWS. This interim rule revises three sections of 33 CFR part 168. We revised § 168.01 to make it clear that part 168 now addresses escort vessels for double hull tankers as well as single hull tankers. We added a definition of the term double hull tanker to § 168.05. Finally, this rule amends § 168.20 to extend the applicability of part 168 to include double hull tankers over 5,000 GT transporting oil in bulk in PWS. All other sections of part 168, including the escort vessel performance and operational requirements in § 168.50, which includes prescribed transit speeds and other maneuvering parameters such as directional variances for escort vessels, remain unchanged. With these changes, the Coast Guard is implementing the escort vessel requirements of section 711 of the Act. We considered two alternatives (including the preferred alternative) in the development of this rule. The key factors that we evaluated in considering each alternative included: (1) The degree to which the alternative comported with the congressional mandate in section 711 of the Act; (2) what benefits, if any, would be derived, such as enhancement of personal and environmental safety and security; and (3) cost effectiveness. The alternatives considered are as follows: Alternative 1: Revise 33 CFR 168 to include double hull tankers over 5,000 GT transporting oil in bulk in PWS, but do not revise the existing performancebased escort requirements (preferred alternative). At present, two tug escorts of both single and double hull tankers is the industry practice being employed on the waters of PWS. Implementation of this interim rule will codify current industry practice. Alternative 2: Take no action. This option was not selected as it would not implement section 711 of the Act, which specifically requires the Coast Guard to issue regulations. We also considered adding a third escort vessel for double hull tank vessels that transit PWS. However, this would impose additional disproportionate costs on double hull tank vessel owners and operators (as PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 50337 single hull tank vessels would remain subject to the two escort requirement) without any incremental gain in benefits from the current industry practice of a dual vessel escort system (i.e., no casualties or other data indicating that two escort vessels were insufficient). Ultimately, we chose Alternative 1 as the preferred alternative to make revisions to 33 CFR part 168. Alternative 1 satisfactorily implements section 711 of the Act by adding two escort vessels for each double hull tanker transporting oil in bulk in PWS while also retaining the performance requirements in § 168.50 that are readily applicable to tanker escorts regardless of whether the tanker is single or double hulled. 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 or 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 Regulatory Assessment follows: This interim rule will require a two vessel escort system for double hull tankers over 5,000 GT transporting oil in bulk in PWS, as mandated by section 711(b) of the Act. Currently, single hull tankers are required to have two escort vessels per 33 CFR part 168. This interim rule will amend this part to extend this requirement to double hull tankers in PWS. Table 1 below summarizes the impacts of the interim rule. E:\FR\FM\19AUR1.SGM 19AUR1 50338 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 160 / Monday, August 19, 2013 / Rules and Regulations TABLE 1—SUMMARY OF INTERIM RULE IMPACTS Category Summary Population ..................... —15 double-hull tank vessels that transit PWS annually. —One company that owns the 12 escort vessels in PWS. None—codification of existing practice. —Elimination of confusion within industry by harmonizing CFR with U.S.C. —Codification of current industry practice ensures benefits of dual vessel escort system in PWS remain, including reduction of the risk of an oil spill by influencing a vessel’s speed and course in the event of equipment failure or loss of steering and/or propulsion. Costs ............................. Unquantified Benefits ... Costs OPA 90 requires the two vessel escort system for single hull vessels over 5,000 GT transporting oil in bulk in PWS. However, single hull tankers are currently being phased out in favor of double hull tankers. Based on vessel traffic data from the Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit in Valdez, Alaska, no single hull vessels have called on PWS since 2009. Based on communications with the Marine Safety Unit in Valdez, AK, as well as the Vessel Traffic Service and Captain of the Port for that region, we determined that it has been an industry practice since 2008 that double hull tankers be escorted by a two vessel escort system when in transit through PWS. Currently, 15 double hull tank vessels transit PWS and over the last 5 years, double hull tank vessels made an average of 250 port calls annually on PWS. One company operates the 12 tugs that participate in the two tug escort system in PWS. Since this interim rule will codify an industry practice that has been in place for over 5 years, we do not anticipate that this interim rule will impose additional costs on the public or industry, or alter industry behavior in any way. Finally, we do not anticipate that this interim rule will impose new costs on the Coast Guard or require the Coast Guard to expend additional resources. pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES Analysis of Alternatives We chose Alternative 1, which codifies current industry practice and implements section 711 of the Act as described above and in Section VI.B. below. We chose to reject Alternative 2, the ‘‘no action’’ alternative, because it would not implement section 711 of the Act. Benefits This interim rule codifies the current industry practice of a dual vessel escort system in PWS. The primary benefit of the interim rule is eliminating confusion within industry by harmonizing the CFR with U.S.C. The practice of a dual vessel escort system also results in safety and VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:00 Aug 16, 2013 Jkt 229001 environmental benefits, although these benefits exist under current practice. However, codification of the industry practice ensures the continuing benefits of the dual vessel escort system, which is to reduce the risk of an oil spill by ensuring the safe transit of tank vessels over 5,000 GT transporting oil in bulk in PWS. For PWS, we believe a two vessel escort system is beneficial in the event of equipment failure such as the loss of steering or propulsion. Additionally, if a tanker becomes disabled, the two escort vessels can influence the speed and course of the tanker, thereby reducing the likelihood of an allision, collision, or grounding. We reviewed allision, collision, and grounding casualty data for tank vessels in PWS over a 15-year period from 1998 through 2012 and found no casualty cases that involved a double hull tank vessel. All of these vessels were escorted by a two vessel escort. B. Small Entities The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (RFA), 5 U.S.C. 601–612, as amended, requires federal agencies to consider the potential impact of regulations on small entities during rulemaking. However, when an agency is not required to publish an NPRM for a rule, the RFA does not require an agency to prepare a regulatory flexibility analysis. The Coast Guard was not required to publish an NPRM for this rule for the reasons stated in section III. ‘‘Regulatory History’’ and therefore is not required to publish a regulatory flexibility analysis. 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), PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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 Mr. Kevin Tone, CG–OES, Coast Guard; telephone 202–372–1441, email Kevin.P.Tone@ uscg.mil. 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. Small businesses may send comments on the actions of Federal employees who enforce, or otherwise determine compliance with, Federal regulations to the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman and the Regional Small Business Regulatory Fairness Boards. The Ombudsman evaluates these actions annually and rates each agency’s responsiveness to small business. If you wish to comment on actions by employees of the Coast Guard, call 1– 888–REG–FAIR (1–888–734–3247). 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. As noted earlier in the preamble, this rule implements section 711 of Public Law 118–281 for PWS. With respect to federalism, section 711(c) of Public Law 118–281 provides that nothing in the E:\FR\FM\19AUR1.SGM 19AUR1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 160 / Monday, August 19, 2013 / Rules and Regulations pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES Act or any other provision of Federal law related to the regulation of maritime transportation of oil should be construed or interpreted as preempting the authority of the State, or a political subdivision thereof, from requiring escort vessels to accompany tankers transporting oil in bulk in PWS. Because this statute preserves the authority of the State of Alaska to promulgate additional requirements beyond that required by this rule in PWS, and because this rule merely implements the Congressional mandate, this rule does not have an effect on the relationship between the national government and the State of Alaska, and therefore is consistent with the fundamental federalism principles and preemption requirements described in Executive Order 13132. Although this rule does not have an effect on the relationship between the national government and the State of Alaska, 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 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 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. Though this rule will not result in such an expenditure, VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:00 Aug 16, 2013 Jkt 229001 we do discuss the effects of this rule elsewhere in this preamble. 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. 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 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 50339 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 6(b) of the ‘‘Appendix to National Environmental Policy Act: Coast Guard Procedures for Categorical Exclusions, Notice of Final Agency Policy,’’ (67 FR 48244, July 23, 2002). This rule involves Congressionally-mandated regulations designed to protect the environment, specifically, regulations implementing the requirements of the Act. 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 168 Cargo vessels, Navigation (water), Oil pollution, Water pollution control. For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard amends 33 CFR part 168 as follows: PART 168—ESCORT REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN TANKERS 1. The authority citation for part 168 is revised to read as follows: ■ Authority: Section 4116(c), Pub. L. 101– 380, 104 Stat. 520 (46 U.S.C. 3703 note); section 711 Pub. L. 111–281, 124 Stat 2905; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 170.1, para. 2(82). § 168.01 [Amended] 2. Amend § 168.01(a) as follows: a. After the words ‘‘(Pub. L. 101– 380)’’, add the words ‘‘, as amended by section 711 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 (Pub. L. 111– 281)’’; ■ b. After the words ‘‘single hull’’, add the words ‘‘and double hull’’; and ■ c. After the words ‘‘suitable escort vessels’’, add the words ‘‘in applicable waters, as defined in § 168.40’’. ■ ■ E:\FR\FM\19AUR1.SGM 19AUR1 50340 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 160 / Monday, August 19, 2013 / Rules and Regulations 3. In § 168.05, add, in alphabetical order, the definition of the term ‘‘Double hull tanker’’ to read as follows: ■ § 168.05 Definitions. * * * * * Double hull tanker means any selfpropelled tank vessel that is constructed with both double bottom and double sides in accordance with the provisions of 33 CFR 157.10d. * * * * * ■ 4. Revise § 168.20 to read as follows: § 168.20 Applicable vessels. The requirements of this part apply to the following laden tankers of 5,000 gross tons or more: (a) All single hull tankers on the waters listed in § 168.40(a) and (b); and (b) All double hull tankers on the waters listed in § 168.40(a). Dated: August 9, 2013. J.G. Lantz, Director of Commercial Regulations and Standards, U.S. Coast Guard. [FR Doc. 2013–20075 Filed 8–16–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9110–04–P FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION 47 CFR Part 90 [PS Docket No. 09–19; RM–11514 and RM– 11531; FCC 13–98] Travelers’ Information Stations Federal Communications Commission. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: In this document, the Commission clarifies and amends its rules pertaining to public safety Travelers’ Information Stations (TIS), which Public Safety Pool-eligible entities operate to transmit noncommercial, travel-related information over AM band frequencies to motorists on a localized basis. First, the Commission clarifies that permissible content under the TIS rules must continue to have a nexus to travel, an emergency, or an imminent threat of danger. Second, the Commission clarifies that TIS licensees may transmit any communications related directly to the imminent safety-of-life or property, and may transmit emergency communications during a period of emergency in which the normal communication facilities are disrupted as a result of hurricane, flood, earthquake or similar disaster. Third, the Commission partially removes the present restriction on so-called ‘‘ribbon’’ pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:00 Aug 16, 2013 Jkt 229001 networks of TIS transmitters (i.e., multiple simulcast transmitters), requiring only that simulcast TIS transmissions be relevant to travelers in the vicinity of each transmitter in the network. Finally, the Commission updates the definition of TIS in the rules to replace the reference to the former Local Government Radio Service with a reference to the Public Safety Pool. These rule changes will remove confusion about what type of content is permissible on the TIS, thus improving administrative efficiency for the both the Commission and TIS licensees. DATES: Effective September 18, 2013. ADDRESSES: Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Thomas Eng, Policy and Licensing Division, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554, at (202) 418–0019, TTY (202) 418–7233, or via email at Thomas.Eng@fcc.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This is a summary of the Commission’s Report and Order in PS Docket No. 09–19; RM– 11514 and RM–11531; adopted July 18, 2013 and released on July 23, 2013. The complete text of this document is available for inspection and copying during normal business hours in the FCC Reference Information Center, Portals II, 445 12th Street SW., Room CY–A257, Washington, DC 20554. This document may also be purchased from the Commission’s duplicating contractor, Best Copy and Printing, Inc., in person at 445 12th Street SW., Room CY–B402, Washington, DC 20554, via telephone at (202) 488–5300, via facsimile at (202) 488–5563, or via email at FCC@BCPIWEB.com. Alternative formats (computer diskette, large print, audio cassette, and Braille) are available to persons with disabilities or by sending an email to FCC504@fcc.gov or calling the Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau at (202) 418–0530, TTY (202) 418–0432. This document is also available on the Commission’s Web site at https://www.fcc.gov. Introduction Currently, the Commission authorizes Public Safety Pool-eligible entities to use Travelers’ Information Stations (TIS) to transmit noncommercial, travelrelated information over AM band frequencies to motorists on a localized basis. In this proceeding, we address the scope of permissible operations under our TIS rules in response to petitions filed by Highway Information Systems (HIS), the American Association of PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Information Radio Operators (AAIRO), and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). The Commission invited comment on the issues raised in these three petitions in a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) adopted in 2010. In today’s Report and Order, we both clarify and amend our TIS rules in order to promote a more efficient and effective service. First, we clarify that permissible content under the TIS rules must continue to have a nexus to travel, an emergency, or an imminent threat of danger. Second, we amend § 90.242 of our rules, which defines and authorizes TIS, to cross-reference §§ 90.405(a)(1) and 90.407 of the rules, which respectively allow the use of all part 90 facilities, including TIS, for the transmission of ‘‘any communications related directly to the imminent safetyof-life or property,’’ and for emergency communications ‘‘during a period of emergency in which the normal communication facilities are disrupted as a result of hurricane, flood, earthquake or similar disaster.’’ Third, we partially remove the present restriction on so-called ‘‘ribbon’’ networks of TIS transmitters (i.e., multiple simulcast transmitters), requiring only that simulcast TIS transmissions be relevant to travelers in the vicinity of each transmitter in the network. Finally, we update the definition of TIS in § 90.7 to replace the reference to the former Local Government Radio Service with a reference to the Public Safety Pool. The rule changes in the Report and Order serve either to clarify or to modestly expand the operating parameters of the TIS service. The costs associated with these rule changes are negligible because the changes impose no investment or expenditure requirements on any affected entities to achieve compliance. The rule changes will also remove confusion about what type of content is permissible on the TIS, thus improving administrative efficiency for the both the Commission and TIS licensees. Moreover, by permitting the simulcasting of TIS transmissions, the rule changes will lower licensees’ operating costs because licensees will no longer need to create individual TIS transmissions for each transmitter in a network. Background The Commission established TIS in 1977 in order to ‘‘establish an efficient means of communicating certain kinds of information to travelers over low power radio transmitters licensed to Local Government entities.’’ The Commission specifically noted that such E:\FR\FM\19AUR1.SGM 19AUR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 160 (Monday, August 19, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 50335-50340]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-20075]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Coast Guard

33 CFR Part 168

[Docket No. USCG-2012-0975]
RIN 1625-AB96


Double Hull Tanker Escorts on the Waters of Prince William Sound, 
Alaska

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.

ACTION: Interim rule with request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: The Coast Guard is amending the escort requirements for 
certain tankers operating on the waters of Prince William Sound, Alaska 
(PWS). This interim rule is necessary to implement section 711 of the 
Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 (Act), which mandates two tug 
escorts for double hull tankers over 5,000 gross tons transporting oil 
in bulk in PWS. The Act directed the Coast Guard to promulgate interim 
regulations as soon and practicable to ensure that tug escort 
requirements apply to certain double hull tankers.

DATES: This interim rule is effective September 18, 2013. Comments and 
related material must either be submitted to our online docket via 
http:

[[Page 50336]]

//www.regulations.gov on or before November 18, 2013 or reach the 
Docket Management Facility by that date.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by docket number USCG-
2012-0975 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. Kevin Tone, Office of Operating and Environmental 
Standards, Coast Guard; email Kevin.P.Tone@uscg.mil, telephone 202-372-
1441. If you have questions on viewing or submitting material to the 
docket, call Ms. 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
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-2012-0975), 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 comment online, go to https://www.regulations.gov and 
insert ``USCG-2012-0975'' in the ``Search'' box. Click the ``Search'' 
button. Locate the title of this rule in the search results. Click on 
the ``Comment Now!'' button to the right of the title. Complete the 
required fields, include your comment, and click on the ``Submit'' 
button. 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-2012-0975'' in the ``Search'' box. Click ``Search.'' 
Click the ``Open Docket Folder'' in the ``Actions'' column. 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. You may submit a 
request for one to the docket 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

APA Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553)
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
DHS Department of Homeland Security
FR Federal Register
GT Gross tons
NAICS North American Industry Classification System
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
NPRM Notice of proposed rulemaking
NTTAA National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act
OPA 90 Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (Pub. L. 101-380, 104 Stat. 484)
PWS Prince William Sound, Alaska
RFA Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (5 U.S.C. 601-612)
Sec.  Section symbol
SBA Small Business Administration
U.S.C. United States Code

III. Regulatory History

    The Coast Guard is issuing this interim rule without prior notice 
and opportunity to comment pursuant to section 711 of the Coast Guard 
Authorization Act of 2010 (Pub. L. 111-281, 124 Stat. 2905)(Act) that 
mandates the requirements in this rule. The Act requires that interim 
regulations be issued without notice and hearing pursuant to section 
553 of title 5 of the United States Code. Because of this congressional 
directive, publication of an NPRM is unnecessary.
    Although this interim rule will become effective 30 days after 
publication in the Federal Register, we are issuing this rule with a 
request for comments to solicit and consider information from those 
entities that may be impacted by this rule. See Section I.A. of this 
rule for information regarding the submission of comments.

[[Page 50337]]

IV. Basis and Purpose

    The basis of this rulemaking is section 711 of the Act. In section 
711, Congress directed the Coast Guard to revise its regulations to 
require all double hull tankers over 5,000 gross tons (GT) transporting 
oil in bulk in Prince William Sound, Alaska (PWS) to be escorted by at 
least two towing vessels or other vessels considered to be appropriate 
by the Secretary. This requirement is intended to increase the 
protection of the environment and the safety of vessels transiting PWS 
by reducing the risk of groundings, allisions or collisions when escort 
vessels are readily available to assist a tanker in distress.

Background

    Section 4116(c) of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (Pub. L. 101-380, 
104 Stat. 484)(OPA 90) required the two vessel escort system for single 
hull tank vessels over 5,000 GT transporting oil in bulk in PWS. These 
regulations are found in 33 CFR part 168. OPA 90 also mandated the 
phase-out of single hull tank vessels by January 1, 2015, and required 
that newly built tank vessels be double hulled.
    With the phase-out of the single hull tank vessels, there would be 
no requirement for any tank vessel to maintain an escort system. 
Section 711 of the Act extends the escort system requirement to double 
hull tank vessels over 5,000 GT transporting oil in bulk in PWS.
    A double hull provides a tank vessel with added protection from an 
oil spill as a result of a hull breach due to a grounding, allision or 
collision. While double hull tank vessels provide greater protection 
from oil spills over single hull tank vessels, with section 711 of the 
Act Congress further intended to increase the protection of the 
environment and the safety of vessels transiting PWS.

V. Discussion of the Interim Rule

    The purpose of the existing regulations in 33 CFR part 168, Escort 
Requirements for Certain Tankers, is to reduce the risk of oil spills 
from laden, single hull tankers over 5,000 GT by requiring that these 
tankers be escorted by at least two suitable escort vessels in 
applicable waters. The applicable waters are defined in Sec.  168.40.
    The requirement of two escort vessels has contributed to a 
reduction in spill incidents because the escort vessels are immediately 
available to influence the tanker's speed and course in the event of a 
steering or propulsion equipment failure, thereby reducing the 
possibility of a grounding, allision or collision. This interim rule 
amends part 168 so that it also applies to double hull tankers over 
5,000 GT transporting oil in PWS. This rule codifies established 
industry practice for escorting double hull tank vessels on transits in 
and out of PWS.
    This interim rule revises three sections of 33 CFR part 168. We 
revised Sec.  168.01 to make it clear that part 168 now addresses 
escort vessels for double hull tankers as well as single hull tankers. 
We added a definition of the term double hull tanker to Sec.  168.05. 
Finally, this rule amends Sec.  168.20 to extend the applicability of 
part 168 to include double hull tankers over 5,000 GT transporting oil 
in bulk in PWS. All other sections of part 168, including the escort 
vessel performance and operational requirements in Sec.  168.50, which 
includes prescribed transit speeds and other maneuvering parameters 
such as directional variances for escort vessels, remain unchanged. 
With these changes, the Coast Guard is implementing the escort vessel 
requirements of section 711 of the Act.
    We considered two alternatives (including the preferred 
alternative) in the development of this rule. The key factors that we 
evaluated in considering each alternative included: (1) The degree to 
which the alternative comported with the congressional mandate in 
section 711 of the Act; (2) what benefits, if any, would be derived, 
such as enhancement of personal and environmental safety and security; 
and (3) cost effectiveness. The alternatives considered are as follows:
    Alternative 1: Revise 33 CFR 168 to include double hull tankers 
over 5,000 GT transporting oil in bulk in PWS, but do not revise the 
existing performance-based escort requirements (preferred alternative). 
At present, two tug escorts of both single and double hull tankers is 
the industry practice being employed on the waters of PWS. 
Implementation of this interim rule will codify current industry 
practice.
    Alternative 2: Take no action. This option was not selected as it 
would not implement section 711 of the Act, which specifically requires 
the Coast Guard to issue regulations.
    We also considered adding a third escort vessel for double hull 
tank vessels that transit PWS. However, this would impose additional 
disproportionate costs on double hull tank vessel owners and operators 
(as single hull tank vessels would remain subject to the two escort 
requirement) without any incremental gain in benefits from the current 
industry practice of a dual vessel escort system (i.e., no casualties 
or other data indicating that two escort vessels were insufficient).
    Ultimately, we chose Alternative 1 as the preferred alternative to 
make revisions to 33 CFR part 168. Alternative 1 satisfactorily 
implements section 711 of the Act by adding two escort vessels for each 
double hull tanker transporting oil in bulk in PWS while also retaining 
the performance requirements in Sec.  168.50 that are readily 
applicable to tanker escorts regardless of whether the tanker is single 
or double hulled.

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 or 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 Regulatory Assessment follows:
    This interim rule will require a two vessel escort system for 
double hull tankers over 5,000 GT transporting oil in bulk in PWS, as 
mandated by section 711(b) of the Act. Currently, single hull tankers 
are required to have two escort vessels per 33 CFR part 168. This 
interim rule will amend this part to extend this requirement to double 
hull tankers in PWS.
    Table 1 below summarizes the impacts of the interim rule.

[[Page 50338]]



                                    Table 1--Summary of Interim Rule Impacts
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  Category                                                  Summary
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Population..................................  --15 double-hull tank vessels that transit PWS annually.
                                              --One company that owns the 12 escort vessels in PWS.
Costs.......................................  None--codification of existing practice.
Unquantified Benefits.......................  --Elimination of confusion within industry by harmonizing CFR with
                                               U.S.C.
                                              --Codification of current industry practice ensures benefits of
                                               dual vessel escort system in PWS remain, including reduction of
                                               the risk of an oil spill by influencing a vessel's speed and
                                               course in the event of equipment failure or loss of steering and/
                                               or propulsion.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Costs
    OPA 90 requires the two vessel escort system for single hull 
vessels over 5,000 GT transporting oil in bulk in PWS. However, single 
hull tankers are currently being phased out in favor of double hull 
tankers. Based on vessel traffic data from the Coast Guard Marine 
Safety Unit in Valdez, Alaska, no single hull vessels have called on 
PWS since 2009.
    Based on communications with the Marine Safety Unit in Valdez, AK, 
as well as the Vessel Traffic Service and Captain of the Port for that 
region, we determined that it has been an industry practice since 2008 
that double hull tankers be escorted by a two vessel escort system when 
in transit through PWS. Currently, 15 double hull tank vessels transit 
PWS and over the last 5 years, double hull tank vessels made an average 
of 250 port calls annually on PWS. One company operates the 12 tugs 
that participate in the two tug escort system in PWS.
    Since this interim rule will codify an industry practice that has 
been in place for over 5 years, we do not anticipate that this interim 
rule will impose additional costs on the public or industry, or alter 
industry behavior in any way. Finally, we do not anticipate that this 
interim rule will impose new costs on the Coast Guard or require the 
Coast Guard to expend additional resources.
Analysis of Alternatives
    We chose Alternative 1, which codifies current industry practice 
and implements section 711 of the Act as described above and in Section 
VI.B. below. We chose to reject Alternative 2, the ``no action'' 
alternative, because it would not implement section 711 of the Act.
Benefits
    This interim rule codifies the current industry practice of a dual 
vessel escort system in PWS. The primary benefit of the interim rule is 
eliminating confusion within industry by harmonizing the CFR with 
U.S.C. The practice of a dual vessel escort system also results in 
safety and environmental benefits, although these benefits exist under 
current practice. However, codification of the industry practice 
ensures the continuing benefits of the dual vessel escort system, which 
is to reduce the risk of an oil spill by ensuring the safe transit of 
tank vessels over 5,000 GT transporting oil in bulk in PWS. For PWS, we 
believe a two vessel escort system is beneficial in the event of 
equipment failure such as the loss of steering or propulsion. 
Additionally, if a tanker becomes disabled, the two escort vessels can 
influence the speed and course of the tanker, thereby reducing the 
likelihood of an allision, collision, or grounding. We reviewed 
allision, collision, and grounding casualty data for tank vessels in 
PWS over a 15-year period from 1998 through 2012 and found no casualty 
cases that involved a double hull tank vessel. All of these vessels 
were escorted by a two vessel escort.

B. Small Entities

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (RFA), 5 U.S.C. 601-612, as 
amended, requires federal agencies to consider the potential impact of 
regulations on small entities during rulemaking. However, when an 
agency is not required to publish an NPRM for a rule, the RFA does not 
require an agency to prepare a regulatory flexibility analysis. The 
Coast Guard was not required to publish an NPRM for this rule for the 
reasons stated in section III. ``Regulatory History'' and therefore is 
not required to publish a regulatory flexibility analysis.
    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 Mr. Kevin Tone, CG-OES, Coast 
Guard; telephone 202-372-1441, email Kevin.P.Tone@uscg.mil. 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.
    Small businesses may send comments on the actions of Federal 
employees who enforce, or otherwise determine compliance with, Federal 
regulations to the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory 
Enforcement Ombudsman and the Regional Small Business Regulatory 
Fairness Boards. The Ombudsman evaluates these actions annually and 
rates each agency's responsiveness to small business. If you wish to 
comment on actions by employees of the Coast Guard, call 1-888-REG-FAIR 
(1-888-734-3247).

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.
    As noted earlier in the preamble, this rule implements section 711 
of Public Law 118-281 for PWS. With respect to federalism, section 
711(c) of Public Law 118-281 provides that nothing in the

[[Page 50339]]

Act or any other provision of Federal law related to the regulation of 
maritime transportation of oil should be construed or interpreted as 
preempting the authority of the State, or a political subdivision 
thereof, from requiring escort vessels to accompany tankers 
transporting oil in bulk in PWS. Because this statute preserves the 
authority of the State of Alaska to promulgate additional requirements 
beyond that required by this rule in PWS, and because this rule merely 
implements the Congressional mandate, this rule does not have an effect 
on the relationship between the national government and the State of 
Alaska, and therefore is consistent with the fundamental federalism 
principles and preemption requirements described in Executive Order 
13132.
    Although this rule does not have an effect on the relationship 
between the national government and the State of Alaska, 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 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 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. Though this rule will not result in 
such an expenditure, we do discuss the effects of this rule elsewhere 
in this preamble.

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.

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 6(b) of 
the ``Appendix to National Environmental Policy Act: Coast Guard 
Procedures for Categorical Exclusions, Notice of Final Agency Policy,'' 
(67 FR 48244, July 23, 2002). This rule involves Congressionally-
mandated regulations designed to protect the environment, specifically, 
regulations implementing the requirements of the Act. 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 168

    Cargo vessels, Navigation (water), Oil pollution, Water pollution 
control.

    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard amends 
33 CFR part 168 as follows:

PART 168--ESCORT REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN TANKERS

0
1. The authority citation for part 168 is revised to read as follows:

    Authority: Section 4116(c), Pub. L. 101-380, 104 Stat. 520 (46 
U.S.C. 3703 note); section 711 Pub. L. 111-281, 124 Stat 2905; 
Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 170.1, para. 2(82).


Sec.  168.01  [Amended]

0
2. Amend Sec.  168.01(a) as follows:
0
a. After the words ``(Pub. L. 101-380)'', add the words ``, as amended 
by section 711 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 (Pub. L. 
111-281)'';
0
b. After the words ``single hull'', add the words ``and double hull''; 
and
0
c. After the words ``suitable escort vessels'', add the words ``in 
applicable waters, as defined in Sec.  168.40''.

[[Page 50340]]

0
3. In Sec.  168.05, add, in alphabetical order, the definition of the 
term ``Double hull tanker'' to read as follows:


Sec.  168.05  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Double hull tanker means any self-propelled tank vessel that is 
constructed with both double bottom and double sides in accordance with 
the provisions of 33 CFR 157.10d.
* * * * *

0
4. Revise Sec.  168.20 to read as follows:


Sec.  168.20  Applicable vessels.

    The requirements of this part apply to the following laden tankers 
of 5,000 gross tons or more:
    (a) All single hull tankers on the waters listed in Sec.  168.40(a) 
and (b); and
    (b) All double hull tankers on the waters listed in Sec.  
168.40(a).

    Dated: August 9, 2013.
J.G. Lantz,
Director of Commercial Regulations and Standards, U.S. Coast Guard.
[FR Doc. 2013-20075 Filed 8-16-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9110-04-P
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