Safety Zone; Port Huron Float Down, St. Clair River, Port Huron, MI, 34303-34306 [2019-15282]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 138 / Thursday, July 18, 2019 / Rules and Regulations 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). 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. C. Collection of Information This rule will not call for a new collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501–3520). D. Federalism and Indian Tribal Governments 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. Also, 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. If you believe this rule has implications for federalism or Indian tribes, please contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section above. khammond on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES E. 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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:57 Jul 17, 2019 Jkt 247001 F. Environment We have analyzed this rule under Department of Homeland Security Directive 023–01 and Environmental Planning COMDTINST 5090.1 (series), which guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321–4370f), and have determined 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 involves a safety zone lasting only one hour and thirty minutes that will prohibit the entry of vessels and persons within a 420-foot radius of the entrance to Green Turtle Bay Resort at mile marker 31.5 on the Cumberland River in Grand Rivers, KY. It is categorically excluded from further review under paragraph L60(a) in Table 3–1 of U.S. Coast Guard Environmental Planning Implementing Procedures 5090.1. A Record of Environmental Consideration supporting this determination is available in the docket where indicated under ADDRESSES. G. Protest Activities The Coast Guard respects the First Amendment rights of protesters. Protesters are asked to contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section to coordinate protest activities so that your message can be received without jeopardizing the safety or security of people, places or vessels. List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 165 Harbors, Marine safety, Navigation (water), Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Security measures, Waterways. For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard amends 33 CFR part 165 as follows: (b) Enforcement period. This section will be enforced from 8:15 p.m. through 9:45 p.m. on August 17, 2019. (c) Regulations. (1) In accordance with the general regulations in § 165.23, entry into this zone is prohibited unless authorized by the Captain of the Port Sector Ohio Valley (COTP) or a designated representative. (2) Persons or vessels desiring to enter into or pass through the zone must request permission from the COTP or a designated representative. They may be contacted on VHF–FM Channel 16 or by phone at 502–779–5400. (3) If permission is granted, all persons and vessels must transit at their slowest safe speed and comply with all lawful directions issued by the COTP or a designated representative. (d) Informational broadcasts. The COTP or a designated representative will inform the public through broadcast notices to mariners of any changes in the planned schedule. Dated: July 12, 2019. A.M. Beach, Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Captain of the Port Sector Ohio Valley. [FR Doc. 2019–15272 Filed 7–17–19; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9110–04–P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 165 [Docket No. USCG–2019–0567] RIN 1625–AA00 Safety Zone; Port Huron Float Down, St. Clair River, Port Huron, MI Coast Guard, DHS. Temporary final rule. AGENCY: ACTION: The Coast Guard is establishing a temporary safety zone on the waters of the St. Clair River in the vicinity of Port Huron, MI. This zone is intended to restrict and control movement of vessels in a portion of the St. Clair River. Though this is an unsanctioned, non-permitted marine event, this zone is necessary to provide for the safety of life on the navigable waters during a float down event near Port Huron, MI. DATES: This temporary final rule is effective from 12 p.m. through 8 p.m. on August 18, 2019. ADDRESSES: To view documents mentioned in this preamble as being available in the docket, go to https:// www.regulations.gov, type USCG–2019– 0567 in the ‘‘SEARCH’’ box and click SUMMARY: PART 165—REGULATED NAVIGATION AREAS AND LIMITED ACCESS AREAS 1. The authority citation for part 165 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 46 U.S.C. 70034, 70051; 33 CFR 1.05–1, 6.04–1, 6.04–6, and 160.5; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1. 2. Add § 165.T08–0514 to read as follows: ■ § 165.T08–0514 Safety Zone; Cumberland River, Grand Rivers, KY. (a) Location. The safety zone will cover all navigable waters of the Cumberland River at mile marker 31.5 within a 420-foot radius from the fireworks launch site on the Green Turtle Bay Resort in Grand Rivers, KY. PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 34303 E:\FR\FM\18JYR1.SGM 18JYR1 34304 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 138 / Thursday, July 18, 2019 / Rules and Regulations ‘‘SEARCH.’’ Click on Open Docket Folder on the line associated with this rule. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this temporary rule, call or email Tracy Girard, Prevention Department, Sector Detroit, Coast Guard; telephone 313–568–9564, or email Tracy.M.Girard@uscg.mil. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Table of Abbreviations khammond on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES CFR Code of Federal Regulations COTP Captain of the Port Detroit DHS Department of Homeland Security FR Federal Register NPRM Notice of Proposed Rulemaking § Section U.S.C. United States Code II. Background Information and Regulatory History During the afternoon of August 18, 2019, a non-sanctioned public event is scheduled to take place. The event is advertised over various social-media sites, in which a large number of persons float down a segment of the St. Clair River, using inner tubes and other similar floatation devices. The 2019 float down event will occur between approximately 12 p.m. and 8 p.m. on August 18, 2019. This non-sanctioned event has taken place in the month of August annually since 2009. No private or municipal entity requested a marine event permit from the Coast Guard for this event, and it has not received state or federal permits since its inception. The event has drawn over 5,000 participants of various ages annually. Despite plans put together by federal, state and local officials, emergency responders and law enforcement officials have been overburdened pursuing safety during this event. Medical emergencies, people drifting across the international border, and people trespassing on residential property when trying to get out of the water before the designated finish line are some of the numerous difficulties encountered during the float down event. During the 2014 float-down event, a 19-year-old participant died. During the 2016 float down, a wind shift caused thousands of U.S. citizen rafters with no passports to drift into Canadian waters. The current and wind made it impossible for the rafters to paddle back into U.S. waters, necessitating significant coordination with the Canadian authorities. Despite these events, promotional information for the event continues to be published. More than 5,000 people are again anticipated to float down the river this year. No public or private organization holds VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:57 Jul 17, 2019 Jkt 247001 themselves responsible as the event sponsor. The Coast Guard is issuing this temporary rule without prior notice and opportunity to comment pursuant to authority under 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 a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) with respect to this rule because doing so would be impracticable. The Coast Guard did not receive the final details of this float down event in time to publish an NPRM. As such, it is impracticable to publish an NPRM because we lack sufficient time to provide a reasonable comment period and then consider those comments before issuing the rule. Moreover, delaying the effective date of this rule to wait for a comment period to run would be impracticable and contrary to the public interest because it would inhibit the Coast Guard’s ability to protect the public and vessels from the hazards associated with the float down event. III. Legal Authority and Need for Rule The Coast Guard is issuing this rule under authority in 46 U.S.C. 70034 (previously 33 U.S.C. 1231). The Captain of the Port Detroit (COTP) has determined the float down poses significant risk to public safety and property from 12 p.m. through 8 p.m. on August 18, 2019. The likely combination of large numbers of participants, strong river currents, limited rescue resources, and difficult emergency response scenarios could easily result in serious injuries or fatalities to float down participants and spectators. Therefore, the COTP is establishing a safety zone around the event location to help minimize risks to safety of life and property during this event. IV. Discussion of the Rule This rule establishes a safety zone from 12 p.m. through 8 p.m. on August 18, 2019. The safety zone will begin at Lighthouse Beach and encompass all U.S. waters of the St. Clair River bound by a line starting at a point on land north of Coast Guard Station Port Huron at position 43°00.416′ N; 082°25.333′ W, extending east to the international boundary to a point at position 43°00.416′ N; 082°25.033′ W, following south along the international boundary PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 to a point at position 42°54.500′ N; 082°27.683′ W, extending west to a point on land just north of Stag Island at position 42°54.500′ N; 082°27.966′ W, and following north along the U.S. shoreline to the point of origin (NAD 83). No vessel or person will be permitted to enter the safety zone without obtaining permission from the COTP or a designated representative. Vessel operators must contact the COTP or his or her on-scene representative to obtain permission to transit through this safety zone. Additionally, no one under the age of 18 will be permitted to enter the safety zone if they are not wearing a Coast Guard approved personal floatation device. The COTP or his or her on-scene representative may be contacted via VHF Channel 16. V. Regulatory Analyses We developed this rule after considering numerous statutes and Executive orders related to rulemaking. Below we summarize our analyses based on a number of these statutes and Executive orders, and we discuss First Amendment rights of protestors. A. Regulatory Planning and Review Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 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. Executive Order 13771 directs agencies to control regulatory costs through a budgeting process. This rule has not been designated a ‘‘significant regulatory action,’’ under Executive Order 12866. Accordingly, this rule has not been reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and pursuant to OMB guidance it is exempt from the requirements of Executive Order 13771. This regulatory action determination is based on the size, location, duration, and time-of-year of the safety zone. Vessel traffic will not be able to safely transit around this safety zone which will impact a small designated area of the St. Clair River from 12 p.m. until 8 p.m. on August 18, 2019. Moreover, the Coast Guard will issue Broadcast Notice to Mariners (BNM) via VHF–FM marine channel 16 about the zone and the rule allows vessels to seek permission to enter the zone. B. Impact on Small Entities The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, 5 U.S.C. 601–612, as amended, requires Federal agencies to consider the potential impact of regulations on small entities during rulemaking. The term ‘‘small entities’’ comprises small E:\FR\FM\18JYR1.SGM 18JYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 138 / Thursday, July 18, 2019 / Rules and Regulations 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. The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. While some owners or operators of vessels intending to transit the safety zone may be small entities, for the reasons stated in section V.A above, this rule will not have a significant economic impact on any vessel owner or operator. 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. If the rule would affect your small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you have questions concerning its provisions or options for compliance, please contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section. 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). 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. C. Collection of Information This rule will not call for a new collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501–3520). khammond on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES D. Federalism and Indian Tribal Governments 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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:57 Jul 17, 2019 Jkt 247001 Also, 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. If you believe this rule has implications for federalism or Indian tribes, please contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section above. E. 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. F. Environment We have analyzed this rule under Department of Homeland Security Directive 023–01 and Environmental Planning COMDTINST 5090.1 (series), which guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321–4370f), and have determined 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 involves a safety zone lasting eight hours that will prohibit entry into a designated area. It is categorically excluded from further review under paragraph L[60](a) in Table 3–1 of U.S. Coast Guard Environmental Planning Implementing Procedures 5090.1. A Record of Environmental Consideration supporting this determination is available in the docket where indicated under ADDRESSES. G. Protest Activities The Coast Guard respects the First Amendment rights of protesters. Protesters are asked to contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section to coordinate protest activities so that your message can be received without jeopardizing the safety or security of people, places or vessels. PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 34305 List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 165 Harbors, Marine safety, Navigation (water), Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Security measures, Waterways. For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard amends 33 CFR part 165 as follows: PART 165—REGULATED NAVIGATION AREAS AND LIMITED ACCESS AREAS 1. The authority citation for part 165 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 46 U.S.C. 70034, 70051; 33 CFR 1.05–1, 6.04–1, 6.04–6, and 160.5; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1. 2. Add § 165.T09–0567 to read as follows: ■ § 165.T09–0567 Safety Zone; Port Huron Float Down, St. Clair River, Port Huron, MI. (a) Location. A safety zone is established to include all U.S. navigable waters of southern Lake Huron and the St. Clair River adjacent to Port Huron, MI, beginning at Lighthouse Beach and encompassing all U.S. waters of the St. Clair River bound by a line starting at a point on land north of Coast Guard Station Port Huron at position 43°00.416′ N; 082°25.333′ W, extending east to the international boundary to a point at position 43°00.416′ N; 082°25.033′ W, following south along the international boundary to a point at position 42°54.500′ N; 082°27.683′ W, extending west to a point on land just north of Stag Island at position 42°54.500′ N; 082°27.966′ W, and following north along the U.S. shoreline to the point of origin (NAD 83). (b) Enforcement period. The regulated area described in paragraph (a) will be in enforced from 12 p.m. through 8 p.m. on August 18, 2019. (c) Regulations. (1) No vessel or person may enter, transit through, or anchor within the safety zone unless authorized by the Captain of the Port Detroit (COTP), or his or her on-scene representative. (2) The safety zone is closed to all vessel traffic, except as may be permitted by the COTP or his or her onscene representative. (3) The ‘‘on-scene representative’’ of COTP is any Coast Guard commissioned, warrant or petty officer or a Federal, State, or local law enforcement officer designated by or assisting the Captain of the Port Detroit to act on his or her behalf. (4) Vessel operators shall contact the COTP or his or her on-scene representative to obtain permission to enter or operate within the safety zone. E:\FR\FM\18JYR1.SGM 18JYR1 34306 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 138 / Thursday, July 18, 2019 / Rules and Regulations The COTP or his or her on-scene representative may be contacted via VHF Channel 16 or at (313) 568–9560. Vessel operators given permission to enter or operate in the regulated area must comply with all directions given to them by the COTP or his or her on-scene representative. Dated: July 8, 2019. Jeffrey W. Novak, Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Captain of the Port Detroit. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 40 CFR Parts 49 and 52 [EPA–R10–OAR–2017–0347; FRL–9996–67– Region 10] Indian Country: Air Quality Planning and Management; Federal Implementation Plan for the Kalispel Indian Community of the Kalispel Reservation, Washington; Redesignation to a PSD Class I Area Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: In this final rule, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is approving the May 11, 2017 proposal by the Kalispel Indian Community of the Kalispel Reservation (herein referred to as the Kalispel Tribe of Indians or Kalispel Tribe) to redesignate lands within the exterior boundaries of the Kalispel Indian Reservation located in the State of Washington to Class I under the Clean Air Act (Act or CAA) program for the prevention of significant deterioration (PSD) of air quality. Redesignation to Class I will result in lowering the allowable increases in ambient concentrations of particulate matter (PM), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOX) on the Kalispel Indian Reservation. Concurrently, the EPA is codifying the redesignation through a revision to the Federal Implementation Plan (FIP) currently in place for the Kalispel Indian Reservation. This FIP will be implemented by the EPA unless or until it is replaced by a Tribal Implementation Plan (TIP). DATES: This final rule is effective on August 19, 2019. ADDRESSES: EPA has established a docket for this action under Docket ID No. EPA–R10–OAR–2017–0347. All documents in the docket are listed on khammond on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES 15:57 Jul 17, 2019 Jkt 247001 Sandra Brozusky at (206) 553–5317, or brozusky.sandra@epa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Throughout this document, wherever ‘‘we,’’ ‘‘us,’’ or ‘‘our’’ is used, it is intended to refer to the EPA. I. Background II. Response to Comments III. Final Action IV. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews V. Statutory Authority BILLING CODE 9110–04–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Table of Contents [FR Doc. 2019–15282 Filed 7–17–19; 8:45 am] SUMMARY: the https://www.regulations.gov website. I. Background Title 1, part C of the CAA contains the PSD program. The intent of this part is to prevent deterioration of existing air quality in areas having relatively clean air, i.e. areas meeting the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). The Act provides for three classifications applicable to all lands of the United States: Class I, Class II, and Class III. Associated with each classification are increments which represent the increase in air pollutant concentrations that would be considered significant. PSD Class I allows the least amount of deterioration of existing air quality. PSD Class II allows a moderate amount of deterioration, while PSD Class III allows the greatest amount of deterioration. Under the 1977 Amendments to the Clean Air Act, all areas of the country that met the NAAQS were initially designated as Class II, except for certain international parks, wilderness areas, national memorial parks and national parks, which were designated as Class I along with any other areas previously designated Class I. The Act allows states and Indian governing bodies to redesignate areas under their jurisdiction to PSD Class I or PSD Class III ‘‘to accommodate the social, economic, and environmental needs and desires of the local population.’’ Arizona v. EPA, 151 F.3d 1205, 1208 (9th Cir. 1998). On May 11, 2017, the Kalispel Tribe submitted to the EPA an official proposal to redesignate the original Kalispel Reservation from Class II to Class I. The original Kalispel Reservation was established by Executive Order No. 1904, signed by President Woodrow Wilson on March 23, 1914. A copy of this Executive Order is included in the docket for this action. The Kalispel Tribe submitted a supplement to the official proposal on July 13, 2017. The Kalispel Reservation is located in the State of Washington. The Kalispel Tribe’s proposal and PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 supplement included an analysis of the impacts of the redesignation within and outside of the proposed Class I area, documentation of the delivery and publication of appropriate notices, a record of the public hearing held on April 10, 2017, and comments received by the Kalispel Tribe on the proposed redesignation. EPA proposed to approve the Kalispel Tribe’s proposal to redesignate the original Kalispel Reservation to a Class I area on October 31, 2018. (83 FR 54691). An explanation of the requirements for a redesignation and how the Kalispel Tribe complied with those requirements was provided in the notice of proposed rulemaking and will not be restated here. The public comment period for this proposed action was open October 31, 2019 through December 14, 2018 and reopened February 5, 2019 through February 20, 2019. EPA held a public hearing on the proposed action on December 6, 2018 in Newport, Washington. During this hearing, 16 members of the public provided verbal comments. Of the 16 verbal commenters, 15 supported EPA’s proposed approval of the Kalispel Tribe’s redesignation, while one commenter expressed interest in establishing air quality monitoring stations in Pend Oreille County. This comment was determined to be unrelated to this action and no further discussion is provided below. Documentation of these comments is included in the docket for this action. II. Response to Comments EPA received comments from 164 parties on the proposed approval of the Kalispel Tribe redesignation request. Of the 164, 137 commenters supported EPA’s proposed action, while 17 opposed EPA’s proposed action. The remaining ten comments were either unrelated to EPA’s proposed approval of the Kalispel Tribe’s redesignation request or did not recommend EPA take a position on the redesignation request. In particular, several commenters expressed opposition to the proposed construction of a silicon smelter in Newport, Washington. However, the potential silicon smelter is unrelated to EPA’s proposed approval of the Kalispel Tribe’s redesignation request. In addition, one commenter provided information on the air quality monitoring needs in Pend Oreille County, but did not connect this information with EPA’s proposed approval of the Kalispel Tribe’s request. EPA has considered all the relevant comments received. Within this section, we have summarized the adverse comments and provided our responses. E:\FR\FM\18JYR1.SGM 18JYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 138 (Thursday, July 18, 2019)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 34303-34306]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-15282]


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DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Coast Guard

33 CFR Part 165

[Docket No. USCG-2019-0567]
RIN 1625-AA00


Safety Zone; Port Huron Float Down, St. Clair River, Port Huron, 
MI

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.

ACTION: Temporary final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Coast Guard is establishing a temporary safety zone on the 
waters of the St. Clair River in the vicinity of Port Huron, MI. This 
zone is intended to restrict and control movement of vessels in a 
portion of the St. Clair River. Though this is an unsanctioned, non-
permitted marine event, this zone is necessary to provide for the 
safety of life on the navigable waters during a float down event near 
Port Huron, MI.

DATES: This temporary final rule is effective from 12 p.m. through 8 
p.m. on August 18, 2019.

ADDRESSES: To view documents mentioned in this preamble as being 
available in the docket, go to https://www.regulations.gov, type USCG-
2019-0567 in the ``SEARCH'' box and click

[[Page 34304]]

``SEARCH.'' Click on Open Docket Folder on the line associated with 
this rule.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this 
temporary rule, call or email Tracy Girard, Prevention Department, 
Sector Detroit, Coast Guard; telephone 313-568-9564, or email 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Table of Abbreviations

CFR Code of Federal Regulations
COTP Captain of the Port Detroit
DHS Department of Homeland Security
FR Federal Register
NPRM Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
Sec.  Section
U.S.C. United States Code

II. Background Information and Regulatory History

    During the afternoon of August 18, 2019, a non-sanctioned public 
event is scheduled to take place. The event is advertised over various 
social-media sites, in which a large number of persons float down a 
segment of the St. Clair River, using inner tubes and other similar 
floatation devices. The 2019 float down event will occur between 
approximately 12 p.m. and 8 p.m. on August 18, 2019. This non-
sanctioned event has taken place in the month of August annually since 
2009.
    No private or municipal entity requested a marine event permit from 
the Coast Guard for this event, and it has not received state or 
federal permits since its inception. The event has drawn over 5,000 
participants of various ages annually. Despite plans put together by 
federal, state and local officials, emergency responders and law 
enforcement officials have been overburdened pursuing safety during 
this event. Medical emergencies, people drifting across the 
international border, and people trespassing on residential property 
when trying to get out of the water before the designated finish line 
are some of the numerous difficulties encountered during the float down 
event.
    During the 2014 float-down event, a 19-year-old participant died. 
During the 2016 float down, a wind shift caused thousands of U.S. 
citizen rafters with no passports to drift into Canadian waters. The 
current and wind made it impossible for the rafters to paddle back into 
U.S. waters, necessitating significant coordination with the Canadian 
authorities. Despite these events, promotional information for the 
event continues to be published. More than 5,000 people are again 
anticipated to float down the river this year. No public or private 
organization holds themselves responsible as the event sponsor.
    The Coast Guard is issuing this temporary rule without prior notice 
and opportunity to comment pursuant to authority under 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 a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) 
with respect to this rule because doing so would be impracticable. The 
Coast Guard did not receive the final details of this float down event 
in time to publish an NPRM. As such, it is impracticable to publish an 
NPRM because we lack sufficient time to provide a reasonable comment 
period and then consider those comments before issuing the rule. 
Moreover, delaying the effective date of this rule to wait for a 
comment period to run would be impracticable and contrary to the public 
interest because it would inhibit the Coast Guard's ability to protect 
the public and vessels from the hazards associated with the float down 
event.

III. Legal Authority and Need for Rule

    The Coast Guard is issuing this rule under authority in 46 U.S.C. 
70034 (previously 33 U.S.C. 1231). The Captain of the Port Detroit 
(COTP) has determined the float down poses significant risk to public 
safety and property from 12 p.m. through 8 p.m. on August 18, 2019. The 
likely combination of large numbers of participants, strong river 
currents, limited rescue resources, and difficult emergency response 
scenarios could easily result in serious injuries or fatalities to 
float down participants and spectators. Therefore, the COTP is 
establishing a safety zone around the event location to help minimize 
risks to safety of life and property during this event.

IV. Discussion of the Rule

    This rule establishes a safety zone from 12 p.m. through 8 p.m. on 
August 18, 2019. The safety zone will begin at Lighthouse Beach and 
encompass all U.S. waters of the St. Clair River bound by a line 
starting at a point on land north of Coast Guard Station Port Huron at 
position 43[deg]00.416' N; 082[deg]25.333' W, extending east to the 
international boundary to a point at position 43[deg]00.416' N; 
082[deg]25.033' W, following south along the international boundary to 
a point at position 42[deg]54.500' N; 082[deg]27.683' W, extending west 
to a point on land just north of Stag Island at position 42[deg]54.500' 
N; 082[deg]27.966' W, and following north along the U.S. shoreline to 
the point of origin (NAD 83). No vessel or person will be permitted to 
enter the safety zone without obtaining permission from the COTP or a 
designated representative. Vessel operators must contact the COTP or 
his or her on-scene representative to obtain permission to transit 
through this safety zone. Additionally, no one under the age of 18 will 
be permitted to enter the safety zone if they are not wearing a Coast 
Guard approved personal floatation device. The COTP or his or her on-
scene representative may be contacted via VHF Channel 16.

V. Regulatory Analyses

    We developed this rule after considering numerous statutes and 
Executive orders related to rulemaking. Below we summarize our analyses 
based on a number of these statutes and Executive orders, and we 
discuss First Amendment rights of protestors.

A. Regulatory Planning and Review

    Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 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. Executive Order 13771 directs agencies to control 
regulatory costs through a budgeting process. This rule has not been 
designated a ``significant regulatory action,'' under Executive Order 
12866. Accordingly, this rule has not been reviewed by the Office of 
Management and Budget (OMB), and pursuant to OMB guidance it is exempt 
from the requirements of Executive Order 13771.
    This regulatory action determination is based on the size, 
location, duration, and time-of-year of the safety zone. Vessel traffic 
will not be able to safely transit around this safety zone which will 
impact a small designated area of the St. Clair River from 12 p.m. 
until 8 p.m. on August 18, 2019. Moreover, the Coast Guard will issue 
Broadcast Notice to Mariners (BNM) via VHF-FM marine channel 16 about 
the zone and the rule allows vessels to seek permission to enter the 
zone.

B. Impact on Small Entities

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, 5 U.S.C. 601-612, as 
amended, requires Federal agencies to consider the potential impact of 
regulations on small entities during rulemaking. The term ``small 
entities'' comprises small

[[Page 34305]]

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. The Coast Guard 
certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this rule will not have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.
    While some owners or operators of vessels intending to transit the 
safety zone may be small entities, for the reasons stated in section 
V.A above, this rule will not have a significant economic impact on any 
vessel owner or operator.
    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. If the rule would affect your 
small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you have 
questions concerning its provisions or options for compliance, please 
contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT 
section.
    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). 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.

C. Collection of Information

    This rule will not call for a new collection of information under 
the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520).

D. Federalism and Indian Tribal Governments

    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.
    Also, 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. If 
you believe this rule has implications for federalism or Indian tribes, 
please contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT 
section above.

E. 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.

F. Environment

    We have analyzed this rule under Department of Homeland Security 
Directive 023-01 and Environmental Planning COMDTINST 5090.1 (series), 
which guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and have 
determined 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 involves a safety zone lasting eight hours that 
will prohibit entry into a designated area. It is categorically 
excluded from further review under paragraph L[60](a) in Table 3-1 of 
U.S. Coast Guard Environmental Planning Implementing Procedures 5090.1. 
A Record of Environmental Consideration supporting this determination 
is available in the docket where indicated under ADDRESSES.

G. Protest Activities

    The Coast Guard respects the First Amendment rights of protesters. 
Protesters are asked to contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER 
INFORMATION CONTACT section to coordinate protest activities so that 
your message can be received without jeopardizing the safety or 
security of people, places or vessels.

List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 165

    Harbors, Marine safety, Navigation (water), Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Security measures, Waterways.

    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard amends 
33 CFR part 165 as follows:

PART 165--REGULATED NAVIGATION AREAS AND LIMITED ACCESS AREAS

0
1. The authority citation for part 165 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 70034, 70051; 33 CFR 1.05-1, 6.04-1, 6.04-
6, and 160.5; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1.


0
2. Add Sec.  165.T09-0567 to read as follows:


Sec.  165.T09-0567  Safety Zone; Port Huron Float Down, St. Clair 
River, Port Huron, MI.

    (a) Location. A safety zone is established to include all U.S. 
navigable waters of southern Lake Huron and the St. Clair River 
adjacent to Port Huron, MI, beginning at Lighthouse Beach and 
encompassing all U.S. waters of the St. Clair River bound by a line 
starting at a point on land north of Coast Guard Station Port Huron at 
position 43[deg]00.416' N; 082[deg]25.333' W, extending east to the 
international boundary to a point at position 43[deg]00.416' N; 
082[deg]25.033' W, following south along the international boundary to 
a point at position 42[deg]54.500' N; 082[deg]27.683' W, extending west 
to a point on land just north of Stag Island at position 42[deg]54.500' 
N; 082[deg]27.966' W, and following north along the U.S. shoreline to 
the point of origin (NAD 83).
    (b) Enforcement period. The regulated area described in paragraph 
(a) will be in enforced from 12 p.m. through 8 p.m. on August 18, 2019.
    (c) Regulations. (1) No vessel or person may enter, transit 
through, or anchor within the safety zone unless authorized by the 
Captain of the Port Detroit (COTP), or his or her on-scene 
representative.
    (2) The safety zone is closed to all vessel traffic, except as may 
be permitted by the COTP or his or her on-scene representative.
    (3) The ``on-scene representative'' of COTP is any Coast Guard 
commissioned, warrant or petty officer or a Federal, State, or local 
law enforcement officer designated by or assisting the Captain of the 
Port Detroit to act on his or her behalf.
    (4) Vessel operators shall contact the COTP or his or her on-scene 
representative to obtain permission to enter or operate within the 
safety zone.

[[Page 34306]]

The COTP or his or her on-scene representative may be contacted via VHF 
Channel 16 or at (313) 568-9560. Vessel operators given permission to 
enter or operate in the regulated area must comply with all directions 
given to them by the COTP or his or her on-scene representative.

    Dated: July 8, 2019.
Jeffrey W. Novak,
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Captain of the Port Detroit.
[FR Doc. 2019-15282 Filed 7-17-19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9110-04-P


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