Significant New Use Rules on Certain Chemical Substances (20-10.B), 66506-66512 [2020-22645]

Download as PDF 66506 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 203 / Tuesday, October 20, 2020 / Proposed Rules threshold of showing that at least one claim of the patent is unpatentable. The Office has also received input from stakeholders proposing that the Office adopt a bright-line rule that precludes institution of an AIA trial against challenged claims if the patent owner opposes institution and any of the challenged claims are or have been asserted against the petitioner, the petitioner’s real party in interest, or a privy of the petitioner in a district court or ITC action that is unlikely to be stayed. By contrast, the Office also has received input from other stakeholders proposing that the Office adopt a brightline rule to eliminate any consideration of the state of any district court or ITC actions involving the challenged patent, so long as the petition complies with statutory timing requirements and meets the particular institution threshold of showing that at least one claim of the patent is unpatentable. In light of the various contrasting views from some stakeholders, the Office solicits further public input on what should be considered as part of a balanced assessment of the relevant circumstances when exercising its discretion to institute an AIA trial. Issues for Comment The USPTO seeks comments on considerations for instituting AIA trials as it relates to serial and parallel AIA petitions, as well as proceedings in other tribunals. The questions enumerated below are a preliminary guide to aid the USPTO in collecting relevant information to assist in modifications, if any, to its current practices, and in the development of any possible rulemaking on this subject. The questions should not be taken as an indication that the USPTO has taken a position or is predisposed to any particular views. The USPTO welcomes comments from the public on any issues believed to be relevant to these topics, and is particularly interested in answers to the following questions: Serial Petitions 1. Should the Office promulgate a rule with a case-specific analysis, such as generally outlined in General Plastic, Valve I, Valve II and their progeny, for deciding whether to institute a petition on claims that have previously been challenged in another petition? 2. Alternatively, in deciding whether to institute a petition, should the Office (a) altogether disregard whether the claims have previously been challenged in another petition, or (b) altogether decline to institute if the claims have VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:48 Oct 19, 2020 Jkt 253001 previously been challenged in another petition? ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY Parallel Petitions 40 CFR Part 721 3. Should the Office promulgate a rule with a case-specific analysis, such as generally outlined in the Consolidated Trial Practice Guide, for deciding whether to institute more than one petition filed at or about the same time on the same patent? 4. Alternatively, in deciding whether to institute more than one petition filed at or about the same time on the same patent, should the Office (a) altogether disregard the number of petitions filed, or (b) altogether decline to institute on more than one petition? Proceedings in Other Tribunals 5. Should the Office promulgate a rule with a case-specific analysis, such as generally outlined in Fintiv and its progeny, for deciding whether to institute a petition on a patent that is or has been subject to other proceedings in a U.S. district court or the ITC? 6. Alternatively, in deciding whether to institute a petition on a patent that is or has been subject to other proceedings in district court or the ITC, should the Office (a) altogether disregard such other proceedings, or (b) altogether decline to institute if the patent that is or has been subject to such other proceedings, unless the district court or the ITC has indicated that it will stay the action? Other Considerations 7. Whether or not the Office promulgates rules on these issues, are there any other modifications the Office should make in its approach to serial and parallel AIA petitions, proceedings in other tribunals, or other use of discretion in deciding whether to institute an AIA trial? Andrei Iancu, Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. [FR Doc. 2020–22946 Filed 10–19–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510–16–P PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 [EPA–HQ–OPPT–2020–0497; FRL–10015– 28] RIN 2070–AB27 Significant New Use Rules on Certain Chemical Substances (20–10.B) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Proposed rule. AGENCY: EPA is proposing significant new use rules (SNURs) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for chemical substances which are the subject of premanufacture notices (PMNs). This action would require persons to notify EPA at least 90 days before commencing manufacture (defined by statute to include import) or processing of any of these chemical substances for an activity that is designated as a significant new use by this proposed rule. This action would further require that persons not commence manufacture or processing for the significant new use until they have submitted a Significant New Use Notice (SNUN), and EPA has conducted a review of the notice, made an appropriate determination on the notice, and has taken any risk management actions as are required as a result of that determination. DATES: Comments must be received on or before November 19, 2020. ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by docket identification (ID) number EPA–HQ–OPPT–2020–0497, using the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for submitting comments. Do not submit electronically any information you consider to be Confidential Business Information (CBI) or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Due to the public health emergency, the EPA Docket Center (EPA/DC) and Reading Room is closed to visitors with limited exceptions. The staff continues to provide remote customer service via email, phone, and webform. For the latest status information on EPA/DC services and docket access, visit https:// www.epa.gov/dockets. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For technical information contact: William Wysong, Chemical Control Division (7405M), Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460–0001; SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\20OCP1.SGM 20OCP1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 203 / Tuesday, October 20, 2020 / Proposed Rules telephone number: (202) 564–4163; email address: wysong.william@epa.gov. For general information contact: The TSCA-Hotline, ABVI-Goodwill, 422 South Clinton Ave., Rochester, NY 14620; telephone number: (202) 554– 1404; email address: TSCA-Hotline@ epa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. General Information A. Does this action apply to me? You may be potentially affected by this action if you manufacture, process, or use the chemical substances contained in this proposed rule. The following list of North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) codes is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather provides a guide to help readers determine whether this document applies to them. Potentially affected entities may include: • Manufacturers or processors of one or more subject chemical substances (NAICS codes 325 and 324110), e.g., chemical manufacturing and petroleum refineries. This action may also affect certain entities through pre-existing import certification and export notification rules under TSCA. Chemical importers are subject to the TSCA section 13 (15 U.S.C. 2612) import provisions. This action may also affect certain entities through pre-existing import certification and export notification rules under TSCA, which would include the SNUR requirements should these proposed rules be finalized. The EPA policy in support of import certification appears at 40 CFR part 707, subpart B. In addition, pursuant to 40 CFR 721.20, any persons who export or intend to export a chemical substance that is the subject of this proposed rule on or after November 19, 2020 are subject to the export notification provisions of TSCA section 12(b) (15 U.S.C. 2611(b)) and must comply with the export notification requirements in 40 CFR part 707, subpart D. B. What should I consider as I prepare my comments for EPA? 1. Submitting CBI. Do not submit CBI to EPA through regulations.gov or email. Clearly mark the part or all of the information that you claim to be CBI. For CBI information in a disk or CD– ROM that you mail to EPA, mark the outside of the disk or CD–ROM as CBI and then identify electronically within the disk or CD–ROM the specific information that is claimed as CBI. In addition to one complete version of the comment that includes information claimed as CBI, a copy of the comment VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:48 Oct 19, 2020 Jkt 253001 that does not contain the information claimed as CBI must be submitted for inclusion in the public docket. Information so marked will not be disclosed except in accordance with procedures set forth in 40 CFR part 2. 2. Tips for preparing your comments. When preparing and submitting your comments, see the commenting tips at https://www.epa.gov/dockets/ commenting-epa-dockets. II. Background A. What action is the Agency taking? EPA is proposing these SNURs under TSCA section 5(a)(2) for chemical substances which are the subjects of PMNs P–18–289, P–18–330, P–18–334, P–18–335, and P–18–337. These proposed SNURs would require persons who intend to manufacture or process any of these chemical substances for an activity that is designated as a significant new use to notify EPA at least 90 days before commencing that activity. The record for these proposed SNURs, identified as docket ID number EPA– HQ–OPPT–2020–0497, includes information considered by the Agency in developing these proposed SNURs. B. What is the Agency’s authority for taking this action? TSCA section 5(a)(2) (15 U.S.C. 2604(a)(2)) authorizes EPA to determine that a use of a chemical substance is a ‘‘significant new use.’’ EPA must make this determination by rule after considering all relevant factors, including the four TSCA section 5(a)(2) factors listed in Unit III. C. Do the SNUR general provisions apply? General provisions for SNURs appear in 40 CFR part 721, subpart A. These provisions describe persons subject to the rule, recordkeeping requirements, exemptions to reporting requirements, and applicability of the rule to uses occurring before the effective date of the rule. Provisions relating to user fees appear at 40 CFR part 700. Pursuant to 40 CFR 721.1(c), persons subject to these SNURs must comply with the same SNUN requirements and EPA regulatory procedures as submitters of PMNs under TSCA section 5(a)(1)(A) (15 U.S.C. 2604(a)(1)(A)). In particular, these requirements include the information submission requirements of TSCA sections 5(b) and 5(d)(1) (15 U.S.C. 2604(b) and 2604(d)(1)), the exemptions authorized by TSCA sections 5(h)(1), 5(h)(2), 5(h)(3), and 5(h)(5) and the regulations at 40 CFR part 720. Once EPA receives a SNUN, PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 66507 EPA must either determine that the use is not likely to present an unreasonable risk of injury under the conditions of use for the chemical substance or take such regulatory action as is associated with an alternative determination before the manufacture or processing for the significant new use can commence. If EPA determines that the chemical substance is not likely to present an unreasonable risk, EPA is required under TSCA section 5(g) to make public, and submit for publication in the Federal Register, a statement of EPA’s findings. III. Significant New Use Determination TSCA section 5(a)(2) states that EPA’s determination that a use of a chemical substance is a significant new use must be made after consideration of all relevant factors, including: • The projected volume of manufacturing and processing of a chemical substance. • The extent to which a use changes the type or form of exposure of human beings or the environment to a chemical substance. • The extent to which a use increases the magnitude and duration of exposure of human beings or the environment to a chemical substance. • The reasonably anticipated manner and methods of manufacturing, processing, distribution in commerce, and disposal of a chemical substance. In determining what would constitute a significant new use for the chemical substances that are the subject of these SNURs, EPA considered relevant information about the toxicity of the chemical substances, and potential human exposures and environmental releases that may be associated with the substances, in the context of the four bulleted TSCA section 5(a)(2) factors listed in this unit. During its review of these chemicals, EPA identified certain conditions of use that are not intended by the submitters, but reasonably foreseen to occur. EPA is proposing to designate those reasonably foreseen conditions of use as well as certain other circumstances of use as significant new uses. IV. Substances Subject to This Proposed Rule EPA is proposing significant new use and recordkeeping requirements be added to 40 CFR part 721, subpart E for the chemical substances identified in this unit. For each chemical substance, EPA provides the following information in this unit: • PMN number. • Chemical name (generic name, if the specific name is claimed as CBI). E:\FR\FM\20OCP1.SGM 20OCP1 66508 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 203 / Tuesday, October 20, 2020 / Proposed Rules • Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) Registry number (if assigned for nonconfidential chemical identities). • Basis for the SNUR. • Potentially useful information. • CFR citation assigned in the regulatory text section of these proposed rules. The regulatory text section of these proposed rules specifies the activities designated as significant new uses. Certain new uses, including production volume limits and other uses designated in the proposed rules, may be claimed as CBI. The chemical substances that are the subject of these proposed SNURs are undergoing premanufacture review. In addition to those conditions of use intended by the submitter, EPA has identified certain other reasonably foreseen conditions of use. EPA has preliminarily determined that the chemicals under their intended conditions of use are not likely to present an unreasonable risk. However, EPA has not assessed risks associated with the reasonably foreseen conditions of use for these chemicals. EPA is proposing to designate these reasonably foreseen conditions of use and other circumstances of use as significant new uses. As a result, those significant new uses cannot occur without first going through a separate, subsequent EPA review and determination process associated with a SNUN. The substances subject to these proposed rules are as follows: PMN Number: P–18–289 Chemical name: 2(2(Methylcaboxymonocyclic)amino) ethoxy)-alcohol (generic). CAS number: Not available. Basis for action: The PMN states that the generic use of the substance will be as a gas scrubber and wastewater deodorizer. Based on the physical/ chemical properties of the PMN substance and Structure Activity Relationships (SAR) analysis of test data on analogous substances, EPA has identified concerns for eye irritation, skin irritation, and specific target organ toxicity if the chemical is not used following the limitations noted. This proposed SNUR designates the following as ‘‘significant new uses’’ requiring further review by EPA: 1. Manufacture beyond an annual production volume of 80,000 kg. 2. Use other than for the confidential uses specified in the PMN. Potentially useful information: EPA has determined that certain information about the effects of the PMN substance may be potentially useful if a manufacturer or processor is VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:48 Oct 19, 2020 Jkt 253001 considering submitting a SNUN for a significant new use that would be designated by this proposed SNUR. EPA has determined that the results of eye irritation/corrosion and specific target organ toxicity testing would help characterize the potential health effects of the PMN substance. CFR citation: 40 CFR 721.11561. PMN Number: P–18–330 Chemical name: Formaldehyde, polymer with alkyl aryl ketone (generic). CAS number: Not available. Basis for action: The PMN states that the generic use of the substance will be as an initiator. Based on the physical/ chemical properties of the PMN substance and SAR analysis of test data on analogous substances, EPA has identified concerns for nephrotoxicity, skin sensitization, specific target organ toxicity, and systemic toxicity if the chemical is not used following the limitations noted. This proposed SNUR designates the following as ‘‘significant new uses’’ requiring further review by EPA: 1. Use of the PMN substance in a consumer product. 2. Release of the PMN substance resulting in surface water concentrations that exceed 770 ppb. Potentially useful information: EPA has determined that certain information about the effects of the PMN substance may be potentially useful if a manufacturer or processor is considering submitting a SNUN for a significant new use that would be designated by this proposed SNUR. EPA has determined that the results of skin sensitization and specific target organ toxicity testing would help characterize the potential health effects of the PMN substance. CFR citation: 40 CFR 721.11562. PMN Number: P–18–334 Chemical name: Propanedioic acid, 1,3-dihexyl ester. CAS number: 1431–37–4. Basis for action: The PMN states that the use of the substance will be as a chemical intermediate. Based on the physical/chemical properties of the PMN substance and SAR analysis of test data on analogous substances, EPA has identified concerns for aquatic toxicity, eye irritation, and specific target organ toxicity if the chemical is not used following the limitations noted. This proposed SNUR designates the following as ‘‘significant new uses’’ requiring further review by EPA: 1. Use other than as a chemical intermediate. PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 2. Release of the PMN substance resulting in surface water concentrations that exceed 3 ppb. Potentially useful information: EPA has determined that certain information about the effects of the PMN substance may be potentially useful if a manufacturer or processor is considering submitting a SNUN for a significant new use that would be designated by this proposed SNUR. EPA has determined that the results of aquatic toxicity, eye irritation/corrosion, and specific target organ toxicity testing would help characterize the potential environmental and health effects of the PMN substance. CFR citation: 40 CFR 721.11563. PMN Number: P–18–335 Chemical name: Propanedioic acid, 1,3-dicyclohexyl ester. CAS number: 1152–57–4. Basis for action: The PMN states that the use of the substance will be as a chemical intermediate. Based on the physical/chemical properties of the PMN substance and SAR analysis of test data on analogous substances, EPA has identified concerns for aquatic toxicity, eye irritation, skin irritation, and specific target organ toxicity if the chemical is not used following the limitations noted. This proposed SNUR designates the following as ‘‘significant new uses’’ requiring further review by EPA: 1. Use other than as a chemical intermediate. 2. Release of the PMN substance resulting in surface water concentrations that exceed 6 ppb. Potentially useful information: EPA has determined that certain information about the effects of the PMN substance may be potentially useful if a manufacturer or processor is considering submitting a SNUN for a significant new use that would be designated by this proposed SNUR. EPA has determined that the results of aquatic toxicity, eye irritation/corrosion, skin irritation/corrosion, and specific target organ toxicity testing would help characterize the potential environmental and health effects of the PMN substance. CFR citation: 40 CFR 721.11564. PMN Number: P–18–337 Chemical name: Propanedioic acid, 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)-, 1,3dicyclohexyl ester. CAS number: 2222732–46–7. Basis for action: The PMN states that the use of the substance will be as a chemical intermediate. Based on the physical/chemical properties of the PMN substance and Structure Activity Relationships (SAR) analysis of test data E:\FR\FM\20OCP1.SGM 20OCP1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 203 / Tuesday, October 20, 2020 / Proposed Rules on analogous substances, EPA has identified concerns for aquatic toxicity, eye irritation, skin irritation, and specific target organ toxicity if the chemical is not used following the limitations noted. This proposed SNUR designates the following as ‘‘significant new uses’’ requiring further review by EPA: • Release of the PMN substance resulting in surface water concentrations that exceed 95 ppb. Potentially useful information: EPA has determined that certain information about the effects of the PMN substance may be potentially useful if a manufacturer or processor is considering submitting a SNUN for a significant new use that would be designated by this proposed SNUR. EPA has determined that the results of aquatic toxicity, eye irritation/corrosion, skin irritation/corrosion, and specific target organ toxicity testing would help characterize the potential environmental and health effects of the PMN substance. CFR citation: 40 CFR 721.11565. V. Rationale and Objectives of the Proposed Rule A. Rationale During review of the PMNs submitted for the chemical substances that are the subject of these proposed SNURs and as further discussed in Unit IV., EPA identified certain other reasonably foreseen conditions of use, in addition to those conditions of use intended by the submitter. EPA has preliminarily determined that the chemical under the intended conditions of use is not likely to present an unreasonable risk. However, EPA has not assessed risks associated with the reasonably foreseen conditions of use. EPA is proposing to designate these conditions of use as well as certain other circumstances of use as significant new uses. As a result, those significant new uses cannot occur without going through a separate, subsequent EPA review and determination process associated with a SNUN. B. Objectives EPA is proposing these SNURs because the Agency wants: • To have an opportunity to review and evaluate data submitted in a SNUN before the notice submitter begins manufacturing or processing a listed chemical substance for the described significant new use. • To be obligated to make a determination under TSCA section 5(a)(3) regarding the use described in the SNUN, under the conditions of use. The Agency will either determine under VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:48 Oct 19, 2020 Jkt 253001 TSCA section 5(a)(3)(C) that the chemical, under the conditions of use, is not likely to present an unreasonable risk, including an unreasonable risk to a potentially exposed or susceptible subpopulation identified as relevant by the Administrator under the conditions of use, or make a determination under TSCA section 5(a)(3)(A) or (B) and take the required regulatory action associated with the determination, before manufacture or processing for the significant new use of the chemical substance can occur. • To be able to complete its review and determination on each of the PMN substances, while deferring analysis on the significant new uses proposed in these rules unless and until the Agency receives a SNUN. Issuance of a proposed SNUR for a chemical substance does not signify that the chemical substance is listed on the TSCA Inventory. Guidance on how to determine if a chemical substance is on the TSCA Inventory is available on the internet at https://www.epa.gov/tscainventory. VI. Applicability of the Proposed Rules to Uses Occurring Before the Effective Date of the Final Rule To establish a significant new use, EPA must determine that the use is not ongoing. The chemical substances subject to this proposed rule were undergoing premanufacture review at the time of signature of this proposed rule and were not on the TSCA Inventory. In cases where EPA has not received a notice of commencement (NOC) and the chemical substance has not been added to the TSCA Inventory, no person may commence such activities without first submitting a PMN. Therefore, for the chemical substances subject to these proposed SNURs, EPA concludes that the proposed significant new uses are not ongoing. EPA designates October 6, 2020 (date of web posting of this proposed rule) as the cutoff date for determining whether the new use is ongoing. The objective of EPA’s approach is to ensure that a person cannot defeat a SNUR by initiating a significant new use before the effective date of the final rule. Persons who begin commercial manufacture or processing of the chemical substances for a significant new use identified on or after that date would have to cease any such activity upon the effective date of the final rule. To resume their activities, these persons would have to first comply with all applicable SNUR notification requirements and EPA would have to take action under section 5 allowing PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 66509 manufacture or processing to proceed. In developing this proposed rule, EPA has recognized that, given EPA’s general practice of posting proposed rules on its website a week or more in advance of Federal Register publication, this objective could be thwarted even before Federal Register publication of the proposed rule. VII. Development and Submission of Information EPA recognizes that TSCA section 5 does not require development of any particular new information (e.g., generating test data) before submission of a SNUN. There is an exception: If a person is required to submit information for a chemical substance pursuant to a rule, order or consent agreement under TSCA section 4 (15 U.S.C. 2603), then TSCA section 5(b)(1)(A) (15 U.S.C. 2604(b)(1)(A)) requires such information to be submitted to EPA at the time of submission of the SNUN. In the absence of a rule, order, or consent agreement under TSCA section 4 covering the chemical substance, persons are required only to submit information in their possession or control and to describe any other information known to or reasonably ascertainable by them (see 40 CFR 720.50). However, upon review of PMNs and SNUNs, the Agency has the authority to require appropriate testing. Unit IV. lists potentially useful information for all SNURs listed here. Descriptions are provided for informational purposes. The potentially useful information identified in Unit IV. will be useful to EPA’s evaluation in the event that someone submits a SNUN for the significant new use. Companies who are considering submitting a SNUN are encouraged, but not required, to develop the information on the substance, which may assist with EPA’s analysis of the SNUN. EPA strongly encourages persons, before performing any testing, to consult with the Agency pertaining to protocol selection. Furthermore, pursuant to TSCA section 4(h), which pertains to reduction of testing in vertebrate animals, EPA encourages consultation with the Agency on the use of alternative test methods and strategies (also called New Approach Methodologies, or NAMs), if available, to generate the recommended test data. EPA encourages dialog with Agency representatives to help determine how best the submitter can meet both the data needs and the objective of TSCA section 4(h). The potentially useful information described in Unit IV. may not be the only means of providing information to E:\FR\FM\20OCP1.SGM 20OCP1 66510 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 203 / Tuesday, October 20, 2020 / Proposed Rules evaluate the chemical substance associated with the significant new uses. However, submitting a SNUN without any test data may increase the likelihood that EPA will take action under TSCA sections 5(e) or 5(f). EPA recommends that potential SNUN submitters contact EPA early enough so that they will be able to conduct the appropriate tests. SNUN submitters should be aware that EPA will be better able to evaluate SNUNs which provide detailed information on the following: • Human exposure and environmental release that may result from the significant new use of the chemical substances. VIII. SNUN Submissions According to 40 CFR 721.1(c), persons submitting a SNUN must comply with the same notification requirements and EPA regulatory procedures as persons submitting a PMN, including submission of test data on health and environmental effects as described in 40 CFR 720.50. SNUNs must be submitted on EPA Form No. 7710–25, generated using e-PMN software, and submitted to the Agency in accordance with the procedures set forth in 40 CFR 720.40 and 721.25. E–PMN software is available electronically at https:// www.epa.gov/reviewing-new-chemicalsunder-toxic-substances-control-act-tsca. IX. Economic Analysis EPA has evaluated the potential costs of establishing SNUN requirements for potential manufacturers and processors of the chemical substances subject to this proposed rule. EPA’s complete economic analysis is available in the docket for this rulemaking. X. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews Additional information about these statutes and Executive orders can be found at https://www.epa.gov/lawsregulations-and-executive-orders. A. Executive Order 12866: Regulatory Planning and Review and Executive Order 13563: Improving Regulations and Regulatory Review This action proposes to establish SNURs for new chemical substances that were the subject of PMNs. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has exempted these types of actions from review under Executive Orders 12866 (58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993) and 13563 (76 FR 3821, January 21, 2011). VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:48 Oct 19, 2020 Jkt 253001 B. Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) According to the PRA, 44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq., an agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information that requires OMB approval under PRA, unless it has been approved by OMB and displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA’s regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal Register, are listed in 40 CFR part 9, and included on the related collection instrument or form, if applicable. The information collection requirements related to this action have already been approved by OMB pursuant to PRA under OMB control number 2070–0012 (EPA ICR No. 574). This action does not impose any burden requiring additional OMB approval. If an entity were to submit a SNUN to the Agency, the annual burden is estimated to average between 30 and 170 hours per response. This burden estimate includes the time needed to review instructions, search existing data sources, gather and maintain the data needed, and complete, review, and submit the required SNUN. Send any comments about the accuracy of the burden estimate, and any suggested methods for minimizing respondent burden, including through the use of automated collection techniques, to the Director, Regulatory Support Division, Office of Mission Support (2822T), Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460–0001. Please remember to include the OMB control number in any correspondence, but do not submit any completed forms to this address. C. Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) Pursuant to section 605(b) of the RFA, 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., I hereby certify that promulgation of this proposed SNUR would not have a significant adverse economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The requirement to submit a SNUN applies to any person (including small or large entities) who intends to engage in any activity described in the final rule as a ‘‘significant new use.’’ Because these uses are ‘‘new,’’ based on all information currently available to EPA, it appears that no small or large entities presently engage in such activities. A SNUR requires that any person who intends to engage in such activity in the future must first notify EPA by submitting a SNUN. Although some small entities may decide to pursue a significant new use in the future, EPA PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 cannot presently determine how many, if any, there may be. However, EPA’s experience to date is that, in response to the promulgation of SNURs covering over 1,000 chemicals, the Agency receives only a small number of notices per year. For example, the number of SNUNs received was seven in Federal fiscal year (FY) 2013, 13 in FY2014, six in FY2015, 12 in FY2016, 13 in FY2017, and 11 in FY2018, only a fraction of these were from small businesses. In addition, the Agency currently offers relief to qualifying small businesses by reducing the SNUN submission fee from $16,000 to $2,800. This lower fee reduces the total reporting and recordkeeping of cost of submitting a SNUN to about $10,116 for qualifying small firms. Therefore, the potential economic impacts of complying with this proposed SNUR are not expected to be significant or adversely impact a substantial number of small entities. In a SNUR that published in the Federal Register of June 2, 1997 (62 FR 29684) (FRL–5597–1), the Agency presented its general determination that final SNURs are not expected to have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities, which was provided to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration. D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) Based on EPA’s experience with proposing and finalizing SNURs, State, local, and Tribal governments have not been impacted by these rulemakings, and EPA does not have any reasons to believe that any State, local, or Tribal government will be impacted by this proposed rule. As such, EPA has determined that this proposed rule does not impose any enforceable duty, contain any unfunded mandate, or otherwise have any effect on small governments subject to the requirements of UMRA sections 202, 203, 204, or 205 (2 U.S.C. 1531–1538 et seq.). E. Executive Order 13132: Federalism This action will not have federalism implications because it is not expected to have a substantial direct effect on 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, as specified in Executive Order 13132 (64 FR 43255, August 10, 1999). E:\FR\FM\20OCP1.SGM 20OCP1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 203 / Tuesday, October 20, 2020 / Proposed Rules F. Executive Order 13175: Consultation and Coordination With Indian Tribal Governments This action will not have Tribal implications because it is not expected to have substantial direct effects on Indian Tribes, significantly or uniquely affect the communities of Indian Tribal governments, and does not involve or impose any requirements that affect Indian Tribes, as specified in Executive Order 13175 (65 FR 67249, November 9, 2000). G. Executive Order 13045: Protection of Children From Environmental Health and Safety Risks This action is not subject to Executive Order 13045 (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997), because this is not an economically significant regulatory action as defined by Executive Order 12866, and this action does not address environmental health or safety risks disproportionately affecting children. H. Executive Order 13211: Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use I. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) In addition, since this action does not involve any technical standards, NTTAA section 12(d), 15 U.S.C. 272 note, does not apply to this action. J. Executive Order 12898: Federal Actions To Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations This action does not entail special considerations of environmental justice related issues as delineated by Executive Order 12898 (59 FR 7629, February 16, 1994). List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 721 Environmental protection, Chemicals, Hazardous substances, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements. Dated: September 30, 2020. Tala Henry, Deputy Director, Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics. Therefore, for the reasons stated in the preamble, EPA proposes to amend 40 CFR part 721 as follows: 16:48 Oct 19, 2020 Jkt 253001 1. The authority citation for part 721 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority 15 U.S.C. 2604, 2607, and 2625(c). 2. Add §§ 721.11561 through 721.11565 to subpart E to read as follows: ■ Subpart E—Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances Sec. * * * * * 721.11561 2(2(Methylcaboxymonocyclic)amino) ethoxy)-alcohol (generic). 721.11562 Formaldehyde, polymer with alkyl aryl ketone (generic). 721.11563 Propanedioic acid, 1,3-dihexyl ester. 721.11564 Propanedioic acid, 1,3dicyclohexyl ester. 721.11565 Propanedioic acid, 2,2bis(hydroxymethyl)-, 1,3-dicyclohexyl ester * This proposed rule is not subject to Executive Order 13211 (66 FR 28355, May 22, 2001), because this action is not expected to affect energy supply, distribution, or use and because this action is not a significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866. VerDate Sep<11>2014 PART 721—SIGNIFICANT NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES * * * * § 721.11561 2(2(Methylcaboxymonocyclic)amino)ethoxy)alcohol (generic). (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to reporting. (1) The chemical substance generically identified as 2(2(Methylcaboxymonocyclic)amino) ethoxy)-alcohol (PMN P–18–289) is subject to reporting under this section for the significant new uses described in paragraph (a)(2) of this section. (2) The significant new uses are: (i) Industrial, commercial, and consumer activities. Requirements as specified in § 721.80(j) and (s) (80,000 kilograms). (ii) [Reserved] (b) Specific requirements. The provisions of subpart A of this part apply to this section except as modified by this paragraph (b). (1) Recordkeeping. Recordkeeping requirements as specified in § 721.125(a) through (c) and (i) are applicable to manufacturers and processors of this substance. (2) Limitations or revocation of certain notification requirements. The provisions of § 721.185 apply to this section. (3) Determining whether a specific use is subject to this section. The provisions of § 721.1725(b)(1) apply to paragraph (a)(2)(i) of this section. § 721.11562 Formaldehyde, polymer with alkyl aryl ketone (generic). (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to reporting. PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 66511 (1) The chemical substance generically identified as formaldehyde, polymer with alkyl aryl ketone (PMN P–18–330) is subject to reporting under this section for the significant new uses described in paragraph (a)(2) of this section. (2) The significant new uses are: (i) Industrial, commercial, and consumer activities. Requirements as specified in § 721.80(o). (ii) Release to water. Requirements as specified in § 721.90(a)(4), (b)(4), and (c)(4) where N = 770. (b) Specific requirements. The provisions of subpart A of this part apply to this section except as modified by this paragraph (b). (1) Recordkeeping. Recordkeeping requirements as specified in § 721.125(a) through (c), (i), and (k) are applicable to manufacturers and processors of this substance. (2) Limitations or revocation of certain notification requirements. The provisions of § 721.185 apply to this section. § 721.11563 ester. Propanedioic acid, 1,3-dihexyl (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to reporting. (1) The chemical substance identified as propanedioic acid, 1,3-dihexyl ester (PMN P–18–334, CAS No. 1431–37–4) is subject to reporting under this section for the significant new uses described in paragraph (a)(2) of this section. (2) The significant new uses are: (i) Industrial, commercial, and consumer activities. Requirements as specified in § 721.80(g). (ii) Release to water. Requirements as specified in § 721.90 (a)(4), (b)(4), (c)(4), where N = 3. (b) Specific requirements. The provisions of subpart A of this part apply to this section except as modified by this paragraph (b). (1) Recordkeeping. Recordkeeping requirements as specified in § 721.125(a) through (c), (i), and (k) are applicable to manufacturers and processors of this substance. (2) Limitations or revocation of certain notification requirements. The provisions of § 721.185 apply to this section. § 721.11564 Propanedioic acid, 1,3dicyclohexyl ester. (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to reporting. (1) The chemical substance identified as propanedioic acid, 1,3-dicyclohexyl ester (PMN P–18–335, CAS No. 1152– 57–4) is subject to reporting under this section for the significant new uses described in paragraph (a)(2) of this section. E:\FR\FM\20OCP1.SGM 20OCP1 66512 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 203 / Tuesday, October 20, 2020 / Proposed Rules (2) The significant new uses are: (i) Industrial, commercial, and consumer activities. Requirements as specified in § 721.80(g). (ii) Release to water. Requirements as specified in § 721.90(a)(4), (b)(4), and (c)(4), where N = 6. (b) Specific requirements. The provisions of subpart A of this part apply to this section except as modified by this paragraph (b). (1) Recordkeeping. Recordkeeping requirements as specified in § 721.125(a) through (c) (i), and (k) are applicable to manufacturers and processors of this substance. (2) Limitations or revocation of certain notification requirements. The provisions of § 721.185 apply to this section. § 721.11565 Propanedioic acid, 2,2bis(hydroxymethyl)-, 1,3-dicyclohexyl ester. (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to reporting. (1) The chemical substance identified as propanedioic acid, 2,2bis(hydroxymethyl)-, 1,3-dicyclohexyl ester (PMN P–18–337, CAS No. 2222732–46–7) is subject to reporting under this section for the significant new uses described in paragraph (a)(2) of this section. (2) The significant new uses are: (i) Release to water. Requirements as specified in § 721.90(a)(4), (b)(4), and (c)(4), where N = 95. (ii) [Reserved] (b) Specific requirements. The provisions of subpart A of this part apply to this section except as modified by this paragraph (b). (1) Recordkeeping. Recordkeeping requirements as specified in § 721.125(a) through (c) and (k) are applicable to manufacturers and processors of this substance. (2) Limitations or revocation of certain notification requirements. The provisions of § 721.185 apply to this section. [FR Doc. 2020–22645 Filed 10–19–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560–50–P FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION 47 CFR Part 64 [WC Docket No. 12–375; DA 20–1128, FRS 17113] Rates for Interstate Inmate Calling Services Federal Communications Commission. ACTION: Proposed rule; availability of supplemental information. AGENCY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:48 Oct 19, 2020 Jkt 253001 In this document, the Federal Communications Commission (Commission) announces the availability, under the terms of the Protective Order in the ICS proceeding, of the inmate calling services database (the ICS Database) that the Commission staff developed for use in its Rates for Interstate Inmate Calling Services (ICS) proceeding, FCC 20–111, released August 7, 2020, Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (Fourth FNPRM). This document also sets forth the requirements individuals must meet in order to obtain a copy of the ICS database. SUMMARY: The public notice was effective on September 24, 2020. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by WC Docket No. 12–375, by any of the following methods: • Federal Communications Commission’s Website: https:// apps.fcc.gov/ecfs/. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Paper Filers: Parties who choose to file by paper must file an original and one copy of each filing. If more than one docket or rulemaking number appears in the caption of this proceeding, filers must submit two additional copies for each additional docket or rulemaking number. Filings can be sent by commercial overnight courier, or by first-class or overnight U.S. Postal Service mail. All filings must be addressed to the Commission’s Secretary, Office of the Secretary, Federal Communications Commission. • Commercial overnight mail (other than U.S. Postal Service Express Mail and Priority Mail) must be sent to 9050 Junction Drive, Annapolis Junction, MD 20701. U.S. Postal Service first-class, Express, and Priority mail must be addressed to 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554. • Effective March 19, 2020, and until further notice, the Commission no longer accepts any hand or messenger delivered filings. This is a temporary measure taken to help protect the health and safety of individuals, and to mitigate the transmission of COVID–19. See FCC Announces Closure of FCC Headquarters Open Window and Change in Hand-Delivery Policy, Public Notice, DA 20–304 (March 19, 2020). https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcccloses-headquarters-open-window-andchanges-hand-delivery-policy. People with Disabilities: Contact the FCC to request reasonable accommodations (accessible format documents, sign language interpreters, CART, etc.) by email: FCC504@fcc.gov DATES: PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 or phone: 202–418–0530 or TTY: 202– 418–0432. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Erik Raven-Hansen, Pricing Policy Division of the Wireline Competition Bureau, at (202) 418–1532 or via email at Erik.Raven-Hansen@fcc.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This is a summary of the Commission’s document (Public Notice), DA 20–1128, released on September 24, 2020. The full text of this document is available for public inspection and can be downloaded at https://docs.fcc.gov/ public/attachments/DA-20-1128A1.pdf. The full text of this document can also be obtained at the following internet address: https://www.fcc.gov/document/ wcb-and-oea-announce-availability-icsdatabase. By the Public Notice, the Wireline Competition Bureau (Bureau) and Office of Economics and Analytics (OEA) announce the availability of the database developed by Commission staff for use in the Rates for Interstate Inmate Calling Services proceeding (the ICS Database) under the terms of the Protective Order in this proceeding (28 FCC Rcd 16954). The Commission used this ICS Database in developing its rate cap proposals in the recent 2020 ICS Notice. The ICS Database contains confidential information submitted to the Commission by providers of calling services for incarcerated individuals, including cost and revenue information that each provider submitted in response to the Commission’s Second Mandatory Data Collection. The database also includes geocoding information related to facility locations added by the Commission staff that outside parties might find difficult to replicate. Making this database available will allow interested parties to rely on a common dataset in evaluating and responding to the Commission’s rate cap proposals in this proceeding, while ensuring providers remain protected against the unwarranted disclosure of their confidential information. To request access to the ICS Database, interested individuals must first satisfy the requirements of the Protective Order. Under the terms of the Protective Order, access to information submitted under a claim of confidentiality is limited to counsel and outside consultants who are not involved in competitive decision-making, who have executed the Acknowledgement of Confidentiality appended to that Order, and who meet the other requirements of that Order. Individuals who qualify thereunder should contact the Bureau’s staff, as set forth below. Before making E:\FR\FM\20OCP1.SGM 20OCP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 203 (Tuesday, October 20, 2020)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 66506-66512]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-22645]


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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 721

[EPA-HQ-OPPT-2020-0497; FRL-10015-28]
RIN 2070-AB27


Significant New Use Rules on Certain Chemical Substances (20-
10.B)

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: EPA is proposing significant new use rules (SNURs) under the 
Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for chemical substances which are 
the subject of premanufacture notices (PMNs). This action would require 
persons to notify EPA at least 90 days before commencing manufacture 
(defined by statute to include import) or processing of any of these 
chemical substances for an activity that is designated as a significant 
new use by this proposed rule. This action would further require that 
persons not commence manufacture or processing for the significant new 
use until they have submitted a Significant New Use Notice (SNUN), and 
EPA has conducted a review of the notice, made an appropriate 
determination on the notice, and has taken any risk management actions 
as are required as a result of that determination.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before November 19, 2020.

ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by docket identification 
(ID) number EPA-HQ-OPPT-2020-0497, using the Federal eRulemaking Portal 
at https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for 
submitting comments. Do not submit electronically any information you 
consider to be Confidential Business Information (CBI) or other 
information whose disclosure is restricted by statute.
    Due to the public health emergency, the EPA Docket Center (EPA/DC) 
and Reading Room is closed to visitors with limited exceptions. The 
staff continues to provide remote customer service via email, phone, 
and webform. For the latest status information on EPA/DC services and 
docket access, visit https://www.epa.gov/dockets.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 
    For technical information contact: William Wysong, Chemical Control 
Division (7405M), Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, 
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, 
DC 20460-0001;

[[Page 66507]]

telephone number: (202) 564-4163; email address: 
[email protected].
    For general information contact: The TSCA-Hotline, ABVI-Goodwill, 
422 South Clinton Ave., Rochester, NY 14620; telephone number: (202) 
554-1404; email address: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. General Information

A. Does this action apply to me?

    You may be potentially affected by this action if you manufacture, 
process, or use the chemical substances contained in this proposed 
rule. The following list of North American Industrial Classification 
System (NAICS) codes is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather 
provides a guide to help readers determine whether this document 
applies to them. Potentially affected entities may include:
     Manufacturers or processors of one or more subject 
chemical substances (NAICS codes 325 and 324110), e.g., chemical 
manufacturing and petroleum refineries.
    This action may also affect certain entities through pre-existing 
import certification and export notification rules under TSCA. Chemical 
importers are subject to the TSCA section 13 (15 U.S.C. 2612) import 
provisions. This action may also affect certain entities through pre-
existing import certification and export notification rules under TSCA, 
which would include the SNUR requirements should these proposed rules 
be finalized. The EPA policy in support of import certification appears 
at 40 CFR part 707, subpart B. In addition, pursuant to 40 CFR 721.20, 
any persons who export or intend to export a chemical substance that is 
the subject of this proposed rule on or after November 19, 2020 are 
subject to the export notification provisions of TSCA section 12(b) (15 
U.S.C. 2611(b)) and must comply with the export notification 
requirements in 40 CFR part 707, subpart D.

B. What should I consider as I prepare my comments for EPA?

    1. Submitting CBI. Do not submit CBI to EPA through regulations.gov 
or email. Clearly mark the part or all of the information that you 
claim to be CBI. For CBI information in a disk or CD-ROM that you mail 
to EPA, mark the outside of the disk or CD-ROM as CBI and then identify 
electronically within the disk or CD-ROM the specific information that 
is claimed as CBI. In addition to one complete version of the comment 
that includes information claimed as CBI, a copy of the comment that 
does not contain the information claimed as CBI must be submitted for 
inclusion in the public docket. Information so marked will not be 
disclosed except in accordance with procedures set forth in 40 CFR part 
2.
    2. Tips for preparing your comments. When preparing and submitting 
your comments, see the commenting tips at https://www.epa.gov/dockets/commenting-epa-dockets.

II. Background

A. What action is the Agency taking?

    EPA is proposing these SNURs under TSCA section 5(a)(2) for 
chemical substances which are the subjects of PMNs P-18-289, P-18-330, 
P-18-334, P-18-335, and P-18-337. These proposed SNURs would require 
persons who intend to manufacture or process any of these chemical 
substances for an activity that is designated as a significant new use 
to notify EPA at least 90 days before commencing that activity.
    The record for these proposed SNURs, identified as docket ID number 
EPA-HQ-OPPT-2020-0497, includes information considered by the Agency in 
developing these proposed SNURs.

B. What is the Agency's authority for taking this action?

    TSCA section 5(a)(2) (15 U.S.C. 2604(a)(2)) authorizes EPA to 
determine that a use of a chemical substance is a ``significant new 
use.'' EPA must make this determination by rule after considering all 
relevant factors, including the four TSCA section 5(a)(2) factors 
listed in Unit III.

C. Do the SNUR general provisions apply?

    General provisions for SNURs appear in 40 CFR part 721, subpart A. 
These provisions describe persons subject to the rule, recordkeeping 
requirements, exemptions to reporting requirements, and applicability 
of the rule to uses occurring before the effective date of the rule. 
Provisions relating to user fees appear at 40 CFR part 700. Pursuant to 
40 CFR 721.1(c), persons subject to these SNURs must comply with the 
same SNUN requirements and EPA regulatory procedures as submitters of 
PMNs under TSCA section 5(a)(1)(A) (15 U.S.C. 2604(a)(1)(A)). In 
particular, these requirements include the information submission 
requirements of TSCA sections 5(b) and 5(d)(1) (15 U.S.C. 2604(b) and 
2604(d)(1)), the exemptions authorized by TSCA sections 5(h)(1), 
5(h)(2), 5(h)(3), and 5(h)(5) and the regulations at 40 CFR part 720. 
Once EPA receives a SNUN, EPA must either determine that the use is not 
likely to present an unreasonable risk of injury under the conditions 
of use for the chemical substance or take such regulatory action as is 
associated with an alternative determination before the manufacture or 
processing for the significant new use can commence. If EPA determines 
that the chemical substance is not likely to present an unreasonable 
risk, EPA is required under TSCA section 5(g) to make public, and 
submit for publication in the Federal Register, a statement of EPA's 
findings.

III. Significant New Use Determination

    TSCA section 5(a)(2) states that EPA's determination that a use of 
a chemical substance is a significant new use must be made after 
consideration of all relevant factors, including:
     The projected volume of manufacturing and processing of a 
chemical substance.
     The extent to which a use changes the type or form of 
exposure of human beings or the environment to a chemical substance.
     The extent to which a use increases the magnitude and 
duration of exposure of human beings or the environment to a chemical 
substance.
     The reasonably anticipated manner and methods of 
manufacturing, processing, distribution in commerce, and disposal of a 
chemical substance.
    In determining what would constitute a significant new use for the 
chemical substances that are the subject of these SNURs, EPA considered 
relevant information about the toxicity of the chemical substances, and 
potential human exposures and environmental releases that may be 
associated with the substances, in the context of the four bulleted 
TSCA section 5(a)(2) factors listed in this unit. During its review of 
these chemicals, EPA identified certain conditions of use that are not 
intended by the submitters, but reasonably foreseen to occur. EPA is 
proposing to designate those reasonably foreseen conditions of use as 
well as certain other circumstances of use as significant new uses.

IV. Substances Subject to This Proposed Rule

    EPA is proposing significant new use and recordkeeping requirements 
be added to 40 CFR part 721, subpart E for the chemical substances 
identified in this unit. For each chemical substance, EPA provides the 
following information in this unit:
     PMN number.
     Chemical name (generic name, if the specific name is 
claimed as CBI).

[[Page 66508]]

     Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) Registry number (if 
assigned for non-confidential chemical identities).
     Basis for the SNUR.
     Potentially useful information.
     CFR citation assigned in the regulatory text section of 
these proposed rules.
    The regulatory text section of these proposed rules specifies the 
activities designated as significant new uses. Certain new uses, 
including production volume limits and other uses designated in the 
proposed rules, may be claimed as CBI.
    The chemical substances that are the subject of these proposed 
SNURs are undergoing premanufacture review. In addition to those 
conditions of use intended by the submitter, EPA has identified certain 
other reasonably foreseen conditions of use. EPA has preliminarily 
determined that the chemicals under their intended conditions of use 
are not likely to present an unreasonable risk. However, EPA has not 
assessed risks associated with the reasonably foreseen conditions of 
use for these chemicals. EPA is proposing to designate these reasonably 
foreseen conditions of use and other circumstances of use as 
significant new uses. As a result, those significant new uses cannot 
occur without first going through a separate, subsequent EPA review and 
determination process associated with a SNUN.
    The substances subject to these proposed rules are as follows:

PMN Number: P-18-289

    Chemical name: 2-(2(Methylcaboxymonocyclic)amino)ethoxy)-alcohol 
(generic).
    CAS number: Not available.
    Basis for action: The PMN states that the generic use of the 
substance will be as a gas scrubber and wastewater deodorizer. Based on 
the physical/chemical properties of the PMN substance and Structure 
Activity Relationships (SAR) analysis of test data on analogous 
substances, EPA has identified concerns for eye irritation, skin 
irritation, and specific target organ toxicity if the chemical is not 
used following the limitations noted. This proposed SNUR designates the 
following as ``significant new uses'' requiring further review by EPA:
    1. Manufacture beyond an annual production volume of 80,000 kg.
    2. Use other than for the confidential uses specified in the PMN.
    Potentially useful information: EPA has determined that certain 
information about the effects of the PMN substance may be potentially 
useful if a manufacturer or processor is considering submitting a SNUN 
for a significant new use that would be designated by this proposed 
SNUR. EPA has determined that the results of eye irritation/corrosion 
and specific target organ toxicity testing would help characterize the 
potential health effects of the PMN substance.
    CFR citation: 40 CFR 721.11561.

PMN Number: P-18-330

    Chemical name: Formaldehyde, polymer with alkyl aryl ketone 
(generic).
    CAS number: Not available.
    Basis for action: The PMN states that the generic use of the 
substance will be as an initiator. Based on the physical/chemical 
properties of the PMN substance and SAR analysis of test data on 
analogous substances, EPA has identified concerns for nephrotoxicity, 
skin sensitization, specific target organ toxicity, and systemic 
toxicity if the chemical is not used following the limitations noted. 
This proposed SNUR designates the following as ``significant new uses'' 
requiring further review by EPA:
    1. Use of the PMN substance in a consumer product.
    2. Release of the PMN substance resulting in surface water 
concentrations that exceed 770 ppb.
    Potentially useful information: EPA has determined that certain 
information about the effects of the PMN substance may be potentially 
useful if a manufacturer or processor is considering submitting a SNUN 
for a significant new use that would be designated by this proposed 
SNUR. EPA has determined that the results of skin sensitization and 
specific target organ toxicity testing would help characterize the 
potential health effects of the PMN substance.
    CFR citation: 40 CFR 721.11562.

PMN Number: P-18-334

    Chemical name: Propanedioic acid, 1,3-dihexyl ester.
    CAS number: 1431-37-4.
    Basis for action: The PMN states that the use of the substance will 
be as a chemical intermediate. Based on the physical/chemical 
properties of the PMN substance and SAR analysis of test data on 
analogous substances, EPA has identified concerns for aquatic toxicity, 
eye irritation, and specific target organ toxicity if the chemical is 
not used following the limitations noted. This proposed SNUR designates 
the following as ``significant new uses'' requiring further review by 
EPA:
    1. Use other than as a chemical intermediate.
    2. Release of the PMN substance resulting in surface water 
concentrations that exceed 3 ppb.
    Potentially useful information: EPA has determined that certain 
information about the effects of the PMN substance may be potentially 
useful if a manufacturer or processor is considering submitting a SNUN 
for a significant new use that would be designated by this proposed 
SNUR. EPA has determined that the results of aquatic toxicity, eye 
irritation/corrosion, and specific target organ toxicity testing would 
help characterize the potential environmental and health effects of the 
PMN substance.
    CFR citation: 40 CFR 721.11563.

PMN Number: P-18-335

    Chemical name: Propanedioic acid, 1,3-dicyclohexyl ester.
    CAS number: 1152-57-4.
    Basis for action: The PMN states that the use of the substance will 
be as a chemical intermediate. Based on the physical/chemical 
properties of the PMN substance and SAR analysis of test data on 
analogous substances, EPA has identified concerns for aquatic toxicity, 
eye irritation, skin irritation, and specific target organ toxicity if 
the chemical is not used following the limitations noted. This proposed 
SNUR designates the following as ``significant new uses'' requiring 
further review by EPA:
    1. Use other than as a chemical intermediate.
    2. Release of the PMN substance resulting in surface water 
concentrations that exceed 6 ppb.
    Potentially useful information: EPA has determined that certain 
information about the effects of the PMN substance may be potentially 
useful if a manufacturer or processor is considering submitting a SNUN 
for a significant new use that would be designated by this proposed 
SNUR. EPA has determined that the results of aquatic toxicity, eye 
irritation/corrosion, skin irritation/corrosion, and specific target 
organ toxicity testing would help characterize the potential 
environmental and health effects of the PMN substance.
    CFR citation: 40 CFR 721.11564.

PMN Number: P-18-337

    Chemical name: Propanedioic acid, 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)-, 1,3-
dicyclohexyl ester.
    CAS number: 2222732-46-7.
    Basis for action: The PMN states that the use of the substance will 
be as a chemical intermediate. Based on the physical/chemical 
properties of the PMN substance and Structure Activity Relationships 
(SAR) analysis of test data

[[Page 66509]]

on analogous substances, EPA has identified concerns for aquatic 
toxicity, eye irritation, skin irritation, and specific target organ 
toxicity if the chemical is not used following the limitations noted. 
This proposed SNUR designates the following as ``significant new uses'' 
requiring further review by EPA:
     Release of the PMN substance resulting in surface water 
concentrations that exceed 95 ppb.
    Potentially useful information: EPA has determined that certain 
information about the effects of the PMN substance may be potentially 
useful if a manufacturer or processor is considering submitting a SNUN 
for a significant new use that would be designated by this proposed 
SNUR. EPA has determined that the results of aquatic toxicity, eye 
irritation/corrosion, skin irritation/corrosion, and specific target 
organ toxicity testing would help characterize the potential 
environmental and health effects of the PMN substance.
    CFR citation: 40 CFR 721.11565.

V. Rationale and Objectives of the Proposed Rule

A. Rationale

    During review of the PMNs submitted for the chemical substances 
that are the subject of these proposed SNURs and as further discussed 
in Unit IV., EPA identified certain other reasonably foreseen 
conditions of use, in addition to those conditions of use intended by 
the submitter. EPA has preliminarily determined that the chemical under 
the intended conditions of use is not likely to present an unreasonable 
risk. However, EPA has not assessed risks associated with the 
reasonably foreseen conditions of use. EPA is proposing to designate 
these conditions of use as well as certain other circumstances of use 
as significant new uses. As a result, those significant new uses cannot 
occur without going through a separate, subsequent EPA review and 
determination process associated with a SNUN.

B. Objectives

    EPA is proposing these SNURs because the Agency wants:
     To have an opportunity to review and evaluate data 
submitted in a SNUN before the notice submitter begins manufacturing or 
processing a listed chemical substance for the described significant 
new use.
     To be obligated to make a determination under TSCA section 
5(a)(3) regarding the use described in the SNUN, under the conditions 
of use. The Agency will either determine under TSCA section 5(a)(3)(C) 
that the chemical, under the conditions of use, is not likely to 
present an unreasonable risk, including an unreasonable risk to a 
potentially exposed or susceptible subpopulation identified as relevant 
by the Administrator under the conditions of use, or make a 
determination under TSCA section 5(a)(3)(A) or (B) and take the 
required regulatory action associated with the determination, before 
manufacture or processing for the significant new use of the chemical 
substance can occur.
     To be able to complete its review and determination on 
each of the PMN substances, while deferring analysis on the significant 
new uses proposed in these rules unless and until the Agency receives a 
SNUN.
    Issuance of a proposed SNUR for a chemical substance does not 
signify that the chemical substance is listed on the TSCA Inventory. 
Guidance on how to determine if a chemical substance is on the TSCA 
Inventory is available on the internet at https://www.epa.gov/tsca-inventory.

VI. Applicability of the Proposed Rules to Uses Occurring Before the 
Effective Date of the Final Rule

    To establish a significant new use, EPA must determine that the use 
is not ongoing. The chemical substances subject to this proposed rule 
were undergoing premanufacture review at the time of signature of this 
proposed rule and were not on the TSCA Inventory. In cases where EPA 
has not received a notice of commencement (NOC) and the chemical 
substance has not been added to the TSCA Inventory, no person may 
commence such activities without first submitting a PMN. Therefore, for 
the chemical substances subject to these proposed SNURs, EPA concludes 
that the proposed significant new uses are not ongoing.
    EPA designates October 6, 2020 (date of web posting of this 
proposed rule) as the cutoff date for determining whether the new use 
is ongoing. The objective of EPA's approach is to ensure that a person 
cannot defeat a SNUR by initiating a significant new use before the 
effective date of the final rule.
    Persons who begin commercial manufacture or processing of the 
chemical substances for a significant new use identified on or after 
that date would have to cease any such activity upon the effective date 
of the final rule. To resume their activities, these persons would have 
to first comply with all applicable SNUR notification requirements and 
EPA would have to take action under section 5 allowing manufacture or 
processing to proceed. In developing this proposed rule, EPA has 
recognized that, given EPA's general practice of posting proposed rules 
on its website a week or more in advance of Federal Register 
publication, this objective could be thwarted even before Federal 
Register publication of the proposed rule.

VII. Development and Submission of Information

    EPA recognizes that TSCA section 5 does not require development of 
any particular new information (e.g., generating test data) before 
submission of a SNUN. There is an exception: If a person is required to 
submit information for a chemical substance pursuant to a rule, order 
or consent agreement under TSCA section 4 (15 U.S.C. 2603), then TSCA 
section 5(b)(1)(A) (15 U.S.C. 2604(b)(1)(A)) requires such information 
to be submitted to EPA at the time of submission of the SNUN.
    In the absence of a rule, order, or consent agreement under TSCA 
section 4 covering the chemical substance, persons are required only to 
submit information in their possession or control and to describe any 
other information known to or reasonably ascertainable by them (see 40 
CFR 720.50). However, upon review of PMNs and SNUNs, the Agency has the 
authority to require appropriate testing. Unit IV. lists potentially 
useful information for all SNURs listed here. Descriptions are provided 
for informational purposes. The potentially useful information 
identified in Unit IV. will be useful to EPA's evaluation in the event 
that someone submits a SNUN for the significant new use. Companies who 
are considering submitting a SNUN are encouraged, but not required, to 
develop the information on the substance, which may assist with EPA's 
analysis of the SNUN.
    EPA strongly encourages persons, before performing any testing, to 
consult with the Agency pertaining to protocol selection. Furthermore, 
pursuant to TSCA section 4(h), which pertains to reduction of testing 
in vertebrate animals, EPA encourages consultation with the Agency on 
the use of alternative test methods and strategies (also called New 
Approach Methodologies, or NAMs), if available, to generate the 
recommended test data. EPA encourages dialog with Agency 
representatives to help determine how best the submitter can meet both 
the data needs and the objective of TSCA section 4(h).
    The potentially useful information described in Unit IV. may not be 
the only means of providing information to

[[Page 66510]]

evaluate the chemical substance associated with the significant new 
uses. However, submitting a SNUN without any test data may increase the 
likelihood that EPA will take action under TSCA sections 5(e) or 5(f). 
EPA recommends that potential SNUN submitters contact EPA early enough 
so that they will be able to conduct the appropriate tests.
    SNUN submitters should be aware that EPA will be better able to 
evaluate SNUNs which provide detailed information on the following:
     Human exposure and environmental release that may result 
from the significant new use of the chemical substances.

VIII. SNUN Submissions

    According to 40 CFR 721.1(c), persons submitting a SNUN must comply 
with the same notification requirements and EPA regulatory procedures 
as persons submitting a PMN, including submission of test data on 
health and environmental effects as described in 40 CFR 720.50. SNUNs 
must be submitted on EPA Form No. 7710-25, generated using e-PMN 
software, and submitted to the Agency in accordance with the procedures 
set forth in 40 CFR 720.40 and 721.25. E-PMN software is available 
electronically at https://www.epa.gov/reviewing-new-chemicals-under-toxic-substances-control-act-tsca.

IX. Economic Analysis

    EPA has evaluated the potential costs of establishing SNUN 
requirements for potential manufacturers and processors of the chemical 
substances subject to this proposed rule. EPA's complete economic 
analysis is available in the docket for this rulemaking.

X. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews

    Additional information about these statutes and Executive orders 
can be found at https://www.epa.gov/laws-regulations-and-executive-orders.

A. Executive Order 12866: Regulatory Planning and Review and Executive 
Order 13563: Improving Regulations and Regulatory Review

    This action proposes to establish SNURs for new chemical substances 
that were the subject of PMNs. The Office of Management and Budget 
(OMB) has exempted these types of actions from review under Executive 
Orders 12866 (58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993) and 13563 (76 FR 3821, 
January 21, 2011).

B. Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)

    According to the PRA, 44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq., an agency may not 
conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a 
collection of information that requires OMB approval under PRA, unless 
it has been approved by OMB and displays a currently valid OMB control 
number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's regulations in title 40 of 
the CFR, after appearing in the Federal Register, are listed in 40 CFR 
part 9, and included on the related collection instrument or form, if 
applicable.
    The information collection requirements related to this action have 
already been approved by OMB pursuant to PRA under OMB control number 
2070-0012 (EPA ICR No. 574). This action does not impose any burden 
requiring additional OMB approval. If an entity were to submit a SNUN 
to the Agency, the annual burden is estimated to average between 30 and 
170 hours per response. This burden estimate includes the time needed 
to review instructions, search existing data sources, gather and 
maintain the data needed, and complete, review, and submit the required 
SNUN.
    Send any comments about the accuracy of the burden estimate, and 
any suggested methods for minimizing respondent burden, including 
through the use of automated collection techniques, to the Director, 
Regulatory Support Division, Office of Mission Support (2822T), 
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, 
DC 20460-0001. Please remember to include the OMB control number in any 
correspondence, but do not submit any completed forms to this address.

C. Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)

    Pursuant to section 605(b) of the RFA, 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., I 
hereby certify that promulgation of this proposed SNUR would not have a 
significant adverse economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities. The requirement to submit a SNUN applies to any person 
(including small or large entities) who intends to engage in any 
activity described in the final rule as a ``significant new use.'' 
Because these uses are ``new,'' based on all information currently 
available to EPA, it appears that no small or large entities presently 
engage in such activities.
    A SNUR requires that any person who intends to engage in such 
activity in the future must first notify EPA by submitting a SNUN. 
Although some small entities may decide to pursue a significant new use 
in the future, EPA cannot presently determine how many, if any, there 
may be. However, EPA's experience to date is that, in response to the 
promulgation of SNURs covering over 1,000 chemicals, the Agency 
receives only a small number of notices per year. For example, the 
number of SNUNs received was seven in Federal fiscal year (FY) 2013, 13 
in FY2014, six in FY2015, 12 in FY2016, 13 in FY2017, and 11 in FY2018, 
only a fraction of these were from small businesses. In addition, the 
Agency currently offers relief to qualifying small businesses by 
reducing the SNUN submission fee from $16,000 to $2,800. This lower fee 
reduces the total reporting and recordkeeping of cost of submitting a 
SNUN to about $10,116 for qualifying small firms. Therefore, the 
potential economic impacts of complying with this proposed SNUR are not 
expected to be significant or adversely impact a substantial number of 
small entities. In a SNUR that published in the Federal Register of 
June 2, 1997 (62 FR 29684) (FRL-5597-1), the Agency presented its 
general determination that final SNURs are not expected to have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities, 
which was provided to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small 
Business Administration.

D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA)

    Based on EPA's experience with proposing and finalizing SNURs, 
State, local, and Tribal governments have not been impacted by these 
rulemakings, and EPA does not have any reasons to believe that any 
State, local, or Tribal government will be impacted by this proposed 
rule. As such, EPA has determined that this proposed rule does not 
impose any enforceable duty, contain any unfunded mandate, or otherwise 
have any effect on small governments subject to the requirements of 
UMRA sections 202, 203, 204, or 205 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538 et seq.).

E. Executive Order 13132: Federalism

    This action will not have federalism implications because it is not 
expected to have a substantial direct effect on 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, as specified in Executive Order 13132 (64 FR 43255, August 
10, 1999).

[[Page 66511]]

F. Executive Order 13175: Consultation and Coordination With Indian 
Tribal Governments

    This action will not have Tribal implications because it is not 
expected to have substantial direct effects on Indian Tribes, 
significantly or uniquely affect the communities of Indian Tribal 
governments, and does not involve or impose any requirements that 
affect Indian Tribes, as specified in Executive Order 13175 (65 FR 
67249, November 9, 2000).

G. Executive Order 13045: Protection of Children From Environmental 
Health and Safety Risks

    This action is not subject to Executive Order 13045 (62 FR 19885, 
April 23, 1997), because this is not an economically significant 
regulatory action as defined by Executive Order 12866, and this action 
does not address environmental health or safety risks 
disproportionately affecting children.

H. Executive Order 13211: Actions Concerning Regulations That 
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use

    This proposed rule is not subject to Executive Order 13211 (66 FR 
28355, May 22, 2001), because this action is not expected to affect 
energy supply, distribution, or use and because this action is not a 
significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866.

I. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA)

    In addition, since this action does not involve any technical 
standards, NTTAA section 12(d), 15 U.S.C. 272 note, does not apply to 
this action.

J. Executive Order 12898: Federal Actions To Address Environmental 
Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations

    This action does not entail special considerations of environmental 
justice related issues as delineated by Executive Order 12898 (59 FR 
7629, February 16, 1994).

List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 721

    Environmental protection, Chemicals, Hazardous substances, 
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

    Dated: September 30, 2020.
Tala Henry,
Deputy Director, Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics.

    Therefore, for the reasons stated in the preamble, EPA proposes to 
amend 40 CFR part 721 as follows:

PART 721--SIGNIFICANT NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES

0
1. The authority citation for part 721 continues to read as follows:

    Authority 15 U.S.C. 2604, 2607, and 2625(c).

0
2. Add Sec. Sec.  721.11561 through 721.11565 to subpart E to read as 
follows:

Subpart E--Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances

Sec.
* * * * *
721.11561 2-(2(Methylcaboxymonocyclic)amino)ethoxy)-alcohol 
(generic).
721.11562 Formaldehyde, polymer with alkyl aryl ketone (generic).
721.11563 Propanedioic acid, 1,3-dihexyl ester.
721.11564 Propanedioic acid, 1,3-dicyclohexyl ester.
721.11565 Propanedioic acid, 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)-, 1,3-
dicyclohexyl ester
* * * * *


Sec.  721.11561  2-(2(Methylcaboxymonocyclic)amino)ethoxy)-alcohol 
(generic).

    (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to 
reporting. (1) The chemical substance generically identified as 2-
(2(Methylcaboxymonocyclic)amino)ethoxy)-alcohol (PMN P-18-289) is 
subject to reporting under this section for the significant new uses 
described in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
    (2) The significant new uses are:
    (i) Industrial, commercial, and consumer activities. Requirements 
as specified in Sec.  721.80(j) and (s) (80,000 kilograms).
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (b) Specific requirements. The provisions of subpart A of this part 
apply to this section except as modified by this paragraph (b).
    (1) Recordkeeping. Recordkeeping requirements as specified in Sec.  
721.125(a) through (c) and (i) are applicable to manufacturers and 
processors of this substance.
    (2) Limitations or revocation of certain notification requirements. 
The provisions of Sec.  721.185 apply to this section.
    (3) Determining whether a specific use is subject to this section. 
The provisions of Sec.  721.1725(b)(1) apply to paragraph (a)(2)(i) of 
this section.


Sec.  721.11562  Formaldehyde, polymer with alkyl aryl ketone 
(generic).

    (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to 
reporting. (1) The chemical substance generically identified as 
formaldehyde, polymer with alkyl aryl ketone (PMN P-18-330) is subject 
to reporting under this section for the significant new uses described 
in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
    (2) The significant new uses are:
    (i) Industrial, commercial, and consumer activities. Requirements 
as specified in Sec.  721.80(o).
    (ii) Release to water. Requirements as specified in Sec.  
721.90(a)(4), (b)(4), and (c)(4) where N = 770.
    (b) Specific requirements. The provisions of subpart A of this part 
apply to this section except as modified by this paragraph (b).
    (1) Recordkeeping. Recordkeeping requirements as specified in Sec.  
721.125(a) through (c), (i), and (k) are applicable to manufacturers 
and processors of this substance.
    (2) Limitations or revocation of certain notification requirements. 
The provisions of Sec.  721.185 apply to this section.


Sec.  721.11563  Propanedioic acid, 1,3-dihexyl ester.

    (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to 
reporting. (1) The chemical substance identified as propanedioic acid, 
1,3-dihexyl ester (PMN P-18-334, CAS No. 1431-37-4) is subject to 
reporting under this section for the significant new uses described in 
paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
    (2) The significant new uses are:
    (i) Industrial, commercial, and consumer activities. Requirements 
as specified in Sec.  721.80(g).
    (ii) Release to water. Requirements as specified in Sec.  721.90 
(a)(4), (b)(4), (c)(4), where N = 3.
    (b) Specific requirements. The provisions of subpart A of this part 
apply to this section except as modified by this paragraph (b).
    (1) Recordkeeping. Recordkeeping requirements as specified in Sec.  
721.125(a) through (c), (i), and (k) are applicable to manufacturers 
and processors of this substance.
    (2) Limitations or revocation of certain notification requirements. 
The provisions of Sec.  721.185 apply to this section.


Sec.  721.11564  Propanedioic acid, 1,3-dicyclohexyl ester.

    (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to 
reporting. (1) The chemical substance identified as propanedioic acid, 
1,3-dicyclohexyl ester (PMN P-18-335, CAS No. 1152-57-4) is subject to 
reporting under this section for the significant new uses described in 
paragraph (a)(2) of this section.

[[Page 66512]]

    (2) The significant new uses are:
    (i) Industrial, commercial, and consumer activities. Requirements 
as specified in Sec.  721.80(g).
    (ii) Release to water. Requirements as specified in Sec.  
721.90(a)(4), (b)(4), and (c)(4), where N = 6.
    (b) Specific requirements. The provisions of subpart A of this part 
apply to this section except as modified by this paragraph (b).
    (1) Recordkeeping. Recordkeeping requirements as specified in Sec.  
721.125(a) through (c) (i), and (k) are applicable to manufacturers and 
processors of this substance.
    (2) Limitations or revocation of certain notification requirements. 
The provisions of Sec.  721.185 apply to this section.


Sec.  721.11565  Propanedioic acid, 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)-, 1,3-
dicyclohexyl ester.

    (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to 
reporting. (1) The chemical substance identified as propanedioic acid, 
2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)-, 1,3-dicyclohexyl ester (PMN P-18-337, CAS No. 
2222732-46-7) is subject to reporting under this section for the 
significant new uses described in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
    (2) The significant new uses are:
    (i) Release to water. Requirements as specified in Sec.  
721.90(a)(4), (b)(4), and (c)(4), where N = 95.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (b) Specific requirements. The provisions of subpart A of this part 
apply to this section except as modified by this paragraph (b).
    (1) Recordkeeping. Recordkeeping requirements as specified in Sec.  
721.125(a) through (c) and (k) are applicable to manufacturers and 
processors of this substance.
    (2) Limitations or revocation of certain notification requirements. 
The provisions of Sec.  721.185 apply to this section.

[FR Doc. 2020-22645 Filed 10-19-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P


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