Softwood Lumber Research, Promotion, Consumer Education and Industry Information Order; Assessment Rate Increase, 11387-11391 [2021-03467]

Download as PDF 11387 Rules and Regulations Federal Register Vol. 86, No. 36 Thursday, February 25, 2021 Agricultural Marketing Service approaches that maximize net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, public health and safety effects, distributive impacts and equity). Executive Order 13563 emphasizes the importance of quantifying both costs and benefits, reducing costs, harmonizing rules and promoting flexibility. This action falls within a category of regulatory actions that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) exempted from Executive Order 12866 review. 7 CFR Part 1217 Executive Order 13175 [Document Number AMS–SC–20–0014] This action has been reviewed in accordance with the requirements of Executive Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments. The review reveals that this regulation will not have substantial and direct effects on Tribal governments and will not have significant Tribal implications. This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510. The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Softwood Lumber Research, Promotion, Consumer Education and Industry Information Order; Assessment Rate Increase Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: This rule amends the Softwood Lumber Research, Promotion, Consumer Education and Industry Information Order (Order) to increase the assessment rate from $0.35 to $0.41 per thousand board feet (mbf). The Order is administered by the Softwood Lumber Board (Board) with oversight by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This rule will also add the conversion factor for square meters to board feet and makes one conforming change. SUMMARY: DATES: Effective Date: April 1, 2021. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Andrea Ricci, Marketing Specialist, Promotion and Economics Division, Specialty Crops Program, AMS, USDA, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1406–S, Stop 0244, Washington, DC 20250–0244; telephone: (202) 572–1442; facsimile: (202) 205–2800; or electronic mail: Andrea.Ricci@usda.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This final rule affecting 7 CFR part 1217 (herein the ‘‘Order’’) is authorized under the Commodity Promotion, Research, and Information Act of 1996 (1996 Act) (7 U.S.C. 7411–7425). Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess all costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if regulation is necessary, to select regulatory VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 Feb 24, 2021 Jkt 253001 Executive Order 12988 This rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform. It is not intended to have retroactive effect. Section 524 of the 1996 Act (7 U.S.C. 7423) provides that it shall not affect or preempt any other Federal or State law authorizing promotion or research relating to an agricultural commodity. Under section 519 of the 1996 Act (7 U.S.C. 7418), a person subject to an order may file a written petition with USDA stating that an order, any provision of an order, or any obligation imposed in connection with an order, is not established in accordance with the law, and request a modification of an order or an exemption from an order. Any petition filed challenging an order, any provision of an order, or any obligation imposed in connection with an order, must be filed within two years after the effective date of an order, provision, or obligation subject to challenge in the petition. The petitioner will have the opportunity for a hearing on the petition. Thereafter, USDA will issue a ruling on the petition. The 1996 Act provides that the district court of the United States for any district in which the petitioner resides or conducts business shall have the jurisdiction to review a final ruling on the petition, if the petitioner files a complaint for that purpose not later than 20 days after the date of the entry of USDA’s final ruling. PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Background This rule amends the Order by increasing the assessment rate from $0.35 to $0.41 per mbf of softwood lumber shipped within or imported into the United States. The Order is administered by the Board with oversight by the USDA. Under the program, assessments are collected from domestic manufacturers and importers and used for research and promotion projects designed to strengthen the position of softwood lumber in the marketplace. The additional funds will enable the Board to maintain its existing programs, while supporting new programs that will help maintain and expand markets for softwood lumber. This rule will also add the conversion factor for square meters to board feet and make one conforming change. The Order specifies that the funds to cover the Board’s expenses shall be paid by assessments on manufacturers for the U.S. market, other income of the Board, and other funds available to the Board. Domestic manufacturers pay assessments based on the volume of softwood lumber shipped within the United States and importers pay assessments based on the volume of softwood lumber imported to the United States. Assessments are collected per mbf of softwood lumber, except that no entity shall pay an assessment on the first 15 million board feet (mmbf) of softwood lumber otherwise subject to assessments in a fiscal year. Domestic manufacturers are required to remit to the Board assessments owed no later than 30 calendar days of the month following the end of the quarter in which the softwood lumber was shipped. Importers are responsible for paying assessments to the Board on softwood lumber imported into the United States through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). If CBP does not collect an assessment from the importer, the importer is responsible for paying the assessment to the Board no later than 30 calendar days of the month following the end of the quarter in which the softwood lumber was imported. Domestic manufacturers and importers must also remit to the Board required reports. The Order also provides for exemptions from assessments. Section 1217.53 specifies that U.S. manufacturers and importers that domestically ship and/or import less E:\FR\FM\25FER1.SGM 25FER1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 36 / Thursday, February 25, 2021 / Rules and Regulations than 15 mmbf annually, exports of softwood lumber from the United States, and shipments and imports of organic softwood lumber are exempt from the Order’s assessment requirements. Pursuant to § 1217.52, and subject to the exemptions specified in § 1217.53, each domestic manufacturer and importer shall pay an assessment rate of $0.35 per mbf of softwood lumber, except that no entity shall pay an assessment on the first 15 mmbf of softwood lumber otherwise subject to assessment in a fiscal year. The assessment rate may not be less than $0.35 per mbf nor more than $0.50 per mbf. Section 1217.44(c) prescribes that the Board may recommend to the Secretary a change in the assessment rate as it deems appropriate by at least a majority of Board members plus two (exclusive of vacant seats). The $0.35 per mbf assessment rate has been in effect since the program’s inception in 2011. The Board’s fiscal year runs from January 1 through December 31. Board expenditures for the five-year period from 2014–2018 have ranged from a low of $12.35 million in 2014 to a high of $15.32 million in 2016; expenditures in 2018 were $14.23 million. Program expenditures averaged $12.96 million during those five years, with annual expenditures averaging $3.29 million (24 percent) for research conducted on wood standards; $4.06 million (29 percent) on a communications program, which includes continuing education courses for architects and engineers; and $3.94 million (28 percent) on a construction and design program that provides technical support to architects and structural engineers about using wood. Pursuant to § 1217.50(h), administrative expenditures have been under 8 percent of the assessments collected and other income received by and available to the Board for the fiscal year. Board assessment income has ranged from $12.55 million in 2014 to $13.74 million in 2018. About 70 percent of the assessment income is from domestic manufacturers and 30 percent is from importers. Additionally, pursuant to § 1217.50(i), the Board maintains a monetary reserve with funds that do not exceed one fiscal period’s budget. This rule will also amend § 1217.52(h) to add the conversion factor for square meters to board feet. Currently, the Order provides a factor used to convert cubic meters of imported softwood lumber into the equivalent volume of thousands of board feet, thus enabling the Board to calculate appropriate assessments. Softwood lumber is also being imported in square meters. Adding a conversion factor for square meters will better reflect current industry practices and facilitate the administration of the program. Finally, this rule will make a conforming change to § 1217.52(c) to reflect previously revised voting requirements in § 1217.44. In a final rule published in the Federal Register on September 25, 2019 (84 FR 50294), voting requirements prescribed in § 1217.44 were revised to specify that recommendations to change the assessment rate require affirmation by at least a majority of Board members plus two (exclusive of vacant seats). Currently, corresponding language in § 1217.52(c) specifies that an affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of Board members is required for assessment rate recommendations. A conforming change in this rule will revise § 1217.52(c) to require affirmation of assessment rate recommendations by a Board majority plus two, thus harmonizing the language in the two sections related to assessment recommendations. Board Recommendation The Board met on November 20, 2019, and recommended increasing its assessment rate from $0.35 to $0.41 per mbf. The additional funds will enable the Board to maintain its existing programs, while supporting new programs that will help maintain and expand markets for softwood lumber. For the 2016–2018 fiscal years, the Board has used reserve funds to bridge the deficit between income and expenses. In 2019, the Board kept expenditures in line with income and had to make cuts to its programs, primarily its communications program. The Board discussed the deficit spending that occurred from 2016–2018 and the funding cuts in 2019, along with the impacts of inflation, and determined that without the increase it would not be able to maintain its current programs nor be able to address gaps that limit the Board’s ability to expand the market for softwood lumber. Continuing at the current funding level would limit its ability to capitalize on new opportunities or address challenges and maintain the impact the Board has achieved for the softwood lumber industry in prior years. Additionally, the current funding level restricts the ability to accelerate softwood lumber’s increase in market share and lumber usage in the non-residential sector. The Board’s funding of research on wood standards has facilitated interest in using wood-based building systems in non-traditional markets, such as tall wood building. The 2021 International Code Council building standards will recognize the construction of mass timber buildings up to 18 stories in height. These new opportunities require a more comprehensive approach, particularly in outreach and education initiatives. The Board recognized that its funded programs must go beyond inspiring professionals to think about building with wood. These individuals need resources and technical assistance. The Board estimated the increased assessment rate of $0.41 per mbf would generate additional revenues as shown in Table 1. The consumption forecast and assessable board feet figures are shown in billion board feet (bbf). The additional funds will support programs targeting contractors and developers to address installer training and skills development; establish an education program that will target architecture and engineering students, VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 Feb 24, 2021 Jkt 253001 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\25FER1.SGM 25FER1 ER25FE21.000</GPH> 11388 11389 Final Regulatory Flexibility Act Analysis In accordance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) (5 U.S.C. 601– 612), the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is required to examine the impact of the action on small entities. Accordingly, AMS has considered the economic impact of this action on such entities. The purpose of the RFA is to fit regulatory actions to the scale of businesses subject to the actions so that small businesses will not be disproportionately burdened. The Small Business Administration (SBA) defines, in 13 CFR part 121, small agricultural service firms (domestic manufacturers and importers) as those having annual receipts of no more than $8 million.1 The Random Lengths Publications, Inc.’s yearly average framing lumber composite price was $356 per mbf in 2019. Dividing the $8 million threshold that defines an agricultural service firm as small by this price results in a maximum threshold of 22.5 million board feet (mmbf) of softwood lumber per year that a domestic manufacturer or importer may ship to be considered a small entity for purposes of the RFA. Table 2 shows the number of entities and the amount of volume they represent that may be categorized as small or large based on the SBA definition. As shown in Table 2, there are a total of 1,396 domestic manufacturers and importers of softwood lumber based on 2019 data. Of these, 1,000 entities, or 72 percent, shipped or imported less than 22.5 mmbf and would be considered small under the SBA definition. These 1,000 entities domestically manufactured or imported 3.25 billion board feet (bbf) in 2019, less than 5 percent of total volume. While this action increases the assessment obligation on domestic manufacturers and importers from $0.35 per mbf to $0.41 per mbf, the impact on these entities will be minimal and uniform. The current assessment rate of $0.35 per mbf represents 0.1 percent of the Random Lengths 2019 average framing lumber composite price of $356 per mbf. The assessment rate of $0.41 per mbf is 0.12 percent of this price. The increase in assessment rate represents an increase in cost to domestic manufacturers and importers of twothousandth of one percentage point relative to their average received price. This cost, though minimal, will also be offset by the benefits derived from the program. The 1996 Farm Bill requires that Research and Promotion programs be evaluated every five years with the specific goal of measuring the economic impact of commodity promotion on demand for the commodity. The Board completed its first five-year evaluation of program effectiveness in 2016. The five-year evaluation, conducted by Prime Consulting, found that softwood lumber use per square foot increased nearly 23 percent among architects and structural engineers from the program’s inception in 2011 to 2015. The evaluation also found a cumulative return on investment (ROI) of more than $15 in increased sales of softwood lumber per $1 spent on promotion by the program between 2012 and 2015. The cumulative ROI was updated in 2019 to reflect the time period of 2012 to 2018. The result was a return of more than $23 in increased sales per $1 spent on promotion. This rule amends § 1217.52(b) to increase the assessment rate from $0.35 to $0.41 per mbf. The Order is administered by the Board with oversight by the USDA. Under the program, assessments are collected from domestic manufacturers and importers and used for research and promotion projects designed to strengthen the position of softwood lumber in the marketplace. The additional funds collected at the increased rate will enable the Board to maintain its existing programs, while supporting new programs that will help maintain and expand markets for softwood lumber. This rule also amends § 1217.52(h) to add the conversion factor for square meters to board feet and make one conforming change to section 1217.52(c) regarding voting requirements. Regarding alternatives, the Board considered maintaining the current assessment rate. However, a majority of Board members determined that an increase was needed to adequately support existing programs and fund new initiatives. The Board discussed increasing the assessment at its meeting in November 2018, but after much consideration it determined it was not the right time for the industry to make such a recommendation. In 2019, with the reduction of assessment revenue and the program cuts that were made, the Board again considered the merits of increasing the assessment rate. This was discussed at several Board committee meetings, including meetings of the Executive Committee on September 17, 2019, and November 19, 2019, and the Finance Committee on November 19, 2019. The Board also considered rates of $0.39 and $0.50 per mbf. After much discussion at committee meetings and with the full Board, the Board recommended increasing the rate from $0.35 to $0.41 per mbf. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the information collection and recordkeeping requirements that are imposed by the Order have been approved previously under OMB control number 0581–0093. This rule will not result in a change to the 1 SBA does have a small business size standard for ‘‘Sawmills’’ of 500 employees (see https:// www.sba.gov/sites/default/files/2019-08/ SBA%20Table%20of%20Size%20Standards_ Effective%20Aug%2019%2C%202019_Rev.pdf). Based on USDA’s understanding of the lumber industry, using this criterion would be impractical as sawmills often use contractors rather than employees to operate and, therefore, many mills would fall under this criterion while being, in reality, a large business. Therefore, USDA used agricultural service firm as a more appropriate criterion for this analysis. as well as professionals; and restore the Board’s communications program budget so that by 2025 it will be equivalent to 2018 expenditures. Therefore, the Board recommended increasing the assessment rate in the Order from $0.35 to $0.41 per mbf. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 Feb 24, 2021 Jkt 253001 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\25FER1.SGM 25FER1 ER25FE21.001</GPH> Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 36 / Thursday, February 25, 2021 / Rules and Regulations 11390 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 36 / Thursday, February 25, 2021 / Rules and Regulations information collection and recordkeeping requirements previously approved and will impose no additional reporting and recordkeeping burden on domestic manufacturers and importers of softwood lumber. As with all Federal promotion programs, reports and forms are periodically reviewed to reduce information requirements and duplication by industry and public sector agencies. USDA has not identified any relevant Federal rules that duplicate, overlap, or conflict with this rule. AMS is committed to complying with the E-Government Act, to promote the use of the internet and other information technologies to provide increased opportunities for citizen access to Government information and services, and for other purposes. A proposed rule concerning this action was published in the Federal Register on August 13, 2020 (85 FR 49281). A 60-day comment period ending October 13, 2020, was provided to allow interested persons to submit comments. Analysis of Comments Twenty-nine comments were received in response to the proposed rule. Of those 29 comments, 22 supported the proposed assessment increase, six opposed the action, and one was outside the scope of the rulemaking. Overall, commenters in support of the proposal expressed that increasing market share by developing new markets and uses for softwood lumber products while addressing the continued pressures from competitors is paramount to the continued success of the softwood lumber industry. They contend this may only be accomplished by the increased investment in the softwood lumber program. One commenter, who identified as a small sawmill, argued that the proposed increase was not enough, and an assessment rate of $0.50 per mfb or more was warranted to continue promoting and developing new markets and uses for softwood lumber products. Commenters expressed the need for continued work on wood standards and the adoption of using wood-based products in non-traditional markets. They emphasized the importance of educational programs and continued technical assistance for builders, designers, developers, architects and engineers. Several commenters discussed the benefit of being able to work collaboratively as an industry to drive demand for softwood lumber, noting that the efforts of the program are critical to the long-term success of the VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 Feb 24, 2021 Jkt 253001 softwood lumber industry. Commenters noted the return on investment and incremental demand results from the most recent program evaluation as evidence of the success of the program thus far. And two commenters mentioned the results of the 2018 continuance referendum (78 percent of manufacturers and importers voting, who represented 94 percent of the volume of softwood lumber, were in favor of continuing the program) to demonstrate the continued support of the industry for the program. Out of the six comments in opposition, three commenters noted that the industry is currently seeing record demand and historically high prices, and that the need for an increase in the assessment to fund programming geared towards creating additional demand is not necessary. Two commenters noted that the Board should be able to create demand at the current funding levels. One commenter simply opposed the increase, but did not provide further detail. In its discussion of the proposed increase, the Board determined that continuing at the current funding level would limit its ability to maintain the impact it has achieved for the softwood lumber industry in prior years. It reviewed its revenues and expenditures for the past several fiscal periods and agreed that without the increase it would not be able to maintain its current programs nor be able to address gaps that limit the Board’s ability to expand the market for softwood lumber. Additionally, it believed current funding levels restricts its ability to accelerate softwood lumber’s increase in market share and lumber usage in the non-traditional markets. In formulating the proposed increase, the Board reviewed several different rate options, including not increasing the rate, but ultimately decided that additional funds generated by the increase are needed to maintain and expand markets for softwood lumber. None of the commenters provided comments on the addition of the conversion factor and the conforming change. Accordingly, no changes will be made to the rule as proposed, based on the comments received. After consideration of all relevant material presented, including the information and recommendations submitted by the Board, the comments received, and other available information, it is hereby found that this rule, as hereinafter set forth, is consistent with and will effectuate the purposes of the 1996 Act. PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 List of Subjects in 7 CFR Part 1217 Administrative practice and procedure, Advertising, Consumer information, Marketing agreements, Softwood Lumber promotion, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements. For the reasons set forth in the preamble, 7 CFR part 1217 is amended as follows: PART 1217—SOFTWOOD LUMBER RESEARCH, PROMOTION, CONSUMER EDUCATION AND INDUSTRY INFORMATION ORDER 1. The authority citation for 7 CFR part 1217 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 7 U.S.C. 7411–7425; 7 U.S.C. 7401. 2. Amend § 1217.52 by revising paragraphs (b), (c), and (h) to read as follows: ■ § 1217.52 Assessments. * * * * * (b) Subject to the exemptions specified in § 1217.53, each manufacturer for the U.S. market shall pay an assessment to the Board at the rate of $0.41 per thousand board feet of softwood lumber, except that no person shall pay an assessment on the first 15 million board feet of softwood lumber otherwise subject to assessment in a fiscal year. Domestic manufacturers shall pay assessments based on the volume of softwood lumber shipped within the United States and importers shall pay assessments based on the volume of softwood lumber imported to the United States. (c) At least 24 months after the Order becomes effective and periodically thereafter, the Board shall review and may recommend to the Secretary, upon an affirmative vote by at least a majority of Board members plus two (exclusive of vacant seats), a change in the assessment rate. In no event may the rate be less than $0.35 per thousand board feet nor more than $0.50 per thousand board feet. A change in the assessment rate is subject to rulemaking by the Secretary. * * * * * (h) The HTSUS categories and assessment rates on imported softwood lumber are listed in the following table. The assessment rates are computed using the following conversion factors: One cubic meter (m3) equals 0.423776001 thousand board feet, and one square meter (m2) equals 0.010763104 thousand board feet. Accordingly, the assessment rate per cubic meter and square meter is as follows. E:\FR\FM\25FER1.SGM 25FER1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 36 / Thursday, February 25, 2021 / Rules and Regulations TABLE 1 TO PARAGRAPH (h) Softwood lumber (by HTSUS number) 4407.11.00 4407.12.00 4407.19.05 4407.19.06 4407.19.10 4409.10.05 4409.10.10 4409.10.20 4409.10.90 4418.99.10 * Assessment $/cubic meter Assessment $/square meter 0.1737 0.1737 0.1737 0.1737 0.1737 0.1737 0.1737 0.1737 0.1737 0.1737 0.004412 0.004412 0.004412 0.004412 0.004412 0.004412 0.004412 0.004412 0.004412 0.004412 .................. .................. .................. .................. .................. .................. .................. .................. .................. .................. * * * * Bruce Summers, Administrator, Agricultural Marketing Service. [FR Doc. 2021–03467 Filed 2–24–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE P FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION 12 CFR Part 327 RIN 3064–AF65 Assessments, Amendments To Address the Temporary Deposit Insurance Assessment Effects of the Optional Regulatory Capital Transitions for Implementing the Current Expected Credit Losses Methodology Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation is adopting amendments to the risk-based deposit insurance assessment system applicable to all large insured depository institutions (IDIs), including highly complex IDIs, to address the temporary deposit insurance assessment effects resulting from certain optional regulatory capital transition provisions relating to the implementation of the current expected credit losses (CECL) methodology. The final rule removes the double counting of a specified portion of the CECL transitional amount or the modified CECL transitional amount, as applicable (collectively, the CECL transitional amounts), in certain financial measures that are calculated using the sum of Tier 1 capital and reserves and that are used to determine assessment rates for large or highly complex IDIs. The final rule also adjusts the calculation of the loss severity measure to remove the double counting of a specified portion of the CECL transitional amounts for a large or highly complex IDI. This final rule does SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 Feb 24, 2021 Jkt 253001 not affect regulatory capital or the regulatory capital relief provided in the form of transition provisions that allow banking organizations to phase in the effects of CECL on their regulatory capital ratios. DATES: The final rule is effective April 1, 2021. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Scott Ciardi, Chief, Large Bank Pricing, (202) 898–7079 or sciardi@fdic.gov; Ashley Mihalik, Chief, Banking and Regulatory Policy, (202) 898–3793 or amihalik@fdic.gov; Nefretete Smith, Counsel, (202) 898–6851 or nefsmith@ fdic.gov; Sydney Mayer, Senior Attorney, (202) 898–3669 or smayer@ fdic.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Policy Objectives and Overview of Final Rule The Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDI Act) requires that the FDIC establish a risk-based deposit insurance assessment system for insured depository institutions (IDIs).1 Consistent with this statutory requirement, the FDIC’s objective in finalizing this rule is to ensure that IDIs are assessed in a manner that is fair and accurate. In particular, the primary objective of this final rule is to remove a double counting issue in several financial measures used to determine deposit insurance assessment rates for large or highly complex banks, which could result in a deposit insurance assessment rate for a large or highly complex bank that does not accurately reflect the bank’s risk to the deposit insurance fund (DIF), all else equal.2 The final rule amends the assessment regulations to remove the double 1 12 U.S.C. 1817(b). As used in this final rule, the term ‘‘insured depository institution’’ has the same meaning as it is used in section 3(c)(2) of the FDI Act, 12 U.S.C. 1813(c)(2). Pursuant to this requirement, the FDIC first adopted a risk-based deposit insurance assessment system effective in 1993 that applied to all IDIs. See 57 FR 45263 (Oct. 1, 1992). The FDIC implemented this assessment system with the goals of making the deposit insurance system fairer to well-run institutions and encouraging weaker institutions to improve their condition, and thus, promote the safety and soundness of IDIs. 2 As used in this final rule, the term ‘‘small bank’’ is synonymous with ‘‘small institution,’’ the term ‘‘large bank’’ is synonymous with ‘‘large institution,’’ and the term ‘‘highly complex bank’’ is synonymous with ‘‘highly complex institution,’’ as the terms are defined in 12 CFR 327.8. For assessment purposes, a large bank is generally defined as an institution with $10 billion or more in total assets, a small bank is generally defined as an institution with less than $10 billion in total assets, and a highly complex bank is generally defined as an institution that has $50 billion or more in total assets and is controlled by a parent holding company that has $500 billion or more in total assets, or is a processing bank or trust company. See 12 CFR 327.8(e), (f), and (g). PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 11391 counting of a portion of the CECL transitional amounts, in certain financial measures used to determine deposit insurance assessment rates for large or highly complex banks. In particular, certain financial measures are calculated by summing Tier 1 capital, which includes the CECL transitional amounts, and reserves, which already reflects the implementation of CECL. As a result, a portion of the CECL transitional amounts is being double counted in these measures, which in turn affects assessment rates for large or highly complex banks. The final rule also adjusts the calculation of the loss severity measure to remove the double counting of a portion of the CECL transitional amounts for large or highly complex banks. This final rule amends the deposit insurance system applicable to large banks and highly complex banks only, and it does not affect regulatory capital or the regulatory capital relief provided in the form of transition provisions that allow banking organizations to phase in the effects of CECL on their regulatory capital ratios.3 Specifically, in calculating another measure used to determine assessment rates for all IDIs, the Tier 1 leverage ratio, the FDIC will continue to apply the CECL regulatory capital transition provisions, consistent with the regulatory capital relief provided to address concerns that despite adequate capital planning, unexpected economic conditions at the time of CECL adoption could result in higher-than-anticipated increases in allowances.4 The FDIC did not receive any comment letters in response to the proposal and is adopting the proposed rule as final without change. Under this final rule, amendments to the deposit insurance assessment system and changes to regulatory reporting requirements will be applicable only while the regulatory capital relief described above, or any potential future amendment that may affect the 3 Banking organizations subject to the capital rule include national banks, state member banks, state nonmember banks, savings associations, and toptier bank holding companies and savings and loan holding companies domiciled in the United States not subject to the Federal Reserve Board’s Small Bank Holding Company Policy Statement (12 CFR part 225, appendix C), but exclude certain savings and loan holding companies that are substantially engaged in insurance underwriting or commercial activities or that are estate trusts, and bank holding companies and savings and loan holding companies that are employee stock ownership plans. See 12 CFR part 3 (Office of the Comptroller of the Currency)); 12 CFR part 217 (Board); 12 CFR part 324 (FDIC). See also 84 FR 4222 (Feb. 14, 2019) and 85 FR 61577 (Sept. 30, 2020). 4 See 84 FR 4225 (Feb. 14, 2019). E:\FR\FM\25FER1.SGM 25FER1

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[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 36 (Thursday, February 25, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 11387-11391]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-03467]



========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents 
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed 
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published 
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.

The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. 

========================================================================


Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 36 / Thursday, February 25, 2021 / 
Rules and Regulations

[[Page 11387]]



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Agricultural Marketing Service

7 CFR Part 1217

[Document Number AMS-SC-20-0014]


Softwood Lumber Research, Promotion, Consumer Education and 
Industry Information Order; Assessment Rate Increase

AGENCY: Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This rule amends the Softwood Lumber Research, Promotion, 
Consumer Education and Industry Information Order (Order) to increase 
the assessment rate from $0.35 to $0.41 per thousand board feet (mbf). 
The Order is administered by the Softwood Lumber Board (Board) with 
oversight by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This rule will 
also add the conversion factor for square meters to board feet and 
makes one conforming change.

DATES: Effective Date: April 1, 2021.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Andrea Ricci, Marketing Specialist, 
Promotion and Economics Division, Specialty Crops Program, AMS, USDA, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1406-S, Stop 0244, Washington, DC 
20250-0244; telephone: (202) 572-1442; facsimile: (202) 205-2800; or 
electronic mail: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This final rule affecting 7 CFR part 1217 
(herein the ``Order'') is authorized under the Commodity Promotion, 
Research, and Information Act of 1996 (1996 Act) (7 U.S.C. 7411-7425).

Executive Orders 12866 and 13563

    Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess all 
costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if 
regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize 
net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, public 
health and safety effects, distributive impacts and equity). Executive 
Order 13563 emphasizes the importance of quantifying both costs and 
benefits, reducing costs, harmonizing rules and promoting flexibility. 
This action falls within a category of regulatory actions that the 
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) exempted from Executive Order 
12866 review.

Executive Order 13175

    This action has been reviewed in accordance with the requirements 
of Executive Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian 
Tribal Governments. The review reveals that this regulation will not 
have substantial and direct effects on Tribal governments and will not 
have significant Tribal implications.

Executive Order 12988

    This rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 12988, Civil 
Justice Reform. It is not intended to have retroactive effect. Section 
524 of the 1996 Act (7 U.S.C. 7423) provides that it shall not affect 
or preempt any other Federal or State law authorizing promotion or 
research relating to an agricultural commodity.
    Under section 519 of the 1996 Act (7 U.S.C. 7418), a person subject 
to an order may file a written petition with USDA stating that an 
order, any provision of an order, or any obligation imposed in 
connection with an order, is not established in accordance with the 
law, and request a modification of an order or an exemption from an 
order. Any petition filed challenging an order, any provision of an 
order, or any obligation imposed in connection with an order, must be 
filed within two years after the effective date of an order, provision, 
or obligation subject to challenge in the petition. The petitioner will 
have the opportunity for a hearing on the petition. Thereafter, USDA 
will issue a ruling on the petition. The 1996 Act provides that the 
district court of the United States for any district in which the 
petitioner resides or conducts business shall have the jurisdiction to 
review a final ruling on the petition, if the petitioner files a 
complaint for that purpose not later than 20 days after the date of the 
entry of USDA's final ruling.

Background

    This rule amends the Order by increasing the assessment rate from 
$0.35 to $0.41 per mbf of softwood lumber shipped within or imported 
into the United States. The Order is administered by the Board with 
oversight by the USDA. Under the program, assessments are collected 
from domestic manufacturers and importers and used for research and 
promotion projects designed to strengthen the position of softwood 
lumber in the marketplace. The additional funds will enable the Board 
to maintain its existing programs, while supporting new programs that 
will help maintain and expand markets for softwood lumber. This rule 
will also add the conversion factor for square meters to board feet and 
make one conforming change.
    The Order specifies that the funds to cover the Board's expenses 
shall be paid by assessments on manufacturers for the U.S. market, 
other income of the Board, and other funds available to the Board. 
Domestic manufacturers pay assessments based on the volume of softwood 
lumber shipped within the United States and importers pay assessments 
based on the volume of softwood lumber imported to the United States. 
Assessments are collected per mbf of softwood lumber, except that no 
entity shall pay an assessment on the first 15 million board feet 
(mmbf) of softwood lumber otherwise subject to assessments in a fiscal 
year. Domestic manufacturers are required to remit to the Board 
assessments owed no later than 30 calendar days of the month following 
the end of the quarter in which the softwood lumber was shipped. 
Importers are responsible for paying assessments to the Board on 
softwood lumber imported into the United States through the U.S. 
Customs and Border Protection (CBP). If CBP does not collect an 
assessment from the importer, the importer is responsible for paying 
the assessment to the Board no later than 30 calendar days of the month 
following the end of the quarter in which the softwood lumber was 
imported. Domestic manufacturers and importers must also remit to the 
Board required reports.
    The Order also provides for exemptions from assessments. Section 
1217.53 specifies that U.S. manufacturers and importers that 
domestically ship and/or import less

[[Page 11388]]

than 15 mmbf annually, exports of softwood lumber from the United 
States, and shipments and imports of organic softwood lumber are exempt 
from the Order's assessment requirements.
    Pursuant to Sec.  1217.52, and subject to the exemptions specified 
in Sec.  1217.53, each domestic manufacturer and importer shall pay an 
assessment rate of $0.35 per mbf of softwood lumber, except that no 
entity shall pay an assessment on the first 15 mmbf of softwood lumber 
otherwise subject to assessment in a fiscal year. The assessment rate 
may not be less than $0.35 per mbf nor more than $0.50 per mbf. Section 
1217.44(c) prescribes that the Board may recommend to the Secretary a 
change in the assessment rate as it deems appropriate by at least a 
majority of Board members plus two (exclusive of vacant seats).
    The $0.35 per mbf assessment rate has been in effect since the 
program's inception in 2011. The Board's fiscal year runs from January 
1 through December 31. Board expenditures for the five-year period from 
2014-2018 have ranged from a low of $12.35 million in 2014 to a high of 
$15.32 million in 2016; expenditures in 2018 were $14.23 million. 
Program expenditures averaged $12.96 million during those five years, 
with annual expenditures averaging $3.29 million (24 percent) for 
research conducted on wood standards; $4.06 million (29 percent) on a 
communications program, which includes continuing education courses for 
architects and engineers; and $3.94 million (28 percent) on a 
construction and design program that provides technical support to 
architects and structural engineers about using wood. Pursuant to Sec.  
1217.50(h), administrative expenditures have been under 8 percent of 
the assessments collected and other income received by and available to 
the Board for the fiscal year.
    Board assessment income has ranged from $12.55 million in 2014 to 
$13.74 million in 2018. About 70 percent of the assessment income is 
from domestic manufacturers and 30 percent is from importers. 
Additionally, pursuant to Sec.  1217.50(i), the Board maintains a 
monetary reserve with funds that do not exceed one fiscal period's 
budget. This rule will also amend Sec.  1217.52(h) to add the 
conversion factor for square meters to board feet. Currently, the Order 
provides a factor used to convert cubic meters of imported softwood 
lumber into the equivalent volume of thousands of board feet, thus 
enabling the Board to calculate appropriate assessments. Softwood 
lumber is also being imported in square meters. Adding a conversion 
factor for square meters will better reflect current industry practices 
and facilitate the administration of the program.
    Finally, this rule will make a conforming change to Sec.  
1217.52(c) to reflect previously revised voting requirements in Sec.  
1217.44. In a final rule published in the Federal Register on September 
25, 2019 (84 FR 50294), voting requirements prescribed in Sec.  1217.44 
were revised to specify that recommendations to change the assessment 
rate require affirmation by at least a majority of Board members plus 
two (exclusive of vacant seats). Currently, corresponding language in 
Sec.  1217.52(c) specifies that an affirmative vote of at least two-
thirds of Board members is required for assessment rate 
recommendations. A conforming change in this rule will revise Sec.  
1217.52(c) to require affirmation of assessment rate recommendations by 
a Board majority plus two, thus harmonizing the language in the two 
sections related to assessment recommendations.

Board Recommendation

    The Board met on November 20, 2019, and recommended increasing its 
assessment rate from $0.35 to $0.41 per mbf. The additional funds will 
enable the Board to maintain its existing programs, while supporting 
new programs that will help maintain and expand markets for softwood 
lumber. For the 2016-2018 fiscal years, the Board has used reserve 
funds to bridge the deficit between income and expenses. In 2019, the 
Board kept expenditures in line with income and had to make cuts to its 
programs, primarily its communications program. The Board discussed the 
deficit spending that occurred from 2016-2018 and the funding cuts in 
2019, along with the impacts of inflation, and determined that without 
the increase it would not be able to maintain its current programs nor 
be able to address gaps that limit the Board's ability to expand the 
market for softwood lumber. Continuing at the current funding level 
would limit its ability to capitalize on new opportunities or address 
challenges and maintain the impact the Board has achieved for the 
softwood lumber industry in prior years. Additionally, the current 
funding level restricts the ability to accelerate softwood lumber's 
increase in market share and lumber usage in the non-residential 
sector.
    The Board's funding of research on wood standards has facilitated 
interest in using wood-based building systems in non-traditional 
markets, such as tall wood building. The 2021 International Code 
Council building standards will recognize the construction of mass 
timber buildings up to 18 stories in height. These new opportunities 
require a more comprehensive approach, particularly in outreach and 
education initiatives. The Board recognized that its funded programs 
must go beyond inspiring professionals to think about building with 
wood. These individuals need resources and technical assistance.
    The Board estimated the increased assessment rate of $0.41 per mbf 
would generate additional revenues as shown in Table 1. The consumption 
forecast and assessable board feet figures are shown in billion board 
feet (bbf).
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR25FE21.000

    The additional funds will support programs targeting contractors 
and developers to address installer training and skills development; 
establish an education program that will target architecture and 
engineering students,

[[Page 11389]]

as well as professionals; and restore the Board's communications 
program budget so that by 2025 it will be equivalent to 2018 
expenditures. Therefore, the Board recommended increasing the 
assessment rate in the Order from $0.35 to $0.41 per mbf.

Final Regulatory Flexibility Act Analysis

    In accordance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) (5 U.S.C. 
601-612), the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is required to 
examine the impact of the action on small entities. Accordingly, AMS 
has considered the economic impact of this action on such entities.
    The purpose of the RFA is to fit regulatory actions to the scale of 
businesses subject to the actions so that small businesses will not be 
disproportionately burdened. The Small Business Administration (SBA) 
defines, in 13 CFR part 121, small agricultural service firms (domestic 
manufacturers and importers) as those having annual receipts of no more 
than $8 million.\1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ SBA does have a small business size standard for 
``Sawmills'' of 500 employees (see https://www.sba.gov/sites/default/files/2019-08/SBA%20Table%20of%20Size%20Standards_Effective%20Aug%2019%2C%202019_Rev.pdf). Based on USDA's understanding of the lumber industry, using 
this criterion would be impractical as sawmills often use 
contractors rather than employees to operate and, therefore, many 
mills would fall under this criterion while being, in reality, a 
large business. Therefore, USDA used agricultural service firm as a 
more appropriate criterion for this analysis.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Random Lengths Publications, Inc.'s yearly average framing 
lumber composite price was $356 per mbf in 2019. Dividing the $8 
million threshold that defines an agricultural service firm as small by 
this price results in a maximum threshold of 22.5 million board feet 
(mmbf) of softwood lumber per year that a domestic manufacturer or 
importer may ship to be considered a small entity for purposes of the 
RFA. Table 2 shows the number of entities and the amount of volume they 
represent that may be categorized as small or large based on the SBA 
definition.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR25FE21.001

    As shown in Table 2, there are a total of 1,396 domestic 
manufacturers and importers of softwood lumber based on 2019 data. Of 
these, 1,000 entities, or 72 percent, shipped or imported less than 
22.5 mmbf and would be considered small under the SBA definition. These 
1,000 entities domestically manufactured or imported 3.25 billion board 
feet (bbf) in 2019, less than 5 percent of total volume.
    While this action increases the assessment obligation on domestic 
manufacturers and importers from $0.35 per mbf to $0.41 per mbf, the 
impact on these entities will be minimal and uniform. The current 
assessment rate of $0.35 per mbf represents 0.1 percent of the Random 
Lengths 2019 average framing lumber composite price of $356 per mbf. 
The assessment rate of $0.41 per mbf is 0.12 percent of this price. The 
increase in assessment rate represents an increase in cost to domestic 
manufacturers and importers of two-thousandth of one percentage point 
relative to their average received price. This cost, though minimal, 
will also be offset by the benefits derived from the program.
    The 1996 Farm Bill requires that Research and Promotion programs be 
evaluated every five years with the specific goal of measuring the 
economic impact of commodity promotion on demand for the commodity. The 
Board completed its first five-year evaluation of program effectiveness 
in 2016. The five-year evaluation, conducted by Prime Consulting, found 
that softwood lumber use per square foot increased nearly 23 percent 
among architects and structural engineers from the program's inception 
in 2011 to 2015. The evaluation also found a cumulative return on 
investment (ROI) of more than $15 in increased sales of softwood lumber 
per $1 spent on promotion by the program between 2012 and 2015. The 
cumulative ROI was updated in 2019 to reflect the time period of 2012 
to 2018. The result was a return of more than $23 in increased sales 
per $1 spent on promotion.
    This rule amends Sec.  1217.52(b) to increase the assessment rate 
from $0.35 to $0.41 per mbf. The Order is administered by the Board 
with oversight by the USDA. Under the program, assessments are 
collected from domestic manufacturers and importers and used for 
research and promotion projects designed to strengthen the position of 
softwood lumber in the marketplace. The additional funds collected at 
the increased rate will enable the Board to maintain its existing 
programs, while supporting new programs that will help maintain and 
expand markets for softwood lumber. This rule also amends Sec.  
1217.52(h) to add the conversion factor for square meters to board feet 
and make one conforming change to section 1217.52(c) regarding voting 
requirements.
    Regarding alternatives, the Board considered maintaining the 
current assessment rate. However, a majority of Board members 
determined that an increase was needed to adequately support existing 
programs and fund new initiatives. The Board discussed increasing the 
assessment at its meeting in November 2018, but after much 
consideration it determined it was not the right time for the industry 
to make such a recommendation. In 2019, with the reduction of 
assessment revenue and the program cuts that were made, the Board again 
considered the merits of increasing the assessment rate. This was 
discussed at several Board committee meetings, including meetings of 
the Executive Committee on September 17, 2019, and November 19, 2019, 
and the Finance Committee on November 19, 2019. The Board also 
considered rates of $0.39 and $0.50 per mbf. After much discussion at 
committee meetings and with the full Board, the Board recommended 
increasing the rate from $0.35 to $0.41 per mbf.
    In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 
Chapter 35), the information collection and recordkeeping requirements 
that are imposed by the Order have been approved previously under OMB 
control number 0581-0093. This rule will not result in a change to the

[[Page 11390]]

information collection and recordkeeping requirements previously 
approved and will impose no additional reporting and recordkeeping 
burden on domestic manufacturers and importers of softwood lumber.
    As with all Federal promotion programs, reports and forms are 
periodically reviewed to reduce information requirements and 
duplication by industry and public sector agencies. USDA has not 
identified any relevant Federal rules that duplicate, overlap, or 
conflict with this rule.
    AMS is committed to complying with the E-Government Act, to promote 
the use of the internet and other information technologies to provide 
increased opportunities for citizen access to Government information 
and services, and for other purposes.
    A proposed rule concerning this action was published in the Federal 
Register on August 13, 2020 (85 FR 49281). A 60-day comment period 
ending October 13, 2020, was provided to allow interested persons to 
submit comments.

Analysis of Comments

    Twenty-nine comments were received in response to the proposed 
rule. Of those 29 comments, 22 supported the proposed assessment 
increase, six opposed the action, and one was outside the scope of the 
rulemaking.
    Overall, commenters in support of the proposal expressed that 
increasing market share by developing new markets and uses for softwood 
lumber products while addressing the continued pressures from 
competitors is paramount to the continued success of the softwood 
lumber industry. They contend this may only be accomplished by the 
increased investment in the softwood lumber program. One commenter, who 
identified as a small sawmill, argued that the proposed increase was 
not enough, and an assessment rate of $0.50 per mfb or more was 
warranted to continue promoting and developing new markets and uses for 
softwood lumber products. Commenters expressed the need for continued 
work on wood standards and the adoption of using wood-based products in 
non-traditional markets. They emphasized the importance of educational 
programs and continued technical assistance for builders, designers, 
developers, architects and engineers. Several commenters discussed the 
benefit of being able to work collaboratively as an industry to drive 
demand for softwood lumber, noting that the efforts of the program are 
critical to the long-term success of the softwood lumber industry. 
Commenters noted the return on investment and incremental demand 
results from the most recent program evaluation as evidence of the 
success of the program thus far. And two commenters mentioned the 
results of the 2018 continuance referendum (78 percent of manufacturers 
and importers voting, who represented 94 percent of the volume of 
softwood lumber, were in favor of continuing the program) to 
demonstrate the continued support of the industry for the program.
    Out of the six comments in opposition, three commenters noted that 
the industry is currently seeing record demand and historically high 
prices, and that the need for an increase in the assessment to fund 
programming geared towards creating additional demand is not necessary. 
Two commenters noted that the Board should be able to create demand at 
the current funding levels. One commenter simply opposed the increase, 
but did not provide further detail. In its discussion of the proposed 
increase, the Board determined that continuing at the current funding 
level would limit its ability to maintain the impact it has achieved 
for the softwood lumber industry in prior years. It reviewed its 
revenues and expenditures for the past several fiscal periods and 
agreed that without the increase it would not be able to maintain its 
current programs nor be able to address gaps that limit the Board's 
ability to expand the market for softwood lumber. Additionally, it 
believed current funding levels restricts its ability to accelerate 
softwood lumber's increase in market share and lumber usage in the non-
traditional markets. In formulating the proposed increase, the Board 
reviewed several different rate options, including not increasing the 
rate, but ultimately decided that additional funds generated by the 
increase are needed to maintain and expand markets for softwood lumber. 
None of the commenters provided comments on the addition of the 
conversion factor and the conforming change. Accordingly, no changes 
will be made to the rule as proposed, based on the comments received.
    After consideration of all relevant material presented, including 
the information and recommendations submitted by the Board, the 
comments received, and other available information, it is hereby found 
that this rule, as hereinafter set forth, is consistent with and will 
effectuate the purposes of the 1996 Act.

List of Subjects in 7 CFR Part 1217

    Administrative practice and procedure, Advertising, Consumer 
information, Marketing agreements, Softwood Lumber promotion, Reporting 
and recordkeeping requirements.

    For the reasons set forth in the preamble, 7 CFR part 1217 is 
amended as follows:

PART 1217--SOFTWOOD LUMBER RESEARCH, PROMOTION, CONSUMER EDUCATION 
AND INDUSTRY INFORMATION ORDER

0
1. The authority citation for 7 CFR part 1217 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority:  7 U.S.C. 7411-7425; 7 U.S.C. 7401.


0
2. Amend Sec.  1217.52 by revising paragraphs (b), (c), and (h) to read 
as follows:


Sec.  1217.52  Assessments.

* * * * *
    (b) Subject to the exemptions specified in Sec.  1217.53, each 
manufacturer for the U.S. market shall pay an assessment to the Board 
at the rate of $0.41 per thousand board feet of softwood lumber, except 
that no person shall pay an assessment on the first 15 million board 
feet of softwood lumber otherwise subject to assessment in a fiscal 
year. Domestic manufacturers shall pay assessments based on the volume 
of softwood lumber shipped within the United States and importers shall 
pay assessments based on the volume of softwood lumber imported to the 
United States.
    (c) At least 24 months after the Order becomes effective and 
periodically thereafter, the Board shall review and may recommend to 
the Secretary, upon an affirmative vote by at least a majority of Board 
members plus two (exclusive of vacant seats), a change in the 
assessment rate. In no event may the rate be less than $0.35 per 
thousand board feet nor more than $0.50 per thousand board feet. A 
change in the assessment rate is subject to rulemaking by the 
Secretary.
* * * * *
    (h) The HTSUS categories and assessment rates on imported softwood 
lumber are listed in the following table. The assessment rates are 
computed using the following conversion factors: One cubic meter (m3) 
equals 0.423776001 thousand board feet, and one square meter (m2) 
equals 0.010763104 thousand board feet. Accordingly, the assessment 
rate per cubic meter and square meter is as follows.

[[Page 11391]]



                        Table 1 to Paragraph (h)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                 Assessment   Assessment
       Softwood lumber (by HTSUS number)          $/cubic      $/square
                                                   meter        meter
------------------------------------------------------------------------
4407.11.00....................................       0.1737     0.004412
4407.12.00....................................       0.1737     0.004412
4407.19.05....................................       0.1737     0.004412
4407.19.06....................................       0.1737     0.004412
4407.19.10....................................       0.1737     0.004412
4409.10.05....................................       0.1737     0.004412
4409.10.10....................................       0.1737     0.004412
4409.10.20....................................       0.1737     0.004412
4409.10.90....................................       0.1737     0.004412
4418.99.10....................................       0.1737     0.004412
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *

Bruce Summers,
Administrator, Agricultural Marketing Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-03467 Filed 2-24-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE P


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