Special Local Regulation; North Atlantic Ocean, Ocean City, MD, 28731-28734 [2021-10628]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 102 / Friday, May 28, 2021 / Proposed Rules Regulatory Notices and Analyses The FAA has determined that this regulation only involves an established body of technical regulations for which frequent and routine amendments are necessary to keep them operationally current, is non-controversial and unlikely to result in adverse or negative comments. It, therefore: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034; February 26, 1979); and (3) does not warrant preparation of a regulatory evaluation as the anticipated impact is so minimal. Since this is a routine matter that will only affect air traffic procedures and air navigation, it is certified that this rule, when promulgated, would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. That airspace extending upward from the surface to and including 3,400 feet MSL within a 4-mile radius of Ohio State University Airport, excluding that airspace within the Columbus, Port Columbus International Airport, OH, Class C airspace area. This Class D airspace area is effective during the specific dates and times established in advance by a Notice to Airmen. The effective dates and times will thereafter be continuously published in the Chart Supplement. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AGL OH D AGENCY: Paragraph 6005 Class E Airspace Areas Extending Upward From 700 Feet or More Above the Surface of the Earth. Environmental Review * This proposal will be subject to an environmental analysis in accordance with FAA Order 1050.1F, ‘‘Environmental Impacts: Policies and Procedures’’ prior to any FAA final regulatory action. AGL OH E5 List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 71 Airspace, Incorporation by reference, Navigation (air). The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me, the Federal Aviation Administration proposes to amend 14 CFR part 71 as follows: PART 71—DESIGNATION OF CLASS A, B, C, D, AND E AIRSPACE AREAS; AIR TRAFFIC SERVICE ROUTES; AND REPORTING POINTS 1. The authority citation for 14 CFR part 71 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(f), 106(g); 40103, 40113, 40120; E.O. 10854, 24 FR 9565, 3 CFR, 1959–1963 Comp., p. 389. § 71.1 [Amended] 2. The incorporation by reference in 14 CFR 71.1 of FAA Order 7400.11E, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, dated July 21, 2020, and effective September 15, 2020, is amended as follows: ■ Paragraph 5000 Class D Airspace. * * * * * Columbus, OH [Amended] Rickenbacker International Airport, OH (Lat. 39°48′50″ N, long. 82°55′40″ W) That airspace extending upward from the surface to and including 3,000 feet MSL within a 4.6-mile radius of Rickenbacker International Airport, excluding that airspace within the Columbus, Port Columbus International Airport, OH, Class C airspace area. * * * * Columbus, OH [Amended] John Glenn Columbus International Airport, OH (Lat. 39°59′49″ N, long. 82°53′32″ W) Rickenbacker International Airport, OH (Lat. 39°48′50″ N, long. 82°55′40″ W) Ohio State University Airport, OH (Lat. 40°04′46″ N, long. 83°04′24″ W) Bolton Field Airport, OH (Lat. 39°54′04″ N, long. 83°08′13″ W) Fairfield County Airport, OH (Lat. 39°45′20″ N, long. 82°39′26″ W) That airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface within a 7.5-mile radius of John Glenn Columbus International Airport, and within 3.3 miles either side of the 094° bearing from John Glenn Columbus International Airport extending from the 7.5mile radius to 12.1 miles east of the airport, and within a 7.1-mile radius of Rickenbacker International Airport, and within 4 miles either side of the 045° bearing from Rickenbacker International Airport extending from the 7.1-mile radius to 12.6 miles northeast of the airport, and within a 6.5-mile radius of Ohio State University Airport, and within a 7.4-mile radius of Bolton Field Airport, and within a 7-mile radius of Fairfield County Airport. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on May 24, 2021. Martin A. Skinner, Acting Manager, Operations Support Group, ATO Central Service Center. [FR Doc. 2021–11230 Filed 5–27–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P AGL OH D Columbus, OH [Amended] Ohio State University Airport, OH (Lat. 40°04′46″ N, long. 83°04′24″ W) VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:32 May 27, 2021 Jkt 253001 28731 Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 100 [Docket Number USCG–2021–0137] RIN 1625–AA08 Special Local Regulation; North Atlantic Ocean, Ocean City, MD Coast Guard, DHS. Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking; re-opening of public comment period. ACTION: On March 18, 2021, the Coast Guard published a notice of proposed rulemaking to establish temporary special local regulations on May 2, 2021, to provide for the safety of life on certain navigable waters of the North Atlantic Ocean during the Ocean City Offshore Grand Prix. The Coast Guard is publishing this revised notice of proposed rulemaking because the event sponsor has postponed the event until October 24, 2021. We invite your comments on this proposed rulemaking. DATES: Comments and related material must be received by the Coast Guard on or before June 28, 2021. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by docket number USCG– 2021–0137 using the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https:// www.regulations.gov. See the ‘‘Public Participation and Request for Comments’’ portion of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section for further instructions on submitting comments. SUMMARY: If you have questions about this proposed rulemaking, call or email MST2 Shaun Landante, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Maryland—National Capital Region; telephone 410–576–2570, email D05DG-SectorMD-NCR-MarineEvents@ uscg.mil. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Table of Abbreviations CFR Code of Federal Regulations COTP Captain of the Port DHS Department of Homeland Security FR Federal Register NPRM Notice of proposed rulemaking PATCOM Patrol Commander § Section U.S.C. United States Code II. Background, Purpose, and Legal Basis The Coast Guard published an NPRM on March 18, 2021 (86 FR 14716), proposing to establish a special local PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\28MYP1.SGM 28MYP1 28732 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 102 / Friday, May 28, 2021 / Proposed Rules regulation for the Ocean City Offshore Grand Prix on the North Atlantic Ocean, on May 2, 2021. After publication of that notice, the Coast Guard was informed by the sponsor that the event was being postponed until October 24, 2021. This is the only change from the original proposal published on March 18. We are issuing this supplemental proposal to amend the special local regulation due to account for the change in the event date, and re-open the comment period to account for this change. The purpose of this rulemaking is to protect event participants, nonparticipants, and transiting vessels before, during, and after the scheduled event. The Coast Guard proposes this rulemaking under authority in 46 U.S.C. 70034 (previously 33 U.S.C. 1231). III. Discussion of Proposed Rule The COTP Maryland—National Capital Region proposes to establish special local regulations from 10 a.m. through 6 p.m. on October 24, 2021. There is no alternate date planned for this event. The regulated area would cover all navigable waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, within an area bounded by the following coordinates: Commencing at a point near the shoreline at latitude 38°21′42″ N, longitude 075°04′11″ W, thence east to latitude 38°21′33″ N, longitude 075°03′10″ W, thence southwest to latitude 38°19′25″ N, longitude 075°04′02″ W, thence west to the shoreline at latitude 38°19′35″ N, longitude 075°05′02″ W, at Ocean City, MD. The regulated area is approximately 4,500 yards in length and 1,600 yards in width. This proposed rule provides additional information about areas within the regulated area and their definitions. These areas include ‘‘Race area,’’ ‘‘Buffer area’’, and ‘‘Spectator area.’’ The proposed size of the regulated area are intended to ensure the safety of life on these navigable waters before, during, and after the high-speed power boat racing event, scheduled from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on October 24, 2021. The COTP and the Coast Guard Event Patrol Commander (PATCOM) would have authority to forbid and control the movement of all vessels and persons, including event participants, in the regulated area. When hailed or signaled by an official patrol, a vessel or person in the regulated area would be required to immediately comply with the directions given by the COTP or Event PATCOM. If a person or vessel fails to follow such directions, the Coast Guard may expel them from the area, issue VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:44 May 27, 2021 Jkt 253001 them a citation for failure to comply, or both. Except for Ocean City Grand Prix participants and vessels already at berth, a vessel or person would be required to get permission from the COTP or Event PATCOM before entering the regulated area. Vessel operators can request permission to enter and transit through the regulated area by contacting the Event PATCOM on VHF–FM channel 16. Vessel traffic would be able to safely transit the regulated area once the Event PATCOM deems it safe to do so. A person or vessel not registered with the event sponsor as a participant or assigned as official patrols would be considered a spectator. Official Patrols are any vessel assigned or approved by the Commander, Coast Guard Sector Maryland—National Capital Region with a commissioned, warrant, or petty officer on board and displaying a Coast Guard ensign. If permission is granted by the COTP or Event PATCOM, a person or vessel would be allowed to enter the regulated area or pass directly through the regulated area as instructed. Vessels would be required to operate at a safe speed that minimizes wake while within the regulated area. Official patrol vessels will direct spectator vessels while within the regulated area. Only participant vessels and official patrol vessels would be allowed to enter the race area. The regulatory text we are proposing appears at the end of this document. IV. Regulatory Analyses We developed this proposed rule after considering numerous statutes and Executive orders related to rulemaking. Below we summarize our analyses based on a number of these statutes and Executive orders, and we discuss First Amendment rights of protestors. A. Regulatory Planning and Review Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess the costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize net benefits. This NPRM has not been designated a ‘‘significant regulatory action,’’ under Executive Order 12866. Accordingly, the NPRM has not been reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). This regulatory action determination is based on the size and location of the regulated area. Vessel traffic would be able to safely transit around this regulated area, which would impact a small designated area of the North PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Atlantic Ocean for 8 hours. The Coast Guard would issue a Broadcast Notice to Mariners via VHF–FM marine channel 16 about the status of the regulated area. Moreover, the rule would allow vessels to seek permission to enter the regulated area, and vessel traffic would be able to safely transit the regulated area once the Event PATCOM deems it safe to do so. B. Impact on Small Entities The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, 5 U.S.C. 601–612, as amended, requires Federal agencies to consider the potential impact of regulations on small entities during rulemaking. The term ‘‘small entities’’ comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 50,000. The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. While some owners or operators of vessels intending to transit the safety zone may be small entities, for the reasons stated in section IV.A above, this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on any vessel owner or operator. If you think that your business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction qualifies as a small entity and that this rule would have a significant economic impact on it, please submit a comment (see ADDRESSES) explaining why you think it qualifies and how and to what degree this rule would economically affect it. Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104–121), we want to assist small entities in understanding this proposed rule. If the rule would affect your small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you have questions concerning its provisions or options for compliance, please call or email the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section. The Coast Guard will not retaliate against small entities that question or complain about this proposed rule or any policy or action of the Coast Guard. C. Collection of Information This proposed rule would not call for a new collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501–3520). D. Federalism and Indian Tribal Governments A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132 E:\FR\FM\28MYP1.SGM 28MYP1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 102 / Friday, May 28, 2021 / Proposed Rules (Federalism), if it has a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the National Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. We have analyzed this proposed rule under that Order and have determined that it is consistent with the fundamental federalism principles and preemption requirements described in Executive Order 13132. Also, this proposed rule does not have tribal implications under Executive Order 13175 (Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments) because it would not have a substantial direct effect on one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. If you believe this proposed rule has implications for federalism or Indian tribes, please call or email the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section. E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531–1538) requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 (adjusted for inflation) or more in any one year. Though this proposed rule would not result in such an expenditure, we do discuss the effects of this rule elsewhere in this preamble. F. Environment We have analyzed this proposed rule under Department of Homeland Security Directive 023–01, Rev. 1, associated implementing instructions, and Environmental Planning COMDTINST 5090.1 (series), which guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321–4370f), and have made a preliminary determination that this action is one of a category of actions that do not individually or cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment. This proposed rule involves implementation of regulations within 33 CFR part 100 applicable to organized marine events on the navigable waters of the United States that could negatively impact the safety of waterway users and shore side activities in the event area lasting for eight hours. Normally such actions are categorically excluded from further VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:44 May 27, 2021 Jkt 253001 review under paragraph L61 of Appendix A, Table 1 of DHS Instruction Manual 023–01–001–01, Rev. 1. A preliminary Record of Environmental Consideration supporting this determination is available in the docket. For instructions on locating the docket, see the ADDRESSES section of this preamble. We seek any comments or information that may lead to the discovery of a significant environmental impact from this proposed rule. G. Protest Activities The Coast Guard respects the First Amendment rights of protesters. Protesters are asked to call or email the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section to coordinate protest activities so that your message can be received without jeopardizing the safety or security of people, places, or vessels. V. Public Participation and Request for Comments We view public participation as essential to effective rulemaking, and will consider all comments and material received during the comment period. Your comment can help shape the outcome of this rulemaking. If you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this rulemaking, indicate the specific section of this document to which each comment applies, and provide a reason for each suggestion or recommendation. We encourage you to submit comments through the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https:// www.regulations.gov. If your material cannot be submitted using https:// www.regulations.gov, call or email the person in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section of this document for alternate instructions. We accept anonymous comments. Comments we post to https:// www.regulations.gov will include any personal information you have provided. For more about privacy and submissions in response to this document, see DHS’s eRulemaking System of Records notice (85 FR 14226, March 11, 2020). Documents mentioned in this NPRM as being available in the docket, and public comments, will be in our online docket at https://www.regulations.gov and can be viewed by following that website’s instructions. We review all comments received, but we will only post comments that address the topic of the proposed rule. We may choose not to post off-topic, inappropriate, or duplicate comments that we receive. If you go to the online docket and sign up for email alerts, you will be notified PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 28733 when comments are posted or a final rule is published. List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 100 Marine safety, Navigation (water), Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Waterways. For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard is proposing to amend 33 CFR part 100 as follows: PART 100—SAFETY OF LIFE ON NAVIGABLE WATERS 1. The authority citation for part 100 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 46 U.S.C. 70041; 33 CFR 1.05– 1. 2. Add § 100.501T05–0137 to read as follows: ■ § 100.501T05–0137 Special Local Regulation; North Atlantic Ocean, Ocean City, MD. (a) Locations. All coordinates reference Datum NAD 1983. (1) Regulated area. All navigable waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, within an area bounded by the following coordinates: Commencing at a point near the shoreline at position latitude 38°21′42″ N, longitude 075°04′11″ W; thence east to latitude 38°21′33″ N, longitude 075°03′10″ W; thence southwest to latitude 38°19′25″ N, longitude 075°04′02″ W; thence west to the shoreline at latitude 38°19′35″ N, longitude 075°05′02″ W, at Ocean City, MD. The race area, buffer area, and spectator area are within the regulated area. (2) Race area. The race area is a polygon in shape measuring approximately 3,500 yards in length by 350 yards in width. The area is bounded by a line commencing at position latitude 38°19′46.85″ N, longitude 075°04′43.28″ W, thence east to latitude 38°19′44.23″ N, longitude 075°04′29.89″ W, thence north and parallel to Ocean City, MD shoreline to latitude 38°21′23.24″ N, longitude 075°03′48.87″ W, thence west to latitude 38°21′25.12″ N, longitude 075°04′02.45″ W; thence south to the point of origin. (3) Buffer area. The buffer zone is a polygon in shape measuring approximately 500 yards in all directions surrounding the entire race area described in the preceding paragraph of this section. The area is bounded by a line commencing at a point near the shoreline at position latitude 38°21′42″ N, longitude 075°04′11″ W; thence east to latitude 38°21′35″ N, longitude 075°03′24″ W; thence southwest to latitude 38°19′28″ N, longitude 075°04′17″ W; thence west to the shoreline at latitude 38°19′35″ N, E:\FR\FM\28MYP1.SGM 28MYP1 28734 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 102 / Friday, May 28, 2021 / Proposed Rules longitude 075°05′02″ W, at Ocean City, MD. (4) Spectator area. The designated spectator area is a polygon in shape measuring approximately 3,500 yards in length by 350 yards in width. The area is bounded by a line commencing at position latitude 38°19′40″ N, longitude 075°04′12″ W, thence east to latitude 38°19′37″ N, longitude 075°03′59″ W, thence northeast to latitude 38°21′17″ N, longitude 075°03′17″ W, thence west to latitude 38°21′20″ N, longitude 075°03′31″ W, thence southwest to point of origin. (b) Definitions. As used in this section: Buffer area is a neutral area that surrounds the perimeter of the Race Area within the regulated area described by this section. The purpose of a buffer zone is to minimize potential collision conflicts with marine event participants or race boats and spectator vessels or nearby transiting vessels. This area provides separation between a Race Area and a specified Spectator Area or other vessels that are operating in the vicinity of the regulated area established by the special local regulations. Captain of the Port (COTP) Maryland—National Capital Region means the Commander, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Maryland—National Capital Region or any Coast Guard commissioned, warrant or petty officer who has been authorized by the COTP to act on his behalf. Event Patrol Commander or Event PATCOM means a commissioned, warrant, or petty officer of the U.S. Coast Guard who has been designated by the Commander, Coast Guard Sector Maryland—National Capital Region. Official Patrol means any vessel assigned or approved by Commander, Coast Guard Sector Maryland—National Capital Region with a commissioned, warrant, or petty officer on board and displaying a Coast Guard ensign. Participant means a person or vessel registered with the event sponsor as participating in the Ocean City Grand Prix or otherwise designated by the event sponsor as having a function tied to the event. Race area is an area described by a line bound by coordinates provided in latitude and longitude that outlines the boundary of a race area within the regulated area defined by this section. Spectator means a person or vessel not registered with the event sponsor as participants or assigned as official patrols. (c) Special local regulations: (1) The COTP Maryland—National Capital Region or Event PATCOM may forbid and control the movement of all vessels VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:44 May 27, 2021 Jkt 253001 and persons, including event participants, in the regulated area. When hailed or signaled by an official patrol, a vessel or person in the regulated area shall immediately comply with the directions given by the patrol. Failure to do so may result in the Coast Guard expelling the person or vessel from the area, issuing a citation for failure to comply, or both. The COTP Maryland—National Capital Region or Event PATCOM may terminate the event, or a participant’s operations at any time the COTP Maryland—National Capital Region or Event PATCOM believes it necessary to do so for the protection of life or property. (2) Except for participants and vessels already at berth, a person or vessel within the regulated area at the start of enforcement of this section must immediately depart the regulated area. (3) A spectator must contact the Event PATCOM to request permission to either enter or pass through the regulated area. The Event PATCOM, and official patrol vessels enforcing this regulated area, can be contacted on marine band radio VHF–FM channel 16 (156.8 MHz) and channel 22A (157.1 MHz). If permission is granted, the spectator must pass directly through the regulated area as instructed by Event PATCOM. A vessel within the regulated area must operate at safe speed that minimizes wake. (4) Only participant vessels and official patrol vessels are allowed to enter the race area. (5) A person or vessel that desires to transit, moor, or anchor within the regulated area must obtain authorization from the COTP Maryland—National Capital Region or PATCOM. A person or vessel seeking such permission can contact the COTP Maryland—National Capital Region at telephone number 410–576–2693 or on Marine Band Radio, VHF–FM channel 16 (156.8 MHz) or the PATCOM on Marine Band Radio, VHF–FM channel 16 (156.8 MHz). (6) The Coast Guard will publish a notice in the Fifth Coast Guard District Local Notice to Mariners and issue a marine information broadcast on VHF– FM marine band radio announcing specific event date and times. (d) Enforcement officials. The Coast Guard may be assisted with marine event patrol and enforcement of the regulated area by other Federal, State, and local agencies. (e) Enforcement period. This section will be enforced from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on October 24, 2021. PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Dated: May 14, 2021. David E. O’Connell, Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Captain of the Port Maryland—National Capital Region. [FR Doc. 2021–10628 Filed 5–27–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9110–04–P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 100 [Docket Number USCG–2021–0216] RIN 1625–AA08 Special Local Regulation; Lake of the Ozarks, Mile 34.5, Sunrise Beach, MO Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security (DHS). ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking. AGENCY: The Coast Guard proposes to establish a temporary special local regulation for all navigable waters of Sunrise Beach in Francis Hollow at mile marker 34.5 on the Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri. This action is necessary to provide for the safety of life on these navigable waters during a waterside concert on June 26, 2021. This proposed rulemaking would establish a temporary special local regulation for spectator vessels and prohibit other vessels from transiting the regulated area during the concert. Transiting through the regulated area would be prohibited unless authorized by the Captain of the Port Sector Upper Mississippi River or a designated representative. We invite your comments on this proposed rulemaking. SUMMARY: Comments and related material must be received by the Coast Guard on or before June 28, 2021. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by docket number USCG– 2021–0216 using the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https:// www.regulations.gov. See the ‘‘Public Participation and Request for Comments’’ portion of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section for further instructions on submitting comments. DATES: If you have questions about this proposed rulemaking, call or email Lieutenant Commander Stephanie Moore, Waterways Management Division, Sector Upper Mississippi River, U.S. Coast Guard; telephone 314–269–2560, email Stephanie.R.Moore@uscg.mil. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: E:\FR\FM\28MYP1.SGM 28MYP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 102 (Friday, May 28, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 28731-28734]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-10628]


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DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Coast Guard

33 CFR Part 100

[Docket Number USCG-2021-0137]
RIN 1625-AA08


Special Local Regulation; North Atlantic Ocean, Ocean City, MD

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.

ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking; re-opening of 
public comment period.

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SUMMARY: On March 18, 2021, the Coast Guard published a notice of 
proposed rulemaking to establish temporary special local regulations on 
May 2, 2021, to provide for the safety of life on certain navigable 
waters of the North Atlantic Ocean during the Ocean City Offshore Grand 
Prix. The Coast Guard is publishing this revised notice of proposed 
rulemaking because the event sponsor has postponed the event until 
October 24, 2021. We invite your comments on this proposed rulemaking.

DATES: Comments and related material must be received by the Coast 
Guard on or before June 28, 2021.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by docket number USCG-
2021-0137 using the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https://www.regulations.gov. See the ``Public Participation and Request for 
Comments'' portion of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section for further 
instructions on submitting comments.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions about this 
proposed rulemaking, call or email MST2 Shaun Landante, U.S. Coast 
Guard Sector Maryland--National Capital Region; telephone 410-576-2570, 
email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Table of Abbreviations

CFR Code of Federal Regulations
COTP Captain of the Port
DHS Department of Homeland Security
FR Federal Register
NPRM Notice of proposed rulemaking
PATCOM Patrol Commander
Sec.  Section
U.S.C. United States Code

II. Background, Purpose, and Legal Basis

    The Coast Guard published an NPRM on March 18, 2021 (86 FR 14716), 
proposing to establish a special local

[[Page 28732]]

regulation for the Ocean City Offshore Grand Prix on the North Atlantic 
Ocean, on May 2, 2021. After publication of that notice, the Coast 
Guard was informed by the sponsor that the event was being postponed 
until October 24, 2021. This is the only change from the original 
proposal published on March 18. We are issuing this supplemental 
proposal to amend the special local regulation due to account for the 
change in the event date, and re-open the comment period to account for 
this change.
    The purpose of this rulemaking is to protect event participants, 
non-participants, and transiting vessels before, during, and after the 
scheduled event. The Coast Guard proposes this rulemaking under 
authority in 46 U.S.C. 70034 (previously 33 U.S.C. 1231).

III. Discussion of Proposed Rule

    The COTP Maryland--National Capital Region proposes to establish 
special local regulations from 10 a.m. through 6 p.m. on October 24, 
2021. There is no alternate date planned for this event. The regulated 
area would cover all navigable waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, 
within an area bounded by the following coordinates: Commencing at a 
point near the shoreline at latitude 38[deg]21'42'' N, longitude 
075[deg]04'11'' W, thence east to latitude 38[deg]21'33'' N, longitude 
075[deg]03'10'' W, thence southwest to latitude 38[deg]19'25'' N, 
longitude 075[deg]04'02'' W, thence west to the shoreline at latitude 
38[deg]19'35'' N, longitude 075[deg]05'02'' W, at Ocean City, MD. The 
regulated area is approximately 4,500 yards in length and 1,600 yards 
in width.
    This proposed rule provides additional information about areas 
within the regulated area and their definitions. These areas include 
``Race area,'' ``Buffer area'', and ``Spectator area.''
    The proposed size of the regulated area are intended to ensure the 
safety of life on these navigable waters before, during, and after the 
high-speed power boat racing event, scheduled from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on 
October 24, 2021. The COTP and the Coast Guard Event Patrol Commander 
(PATCOM) would have authority to forbid and control the movement of all 
vessels and persons, including event participants, in the regulated 
area. When hailed or signaled by an official patrol, a vessel or person 
in the regulated area would be required to immediately comply with the 
directions given by the COTP or Event PATCOM. If a person or vessel 
fails to follow such directions, the Coast Guard may expel them from 
the area, issue them a citation for failure to comply, or both.
    Except for Ocean City Grand Prix participants and vessels already 
at berth, a vessel or person would be required to get permission from 
the COTP or Event PATCOM before entering the regulated area. Vessel 
operators can request permission to enter and transit through the 
regulated area by contacting the Event PATCOM on VHF-FM channel 16. 
Vessel traffic would be able to safely transit the regulated area once 
the Event PATCOM deems it safe to do so. A person or vessel not 
registered with the event sponsor as a participant or assigned as 
official patrols would be considered a spectator. Official Patrols are 
any vessel assigned or approved by the Commander, Coast Guard Sector 
Maryland--National Capital Region with a commissioned, warrant, or 
petty officer on board and displaying a Coast Guard ensign.
    If permission is granted by the COTP or Event PATCOM, a person or 
vessel would be allowed to enter the regulated area or pass directly 
through the regulated area as instructed. Vessels would be required to 
operate at a safe speed that minimizes wake while within the regulated 
area. Official patrol vessels will direct spectator vessels while 
within the regulated area. Only participant vessels and official patrol 
vessels would be allowed to enter the race area.
    The regulatory text we are proposing appears at the end of this 
document.

IV. Regulatory Analyses

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

A. Regulatory Planning and Review

    Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess the 
costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if 
regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize 
net benefits. This NPRM has not been designated a ``significant 
regulatory action,'' under Executive Order 12866. Accordingly, the NPRM 
has not been reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
    This regulatory action determination is based on the size and 
location of the regulated area. Vessel traffic would be able to safely 
transit around this regulated area, which would impact a small 
designated area of the North Atlantic Ocean for 8 hours. The Coast 
Guard would issue a Broadcast Notice to Mariners via VHF-FM marine 
channel 16 about the status of the regulated area. Moreover, the rule 
would allow vessels to seek permission to enter the regulated area, and 
vessel traffic would be able to safely transit the regulated area once 
the Event PATCOM deems it safe to do so.

B. Impact on Small Entities

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, 5 U.S.C. 601-612, as 
amended, requires Federal agencies to consider the potential impact of 
regulations on small entities during rulemaking. The term ``small 
entities'' comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations 
that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their 
fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 
50,000. The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this 
proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities.
    While some owners or operators of vessels intending to transit the 
safety zone may be small entities, for the reasons stated in section 
IV.A above, this proposed rule would not have a significant economic 
impact on any vessel owner or operator.
    If you think that your business, organization, or governmental 
jurisdiction qualifies as a small entity and that this rule would have 
a significant economic impact on it, please submit a comment (see 
ADDRESSES) explaining why you think it qualifies and how and to what 
degree this rule would economically affect it.
    Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement 
Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-121), we want to assist small 
entities in understanding this proposed rule. If the rule would affect 
your small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you 
have questions concerning its provisions or options for compliance, 
please call or email the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION 
CONTACT section. The Coast Guard will not retaliate against small 
entities that question or complain about this proposed rule or any 
policy or action of the Coast Guard.

C. Collection of Information

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

D. Federalism and Indian Tribal Governments

    A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132

[[Page 28733]]

(Federalism), if it has a substantial direct effect on the States, on 
the relationship between the National Government and the States, or on 
the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels 
of government. We have analyzed this proposed rule under that Order and 
have determined that it is consistent with the fundamental federalism 
principles and preemption requirements described in Executive Order 
13132.
    Also, this proposed rule does not have tribal implications under 
Executive Order 13175 (Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal 
Governments) because it would not have a substantial direct effect on 
one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal 
Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. If 
you believe this proposed rule has implications for federalism or 
Indian tribes, please call or email the person listed in the FOR 
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section.

E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

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

F. Environment

    We have analyzed this proposed rule under Department of Homeland 
Security Directive 023-01, Rev. 1, associated implementing 
instructions, and Environmental Planning COMDTINST 5090.1 (series), 
which guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and have made 
a preliminary determination that this action is one of a category of 
actions that do not individually or cumulatively have a significant 
effect on the human environment. This proposed rule involves 
implementation of regulations within 33 CFR part 100 applicable to 
organized marine events on the navigable waters of the United States 
that could negatively impact the safety of waterway users and shore 
side activities in the event area lasting for eight hours. Normally 
such actions are categorically excluded from further review under 
paragraph L61 of Appendix A, Table 1 of DHS Instruction Manual 023-01-
001-01, Rev. 1. A preliminary Record of Environmental Consideration 
supporting this determination is available in the docket. For 
instructions on locating the docket, see the ADDRESSES section of this 
preamble. We seek any comments or information that may lead to the 
discovery of a significant environmental impact from this proposed 
rule.

G. Protest Activities

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

V. Public Participation and Request for Comments

    We view public participation as essential to effective rulemaking, 
and will consider all comments and material received during the comment 
period. Your comment can help shape the outcome of this rulemaking. If 
you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this 
rulemaking, indicate the specific section of this document to which 
each comment applies, and provide a reason for each suggestion or 
recommendation.
    We encourage you to submit comments through the Federal eRulemaking 
Portal at https://www.regulations.gov. If your material cannot be 
submitted using https://www.regulations.gov, call or email the person 
in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section of this document for 
alternate instructions.
    We accept anonymous comments. Comments we post to https://www.regulations.gov will include any personal information you have 
provided. For more about privacy and submissions in response to this 
document, see DHS's eRulemaking System of Records notice (85 FR 14226, 
March 11, 2020).
    Documents mentioned in this NPRM as being available in the docket, 
and public comments, will be in our online docket at https://www.regulations.gov and can be viewed by following that website's 
instructions. We review all comments received, but we will only post 
comments that address the topic of the proposed rule. We may choose not 
to post off-topic, inappropriate, or duplicate comments that we 
receive. If you go to the online docket and sign up for email alerts, 
you will be notified when comments are posted or a final rule is 
published.

List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 100

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

    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard is 
proposing to amend 33 CFR part 100 as follows:

PART 100--SAFETY OF LIFE ON NAVIGABLE WATERS

0
1. The authority citation for part 100 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 70041; 33 CFR 1.05-1.

0
2. Add Sec.  100.501T05-0137 to read as follows:


Sec.  100.501T05-0137   Special Local Regulation; North Atlantic Ocean, 
Ocean City, MD.

    (a) Locations. All coordinates reference Datum NAD 1983. (1) 
Regulated area. All navigable waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, 
within an area bounded by the following coordinates: Commencing at a 
point near the shoreline at position latitude 38[deg]21'42'' N, 
longitude 075[deg]04'11'' W; thence east to latitude 38[deg]21'33'' N, 
longitude 075[deg]03'10'' W; thence southwest to latitude 
38[deg]19'25'' N, longitude 075[deg]04'02'' W; thence west to the 
shoreline at latitude 38[deg]19'35'' N, longitude 075[deg]05'02'' W, at 
Ocean City, MD. The race area, buffer area, and spectator area are 
within the regulated area.
    (2) Race area. The race area is a polygon in shape measuring 
approximately 3,500 yards in length by 350 yards in width. The area is 
bounded by a line commencing at position latitude 38[deg]19'46.85'' N, 
longitude 075[deg]04'43.28'' W, thence east to latitude 
38[deg]19'44.23'' N, longitude 075[deg]04'29.89'' W, thence north and 
parallel to Ocean City, MD shoreline to latitude 38[deg]21'23.24'' N, 
longitude 075[deg]03'48.87'' W, thence west to latitude 
38[deg]21'25.12'' N, longitude 075[deg]04'02.45'' W; thence south to 
the point of origin.
    (3) Buffer area. The buffer zone is a polygon in shape measuring 
approximately 500 yards in all directions surrounding the entire race 
area described in the preceding paragraph of this section. The area is 
bounded by a line commencing at a point near the shoreline at position 
latitude 38[deg]21'42'' N, longitude 075[deg]04'11'' W; thence east to 
latitude 38[deg]21'35'' N, longitude 075[deg]03'24'' W; thence 
southwest to latitude 38[deg]19'28'' N, longitude 075[deg]04'17'' W; 
thence west to the shoreline at latitude 38[deg]19'35'' N,

[[Page 28734]]

longitude 075[deg]05'02'' W, at Ocean City, MD.
    (4) Spectator area. The designated spectator area is a polygon in 
shape measuring approximately 3,500 yards in length by 350 yards in 
width. The area is bounded by a line commencing at position latitude 
38[deg]19'40'' N, longitude 075[deg]04'12'' W, thence east to latitude 
38[deg]19'37'' N, longitude 075[deg]03'59'' W, thence northeast to 
latitude 38[deg]21'17'' N, longitude 075[deg]03'17'' W, thence west to 
latitude 38[deg]21'20'' N, longitude 075[deg]03'31'' W, thence 
southwest to point of origin.
    (b) Definitions. As used in this section:
    Buffer area is a neutral area that surrounds the perimeter of the 
Race Area within the regulated area described by this section. The 
purpose of a buffer zone is to minimize potential collision conflicts 
with marine event participants or race boats and spectator vessels or 
nearby transiting vessels. This area provides separation between a Race 
Area and a specified Spectator Area or other vessels that are operating 
in the vicinity of the regulated area established by the special local 
regulations.
    Captain of the Port (COTP) Maryland--National Capital Region means 
the Commander, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Maryland--National Capital 
Region or any Coast Guard commissioned, warrant or petty officer who 
has been authorized by the COTP to act on his behalf.
    Event Patrol Commander or Event PATCOM means a commissioned, 
warrant, or petty officer of the U.S. Coast Guard who has been 
designated by the Commander, Coast Guard Sector Maryland--National 
Capital Region.
    Official Patrol means any vessel assigned or approved by Commander, 
Coast Guard Sector Maryland--National Capital Region with a 
commissioned, warrant, or petty officer on board and displaying a Coast 
Guard ensign.
    Participant means a person or vessel registered with the event 
sponsor as participating in the Ocean City Grand Prix or otherwise 
designated by the event sponsor as having a function tied to the event.
    Race area is an area described by a line bound by coordinates 
provided in latitude and longitude that outlines the boundary of a race 
area within the regulated area defined by this section.
    Spectator means a person or vessel not registered with the event 
sponsor as participants or assigned as official patrols.
    (c) Special local regulations: (1) The COTP Maryland--National 
Capital Region or Event PATCOM may forbid and control the movement of 
all vessels and persons, including event participants, in the regulated 
area. When hailed or signaled by an official patrol, a vessel or person 
in the regulated area shall immediately comply with the directions 
given by the patrol. Failure to do so may result in the Coast Guard 
expelling the person or vessel from the area, issuing a citation for 
failure to comply, or both. The COTP Maryland--National Capital Region 
or Event PATCOM may terminate the event, or a participant's operations 
at any time the COTP Maryland--National Capital Region or Event PATCOM 
believes it necessary to do so for the protection of life or property.
    (2) Except for participants and vessels already at berth, a person 
or vessel within the regulated area at the start of enforcement of this 
section must immediately depart the regulated area.
    (3) A spectator must contact the Event PATCOM to request permission 
to either enter or pass through the regulated area. The Event PATCOM, 
and official patrol vessels enforcing this regulated area, can be 
contacted on marine band radio VHF-FM channel 16 (156.8 MHz) and 
channel 22A (157.1 MHz). If permission is granted, the spectator must 
pass directly through the regulated area as instructed by Event PATCOM. 
A vessel within the regulated area must operate at safe speed that 
minimizes wake.
    (4) Only participant vessels and official patrol vessels are 
allowed to enter the race area.
    (5) A person or vessel that desires to transit, moor, or anchor 
within the regulated area must obtain authorization from the COTP 
Maryland--National Capital Region or PATCOM. A person or vessel seeking 
such permission can contact the COTP Maryland--National Capital Region 
at telephone number 410-576-2693 or on Marine Band Radio, VHF-FM 
channel 16 (156.8 MHz) or the PATCOM on Marine Band Radio, VHF-FM 
channel 16 (156.8 MHz).
    (6) The Coast Guard will publish a notice in the Fifth Coast Guard 
District Local Notice to Mariners and issue a marine information 
broadcast on VHF-FM marine band radio announcing specific event date 
and times.
    (d) Enforcement officials. The Coast Guard may be assisted with 
marine event patrol and enforcement of the regulated area by other 
Federal, State, and local agencies.
    (e) Enforcement period. This section will be enforced from 10 a.m. 
to 6 p.m. on October 24, 2021.

     Dated: May 14, 2021.
David E. O'Connell,
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Captain of the Port Maryland--National 
Capital Region.
[FR Doc. 2021-10628 Filed 5-27-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9110-04-P


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