Standards of Fill for Wine and Distilled Spirits, 73050-73054 [2024-20237]
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Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 174 / Monday, September 9, 2024 / Proposed Rules
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[FR Doc. 2024–19286 Filed 9–6–24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6355–01–P
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DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade
Bureau
27 CFR Parts 4, 5, 19, 24, 26, and 27
[Docket No. TTB–2022–0004; Notice No.
210A, Ref: Notice No. 210]
RIN 1513–AC86
Standards of Fill for Wine and Distilled
Spirits
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and
Trade Bureau, Treasury.
ACTION: Supplemental notice of
proposed rulemaking; reopening of
comment period.
AGENCY:
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax
and Trade Bureau (TTB) is reopening
the comment period for a proposed rule
(Notice No. 210) published on May 25,
2022, which proposed changes to the
authorized standards of fill for wine and
distilled spirits, to solicit comments on
additional suggestions raised in public
comments made in response to Notice
No. 210 that go beyond the scope of the
original proposal. In Notice No. 210,
TTB proposed to add 10 authorized
standards of fill to those already
authorized for wine, and alternatively,
eliminating all but a minimum standard
of fill for wine containers and all but a
minimum and maximum for distilled
spirits containers. TTB did not propose
any specific standards of fill for distilled
spirits as an alternative to generally
eliminating them. TTB received a
number of comments in response to the
notice of proposed rulemaking
requesting that TTB add specific new
standards of fill for distilled spirits, as
well as for wine, and also requesting
that TTB consider eliminating the
distinction between the standards of fill
for distilled spirits in cans and those for
distilled spirits in containers other than
cans. TTB is now reopening the public
comment period based on these
suggestions, to provide notice to
stakeholders that TTB is considering
these additional requests for potential
inclusion in the final rule and to also
provide an opportunity for stakeholders
to submit additional information to
assist TTB in assessing whether to
incorporate some, all, or none of these
proposals into the final rule.
SUMMARY:
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The comment period for the
proposed rule published on May 25,
2022 (87 FR 31787), is reopened. TTB
must receive your comments on or
before October 9, 2024.
ADDRESSES: You may electronically
submit comments to TTB on this
document, and view copies of this
document, the original notice of
proposed rulemaking, supporting
materials, and any comments TTB
receives on it within Docket No. TTB–
2022–0004 as posted at https://
www.regulations.gov. A direct link to
that docket is available on the TTB
website at https://www.ttb.gov/lawsregulations-and-public-guidance/lawsand-regulations/all-rulemaking under
Notice No. 210A. Alternatively, you
may submit comments via postal mail to
the Director, Regulations and Ruling
Division, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and
Trade Bureau, 1310 G Street NW, Box
12, Washington, DC 20005. Please see
the Public Participation section of this
document for further information on the
comments requested regarding this
proposal and on the submission,
confidentiality, and public disclosure of
comments.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Caroline Hermann, Regulations and
Rulings Division, Alcohol and Tobacco
Tax and Trade Bureau, 1310 G Street
NW, Box 12, Washington, DC 20005;
phone 202–453–1039, ext. 175.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
DATES:
I. Background
A. Authority
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and
Trade Bureau (TTB) administers
regulations setting forth standards of fill
for containers of beverage distilled
spirits and wine products distributed
within the United States.
The authority to establish these
standards is based on two provisions of
law: (1) Section 5301(a) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 (IRC), codified at
26 U.S.C. 5301(a) in the case of distilled
spirits,1 and (2) section 105(e) of the
Federal Alcohol Administration Act
(FAA Act), codified at 27 U.S.C. 205(e),
for both distilled spirits and wine.
1 Sections 5041(e) and 5368 of the IRC also
provide the Secretary the authority to set forth tax
tolerances for containers of wine products.
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Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 174 / Monday, September 9, 2024 / Proposed Rules
Section 5301(a) of the IRC authorizes
the Secretary of the Treasury to
prescribe regulations ‘‘to regulate the
kind, size, branding, marking, sale,
resale, possession, use, and reuse of
containers (of a capacity of not more
than 5 wine gallons) designed or
intended for use for the sale of distilled
spirits . . .’’ when the Secretary
determines that such action is necessary
to protect the revenue. The FAA Act at
27 U.S.C. 205(e) authorizes the
Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe
regulations relating to the ‘‘packaging,
marking, branding, and labeling and
size and fill’’ of alcohol beverage
containers ‘‘as will prohibit deception of
the consumer with respect to such
products or the quantity thereof . . . .’’
The FAA Act at 27 U.S.C. 206 generally
prohibits the sale to consumers of
distilled spirits in containers over one
wine gallon.
TTB administers the IRC and FAA Act
pursuant to section 1111(d) of the
Homeland Security Act of 2002, as
codified at 6 U.S.C. 531(d). In addition,
the Secretary of the Treasury has
delegated certain administrative and
enforcement authorities to TTB through
Treasury Department Order 120–01.
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B. Current Standards of Fill for Distilled
Spirits
The term ‘‘standard of fill’’ is used in
the TTB regulations and in this
document to refer to the authorized
amount of liquid in the container, rather
than the size or capacity of the container
itself. For better readability, however,
this document sometimes uses the terms
‘‘size’’ or ‘‘container size’’ and
‘‘standard of fill’’ interchangeably. The
standards of fill for distilled spirits are
contained in subpart K of part 5 of the
TTB regulations (27 CFR part 5).
Within subpart K, paragraph (a)(1) of
§ 5.203 (27 CFR 5.203(a)(1)) specifies the
following metric standards of fill for
containers other than those described in
paragraph (a)(2) of that section:
• 1.8 Liters.
• 1.75 Liters.
• 1 Liter.
• 900 mL.
• 750 mL.
• 720 mL.
• 700 mL.
• 375 mL.
• 200 mL.
• 100 mL.
• 50 mL.
In the case of distilled spirits in metal
containers that have the general shape
and design of a can, that have a closure
which is an integral part of the
container, and that cannot be readily
reclosed after opening, paragraph (a)(2)
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of § 5.203 authorizes the use of the
following metric standards of fill:
• 355 mL.
• 200 mL.
• 100 mL.
• 50 mL.
For better readability this document
will refer to the containers referenced in
27 CFR 5.203(a)(1) as ‘‘containers other
than cans’’ and those referenced in
§ 5.203(a)(2) as ‘‘cans.’’
In addition to the metric standards
specified above, § 5.203 contains
provisions regarding tolerances
(discrepancies between actual and
stated fill), unreasonable shortages in
fill, and distilled spirits bottled or
imported before January 1, 1980, and
marketed or released from customs
custody on or after that date (the date on
which the U.S. volumetric standards
were replaced by the § 5.203 metric
standards).
C. Current Standards of Fill for Wine
The standards of fill for wine are
contained in subpart H of part 4 of the
TTB regulations (27 CFR part 4). Within
subpart H, paragraph (a) of § 4.72 (27
CFR 4.72(a)) authorizes the use of the
following metric standards of fill for
containers, in addition to those
described in paragraph (b) which are
discussed further below:
• 3 liters;
• 1.5 liters;
• 1 liter;
• 750 milliliters;
• 500 milliliters;
• 375 milliliters;
• 355 milliliters;
• 250 milliliters;
• 200 milliliters;
• 187 milliliters;
• 100 milliliters; and
• 50 milliliters.
Paragraph (b) of § 4.72 states that wine
may be bottled or packed in containers
of 4 liters or larger if the containers are
filled and labeled in quantities of even
liters (4 liters, 5 liters, 6 liters, etc.).
II. Notice No. 210
On May 25, 2022, TTB published a
notice of proposed rulemaking, Notice
No. 210, in the Federal Register (87 FR
31787) proposing to add 10 authorized
standards of fill for wine and, as an
alternative, to eliminate all but a
minimum standard of fill for wine
containers and all but a minimum and
maximum for distilled spirits
containers. The 10 standards of fill
proposed for wine are: 2.25 and 1.8
liters; and 720, 700, 620, 550, 360, 330,
300, and 180 milliliters.
The proposed rule followed, and took
into consideration, a Department of the
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Treasury report on competition in the
markets for beer, wine, and distilled
spirits that recommended rulemaking to
‘‘again consider eliminating the
standards of fill requirements.’’ See
Treasury Report on Competition in the
Markets for Beer, Wine, and Spirits
(February 9, 2022), available at https://
home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/
Competition-Report.pdf. That report,
produced in response to Executive
Order 14036, ‘‘Promoting Competition
in the American Economy’’ (published
in the Federal Register on July 9, 2021,
at 86 FR 36987), noted that ‘‘[c]ontainer
size requirements can be a barrier to
innovation and competition, insofar as
producers must conform their packaging
to the Treasury-mandated sizes.’’
Further, TTB had received questions
regarding standards of fill from industry
members noting difficulty in sourcing
compliant containers during certain
periods.
In response to Notice No. 210, TTB
received 76 comments. Commenters
included national trade associations, the
European Union (EU), congressional
representatives, individuals, and
alcohol beverage companies. Most of the
comments addressed the proposals,
providing support for or opposition to
them. However, many commenters
requested that TTB consider adding
certain additional authorized standards
of fill for distilled spirits and wine that
were not included in Notice No. 210, as
either a preferred alternative to
generally eliminating the standards of
fill or, even if their preference was to
eliminate the standards of fill, as an
option for consideration in the event
that the standards of fill were not
eliminated. Several commenters also
suggested TTB eliminate the distinction
between standards of fill that apply to
distilled spirits in cans and those that
apply to distilled spirits in containers
other than cans, which was also not
proposed in Notice No. 210.
III. Additional Proposals
TTB is still considering the proposed
amendments contained in Notice No.
210 and all comments it received in
response. However, because of the
comments that TTB received that
requested amendments beyond the
scope of the original proposal and,
recognizing that the requested
amendments should be considered in
the context of those already proposed,
TTB is now requesting comments on
whether to authorize additional
standards of fill for distilled spirits and
for wine and to eliminate the distinction
between the standards of fill authorized
for distilled spirits in cans and those for
distilled spirits in containers other than
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cans. TTB has grouped together and
summarized the comments below. The
grouping is merely for readability, and
TTB may incorporate some, all, or none
of the proposed sizes into the final rule,
regardless of the groupings.
A. Additional Authorized Standards of
Fill for Distilled Spirits
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TTB received 17 comments requesting
the approval of additional authorized
standards of fill for distilled spirits,
either as an alternative to TTB generally
eliminating all standards of fill for
distilled spirits or in the event that TTB
did not eliminate standards of fill for
distilled spirits.
Commenters requested that TTB
authorize the following: For both cans
and containers other than cans 3.75, 3,
2, and 1.5 liters and 500, 350, 250, and
187 milliliters; for cans, 945, 710, 700,
570, 475, and 331 milliliters; and for
containers other than cans, 355
milliliters.
Some commenters requested approval
of additional standards of fill above
3.785 liters, and TTB is not raising those
requests for additional comment, as
such standards would exceed sizes
allowed by law. As noted above, the
FAA Act at 27 U.S.C. 206 generally
prohibits the sale to consumers of
distilled spirits in containers over one
wine gallon. One commenter also
requested approval of a size below 50
milliliters, which we are also not
specifically raising for additional
comment at this time. The agency has
previously opined that a minimum size
of 50 milliliters is needed to ensure
sufficient space on the container for
required labeling,2 and TTB explained
in the Spring 2024 Unified Agenda of
Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory
Actions that it intends to continue its
rulemaking work to obtain comment on
additional required labeling on alcohol
beverages, for disclosures of major food
allergens, nutritional and alcohol
content, and ingredients. TTB believes
any further consideration of new
minimum sizes should occur after the
conclusion of rulemaking that may
affect the amount or type of required
information that must appear on labels.
1. Both Cans and Containers Other Than
Cans—3.75, 3, 2, and 1.5 Liters and 500,
350, 250, and 187 Milliliters
• 3.75 and 3 Liters
TTB received two comments, from the
Distilled Spirits Council of the United
2 See T.D. TTB–165, Addition of New Standards
of Fill for Wine and Distilled Spirits; Amendment
of Distilled Spirits and Malt Beverage Net Contents
Labeling Regulations, published on December 29,
2020, at 85 FR 85514.
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States (DISCUS) and Milestone Brands,
requesting authorization of a size ‘‘such
as a 3 L or 3.75 L standard or the
maximum size prescribed by law’’
saying that it would enable producers to
provide kegged cocktails and other
consumer-desired formats to showcase
their products and meet consumer
demand.
• 2 Liters
TTB received one comment, from the
EU, suggesting that a size of 2 liters
should be added, along with other
authorized sizes (listed separately) that
reflect the EU standards for spirit
drinks.
• 1.5 Liters
TTB received two comments, from the
EU and DISCUS, requesting
authorization of a 1.5-liter size. DISCUS
stated it would allow industry members
to further streamline and harmonize
sizes for certain products across
different global markets and increase
operational efficiencies, such as waste
reduction from producing multiple SKU
sizes for different markets. The EU
suggested adding a size of 1.5 liters to
align with EU standards which also
provide for that size.
• 500 Milliliters
Six commenters requested that TTB
authorize a 500-milliliter standard of
fill. DISCUS and Milestone Brands
noted that this size would fill a ‘‘large
gap ‘‘between the 375 and 700 milliliter
authorized sizes, and Milestone Brands
stated that its approval would provide
size parity with wine and malt beveragebased ready-to-drink (RTD) products.
DISCUS added that the 500-milliliter
size would allow industry members to
further streamline and harmonize sizes
for certain products and increase
operational efficiencies, such as waste
reduction from producing multiple SKU
sizes for different markets. One
commenter, Soley Beverage, noted in
support of authorizing a 500-milliliter
standard of fill for distilled spirits that
the wine standards of fill provide an
authorized size of 500 milliliters. The
EU also noted in support of this size
that the EU standards for spirit drinks
include the 500-milliliter size.
• 350 Milliliters
Two commenters, the EU and
DISCUS, suggested that TTB consider
authorizing a 350-milliliter standard of
fill. DISCUS suggested that TTB
consider common sizes in markets
around the world, such as 350
milliliters, to allow industry members to
streamline and harmonize sizes for
certain products and increase
operational efficiencies, such as waste
reduction from producing multiple SKU
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sizes for different markets. The EU
suggested that the 350-milliliter size
should be added, noting that it is
authorized as an EU standard for spirit
drinks.
• 250 and 187 Milliliters
TTB received comments—from the
Glass Packaging Institute, O–I Glass,
The Can Van, and an individual—
requesting that TTB authorize a
standard of fill of 250 milliliters for
distilled spirits, the latter two
referencing 250-milliliter cans. The
commenters stated that the 250milliliter can is one of the more popular
can sizes for RTD spirit beverages, and
not having it authorized limits
experimentation with new brands. The
Glass Packaging Institute and O–I Glass
also supported authorizing a 187milliliter size for containers other than
cans. According to the commenters, the
shift to smaller packaging formats
continues to grow, so authorizing the
187-milliliter size and the 250-milliliter
size would provide additional options
for distillers and consumers within the
market for smaller packaging sizes,
reflect packaging options available to
other beverage categories, and increase
competition.
2. Cans—945, 710, 700, 570, 475, and
331 Milliliters
• 945, 710, 475, and 331 Milliliters
DISCUS requested that TTB authorize
sizes equivalent to 945, 710, 475, and
331 milliliters (equivalent to 32, 24, 16,
and 11.2 ounces respectively) for cans,
saying that large and small producers of
RTD distilled spirits products, many of
which are sold in cans, could benefit
from greater competitive market access
in this space by being able to provide
their products in these sizes that
consumers want and that are allowed
for other products.
• 700 Milliliters
TTB received one comment, from
Suave Spirits Inc., requesting
authorization of a 700-milliliter size for
distilled spirits, saying it would help
industry members establish uniformity
in packaging sizes with European and
worldwide customers that demand 700milliliter sizes, and further reduce the
number of SKUs to manage. Because
700 milliliters is already authorized for
distilled spirits containers other than
cans, we are considering this comment
as a request for approval of that
standard of fill for cans.
• 570 and 475 Milliliters
TTB received one comment, from
WISEACRE Brewing Co. (Wiseacre),
requesting that TTB authorize 570 and
475 milliliters (19.2 and 16 ounces
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respectively) for distilled spirits in cans.
Wiseacre stated that the consumption of
RTD spirits cocktails is growing, and
most of the growth in the industry for
RTD spirits cocktails is with 16-ounce
and sometimes 19.2-ounce cans. The
commenter suggested that most canning
lines use a 12 ounce can diameter, and
the 19.2-ounce size is the largest volume
a can is safely able to hold using the 12
ounce can diameter.
Wiseacre also stated that ‘‘the rules
only allow use of 12 oz and 24 oz cans.’’
TTB notes that the regulations at 27 CFR
5.203 do not currently authorize 24ounce cans as a distilled spirits standard
of fill; however, they do authorize 355milliliter cans, which is equivalent to 12
ounces.
3. Containers Other Than Cans—355
Milliliters
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Four commenters urged TTB to
approve the 355-milliliter size for glass
bottles (which would require TTB to
amend the standards of fill for
containers other than cans). These
commenters were Representative Glenn
‘‘GT’’ Thompson, Representative Austin
Scott, the Glass Packaging Institute, and
O–I Glass. The commenters generally
noted that the 355-milliliter size is
currently approved for distilled spirits,
but only for cans. Commenters
expressed their views that this
limitation restricts competition and
customer choice in a growing market.
One commenter stated that, given the
ongoing shortage of 355-milliliter cans,
having a 355-milliliter size for glass
bottles would provide greater packaging
flexibility to allow companies to react to
supply issues while it would also
support innovative packaging (including
for environmental purposes). They
further urged that other beverage
categories have introduced new package
formats and sizes, particularly in the
non-alcoholic beverage market, and the
shift to smaller packaging formats
continues to grow. Two commenters
expressed concern that glass bottle
manufacturers are being harmed by their
inability to use a 355-milliliter size, as
they are unable to compete on a level
playing field with other container
manufacturers.
B. Harmonization of Authorized
Standards of Fill Across Distilled Spirit
Container Types
Three commenters representing glass
manufacturers (Representative Austin
Scott, Representative Glen ‘‘GT’’
Thompson, and O–I Glass) stated that
removing the distinction between cans
and other containers would result in
greater competition, consumer choice,
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and a consistency of regulation, without
adding to consumer confusion.
The distinction between distilled
spirits in cans and distilled spirits in
containers other than cans resulted from
rulemaking in the early 1990s. On
September 27, 1991, TTB’s predecessor,
the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and
Firearms (ATF), proposed
differentiating between cans and
containers other than cans in ATF
Notice No. 725 published in the Federal
Register at 56 FR 49152). There, ATF
explained its view at that time that
approving both 375 and 355 milliliter
containers for distilled spirits would be
misleading for consumers because of
how close together the sizes were.
However, ATF also recognized that
because 355 milliliters was not an
approved size, it prevented utilization
of one of the most common can sizes.
ATF proposed to create mutually
exclusive categories of distilled spirits
containers, cans and containers other
than cans, with separate standards of fill
authorized for each, ‘‘. . .based on the
belief that cans are sufficiently distinct
from other types of [distilled spirits
containers], in both shape and design,
so that a different standard of fill would
not be confusing to the consumer.’’ This
proposal was adopted in the final rule
published in the Federal Register on
July 14, 1992, at 57 FR 31126.
TTB is soliciting comments on
whether it should maintain a distinction
between cans and containers other than
cans. In particular, TTB is interested in
comments on whether the distinction
serves a purpose consistent with the
conclusions drawn in the 1991
rulemaking, that is, that, in some
instances, the size in combination with
the type of container (can versus
containers other than can) serves the
purpose of preventing consumer
deception, and the distinction is needed
to prevent consumer deception
regarding the product or quantity of the
product in the container, consistent
with TTB’s mandate under the FAA Act
described above in the Authority
section.
C. Additional Authorized Standards of
Fill for Wine
TTB received several comments
requesting the approval of six standards
of fill for wine that were not proposed
in Notice No. 210, including 600, 545.5,
and 473 milliliter sizes. These standards
of fill are discussed below.3
3 If
any of these sizes are added, conforming edits
would be made to the tax tolerances in 27 CFR
24.255(b) in line with the proposals made for other
the wine sizes in Notice No. 210, as follows: 2
percent for 600 milliliters, 2 percent for 545.5
milliliters; and 2.5 percent for 473 milliliters. For
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One commenter also asked for the
approval of wine in 1/6-barrel, 50-liters,
and 1/2-barrel sizes. Regarding these
sizes, TTB notes that the TTB
regulations do not define a specific
volume for a ‘‘barrel’’ of wine and that
wine containers exceeding 18 liters
need not conform to the standards of
fill. See 27 CFR 4.70(b)(2). Moreover,
the regulations at 27 CFR 4.72(b)
provide that wine may be packaged in
containers of 4 liters or more if the
containers are filled in quantities of
even (or whole) liters (for example 4, 5,
or 6 liters).
• 600 Milliliters
TTB received a comment from an
individual winemaker noting that some
wines produced in foreign countries are
required to be exported in 600
[milliliter] containers and that
‘‘. . .consumers are missing out on
exploring [these] wines. . .’’
• 545 and 473 Milliliters
The American Cider Association
(ACA) requested approval of 545 and
473 milliliter sizes (equivalent to 19.2
and 16 ounces respectively), noting that
both are already commonly used for
similar products that are not required to
conform to TTB standards of fill. These
include ciders under 7 percent alcohol
by volume and apple-flavored malt
beverages sold in cans. The ACA also
noted that these additional sizes would
increase packaging options for industry
members faced with container sourcing
challenges. The ACA also points to
aspects of cider making that lead to
levels of alcohol by volume very near to
thresholds for determining compliance
with the standards of fill (that is, very
near the threshold of 7 percent alcohol
by volume). That complication can
affect planned packaging as a producer
may not know whether their product
will be under the 7 percent alcohol by
volume threshold until it is ready to be
bottled.
Public Participation
Comments Invited
TTB invites comments from interested
members of the public on the additional
distilled spirits and wine standards of
fill and the removal of the distinction
between standards of fill for distilled
spirits in cans and those in containers
other than cans, as submitted through
comments on Notice No. 210 and
described in this document. TTB also
greater readability, TTB proposed in Notice No. 210
to provide the tax tolerances in ranges of sizes as
opposed to discrete sizes, so these would appear in
the regulations within those ranges, for example, 2
percent for 600 milliliters would appear within the
range proposed in Notice No. 210 as ‘‘2.0 percent
for 750 mL to 550 mL.’’
E:\FR\FM\09SEP1.SGM
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73054
Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 174 / Monday, September 9, 2024 / Proposed Rules
welcomes comments on any other
aspect of the proposals under
consideration, including all
amendments proposed in Notice No.
210. TTB would be particularly
interested in any comments from
consumers or others providing evidence
of relevant consumer understanding in
order to consider the extent of potential
consumer deception with respect to
distilled spirits and wine products and
the quantities of the products, as
contemplated by the statutory bases for
the standards of fill. Please provide any
specific information in support of your
comments.
Please note that those who previously
submitted comments to Notice No. 210
do not need to resubmit those comments
for consideration. TTB is still
considering all comments received in
response to Notice No. 210, not only
those summarized in this document,
and will address all comments in any
subsequent final rule.
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1
Submitting Comments
You may submit comments on this
proposal as an individual or on behalf
of a business or other organization via
the Regulations.gov website or via
postal mail, as described in the
ADDRESSES section of this document.
Your comment must reference Notice
No. 210A and must be submitted or
postmarked by the closing date shown
in the DATES section of this document.
You may upload or include attachments
with your comment. You also may
submit a comment requesting a public
hearing on this proposal. The TTB
Administrator reserves the right to
determine whether to hold a public
hearing. If TTB schedules a public
hearing, it will publish a notice of the
date, time, and place for the hearing in
the Federal Register.
Confidentiality and Disclosure of
Comments
All submitted comments and
attachments are part of the rulemaking
record and are subject to public
disclosure. Do not enclose any material
in your comments that you consider
confidential or that is inappropriate for
disclosure.
TTB will post, and you may view,
copies of this document, the original
notice of proposed rulemaking,
supporting materials, and any
comments TTB receives about this
proposal within the related
Regulations.gov docket, TTB–2022–
0004. In general, TTB will post
comments as submitted, and it will not
redact any identifying or contact
information from the body of a comment
or attachment.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:20 Sep 06, 2024
Jkt 262001
Please contact TTB’s Regulations and
Rulings Division by email using the web
form available at https://www.ttb.gov/
contact-rrd, or by telephone at 202–453–
2265, if you have any questions
regarding how to comment on this
proposal or to request copies of this
document, its supporting materials, or
the comments received in response.
Regulatory Analysis and Notices
Regulatory Flexibility Act
TTB certifies that this proposed
regulation, if adopted, would not have
a significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities. If
adopted, the amendments would
provide bottlers and importers of wine
and distilled spirits with additional
flexibility to use new bottle sizes if they
so choose. The proposed regulation
would impose no new reporting,
recordkeeping, or other administrative
requirement. Therefore, no regulatory
flexibility analysis is required.
Paperwork Reduction Act
The collection of information in this
proposed rule has been previously
approved by the Office of Management
and Budget (OMB) under the title
‘‘Labeling and Advertising
Requirements Under the Federal
Alcohol Administration Act,’’ and
assigned control number 1513–0087.
This proposed regulation would not
result in a substantive or material
change in the previously approved
collection action, since the nature of the
mandatory information that must appear
on labels affixed to the container
remains unchanged.
Executive Order 12866
This proposed rule is not a significant
regulatory action as defined by
Executive Order 12866. Therefore, it
requires no regulatory assessment.
Signed: August 29, 2024.
Mary G. Ryan,
Administrator.
Approved: September 3, 2024.
Aviva R. Aron-Dine,
Acting Assistant Secretary (Tax Policy).
[FR Doc. 2024–20237 Filed 9–6–24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4810–31–P
PO 00000
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND
SECURITY
Coast Guard
33 CFR Part 165
[Docket Number USCG–2024–0083]
Security Zone; Coast Guard Base Los
Angeles-Long Beach on Terminal
Island, San Pedro, CA
Coast Guard, DHS.
Notification of inquiry; request
for comments; notice of meeting.
AGENCY:
ACTION:
We are requesting your
comments on the proposed
establishment of a security zone for
navigable waters within a 50-yard
radius of Base Los Angeles-Long Beach
on Terminal Island within the main
channel of Los Angeles Harbor. This
proposed action would provide for the
security of Coast Guard personnel,
vessels, and property. We seek your
comments on the proposed security
zone and consideration of the proposed
radius. We also plan to host a public
meeting on September 23, 2024.
DATES: Your comments and related
material must reach the Coast Guard on
or before October 4, 2024.
A public meeting will be held 10 a.m.
September 23, 2024. See the ‘‘Public
Participation and Request for
Comments’’ portion of the
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section for
further details.
ADDRESSES: You may submit comments
identified by docket number USCG–
2024–0083 using the Federal 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.
The public meeting held on
September 23, 2024, will be held
virtually. Please contact the person
listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
CONTACT section for call-in information.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If
you have questions about this notice of
inquiry, call or email LCDR Kevin
Kinsella, Waterways Management
Division, U.S. Coast Guard; telephone
310–521–3860, email D11-SMBSectorLALB-WWM@uscg.mil.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
SUMMARY:
I. Table of Abbreviations
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
DHS Department of Homeland Security
U.S.C. United States Code
Frm 00052
Fmt 4702
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E:\FR\FM\09SEP1.SGM
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Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 174 (Monday, September 9, 2024)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 73050-73054]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2024-20237]
=======================================================================
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DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau
27 CFR Parts 4, 5, 19, 24, 26, and 27
[Docket No. TTB-2022-0004; Notice No. 210A, Ref: Notice No. 210]
RIN 1513-AC86
Standards of Fill for Wine and Distilled Spirits
AGENCY: Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, Treasury.
ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking; reopening of
comment period.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) is
reopening the comment period for a proposed rule (Notice No. 210)
published on May 25, 2022, which proposed changes to the authorized
standards of fill for wine and distilled spirits, to solicit comments
on additional suggestions raised in public comments made in response to
Notice No. 210 that go beyond the scope of the original proposal. In
Notice No. 210, TTB proposed to add 10 authorized standards of fill to
those already authorized for wine, and alternatively, eliminating all
but a minimum standard of fill for wine containers and all but a
minimum and maximum for distilled spirits containers. TTB did not
propose any specific standards of fill for distilled spirits as an
alternative to generally eliminating them. TTB received a number of
comments in response to the notice of proposed rulemaking requesting
that TTB add specific new standards of fill for distilled spirits, as
well as for wine, and also requesting that TTB consider eliminating the
distinction between the standards of fill for distilled spirits in cans
and those for distilled spirits in containers other than cans. TTB is
now reopening the public comment period based on these suggestions, to
provide notice to stakeholders that TTB is considering these additional
requests for potential inclusion in the final rule and to also provide
an opportunity for stakeholders to submit additional information to
assist TTB in assessing whether to incorporate some, all, or none of
these proposals into the final rule.
DATES: The comment period for the proposed rule published on May 25,
2022 (87 FR 31787), is reopened. TTB must receive your comments on or
before October 9, 2024.
ADDRESSES: You may electronically submit comments to TTB on this
document, and view copies of this document, the original notice of
proposed rulemaking, supporting materials, and any comments TTB
receives on it within Docket No. TTB-2022-0004 as posted at https://www.regulations.gov. A direct link to that docket is available on the
TTB website at https://www.ttb.gov/laws-regulations-and-public-guidance/laws-and-regulations/all-rulemaking under Notice No. 210A.
Alternatively, you may submit comments via postal mail to the Director,
Regulations and Ruling Division, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade
Bureau, 1310 G Street NW, Box 12, Washington, DC 20005. Please see the
Public Participation section of this document for further information
on the comments requested regarding this proposal and on the
submission, confidentiality, and public disclosure of comments.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Caroline Hermann, Regulations and
Rulings Division, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, 1310 G
Street NW, Box 12, Washington, DC 20005; phone 202-453-1039, ext. 175.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. Background
A. Authority
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) administers
regulations setting forth standards of fill for containers of beverage
distilled spirits and wine products distributed within the United
States.
The authority to establish these standards is based on two
provisions of law: (1) Section 5301(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 (IRC), codified at 26 U.S.C. 5301(a) in the case of distilled
spirits,\1\ and (2) section 105(e) of the Federal Alcohol
Administration Act (FAA Act), codified at 27 U.S.C. 205(e), for both
distilled spirits and wine.
[[Page 73051]]
Section 5301(a) of the IRC authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to
prescribe regulations ``to regulate the kind, size, branding, marking,
sale, resale, possession, use, and reuse of containers (of a capacity
of not more than 5 wine gallons) designed or intended for use for the
sale of distilled spirits . . .'' when the Secretary determines that
such action is necessary to protect the revenue. The FAA Act at 27
U.S.C. 205(e) authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe
regulations relating to the ``packaging, marking, branding, and
labeling and size and fill'' of alcohol beverage containers ``as will
prohibit deception of the consumer with respect to such products or the
quantity thereof . . . .'' The FAA Act at 27 U.S.C. 206 generally
prohibits the sale to consumers of distilled spirits in containers over
one wine gallon.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Sections 5041(e) and 5368 of the IRC also provide the
Secretary the authority to set forth tax tolerances for containers
of wine products.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
TTB administers the IRC and FAA Act pursuant to section 1111(d) of
the Homeland Security Act of 2002, as codified at 6 U.S.C. 531(d). In
addition, the Secretary of the Treasury has delegated certain
administrative and enforcement authorities to TTB through Treasury
Department Order 120-01.
B. Current Standards of Fill for Distilled Spirits
The term ``standard of fill'' is used in the TTB regulations and in
this document to refer to the authorized amount of liquid in the
container, rather than the size or capacity of the container itself.
For better readability, however, this document sometimes uses the terms
``size'' or ``container size'' and ``standard of fill''
interchangeably. The standards of fill for distilled spirits are
contained in subpart K of part 5 of the TTB regulations (27 CFR part
5).
Within subpart K, paragraph (a)(1) of Sec. 5.203 (27 CFR
5.203(a)(1)) specifies the following metric standards of fill for
containers other than those described in paragraph (a)(2) of that
section:
1.8 Liters.
1.75 Liters.
1 Liter.
900 mL.
750 mL.
720 mL.
700 mL.
375 mL.
200 mL.
100 mL.
50 mL.
In the case of distilled spirits in metal containers that have the
general shape and design of a can, that have a closure which is an
integral part of the container, and that cannot be readily reclosed
after opening, paragraph (a)(2) of Sec. 5.203 authorizes the use of
the following metric standards of fill:
355 mL.
200 mL.
100 mL.
50 mL.
For better readability this document will refer to the containers
referenced in 27 CFR 5.203(a)(1) as ``containers other than cans'' and
those referenced in Sec. 5.203(a)(2) as ``cans.''
In addition to the metric standards specified above, Sec. 5.203
contains provisions regarding tolerances (discrepancies between actual
and stated fill), unreasonable shortages in fill, and distilled spirits
bottled or imported before January 1, 1980, and marketed or released
from customs custody on or after that date (the date on which the U.S.
volumetric standards were replaced by the Sec. 5.203 metric
standards).
C. Current Standards of Fill for Wine
The standards of fill for wine are contained in subpart H of part 4
of the TTB regulations (27 CFR part 4). Within subpart H, paragraph (a)
of Sec. 4.72 (27 CFR 4.72(a)) authorizes the use of the following
metric standards of fill for containers, in addition to those described
in paragraph (b) which are discussed further below:
3 liters;
1.5 liters;
1 liter;
750 milliliters;
500 milliliters;
375 milliliters;
355 milliliters;
250 milliliters;
200 milliliters;
187 milliliters;
100 milliliters; and
50 milliliters.
Paragraph (b) of Sec. 4.72 states that wine may be bottled or
packed in containers of 4 liters or larger if the containers are filled
and labeled in quantities of even liters (4 liters, 5 liters, 6 liters,
etc.).
II. Notice No. 210
On May 25, 2022, TTB published a notice of proposed rulemaking,
Notice No. 210, in the Federal Register (87 FR 31787) proposing to add
10 authorized standards of fill for wine and, as an alternative, to
eliminate all but a minimum standard of fill for wine containers and
all but a minimum and maximum for distilled spirits containers. The 10
standards of fill proposed for wine are: 2.25 and 1.8 liters; and 720,
700, 620, 550, 360, 330, 300, and 180 milliliters.
The proposed rule followed, and took into consideration, a
Department of the Treasury report on competition in the markets for
beer, wine, and distilled spirits that recommended rulemaking to
``again consider eliminating the standards of fill requirements.'' See
Treasury Report on Competition in the Markets for Beer, Wine, and
Spirits (February 9, 2022), available at https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Competition-Report.pdf. That report, produced in
response to Executive Order 14036, ``Promoting Competition in the
American Economy'' (published in the Federal Register on July 9, 2021,
at 86 FR 36987), noted that ``[c]ontainer size requirements can be a
barrier to innovation and competition, insofar as producers must
conform their packaging to the Treasury-mandated sizes.'' Further, TTB
had received questions regarding standards of fill from industry
members noting difficulty in sourcing compliant containers during
certain periods.
In response to Notice No. 210, TTB received 76 comments. Commenters
included national trade associations, the European Union (EU),
congressional representatives, individuals, and alcohol beverage
companies. Most of the comments addressed the proposals, providing
support for or opposition to them. However, many commenters requested
that TTB consider adding certain additional authorized standards of
fill for distilled spirits and wine that were not included in Notice
No. 210, as either a preferred alternative to generally eliminating the
standards of fill or, even if their preference was to eliminate the
standards of fill, as an option for consideration in the event that the
standards of fill were not eliminated. Several commenters also
suggested TTB eliminate the distinction between standards of fill that
apply to distilled spirits in cans and those that apply to distilled
spirits in containers other than cans, which was also not proposed in
Notice No. 210.
III. Additional Proposals
TTB is still considering the proposed amendments contained in
Notice No. 210 and all comments it received in response. However,
because of the comments that TTB received that requested amendments
beyond the scope of the original proposal and, recognizing that the
requested amendments should be considered in the context of those
already proposed, TTB is now requesting comments on whether to
authorize additional standards of fill for distilled spirits and for
wine and to eliminate the distinction between the standards of fill
authorized for distilled spirits in cans and those for distilled
spirits in containers other than
[[Page 73052]]
cans. TTB has grouped together and summarized the comments below. The
grouping is merely for readability, and TTB may incorporate some, all,
or none of the proposed sizes into the final rule, regardless of the
groupings.
A. Additional Authorized Standards of Fill for Distilled Spirits
TTB received 17 comments requesting the approval of additional
authorized standards of fill for distilled spirits, either as an
alternative to TTB generally eliminating all standards of fill for
distilled spirits or in the event that TTB did not eliminate standards
of fill for distilled spirits.
Commenters requested that TTB authorize the following: For both
cans and containers other than cans 3.75, 3, 2, and 1.5 liters and 500,
350, 250, and 187 milliliters; for cans, 945, 710, 700, 570, 475, and
331 milliliters; and for containers other than cans, 355 milliliters.
Some commenters requested approval of additional standards of fill
above 3.785 liters, and TTB is not raising those requests for
additional comment, as such standards would exceed sizes allowed by
law. As noted above, the FAA Act at 27 U.S.C. 206 generally prohibits
the sale to consumers of distilled spirits in containers over one wine
gallon. One commenter also requested approval of a size below 50
milliliters, which we are also not specifically raising for additional
comment at this time. The agency has previously opined that a minimum
size of 50 milliliters is needed to ensure sufficient space on the
container for required labeling,\2\ and TTB explained in the Spring
2024 Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions that
it intends to continue its rulemaking work to obtain comment on
additional required labeling on alcohol beverages, for disclosures of
major food allergens, nutritional and alcohol content, and ingredients.
TTB believes any further consideration of new minimum sizes should
occur after the conclusion of rulemaking that may affect the amount or
type of required information that must appear on labels.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\2\ See T.D. TTB-165, Addition of New Standards of Fill for Wine
and Distilled Spirits; Amendment of Distilled Spirits and Malt
Beverage Net Contents Labeling Regulations, published on December
29, 2020, at 85 FR 85514.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Both Cans and Containers Other Than Cans--3.75, 3, 2, and 1.5 Liters
and 500, 350, 250, and 187 Milliliters
3.75 and 3 Liters
TTB received two comments, from the Distilled Spirits Council of
the United States (DISCUS) and Milestone Brands, requesting
authorization of a size ``such as a 3 L or 3.75 L standard or the
maximum size prescribed by law'' saying that it would enable producers
to provide kegged cocktails and other consumer-desired formats to
showcase their products and meet consumer demand.
2 Liters
TTB received one comment, from the EU, suggesting that a size of 2
liters should be added, along with other authorized sizes (listed
separately) that reflect the EU standards for spirit drinks.
1.5 Liters
TTB received two comments, from the EU and DISCUS, requesting
authorization of a 1.5-liter size. DISCUS stated it would allow
industry members to further streamline and harmonize sizes for certain
products across different global markets and increase operational
efficiencies, such as waste reduction from producing multiple SKU sizes
for different markets. The EU suggested adding a size of 1.5 liters to
align with EU standards which also provide for that size.
500 Milliliters
Six commenters requested that TTB authorize a 500-milliliter
standard of fill. DISCUS and Milestone Brands noted that this size
would fill a ``large gap ``between the 375 and 700 milliliter
authorized sizes, and Milestone Brands stated that its approval would
provide size parity with wine and malt beverage-based ready-to-drink
(RTD) products. DISCUS added that the 500-milliliter size would allow
industry members to further streamline and harmonize sizes for certain
products and increase operational efficiencies, such as waste reduction
from producing multiple SKU sizes for different markets. One commenter,
Soley Beverage, noted in support of authorizing a 500-milliliter
standard of fill for distilled spirits that the wine standards of fill
provide an authorized size of 500 milliliters. The EU also noted in
support of this size that the EU standards for spirit drinks include
the 500-milliliter size.
350 Milliliters
Two commenters, the EU and DISCUS, suggested that TTB consider
authorizing a 350-milliliter standard of fill. DISCUS suggested that
TTB consider common sizes in markets around the world, such as 350
milliliters, to allow industry members to streamline and harmonize
sizes for certain products and increase operational efficiencies, such
as waste reduction from producing multiple SKU sizes for different
markets. The EU suggested that the 350-milliliter size should be added,
noting that it is authorized as an EU standard for spirit drinks.
250 and 187 Milliliters
TTB received comments--from the Glass Packaging Institute, O-I
Glass, The Can Van, and an individual--requesting that TTB authorize a
standard of fill of 250 milliliters for distilled spirits, the latter
two referencing 250-milliliter cans. The commenters stated that the
250-milliliter can is one of the more popular can sizes for RTD spirit
beverages, and not having it authorized limits experimentation with new
brands. The Glass Packaging Institute and O-I Glass also supported
authorizing a 187-milliliter size for containers other than cans.
According to the commenters, the shift to smaller packaging formats
continues to grow, so authorizing the 187-milliliter size and the 250-
milliliter size would provide additional options for distillers and
consumers within the market for smaller packaging sizes, reflect
packaging options available to other beverage categories, and increase
competition.
2. Cans--945, 710, 700, 570, 475, and 331 Milliliters
945, 710, 475, and 331 Milliliters
DISCUS requested that TTB authorize sizes equivalent to 945, 710,
475, and 331 milliliters (equivalent to 32, 24, 16, and 11.2 ounces
respectively) for cans, saying that large and small producers of RTD
distilled spirits products, many of which are sold in cans, could
benefit from greater competitive market access in this space by being
able to provide their products in these sizes that consumers want and
that are allowed for other products.
700 Milliliters
TTB received one comment, from Suave Spirits Inc., requesting
authorization of a 700-milliliter size for distilled spirits, saying it
would help industry members establish uniformity in packaging sizes
with European and worldwide customers that demand 700-milliliter sizes,
and further reduce the number of SKUs to manage. Because 700
milliliters is already authorized for distilled spirits containers
other than cans, we are considering this comment as a request for
approval of that standard of fill for cans.
570 and 475 Milliliters
TTB received one comment, from WISEACRE Brewing Co. (Wiseacre),
requesting that TTB authorize 570 and 475 milliliters (19.2 and 16
ounces
[[Page 73053]]
respectively) for distilled spirits in cans. Wiseacre stated that the
consumption of RTD spirits cocktails is growing, and most of the growth
in the industry for RTD spirits cocktails is with 16-ounce and
sometimes 19.2-ounce cans. The commenter suggested that most canning
lines use a 12 ounce can diameter, and the 19.2-ounce size is the
largest volume a can is safely able to hold using the 12 ounce can
diameter.
Wiseacre also stated that ``the rules only allow use of 12 oz and
24 oz cans.'' TTB notes that the regulations at 27 CFR 5.203 do not
currently authorize 24-ounce cans as a distilled spirits standard of
fill; however, they do authorize 355-milliliter cans, which is
equivalent to 12 ounces.
3. Containers Other Than Cans--355 Milliliters
Four commenters urged TTB to approve the 355-milliliter size for
glass bottles (which would require TTB to amend the standards of fill
for containers other than cans). These commenters were Representative
Glenn ``GT'' Thompson, Representative Austin Scott, the Glass Packaging
Institute, and O-I Glass. The commenters generally noted that the 355-
milliliter size is currently approved for distilled spirits, but only
for cans. Commenters expressed their views that this limitation
restricts competition and customer choice in a growing market. One
commenter stated that, given the ongoing shortage of 355-milliliter
cans, having a 355-milliliter size for glass bottles would provide
greater packaging flexibility to allow companies to react to supply
issues while it would also support innovative packaging (including for
environmental purposes). They further urged that other beverage
categories have introduced new package formats and sizes, particularly
in the non-alcoholic beverage market, and the shift to smaller
packaging formats continues to grow. Two commenters expressed concern
that glass bottle manufacturers are being harmed by their inability to
use a 355-milliliter size, as they are unable to compete on a level
playing field with other container manufacturers.
B. Harmonization of Authorized Standards of Fill Across Distilled
Spirit Container Types
Three commenters representing glass manufacturers (Representative
Austin Scott, Representative Glen ``GT'' Thompson, and O-I Glass)
stated that removing the distinction between cans and other containers
would result in greater competition, consumer choice, and a consistency
of regulation, without adding to consumer confusion.
The distinction between distilled spirits in cans and distilled
spirits in containers other than cans resulted from rulemaking in the
early 1990s. On September 27, 1991, TTB's predecessor, the Bureau of
Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), proposed differentiating between
cans and containers other than cans in ATF Notice No. 725 published in
the Federal Register at 56 FR 49152). There, ATF explained its view at
that time that approving both 375 and 355 milliliter containers for
distilled spirits would be misleading for consumers because of how
close together the sizes were. However, ATF also recognized that
because 355 milliliters was not an approved size, it prevented
utilization of one of the most common can sizes. ATF proposed to create
mutually exclusive categories of distilled spirits containers, cans and
containers other than cans, with separate standards of fill authorized
for each, ``. . .based on the belief that cans are sufficiently
distinct from other types of [distilled spirits containers], in both
shape and design, so that a different standard of fill would not be
confusing to the consumer.'' This proposal was adopted in the final
rule published in the Federal Register on July 14, 1992, at 57 FR
31126.
TTB is soliciting comments on whether it should maintain a
distinction between cans and containers other than cans. In particular,
TTB is interested in comments on whether the distinction serves a
purpose consistent with the conclusions drawn in the 1991 rulemaking,
that is, that, in some instances, the size in combination with the type
of container (can versus containers other than can) serves the purpose
of preventing consumer deception, and the distinction is needed to
prevent consumer deception regarding the product or quantity of the
product in the container, consistent with TTB's mandate under the FAA
Act described above in the Authority section.
C. Additional Authorized Standards of Fill for Wine
TTB received several comments requesting the approval of six
standards of fill for wine that were not proposed in Notice No. 210,
including 600, 545.5, and 473 milliliter sizes. These standards of fill
are discussed below.\3\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\3\ If any of these sizes are added, conforming edits would be
made to the tax tolerances in 27 CFR 24.255(b) in line with the
proposals made for other the wine sizes in Notice No. 210, as
follows: 2 percent for 600 milliliters, 2 percent for 545.5
milliliters; and 2.5 percent for 473 milliliters. For greater
readability, TTB proposed in Notice No. 210 to provide the tax
tolerances in ranges of sizes as opposed to discrete sizes, so these
would appear in the regulations within those ranges, for example, 2
percent for 600 milliliters would appear within the range proposed
in Notice No. 210 as ``2.0 percent for 750 mL to 550 mL.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
One commenter also asked for the approval of wine in 1/6-barrel,
50-liters, and 1/2-barrel sizes. Regarding these sizes, TTB notes that
the TTB regulations do not define a specific volume for a ``barrel'' of
wine and that wine containers exceeding 18 liters need not conform to
the standards of fill. See 27 CFR 4.70(b)(2). Moreover, the regulations
at 27 CFR 4.72(b) provide that wine may be packaged in containers of 4
liters or more if the containers are filled in quantities of even (or
whole) liters (for example 4, 5, or 6 liters).
600 Milliliters
TTB received a comment from an individual winemaker noting that
some wines produced in foreign countries are required to be exported in
600 [milliliter] containers and that ``. . .consumers are missing out
on exploring [these] wines. . .''
545 and 473 Milliliters
The American Cider Association (ACA) requested approval of 545 and
473 milliliter sizes (equivalent to 19.2 and 16 ounces respectively),
noting that both are already commonly used for similar products that
are not required to conform to TTB standards of fill. These include
ciders under 7 percent alcohol by volume and apple-flavored malt
beverages sold in cans. The ACA also noted that these additional sizes
would increase packaging options for industry members faced with
container sourcing challenges. The ACA also points to aspects of cider
making that lead to levels of alcohol by volume very near to thresholds
for determining compliance with the standards of fill (that is, very
near the threshold of 7 percent alcohol by volume). That complication
can affect planned packaging as a producer may not know whether their
product will be under the 7 percent alcohol by volume threshold until
it is ready to be bottled.
Public Participation
Comments Invited
TTB invites comments from interested members of the public on the
additional distilled spirits and wine standards of fill and the removal
of the distinction between standards of fill for distilled spirits in
cans and those in containers other than cans, as submitted through
comments on Notice No. 210 and described in this document. TTB also
[[Page 73054]]
welcomes comments on any other aspect of the proposals under
consideration, including all amendments proposed in Notice No. 210. TTB
would be particularly interested in any comments from consumers or
others providing evidence of relevant consumer understanding in order
to consider the extent of potential consumer deception with respect to
distilled spirits and wine products and the quantities of the products,
as contemplated by the statutory bases for the standards of fill.
Please provide any specific information in support of your comments.
Please note that those who previously submitted comments to Notice
No. 210 do not need to resubmit those comments for consideration. TTB
is still considering all comments received in response to Notice No.
210, not only those summarized in this document, and will address all
comments in any subsequent final rule.
Submitting Comments
You may submit comments on this proposal as an individual or on
behalf of a business or other organization via the Regulations.gov
website or via postal mail, as described in the ADDRESSES section of
this document. Your comment must reference Notice No. 210A and must be
submitted or postmarked by the closing date shown in the DATES section
of this document. You may upload or include attachments with your
comment. You also may submit a comment requesting a public hearing on
this proposal. The TTB Administrator reserves the right to determine
whether to hold a public hearing. If TTB schedules a public hearing, it
will publish a notice of the date, time, and place for the hearing in
the Federal Register.
Confidentiality and Disclosure of Comments
All submitted comments and attachments are part of the rulemaking
record and are subject to public disclosure. Do not enclose any
material in your comments that you consider confidential or that is
inappropriate for disclosure.
TTB will post, and you may view, copies of this document, the
original notice of proposed rulemaking, supporting materials, and any
comments TTB receives about this proposal within the related
Regulations.gov docket, TTB-2022-0004. In general, TTB will post
comments as submitted, and it will not redact any identifying or
contact information from the body of a comment or attachment.
Please contact TTB's Regulations and Rulings Division by email
using the web form available at https://www.ttb.gov/contact-rrd, or by
telephone at 202-453-2265, if you have any questions regarding how to
comment on this proposal or to request copies of this document, its
supporting materials, or the comments received in response.
Regulatory Analysis and Notices
Regulatory Flexibility Act
TTB certifies that this proposed regulation, if adopted, would not
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small
entities. If adopted, the amendments would provide bottlers and
importers of wine and distilled spirits with additional flexibility to
use new bottle sizes if they so choose. The proposed regulation would
impose no new reporting, recordkeeping, or other administrative
requirement. Therefore, no regulatory flexibility analysis is required.
Paperwork Reduction Act
The collection of information in this proposed rule has been
previously approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under
the title ``Labeling and Advertising Requirements Under the Federal
Alcohol Administration Act,'' and assigned control number 1513-0087.
This proposed regulation would not result in a substantive or material
change in the previously approved collection action, since the nature
of the mandatory information that must appear on labels affixed to the
container remains unchanged.
Executive Order 12866
This proposed rule is not a significant regulatory action as
defined by Executive Order 12866. Therefore, it requires no regulatory
assessment.
Signed: August 29, 2024.
Mary G. Ryan,
Administrator.
Approved: September 3, 2024.
Aviva R. Aron-Dine,
Acting Assistant Secretary (Tax Policy).
[FR Doc. 2024-20237 Filed 9-6-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4810-31-P