Department of Homeland Security January 2017 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Federal Emergency Management Agency Individual Assistance Customer Satisfaction Surveys
Document Number: 2017-01994
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-31
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general public and other Federal agencies to take this opportunity to comment on a new collection of surveys that replaces two unexpired collections. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice seeks comments concerning the collection of Individual Assistance customer satisfaction survey responses and information for assessment and improvement of the delivery of disaster assistance to individuals and households.
Delay of Effective Date for Importations of Certain Vehicles and Engines Subject to Federal Antipollution Emission Standards
Document Number: 2017-01963
Type: Rule
Date: 2017-01-27
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of the Treasury
On December 27, 2016, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) published a Final Rule in the Federal Register announcing amendments to CBP regulations relating to the importation into the United States of certain vehicles and engines under the Clean Air Act (CAA) in order to harmonize the documentation requirements applicable to different classes of vehicles and engines that are subject to the CAA's emission standards. That document further amended the regulations to permit importers to file the required U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Declaration Forms with CBP electronically, and amended non- substantive provisions to update regulatory citations and delete obsolete provisions. The changes announced in that Final Rule were to be effective January 26, 2017. This notice announces that the effective date of the Final Rule is delayed for 60 days from January 20, 2017.
Delay of Effective Date for Toxic Substance Control Act Chemical Substance Import Certification Process Revisions
Document Number: 2017-01962
Type: Rule
Date: 2017-01-27
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of the Treasury
On December 27, 2016, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) published a Final Rule in the Federal Register announcing amendments to CBP regulations regarding the requirement to file a Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) certification when importing into the customs territory of the United States chemicals in bulk form or as part of mixtures and articles containing a chemical or mixture. That document amended the regulations to establish an electronic option for importers to file the required U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) TSCA certifications, to clarify and add certain definitions, and to eliminate the paper-based blanket certification process. The changes announced in that Final Rule were to be effective January 26, 2017. This notice announces that the effective date of the Final Rule is delayed for 60 days from January 20, 2017.
Regulatory Implementation of the Centers of Excellence and Expertise
Document Number: 2017-01580
Type: Rule
Date: 2017-01-27
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
This document provides an additional 60 days for interested parties to submit comments on the interim final rule that amended the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations establishing the Centers of Excellence and Expertise (``Centers'') as a permanent organizational component of the agency and transitioning certain additional trade functions to the Centers. The interim final rule was published in the Federal Register on December 20, 2016, with comments due on or before January 19, 2017. To have as much public participation as possible in the formulation of the final rule, CBP is extending the comment period to March 20, 2017.
Civil Monetary Penalty Adjustments for Inflation
Document Number: 2017-00605
Type: Rule
Date: 2017-01-27
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, Transportation Security Administration
This Final Rule finalizes the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Interim Final Rule that adjusted DHS civil monetary penalties for inflation. The Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015 (2015 Act) was signed into law on November 2, 2015. Using the formula in the 2015 Act and guidance from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), DHS calculated adjusted penalties. On July 1, 2016, DHS published an Interim Final Rule setting forth the adjusted civil penalty amounts, effective for civil penalties assessed after August 1, 2016 whose associated violations occurred after November 2, 2015. Pursuant to the 2015 Act, all agencies must adjust civil monetary penalties annually and publish the adjustment in the Federal Register. Accordingly, this Final Rule adjusts DHS's civil monetary penalties pursuant to the 2015 Act and OMB guidance. The new penalties will be effective for penalties assessed after January 27, 2017 whose associated violations occurred after November 2, 2015. DHS also announces that it will make its required annual adjustment of civil monetary penalties in future years by publication of a Final Rule notwithstanding the notice and comment provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act.
Eliminating Exception to Expedited Removal Authority for Cuban Nationals Arriving by Air
Document Number: 2017-01665
Type: Rule
Date: 2017-01-25
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, Office of the Secretary
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a rule in the Federal Register of January 17, 2017, eliminating an exception to expedited removal authority for Cuban nationals arriving by air. The rule contained incorrect contact information under two captions. This correction fixes the errors.
Eliminating Exception to Expedited Removal Authority for Cuban Nationals Encountered in the United States or Arriving by Sea
Document Number: 2017-01664
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-25
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, Office of the Secretary
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a notice in the Federal Register of January 17, 2017, eliminating an exception to expedited removal authority for Cuban nationals encountered in the United States or arriving by sea. The notice contained incorrect contact information under two captions. This correction fixes the errors.
Drawbridge Operation Regulation; Tombigbee River, Naheola, AL
Document Number: 2017-01420
Type: Rule
Date: 2017-01-25
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard has issued a temporary deviation from the operating schedule that governs the Meridian & Bigbee Railroad (MNBR) vertical lift bridge across the Tombigbee River, mile 128.6 (Black Warrior Tombigbee Waterway mile 173.6) at Naheola, between Choctaw and Marengo Counties, Alabama. The deviation is necessary to conduct maintenance essential for the continued safe operation of the bridge. This deviation allows the bridge to remain in the closed-to-navigation position for certain daytime hours for two (2) three day periods between Friday, January 20, 2017, and Sunday, January 29, 2017.
Special Local Regulation; Southern California Annual Marine Events for the San Diego Captain of the Port Zone-Hanohano Ocean Challenge
Document Number: 2017-00903
Type: Rule
Date: 2017-01-25
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard will enforce the Hanohano Ocean Challenge special local regulations on the waters of Mission Bay, California on January 28, 2017. These special local regulations are necessary to provide for the safety of the participants, crew, spectators, sponsor vessels, and general users of the waterway. During the enforcement period, persons and vessels are prohibited from anchoring, blocking, loitering, or impeding within this regulated area unless authorized by the Captain of the Port, or his designated representative.
Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations
Document Number: 2017-01375
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-23
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
Comments are requested on proposed flood hazard determinations, which may include additions or modifications of any Base Flood Elevation (BFE), base flood depth, Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) boundary or zone designation, or regulatory floodway on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), and where applicable, in the supporting Flood Insurance Study (FIS) reports for the communities listed in the table below. The purpose of this notice is to seek general information and comment regarding the preliminary FIRM, and where applicable, the FIS report that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has provided to the affected communities. The FIRM and FIS report are the basis of the floodplain management measures that the community is required either to adopt or to show evidence of having in effect in order to qualify or remain qualified for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). In addition, the FIRM and FIS report, once effective, will be used by insurance agents and others to calculate appropriate flood insurance premium rates for new buildings and the contents of those buildings.
Final Flood Hazard Determinations
Document Number: 2017-01374
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-23
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
Flood hazard determinations, which may include additions or modifications of Base Flood Elevations (BFEs), base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) boundaries or zone designations, or regulatory floodways on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and where applicable, in the supporting Flood Insurance Study (FIS) reports have been made final for the communities listed in the table below. The FIRM and FIS report are the basis of the floodplain management measures that a community is required either to adopt or to show evidence of having in effect in order to qualify or remain qualified for participation in the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA's) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). In addition, the FIRM and FIS report are used by insurance agents and others to calculate appropriate flood insurance premium rates for buildings and the contents of those buildings.
Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations
Document Number: 2017-01373
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-23
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
Comments are requested on proposed flood hazard determinations, which may include additions or modifications of any Base Flood Elevation (BFE), base flood depth, Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) boundary or zone designation, or regulatory floodway on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), and where applicable, in the supporting Flood Insurance Study (FIS) reports for the communities listed in the table below. The purpose of this notice is to seek general information and comment regarding the preliminary FIRM, and where applicable, the FIS report that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has provided to the affected communities. The FIRM and FIS report are the basis of the floodplain management measures that the community is required either to adopt or to show evidence of having in effect in order to qualify or remain qualified for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). In addition, the FIRM and FIS report, once effective, will be used by insurance agents and others to calculate appropriate flood insurance premium rates for new buildings and the contents of those buildings.
Final Flood Hazard Determinations
Document Number: 2017-01372
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-23
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
Flood hazard determinations, which may include additions or modifications of Base Flood Elevations (BFEs), base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) boundaries or zone designations, or regulatory floodways on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and where applicable, in the supporting Flood Insurance Study (FIS) reports have been made final for the communities listed in the table below. The FIRM and FIS report are the basis of the floodplain management measures that a community is required either to adopt or to show evidence of having in effect in order to qualify or remain qualified for participation in the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA's) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). In addition, the FIRM and FIS report are used by insurance agents and others to calculate appropriate flood insurance premium rates for buildings and the contents of those buildings.
Towing Safety Advisory Committee; Vacancies
Document Number: 2017-01324
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-23
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard seeks applications for membership on the Towing Safety Advisory Committee. This Committee advises the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security on matters relating to shallow draft inland and coastal waterway navigation and towing safety.
Marine Casualty Reporting Property Damage Thresholds
Document Number: 2017-01323
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2017-01-23
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard proposes to amend the monetary property damage threshold amounts for reporting a marine casualty, and for reporting a type of marine casualty called a ``serious marine incident'' (SMI). The initial regulations setting these dollar threshold amounts were promulgated in the early1980s and they have not been updated. Because the monetary thresholds for reporting have not kept pace with inflation, relatively minor casualties must be reported. Additionally, the regulations require mandatory drug and alcohol testing following an SMI; consequently, testing is being conducted for casualties that are less significant than those intended to be captured by the original regulations. Updating the regulations will reduce the burden on vessel owners and operators, and will also reduce the amount of Coast Guard resources expended to investigate these incidents.
Suspension of Community Eligibility
Document Number: 2017-01102
Type: Rule
Date: 2017-01-23
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
This rule identifies communities where the sale of flood insurance has been authorized under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) that are scheduled for suspension on the effective dates listed within this rule because of noncompliance with the floodplain management requirements of the program. If the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) receives documentation that the community has adopted the required floodplain management measures prior to the effective suspension date given in this rule, the suspension will not occur and a notice of this will be provided by publication in the Federal Register on a subsequent date. Also, information identifying the current participation status of a community can be obtained from FEMA's Community Status Book (CSB). The CSB is available at https://www.fema.gov/national-flood- insurance-program-community-status-book.
Agency Information Collection Activities: Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, Form I-730; Extension, Without Change, of a Currently Approved Collection
Document Number: 2017-01051
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-18
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration (USCIS) invites the general public and other Federal agencies to comment upon this proposed extension of a currently approved collection of information. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, the information collection notice is published in the Federal Register to obtain comments regarding the nature of the information collection, the categories of respondents, the estimated burden (i.e. the time, effort, and resources used by the respondents to respond), the estimated cost to the respondent, and the actual information collection instruments. DATES: Comments are encouraged and will be accepted for 60 days until March 20, 2017.
Safety Zones; San Francisco, CA
Document Number: 2017-01050
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2017-01-18
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard proposes to amend, add, and delete several permanent safety zones located in the Captain of the Port San Francisco zone that are established to protect public safety during annual firework displays. These amendments will update listed events to accurately reflect the firework display locations. This proposed rulemaking would limit the movement of vessels within the established firework display areas unless authorized by the Captain of the Port (COTP) San Francisco or a designated representative. We invite your comments on this proposed rulemaking.
Special Local Regulation; Pago Pago Harbor, American Samoa
Document Number: 2017-00861
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2017-01-18
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard proposes to establish a permanent special local regulation for the Annual Fautasi Ocean Challenge canoe race in Pago Pago Harbor, American Samoa. This annual event historically occurs during the weeks of Veteran's Day and Thanksgiving Day. This action is necessary to safeguard the participants and spectators, including all crews, vessels, and persons on the water in Pago Pago Harbor during the event. This regulation will functionally close the port to vessel traffic during the race, but will not require the evacuation of any vessels from the harbor. Entry into, transiting, or anchoring in the harbor would be prohibited to all vessels not registered with the sponsor as participants or not part of the race patrol, unless specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port (COTP) Honolulu or a designated representative. Vessels who are already moored or anchored in the harbor seeking permission to remain there shall request permission from the COTP unless deemed a spectator vessel that is moored to a waterfront facility within the regulated area. The area forming the subject of this permanent special local regulation is described below. We invite your comments on this notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
Eliminating Exception to Expedited Removal Authority for Cuban Nationals Arriving by Air
Document Number: 2017-00915
Type: Rule
Date: 2017-01-17
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, Office of the Secretary
This final rule revises Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations to eliminate the categorical exception from expedited removal proceedings for Cuban nationals who arrive in the United States at a port of entry by aircraft. As a result of these changes, Cuban nationals who arrive in the United States at a port of entry by aircraft will be subject to expedited removal proceedings commensurate with nationals of other countries.
Eliminating Exception To Expedited Removal Authority for Cuban Nationals Encountered in the United States or Arriving by Sea
Document Number: 2017-00914
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-17
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, Office of the Secretary
This notice concerns the authority of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS or the Department) to place certain designated categories of aliens in expedited removal proceedings. On November 13, 2002, the former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) of the Department of Justice issued a notice designating certain aliens who arrive by sea, either by boat or other means, as eligible for placement in expedited removal proceedings, with an exception for Cuban citizens or nationals (hereinafter ``Cuban nationals''). On August 11, 2004, DHS issued a notice designating certain aliens in the United States as eligible for placement in expedited removal proceedings, also with an exception for Cuban nationals. In light of recent changes in the relationship between the United States and Cuba, the Department has determined that the exceptions for Cuban nationals, contained in the designations of November 13, 2002 and August 11, 2004, are no longer warranted and are thus hereby eliminated. The rest of the November 13, 2002 and August 11, 2004 designations, including any implementing policies, are unaffected by this notice and remain unchanged.
Delay of Effective Date for the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Becoming the Sole CBP-Authorized Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) System for Processing Electronic Drawback and Duty Deferral Entry and Entry Summary Filings
Document Number: 2017-00852
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-17
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
On August 30, 2016, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) published a notice in the Federal Register announcing plans to make the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) the sole electronic data interchange (EDI) system authorized by the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for processing electronic drawback and duty deferral entry and entry summary filings. The changes announced in that notice were to have been effective on October 1, 2016. On October 3, 2016, CBP published a notice in the Federal Register announcing that the effective date for the transition to ACE as the sole CBP-authorized EDI system for electronic drawback and duty deferral entry and entry summary filings would be delayed until further notice. On December 12, 2016, CBP published a notice in the Federal Register announcing that the effective date for the transition would be January 14, 2017. This notice announces that the effective date for the transition has been delayed until further notice.
Delayed Effective Date for Modifications of the National Customs Automation Program Tests Regarding Reconciliation, Post-Summary Corrections, and Periodic Monthly Statements
Document Number: 2017-00837
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-17
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
This notice announces that the effective date for the modifications to the National Customs Automation Program (NCAP) tests regarding Reconciliation, Post-Summary Corrections, and Periodic Monthly Statements is delayed until further notice. On December 12, 2016, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) published a notice in the Federal Register announcing modifications to the National Customs Automation Program (NCAP) test regarding reconciliation, and the transition of the test from the Automated Commercial System (ACS) to the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE). The modifications made by this notice were to be effective on January 14, 2017. On December 12, 2016, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) published in the Federal Register a document announcing CBP's plans to modify and clarify the National Customs Automation Program (NCAP) test regarding Post-Summary Correction (PSC) claims to entry summaries that are filed in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), as well as the Periodic Monthly Statement (PMS) test. The notice liberalized and eliminated some requirements needed for the filing of PSCs; however, it also placed burdens on the importer in the form of a restriction and a prohibition. Subsequently, CBP published a notice in the Federal Register on January 9, 2017, to remove the restriction imposed on all PSC filings to make payments within three business days of submitting the PSC, with the exception of entry type 03 filings, and to remove the prohibition of filing additional PSCs until additional duties, fees and taxes are deposited. The changes to the PSC and PMS tests were to have been effective January 14, 2017. This notice announces that the effective date for the modifications to these NCAP tests has been delayed until further notice.
National Infrastructure Advisory Council
Document Number: 2017-00789
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-17
Agency: Department of Homeland Security
The National Infrastructure Advisory Council (NIAC) will meet Thursday, February 16, 2017, at 1331 F Street NW., Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20004. This meeting will be open to the public.
Donations of Technology and Support Services To Enforce Intellectual Property Rights
Document Number: 2017-00653
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2017-01-17
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of the Treasury
This document proposes amendments to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations pertaining to the enforcement of intellectual property rights. Specifically, CBP is proposing amendments to implement a section of the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 which requires CBP to prescribe regulatory procedures for the donation of technologies, training, or other support services for the purpose of assisting CBP in intellectual property enforcement. The proposed regulations would enhance CBP's intellectual property rights enforcement capabilities.
International Entrepreneur Rule
Document Number: 2017-00481
Type: Rule
Date: 2017-01-17
Agency: Department of Homeland Security
This final rule amends Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations to implement the Secretary of Homeland Security's discretionary parole authority in order to increase and enhance entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation in the United States. The final rule adds new regulatory provisions guiding the use of parole on a case-by-case basis with respect to entrepreneurs of start-up entities who can demonstrate through evidence of substantial and demonstrated potential for rapid business growth and job creation that they would provide a significant public benefit to the United States. Such potential would be indicated by, among other things, the receipt of significant capital investment from U.S. investors with established records of successful investments, or obtaining significant awards or grants from certain Federal, State or local government entities. If granted, parole would provide a temporary initial stay of up to 30 months (which may be extended by up to an additional 30 months) to facilitate the applicant's ability to oversee and grow his or her start-up entity in the United States.
Security Zones; Annual Events in the Captain of the Port Detroit Zone-North American International Auto Show, Detroit River, Detroit MI
Document Number: 2017-00464
Type: Rule
Date: 2017-01-17
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard will enforce a security zone associated with the North American International Auto Show, Detroit River, Detroit, MI. This security zone is intended to restrict vessels from a portion of the Detroit River in order to ensure the safety and security of participants, visitors, and public officials at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), which is being held at Cobo Hall in downtown Detroit, MI. Vessels in close proximity to the security zone will be subject to increased monitoring and boarding during the enforcement of the security zone. No person or vessel may enter the security zone while it is being enforced without permission of the Captain of the Port Detroit.
Extension of the Designation of Somalia for Temporary Protected Status
Document Number: 2016-31861
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-17
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announces that the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) is extending the designation of Somalia for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for a period of 18 months, effective March 18, 2017 through September 17, 2018. This extension allows eligible Somali nationals (and aliens having no nationality who last habitually resided in Somalia) to retain TPS through September 17, 2018, so long as they otherwise continue to meet the eligibility requirements for TPS. The Secretary has determined that an extension is warranted because conditions in Somalia supporting its designation for TPS continue to be met. Through this Notice, DHS also sets forth procedures necessary for nationals of Somalia (or aliens having no nationality who last habitually resided in Somalia) to re- register for TPS and to apply for renewal of their Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Safety zone; Tennessee River, Mile 446.0 to 454.5
Document Number: 2017-00696
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2017-01-13
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard proposes to establish a safety zone for all waters of the Tennessee River, beginning at mile marker 446.0 and ending at mile marker 454.5 during periods of high water flow. High water flow is determined by flow rates that have reached or exceeded 100,000 cubic feet per second at Chickamauga lock and dam on the Tennessee River at mile marker 471.0. This proposed safety zone is necessary to provide safety for mariners transiting on the Tennessee River during periods of high water flow. Entry into this area will be prohibited unless specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port Ohio Valley or designated representative. We invite your comments on this proposed rulemaking.
Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request; National Flood Insurance Program Claims Forms
Document Number: 2017-00673
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-13
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
The Federal Emergency Management Agency, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general public and other Federal agencies to take this opportunity to comment on a revision of a currently approved information collection. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice seeks comments concerning the collection of information related to the flood insurance claims process.
Chemical Transportation Advisory Committee
Document Number: 2017-00648
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-13
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Chemical Transportation Advisory Committee will meet on February 28, March 1, and March 2, 2017, in Houston, TX to discuss committee matters relating to the safe and secure marine transportation of hazardous materials. These meeting will be open to the public.
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program Modernization
Document Number: 2017-00447
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2017-01-13
Agency: Department of Homeland Security
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposes to amend its regulations governing the employment-based, fifth preference (EB-5) immigrant investor classification and associated regional centers to reflect statutory changes and modernize the EB-5 program. In general, under the EB-5 program, individuals are eligible to apply for lawful permanent residence in the United States if they make the necessary investment in a commercial enterprise in the United States and create or, in certain circumstances, preserve 10 permanent full-time jobs for qualified U.S. workers. This proposed rule would change the EB-5 program regulations to reflect statutory changes and codify existing policies. It would also change certain aspects of the EB-5 program in need of reform.
Establishing a Deductible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program
Document Number: 2017-00467
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2017-01-12
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is considering implementing a Public Assistance deductible that would condition States' receipt of FEMA reimbursement for the repair and replacement of public infrastructure damaged by a disaster event. The primary intent of the deductible concept is to incentivize greater State resilience to future disasters, thereby reducing future disaster costs nationally. On January 20, 2016, FEMA (the Agency) published an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) seeking comment on a Public Assistance deductible concept. The ANPRM provided a general description of the concept that many commenters found insufficient to provide meaningful comment. In an effort to offer the public a more detailed deductible concept upon which to provide additional feedback, the Agency is issuing a supplemental ANPRM (SANPRM) that presents a conceptual deductible program, including a methodology for calculating deductible amounts based on a combination of each State's fiscal capacity and disaster risk, a proposed credit structure to reward States for undertaking resilience-building activities, and a description of how FEMA could consider implementing the program. At this stage of the rulemaking process, the deductible remains only something that FEMA is considering. The policy conceived of in this document is not a proposal. In this document, FEMA is providing what is merely a description of a direction FEMA could take in future rulemaking in an effort to solicit further feedback from the public. After considering the comments it receives, or as a result of other factors, FEMA may expand on or redevelop this concept.
Security Zone; Potomac River and Anacostia River, and Adjacent Waters; Washington, DC
Document Number: 2017-00251
Type: Rule
Date: 2017-01-12
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard will enforce a security zone along the Potomac River and Anacostia River, and adjacent waters at Washington, DC, for activities associated with the 58th Presidential Inauguration. The zone will be enforced on the days leading up to and through the cessation of activities associated with the 58th Presidential Inauguration taking place on January 20, 2017. This action is necessary to protect government officials, mitigate potential terrorist acts and incidents, and enhance public and maritime safety and security immediately before, during, and after these activities. During the enforcement period, entry into or remaining within the zone is prohibited unless authorized by the Captain of the Port or his designated representative.
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Regional Center Program
Document Number: 2017-00441
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2017-01-11
Agency: Department of Homeland Security
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is considering making regulatory changes to the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Regional Center Program. Based on decades of experience operating the program, DHS has determined that program changes are needed to better reflect business realities for regional centers and EB-5 immigrant investors, to increase predictability and transparency in the adjudication process for stakeholders, to improve operational efficiency for the agency, and to enhance program integrity. This Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) is organized to include requests for comment immediately following discussions of the relevant issues.
Update to Alternative Planning Criteria (APC) National Guidelines
Document Number: 2017-00319
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-10
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard is reopening the comment period on the draft Alternative Planning Criteria (APC) National Guidelines. The available draft is the same as that which was made available for comment in May 2016. The APC Guidelines would provide the maritime industry with updated information on the development and submission of an APC request made pursuant to existing regulations. In addition to providing guidance to vessel owners and operators on developing APC requests, the APC Guidelines would also facilitate consistency in the review of APC requests by Coast Guard personnel. Comments previously submitted do not need to be submitted again.
Tribal Declarations Pilot Guidance
Document Number: 2017-00315
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-10
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
This document provides notice of the availability of the final policy Tribal Declarations Pilot Guidance. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) published a notice of availability and request for comment for the proposed policy on January 8, 2016 at 81 FR 943.
Agency Information Collection Activities: Record of Abandonment of Lawful Permanent Resident Status, Form I-407; Extension, Without Change, of a Currently Approved Collection
Document Number: 2017-00231
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-10
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will be submitting the following information collection request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and clearance in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The information collection notice was previously published in the Federal Register on October 24, 2016, at 81 FR 73128, allowing for a 60-day public comment period. USCIS did not receive any comment in connection with the 60-day notice.
Agency Information Collection Activities: Citizenship and Integration Direct Services Grant Program, Form G-1482; Existing Collection in Use Without an OMB Control Number
Document Number: 2017-00230
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-10
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration (USCIS) invites the general public and other Federal agencies to comment upon this proposed new collection of information. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, the information collection notice is published in the Federal Register to obtain comments regarding the nature of the information collection, the categories of respondents, the estimated burden (i.e. the time, effort, and resources used by the respondents to respond), the estimated cost to the respondent, and the actual information collection instruments.
Special Local Regulation; Mavericks Surf Competition, Half Moon Bay, CA
Document Number: 2017-00175
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2017-01-10
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard proposes to revise a special local regulation in the navigable waters of Half Moon Bay, CA, near Pillar Point in support of the Mavericks Surf Competition, an annual invitational surf competition held at the Mavericks Break. We are proposing this revision to improve the regulation by making it clearer and to have it better reflect the natural conditions that must be met for this surf competition to take place. This regulation is necessary to provide for the safety of life on the navigable waters immediately prior to, during, and immediately after the surfing competition, which is held only one day between November 1 of each year and March 31 of the following year. This proposed revision would temporarily restrict vessel traffic in the vicinity of Pillar Point and prohibit vessels and persons not participating in the surfing event from entering the dedicated surfing area and a designated no-entry area. We invite your comments on this proposed rulemaking.
Anchorage Regulations: Special Anchorage Areas; Marina del Rey Harbor, Marina del Rey, CA
Document Number: 2016-31996
Type: Rule
Date: 2017-01-10
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard is amending the shape and reducing the size of the special anchorage area in Marina del Rey Harbor, Marina del Rey, California. Additionally, the Coast Guard is clarifying the language in the note section of the existing regulation. This action is necessary as it will create sufficient navigable water around the anchorage allowing vessels to traffic the Marina del Rey channel without undue maritime safety concerns.
Revision of Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: Security Threat Assessment for Individuals Applying for a Hazardous Materials Endorsement for a Commercial Driver's License
Document Number: 2017-00155
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-09
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, Transportation Security Administration
This notice announces that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has forwarded the Information Collection Request (ICR), Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number 1652-0027, abstracted below to OMB for review and approval of a revision of the currently approved collection under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA). The ICR describes the nature of the information collection and its expected burden. TSA published a Federal Register notice soliciting comments for a 60-day period on August 16, 2016, 81 FR 54585. The collection involves applicant submission of biometric and biographic information for TSA's security threat assessment required before obtaining the hazardous materials endorsement (HME) on a commercial driver's license (CDL) issued by the States and the District of Columbia.
Modification and Clarification of the National Customs Automation Program Tests Regarding Post-Summary Corrections and Periodic Monthly Statements; Republication With Correction and Further Clarification
Document Number: 2017-00128
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-09
Agency: Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
On December 12, 2016, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) published in the Federal Register a document announcing CBP's plans to modify and clarify the National Customs Automation Program (NCAP) test regarding Post-Summary Correction (PSC) claims to entry summaries that are filed in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), as well as the Periodic Monthly Statement (PMS) test. The notice liberalized and eliminated some requirements needed for the filing of PSCs; however, it also placed burdens on the importer in the form of a restriction and a prohibition. Subsequently, CBP decided to remove the restriction imposed on all PSC filings to make payments within three business days of submitting the PSC, with the exception of entry type 03 filings, and to remove the prohibition of filing additional PSCs until additional duties, fees and taxes are deposited. This document republishes and supersedes the document published on December 12 with these corrections and clarifications. Except to the extent expressly announced or modified by this document, all aspects, rules, terms and conditions announced in notices previous to this notice and the December 12 publication regarding the tests remain in effect.
Special Local Regulation; Manatee River; Bradenton, FL
Document Number: 2017-00109
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2017-01-09
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard proposes to establish a special local regulation for certain waters of the Manatee River during the Bradenton Area River Regatta. This action is necessary to protect the safety of race participants, participant vessels, spectators, and the general public on these navigable waters of the United States during the event. The special local regulation would restrict vessel traffic in the waters of the Manatee River in the vicinity of Bradenton, Florida. It would establish the following three areas: Two spectator areas, where all vessels must be anchored or operate at No Wake Speed; and an enforcement area where designated representatives may control vessel traffic as determined by the prevailing conditions.
Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; FEMA's Grants Reporting Tool (GRT)
Document Number: 2017-00006
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-06
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will submit the information collection abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget for review and clearance in accordance with the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The submission will describe the nature of the information collection, the categories of respondents, the estimated burden (i.e., the time, effort and resources used by respondents to respond) and cost, and the actual data collection instruments FEMA will use.
Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; FEMA Preparedness Grants: Transit Security Grant Program (TSGP)
Document Number: 2016-32055
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-06
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will submit the information collection abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget for review and clearance in accordance with the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The submission will describe the nature of the information collection, the categories of respondents, the estimated burden (i.e., the time, effort and resources used by respondents to respond) and cost, and the actual data collection instruments FEMA will use.
Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; FEMA Preparedness Grants: Port Security Grant Program (PSGP)
Document Number: 2016-32054
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-06
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will submit the information collection abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget for review and clearance in accordance with the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The submission will describe the nature of the information collection, the categories of respondents, the estimated burden (i.e., the time, effort and resources used by respondents to respond) and cost, and the actual data collection instruments FEMA will use.
Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Environmental and Historic Preservation Screening Form
Document Number: 2016-32052
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-06
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will submit the information collection abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget for review and clearance in accordance with the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The submission will describe the nature of the information collection, the categories of respondents, the estimated burden (i.e., the time, effort and resources used by respondents to respond) and cost, and the actual data collection instruments FEMA will use.
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands; Amendment No. 3 to Notice of a Major Disaster Declaration
Document Number: 2016-32051
Type: Notice
Date: 2017-01-06
Agency: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
This notice amends the notice of a major disaster for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (FEMA-4235-DR), dated August 5, 2015, and related determinations.
Safety Zone; Apra Harbor, Guam
Document Number: 2016-31894
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2017-01-04
Agency: Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
The Coast Guard proposes to revise the existing safety zones currently in effect at Naval Wharf Kilo in Apra Outer Harbor, Guam, by adding a 500-yard permanent safety zone, hereinafter referred to as Safety Zone D, to provide a buffer between the explosives regularly handled on Naval Wharf Kilo, and the general public and maritime operators. The addition of Safety Zone D would also reduce the frequency of enforcement of Safety Zones A and B. This action also eliminates from the regulation the requirement to post a sign when Safety Zones A or B are being enforced; during such enforcement periods, notification will occur via a slight modification of the displayed visual indicators already codified in the existing regulation as well as via a broadcast notice to mariners. This rulemaking will better meet the needs of the community and reduce the frequency that restrictions must be imposed through the addition of a less restrictive permanent safety zone, thereby enhancing the safe and efficient use of Apra Outer Harbor Channel in the vicinity of Naval Wharf Kilo. We invite your comments on this proposed rulemaking.
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