Federal Register proposed rules — 1995-11-14

issue-1995-11-14Federal Register proposed rules — 1995-11-14Proposed Regulation

Published Federal Register documents, not public-inspection drafts. The GPO XML/text rendition is a research aid; the linked complete official PDF retains the printed layout and all graphics. Graphics are retained in that PDF and are not independently reproduced in this text rendition. Publication does not establish that every provision remains legally in force.

FR Doc. 95-28065 Clean Air Act Proposed Full Approval of Operating Permits Program: the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico
[Federal Register Volume 60, Number 219 (Tuesday, November 14, 1995)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 57204-57207]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-28065]

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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 70

[PROO1; FRL-5331-1]

Clean Air Act Proposed Full Approval of Operating Permits 
Program: the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Proposed full approval.

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SUMMARY: The EPA proposes full approval of the operating permits 
program submitted by the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico for the purpose of 
complying with Federal requirements for an approvable state program to 
issue operating permits to all major stationary sources and to certain 
other sources.

DATES: Comments on this proposed action must be received in writing by 
December 14, 1995.

ADDRESSES: Written comments should be addressed to Steven C. Riva, 
Chief, Permitting and Toxics Support Section, at the New York Region II 
Office listed below. Copies of the State's submittal and other 
supporting information used in developing the proposed full approval as 
well as the Technical Support Document are available for inspection 
during normal business hours at the following locations:
    EPA Region II, 290 Broadway, 21st Floor, New York, New York 10007-
1866, Attention: Steven C. Riva.
    EPA Region II, Caribbean Field Office, Centro Europa Building, 
Suite 417, 1492 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Stop 22, San Juan, Puerto Rico 
00907-4127, Attention: Jose Ivan Guzman.
    Puerto Rico Environmental Quality Board, Air Programs Area, 
Eurobank Building, 431 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Hato Rey, PR 00910, 
Attention: Francisco Claudio.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Christine Fazio, Permitting and Toxics 
Support Section, at the above EPA office in New York or at telephone 
number (212) 637-4015. Jose Ivan Guzman of the Caribbean Field Office 
can be reached at (809) 729-6951, extention 223.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Background and Purpose

    As required under title V of the Clean Air Act (``the Act'') as 
amended (1990), EPA has promulgated rules which define the minimum 
elements of an approvable State operating permits program and the 
corresponding standards and procedures by which the EPA will approve, 
oversee, and withdraw approval of State operating permits programs (see 
57 FR 32250 (July 21, 1992)). These rules are codified at 40 Code of 
Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 70. Title V requires States to develop, 
and submit to EPA, programs for issuing these operating permits to all 
major stationary sources and to certain other sources.
    The Act requires that States develop and submit these programs to 
EPA by November 15, 1993, and that EPA act to approve or disapprove 
each program within 1 year after receiving the submittal. The EPA's 
program review occurs pursuant to section 502 of the Act and the part 
70 regulations, which together outline criteria for approval or 
disapproval. Where a program substantially, but not fully, meets the 
requirements of part 70, EPA may grant the program interim approval for 
a period of up to 2 years. If EPA has not fully approved a program by 2 
years after the November 15, 1993 date, or by the end of an interim 
program, it must establish and implement a Federal program.

II. Proposed Action and Implications

A. Analysis of State Submission

1. Support Materials
    The Chairman of the Environmental Quality Board (EQB) submitted a 
part 70 permitting program for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico with a 
letter requesting EPA's approval on November 15, 1993 and a 
supplemental package on March 22, 1994. The program contains a 
description of how the EQB intends to implement the program consistent 
with the requirements of the Act and 40 CFR part 70. The program 
includes supporting documentation such as evidence of the procedurally 
correct adoption of the permitting rule, permit application forms, and 
a sample permit form. On April 11, 1994 the Attorney General of Puerto 
Rico submitted a legal opinion stating that EQB has adequate legal 
authority to carry out the program. On September 29, 1995, EQB 
submitted a revised regulation which included minor changes to the 
regulation submitted on March 22, 1994. The EPA intends to develop an 
implementation agreement with Puerto Rico which will define EPA's and 
EQB's responsibilities and commitments for administering the program, 
although this proposed action does not depend on the implementation 
agreement.
2. Regulations and Program Implementation
    Puerto Rico's part 70 permitting regulation is contained in Part I, 
Rule 102; Part II, Rule 206; Part VI, Rules 601 through 610; and 
Appendices A through E of the Regulation For The Control Of Atmospheric 
Pollution (RCAP) dated September 1995. Puerto Rico's regulation meets 
the main requirements of Part 70 as described below:
    a. applicability (40 CFR 70.2 and 70.3): Sources required to obtain 
a permit under Puerto Rico's regulation are defined as ``Title V 
sources'' and 

[[Page 57205]]
include all major part 70 sources. The rule defers non-major sources 
until the Administrator completes a rulemaking to determine how the 
title V program should be structured for non-major sources and the 
appropriateness of any permanent exemptions. The regulation permanently 
exempts any source that would be required to obtain a permit solely 
because it is subject to Standards of Performance for New Residential 
Wood Heaters or the National Emission Standard for Hazardous Air 
Pollutants for Asbestos, Standards for Demolition and Renovation. 
(Rules 102 and 601 of the RCAP)
    b. permit content (40 CFR 70.6): Rule 603 requires that each permit 
contain emission limitations and standards to ensure compliance with 
all applicable requirements. Permits may also contain certain 
operational flexibility requirements such as terms and conditions for 
reasonably anticipated operating scenarios (including worst-case 
operational scenarios) and for the trading of emissions increases and 
decreases (to the extent the applicable requirements provide for such 
trading) in the permitted facility. Such operational flexibility 
provisions are explained more fully in Rules 603 and 607 of the RCAP.
    c. public participation (40 CFR 70.7): The public will be provided 
with notice of, and an opportunity to comment on, draft permits 
relating to initial permit issuance, permit renewals, and significant 
modifications (Rule 609 of the RCAP).
    d. permit modifications (40 CFR 70.7): Sources may apply for 
expedited permit changes for minor permit modifications. Significant 
modifications must undergo all part 70 permit issuance procedures (Rule 
606 of the RCAP).
    e. EPA oversight (40 CFR 70.8): Each permit, renewal, and minor or 
significant modification is subject to EPA oversight and veto (Rule 609 
of the RCAP).
    f. insignificant activities (40 CFR 70.5): The lists of 
insignificant activities can be found at Rule 206 and Appendix B of the 
RCAP (the two lists are different). Insignificant activities which need 
not be described in the permit application include sources on the two 
lists provided no applicable requirements apply to the source and the 
source emits 2 tons per year or less of a criteria pollutant or 5 tons 
per year or less of any combination of criteria pollutants; and 2 tons 
per year or the de minimis rates for hazardous air pollutants listed in 
Appendix E (whichever is lower). For insignificant activities exempted 
because of size or production rate, a list of such insignificant 
activities must be included in the permit application. In addition, any 
unit with allowable emission rates less than certain quantities 
identified in Item P of Appendix B (e.g., from 1 to 2 tpy depending on 
pollutant) can be listed on the permit application as an insignificant 
activity if no applicable requirements apply to the unit.
    g. enforcement authority (40 CFR 70.11): Article 17 of Law No. 9 of 
June 18, 1970 as amended on November 12, 1993 (``Law No. 9'') directly 
provides for enforcement and penalties for civil and criminal 
violations of permits and rules. Penalties will be assessed up to 
$25,000 per day per violation.
    h. complete application forms (40 CFR 70.5): Rule 602 defines what 
elements must be in an application in order for it to be complete. All 
information is included in EQB's permit application.
    i. variance provisions: Part III, Rule 301 of the RCAP contains 
provisions for EQB to approve variances from the strict application of 
substantive requirements of the Puerto Rico regulation, except for NSPS 
and NESHAP requirements. Rule 301 also states that no variance will be 
approved by EQB unless it has been approved by EPA. Under Rule 302, EQB 
may provide for an emergency variance of up to 90 days under very 
special circumstances such as to avoid an imminent health threat. EPA 
regards Rules 301 and 302 as wholly external to the program submitted 
for approval under part 70. The EPA does not recognize the ability of a 
permitting authority to grant relief from the duty to comply with a 
federally enforceable part 70 permit, except where such relief is 
granted through the procedures allowed by part 70. A part 70 permit may 
be issued or revised (consistent with part 70 permitting procedures) to 
incorporate those terms of a variance that are consistent with 
applicable requirements. A part 70 permit may also incorporate, via 
part 70 permit issuance or modification procedures, the schedule of 
compliance set forth in a variance. However, EPA reserves the right to 
pursue enforcement of applicable requirements notwithstanding the 
existence of a compliance schedule in a permit to operate. This is 
consistent with 40 CFR 70.5(c)(8)(iii)(C), which states that a schedule 
of compliance ``shall be supplemental to, and shall not sanction 
noncompliance with, the applicable requirements on which it is based.''
3. Permit Fee Demonstration
    Puerto Rico's workload analysis and fee demonstration shows that 
the state will collect sufficient revenue to implement the Title V 
program. Puerto Rico will collect permit fees beginning at $25 adjusted 
by the Consumer Price Index (base year 1989) per ton of allowable 
emissions of regulated pollutants. However, the state-owned utility 
will be capped at a fee of $1 million per year for its existing 
facilities and the state hospital is exempt from fees. Puerto Rico's 
fee demonstration and regulation (Rule 610 of the RCAP) state that 
Puerto Rico may raise fees if necessary in the future. Furthermore, 
Article 11 of Law No. 9 requires that sufficient fees be collected to 
cover the direct and indirect expenses necessary to develop, administer 
and enforce Puerto Rico's Title V program, including the Small Business 
Technical and Environmental Compliance Assistance Program as required 
by section 507 of the Act. Article 11 of Law No. 9 establishes a 
special account which is independent and separate from any other 
account in Puerto Rico and must be used only for the Air Quality 
Program.
4. Provisions Implementing Section 112 of the Act
    a. authority for Section 112 Implementation: Puerto Rico has 
demonstrated in its title V program submittal adequate legal authority 
to implement and enforce all section 112 requirements through the title 
V permit. This legal authority is contained in Puerto Rico's enabling 
legislation (Article 12 of Law No. 9) and in regulatory provisions 
defining ``applicable requirements'' and stating that the permit must 
incorporate all applicable requirements. EPA has determined that this 
is sufficient to allow Puerto Rico to issue permits that assure 
compliance with all section 112 requirements. The Attorney General's 
legal opinion also certifies that EQB has authority to implement the 
air toxics program and to accept automatic delegation of future 
national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants. Rule 
110(A)(2) of the Regulation for the Control of Atmospheric Pollution 
(RCAP) provides that NESHAPs when promulgated by the EPA Administrator 
will become effective as part of Puerto Rico's rules and regulations. 
Rule 604 of the RCAP provides for the following section 112 
requirements:
    i. case-by-case MACT determinations: In the event that no 
applicable emissions limitations have been established by the 
Administrator, EQB will make case-by-case Maximum Achievable Control 
Technology (MACT) determinations as required under sections 112 (j) and 
(g) of the Act. 

[[Page 57206]]

    ii. early reductions: Rule 604 authorizes EQB to issue permits with 
an alternate emission limit under the Act's section 112(i)(5) early 
reductions program.
    iii. implementation of section 112(r): Rule 604 requires sources 
subject to section 112(r) of the Act to prepare and submit risk 
management plans. A source must submit an annual certification ensuring 
the proper implementation of the risk management plan.
    b. implementation of section 112(g): The EPA issued an interpretive 
notice on February 14, 1995 (60 FR 8333), which outlines EPA's revised 
interpretation of 112(g) applicability. The notice postpones the 
effective date of 112(g) until after EPA has promulgated a rule 
addressing that provision. The notice sets forth in detail the 
rationale for the revised interpretation.
    The section 112(g) interpretive notice explains that EPA is still 
considering whether the effective date of section 112(g) should be 
delayed beyond the date of promulgation of the Federal rule so as to 
allow states time to adopt rules implementing the Federal rule, and 
that EPA will provide for any such additional delay in the final 
section 112(g) rulemaking. Unless and until EPA provides for such an 
additional postponing of section 112(g), Puerto Rico must be able to 
implement section 112(g) during the period between promulgation of the 
Federal section 112(g) rule and the adoption of Puerto Rico rules 
implementing EPA's section 112(g) regulations.
    The EPA is proposing to approve Puerto Rico's preconstruction 
permitting program found in Rule 203 of the RCAP under the authority of 
title V and part 70 solely for the purpose of implementing section 
112(g) to the extent necessary during the transition period between 
title V approval and adoption of a State rule implementing EPA's 
section 112(g) regulations. Furthermore, EQB has provided broad 
language in its regulation that will allow the implementation of 112(g) 
immediately after EPA establishes and adopts final guidelines (Rule 604 
of the RCAP). EQB defines the de minimis levels under Appendix E based 
on the 112(g) draft rule but stipulates if the final 112(g) rule 
differs in any way, the federal de minimis levels prevail (Rule 102 of 
the RCAP--definition of de minimis).
    c. Section 112(l): Requirements for approval specified in 40 CFR 
70.4(b), encompass section 112(l)(5) approval requirements for 
delegation of section 112 standards as they apply to part 70 sources. 
Section 112(l)(5) requires that the state's program contain adequate 
authorities, adequate resources for implementation, an expeditious 
compliance schedule, and adequate enforcement ability, which are also 
requirements under part 70. In a letter dated December 29, 1994, EQB 
requested delegation through 112(l) of all existing 112 standards and 
all future 112 standards for both part 70 and non-part 70 sources and 
infrastructure programs. In the letter, EQB demonstrated that they have 
sufficient legal authorities, adequate resources, the capability for 
automatic delegation of future standards, and adequate enforcement 
ability for implementation of section 112 of the Act for both part 70 
sources and non-part 70 sources. Therefore, the EPA is proposing to 
grant approval under section 112(l)(5) and 40 CFR 63.91 to Puerto Rico 
for its program mechanism for receiving delegation of all existing and 
future section 112(d) standards for both part 70 and non-part 70 
sources, and section 112 infrastructure programs that are unchanged 
from Federal rules as promulgated.
    Puerto Rico commits to appropriately implementing the existing and 
future requirements of sections 111, 112 and 129 of the Act, and all 
MACT standards promulgated in the future, in a timely manner.

B. Options for Approval/Disapproval and Implications

    The EPA is proposing full approval of the operating permits program 
submitted to EPA by the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico on November 15, 
1993 and supplemented on March 18, 1994, April 8, 1994, and September 
29, 1995. Among other things, Puerto Rico has demonstrated that the 
program will be adequate to meet the minimum elements of a State 
operating permits program as specified in 40 CFR part 70.
    Requirements for approval, specified in 40 CFR 70.4(b), encompass 
section 112(l)(5) requirements for approval of a program for delegation 
of section 112 and standards as promulgated by EPA as they apply to 
part 70 sources. Section 112(l)(5) requires that the State's program 
contain adequate authorities, adequate resources for implementation, 
and an expeditious compliance schedule, which are also requirements 
under part 70. Therefore, the EPA is also proposing to grant approval 
under section 112(l)(5) and 40 CFR 63.91 to Puerto Rico for its program 
mechanism for receiving delegation of all existing and future section 
112(d) standards for both part 70 and non-part 70 sources, and 
infrastructure programs under section 112 that are unchanged from 
Federal rules as promulgated.

III. Administrative Requirements

A. Request for Public Comments

    The EPA is requesting comments on all aspects of this proposed full 
approval. Copies of the State's submittal and other information relied 
upon for the proposed full approval are contained in a docket 
maintained at the EPA Regional Offices located in New York and San Juan 
and at the EQB. The docket is an organized and complete file of all the 
information submitted to, or otherwise considered by, EPA in the 
development of this proposed rulemaking. The principal purposes of the 
docket are:
    (1) to allow interested parties a means to identify and locate 
documents so that they can effectively participate in the approval 
process; and
    (2) to serve as the record in case of judicial review. The EPA will 
consider any comments received by December 14, 1995.

B. Executive Order 12866

    The Office of Management and Budget has exempted this action from 
Executive Order 12866 review.

C. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The EPA's actions under section 502 of the Act do not create any 
new requirements, but simply address operating permits programs 
submitted to satisfy the requirements of 40 CFR part 70. Because this 
action does not impose any new requirements, it does not have a 
significant impact on a substantial number of small entities.

D. Unfunded Mandates Act

    Under section 202 of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 
(``Unfunded Mandates Act''), signed into law on March 22, 1995, EPA 
must prepare a budgetary impact statement to accompany any proposed or 
final rule that includes a federal mandate that may result in estimated 
costs to State, local, or tribal governments in the aggregate; or to 
the private sector, of $100 million or more. Under section 205, EPA 
must select the most cost effective and least burdensome alternative 
that achieves the objectives of the rule and is consistent with 
statutory requirements. Section 203 requires EPA to establish a plan 
for informing and advising any small governments that may be 
significantly or uniquely impacted by the rule.
    EPA has determined that the proposed approval action promulgated 
today does not include a federal mandate that may result in estimated 

[[Page 57207]]
costs of $100 million or more to either State, local, or tribal 
governments in the aggregate, or to the private sector. This federal 
action approves pre-existing requirements under State or local law, and 
imposes no new federal requirements. Accordingly, no additional costs 
to State, local, or tribal governments, or to the private sector, 
result from this action.

List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 70

    Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure, 
Air pollution control, Intergovernmental relations, Operating permits, 
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401-7671q.

    Dated: October 30, 1995.
William J. Muszynski,
Acting Regional Administrator.
[FR Doc. 95-28065 Filed 11-13-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-28037 Bidding Systems for Leases in the Outer Continental Shelf
[Federal Register Volume 60, Number 219 (Tuesday, November 14, 1995)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Page 57204]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-28037]

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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Minerals Management Service

30 CFR Parts 206 and 260

Bidding Systems for Leases in the Outer Continental Shelf

AGENCY: Minerals Management Service, Interior.

ACTION: Notice of extension of public comment period.

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SUMMARY: Due to requests for additional time the Minerals Management 
Service (MMS) extends by 30 days the comment period for a notice of 
proposed rulemaking (NPR) that was published in the Federal Register on 
August 23, 1995. The NPR is concerned with an amendment to change the 
bidding systems for newly issued leases under the Outer Continental 
Shelf Lands Act.

DATES: MMS will consider all comments we receive by November 22, 1995. 
We will begin reviewing comments at that time and may not fully 
consider comments we receive after November 22, 1995.

ADDRESSES: Comments should be mailed or hand delivered to the 
Department of the Interior; Minerals Management Service, Mail Stop 
4700; 381 Elden Street; Herndon, Virginia 22070-4817; Attention: Chief, 
Engineering and Standards Branch.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Dr. Marshall Rose, Chief Economic Evaluation Branch, telephone (703) 
787-1636.

    Dated: November 6, 1995.
Richard J. Glynn,
Acting Associate Director for Offshore Minerals Management.
[FR Doc. 95-28037 Filed 11-13-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-MR-M

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-28011 Executive Office for Immigration Review; Representation and Appearance
[Federal Register Volume 60, Number 219 (Tuesday, November 14, 1995)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 57200-57201]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-28011]

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DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

8 CFR Parts 292 and 292a

[EOIR: 109N; AG Order No. 1196-95]
RIN 1125-ZA00

Executive Office for Immigration Review; Representation and 
Appearance

AGENCY: Department of Justice.

ACTION: Request for public comment.

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SUMMARY: This request for comment seeks input regarding possible 
changes in the qualifications required of an organization before it may 
be recognized by the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) to 
represent persons before the Immigration and Naturalization Service 
(Service), the Board of Immigration Appeals (Board), and the 
Immigration Court. Specifically, comments are requested regarding 
whether the requirement that recognized organizations may charge only 
``nominal fees'' should be changed.

DATES: Comments must be submitted on or before December 14, 1995.

ADDRESSES: Comments may be submitted to General Counsel, Executive 
Office for Immigration Review, Suite 2400, 5107 Leesburg Pike, Falls 
Church, VA 22041.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Margaret M. Philbin, General Counsel, Executive Office for Immigration 
Review, Suite 2400, 5107 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, Virginia 22041, 
telephone: (703) 305-0470.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    Under the present version of 8 CFR 292.2, non-profit religious, 
charitable, social service, or similar organization may designate 
representatives to practice before the Service, the Immigration Court, 
and the Board if the organization has applied for and received 
recognition from the Board. To gain such recognition, an organization 
must establish to the satisfaction of the Board that--
    (1) It charges only nominal fees for its services and assesses no 
excessive membership dues, and
    (2) It has adequate knowledge, information, and experience to 
represent its clients in immigration matters.
    The requirement that a recognized organization may charge only 
nominal fees has been a requirement for recognition by the Board since 
1975. The requirement has existed to ensure that recognized 
organizations are in fact charitable, are serving low-income or 
indigent clients, and are not representing their clients for profit.
    The term ``nominal fees'' has not been specifically defined, but 
rather interpretation has been left to a case-by-case analysis. 
However, the Board has stated that the ``imposition of nominal fees was 
not intended as a means through which an organization could fund 
itself.'' Matter of American Paralegal Academy, Inc., 19 I&N Dec. 386 
(BIA 1986). The Board has also stated that the fact that an 
organization's fees are ``substantially less than those charged by law 
firms is not a proper standard for consideration since such 
organizations are not law firms.'' Id. Beyond this, little concrete 
guidance regarding the meaning of nominal fees has been provided in the 
20 years since the term first appeared in the regulation. 
Traditionally, however, the term has been narrowly construed to permit 
recognized organizations to charge only minimal amounts for their 
services.
    The nominal fees restriction has been criticized by some as 
constituting a barrier to affordable, quality legal services to poor 
aliens. It has been asserted that some organizations, well-qualified to 
represent aliens, do not even attempt to gain recognition from the 
Board because of the nominal fee restriction, and that many other 
recognized organizations are unable to meet the demand for their 
services due to the financial constraints imposed by the nominal fees 
restriction.
    On the other hand, other groups have suggested that an increase in 
nominal fees charged by recognized organizations may place them in 
competition with members of the bar for clients who can afford legal 
services. This arguably exceeds the scope of the ``recognized 
organization'' program, which was intended to address the needs for pro 
bono representation. It also creates certain issues with respect to 
oversight by the Board of the performance and fee charging policies of 
recognized organizations.
    The issues raised by the nominal fees regulation have recently 
become the focus of additional attention. Many recognized organizations 
have stated that they are losing funding as charitable contributions 
dwindle and sentiment against providing legal aid to aliens grows. A 
number of organizations have informed EOIR that they have closed 
completely or have scaled back their immigration programs. At the same 
time, some organizations assert, the need for services to low-income 
aliens has been steadily growing. The perceived hardship imposed by the 
nominal fee restriction on both 

[[Page 57201]]
recognized organizations and their clients has been the impetus for a 
renewed effort to change or eliminate the restriction.

Request for Comments

    The concerns outlined above have led EOIR to formally request 
comments on possible changes to the nominal fee and accreditation 
provisions of 8 CFR 292.2. The outlined concerns are not considered to 
be comprehensive, and those responding are invited to address these and 
any additional areas of concern they may have regarding the nominal fee 
issue. For example, EOIR also seeks comments on the following:
    1. Should the nominal fee restriction be retained, but more broadly 
interpreted, so as to permit higher fees to be charged?
    2. If the nominal fee restriction is changed, or is eliminated from 
the regulation, what should replace it?
    3. Should recognized organizations be able to fund themselves, in 
whole or in part, through imposition of fees? If so, what would be an 
appropriate level of such funding?
    4. What safeguards should exist to ensure that recognized 
organizations are in fact operating in the best interests of their 
clientele and not for profit?
    A concern that is frequently raised in discussing change or 
elimination of the nominal fee requirement is that the requirement 
guards against the proliferation of unregulated immigration consultants 
or ``notarios,'' who are operating for profit, and who frequently 
provide poor advice or otherwise take advantage of their clients. The 
concern is that if larger fees may be charged by recognized 
organizations, more unscrupulous organizations may apply for and gain 
recognition by the Board. Those arguing in favor of changing the 
regulation, on the other hand, contend that such questionable 
organizations are more likely to exist where there are inadequate 
quality legal services available. They argue that these organizations 
take advantage of the fact that many aliens cannot afford lawyers, that 
legal services are not available, and that aliens therefore turn to 
unqualified and sometimes dishonest organizations for advice and help.
    Parties on each side of this argument, however, agree that if the 
nominal fee regulation is changed or eliminated, some safeguards should 
be put in place to carefully regulate the recognition of organizations 
before the Board. Comments are requested regarding how best to do this. 
The following are ideas on which comments are invited:
    (a) Should an organization be required to show that it has both 
non-profit and tax-exempt status, within the meaning of the Internal 
Revenue Code?
    (b) Should an organization be required to show that it serves only 
low-income clients? Should the term low-income be defined, and if so, 
how?
    (c) Should an organization be required to provide, as part of the 
application for recognition, proof of where they receive their funding? 
Once recognized, should they also be required to provide annual reports 
which include the sources of their revenue, their fee schedules, their 
income guidelines, and proof that they serve only, or primarily, low-
income clients?
    (d) Should an organization be required to vary its fees depending 
on ability to pay?
    (e) Should there be formal procedures requiring recognized 
organizations to show continuing compliance with any applicable 
regulation? Should recognized organizations be required to be re-
recognized periodically, as is the case with accredited 
representatives?
    (f) In requests for reaccreditation of accredited representatives 
of recognized organizations, should there be a requirement that 
Immigration Judges before whom the representative practices be 
consulted? Should the local bar be notified of reaccreditation 
applications, with opportunity to comment?
    (g) Should there be formal procedures for filing complaints against 
recognized organizations or accredited representatives? Should the 
regulation provide that any attorney or advocate may report suspected 
abuse?
    5. Should the regulation regarding lists of free legal services, at 
8 CFR part 292a, be amended to allow including organizations and/or 
individuals who provide low cost legal services? Should private 
attorneys be permitted to have their names on this list, provided their 
fees are within the range accepted:
    As mentioned above, EOIR welcomes all comments regarding any of the 
concerns identified in this notice as well as any other comments 
regarding possible changes in the qualifications required of an 
organization for recognition by EOIR to represent persons before the 
Service, the Board, and the Immigration Court.

    Dated: November 6, 1995.
Janet Reno,
Attorney General.
[FR Doc. 95-28011 Filed 11-13-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410-01-M

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-27984 Airworthiness Directives; de Havilland Model DHC-3 Airplanes
[Federal Register Volume 60, Number 219 (Tuesday, November 14, 1995)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 57201-57203]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-27984]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. 95-CE-47-AD]

Airworthiness Directives; de Havilland Model DHC-3 Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: This document proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive 
(AD) 90-12-08, which currently requires the following on de Havilland 
Model DHC-3 airplanes: repetitively inspecting (using dye penetrant 
methods) the tailplane main rib forward flanges and the main rib 
forward lower flanges at the tailplane front attachment fitting for 
cracks and repairing any cracked flange. The proposed action would 
retain the repetitive inspections currently required by AD 90-12-08, 
and would allow the provision of incorporating a certain modification 
as terminating action for these repetitive inspections. The proposed 
action is prompted by the Federal Aviation Administration's 
determination that installing new angles and plates on the tailplane 
root ribs on de Havilland Model DHC-3 airplanes provides an equivalent 
level of safety to the repetitive inspections required by AD 90-12-08. 
The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent 
failure of the tailplane structure caused by cracked tailplane main rib 
forward flanges or main rib forward lower flanges at the tailplane 
front attachment fitting, which, if not detected and corrected, could 
result in loss of control of the airplane.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before January 12, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Submit comments in triplicate to the Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA), Central Region, Office of the Assistant Chief 
Counsel, Attention: Rules Docket No. 95-CE-47-AD, Room 1558, 601 E. 
12th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. Comments may be inspected at 
this location between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, 
holidays excepted.
    Service information that applies to the proposed AD may be obtained 
from Bombardier Inc., (the parent company of de Havilland) Bombardier 
Regional Aircraft Division, Garrett Boulevard, Downsview, Ontario, 
Canada M3K 1Y5; telephone (416) 633-7310. This information also may be 
examined at the Rules Docket at the address above.

[[Page 57202]]

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Jeff Casale, Aerospace Engineer, 
FAA, New York Aircraft Certification Office, 10 5th St., 3rd Floor, 
Valley Stream, New York 11581; telephone (516) 256-7521; facsimile 
(516) 568-2716.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    Interested persons are invited to participate in the making of the 
proposed rule by submitting such written data, views, or arguments as 
they may desire. Communications should identify the Rules Docket number 
and be submitted in triplicate to the address specified above. All 
communications received on or before the closing date for comments, 
specified above, will be considered before taking action on the 
proposed rule. The proposals contained in this notice may be changed in 
light of the comments received.
    Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the proposed rule. All 
comments submitted will be available, both before and after the closing 
date for comments, in the Rules Docket for examination by interested 
persons. A report that summarizes each FAA-public contact concerned 
with the substance of this proposal will be filed in the Rules Docket.
    Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments 
submitted in response to this notice must submit a self-addressed, 
stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ``Comments 
to Docket No. 95-CE-47-AD.'' The postcard will be date stamped and 
returned to the commenter.

Availability of NPRMs

    Any person may obtain a copy of this NPRM by submitting a request 
to the FAA, Central Region, Office of the Assistant Chief Counsel, 
Attention: Rules Docket No. 95-CE-47-AD, Room 1558, 601 E. 12th Street, 
Kansas City, Missouri 64106.

Discussion

    AD 90-12-08, Amendment 39-6622 (55 FR 1450, January 16, 1990), 
currently requires the following on de Havilland Model DHC-3 airplanes: 
repetitively inspecting (using dye penetrant methods) the tailplane 
main rib forward flanges and the main rib forward lower flanges at the 
tailplane front attachment fitting for cracks and repairing any cracked 
flange. Accomplishment of the actions required by AD 90-12-08 is in 
accordance with de Havilland Service Bulletin (SB) No. 3/46, Revision 
B, dated December 1, 1989.
    Since issuance of AD 90-12-08, de Havilland has developed tailplane 
root rib angles and plates of improved design (Modification 3/935). 
When incorporated, Modification 3/935 eliminates the need for the 
repetitive inspections required by AD 90-12-08.
    Bombardier, Inc. (the parent company of de Havilland) has issued de 
Havilland SB No. 3/50, Revision A, dated February 17, 1995, which 
specifies procedures for incorporating Modification 3/935 on de 
Havilland Model DHC-3 airplanes.
    Transport Canada, which is the airworthiness authority for Canada, 
classified this service bulletin as mandatory and revised Transport 
Canada AD CF-89-20 to the R1 level, dated February 22, 1995, in order 
to assure the continued airworthiness of these airplanes in Canada.
    This airplane model is manufactured in Canada and is type 
certificated for operation in the United States under the provisions of 
section 21.29 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.29) and 
the applicable bilateral airworthiness agreement between Canada and the 
United States. Pursuant to this bilateral airworthiness agreement, 
Transport Canada has kept the FAA informed of the situation described 
above.
    After examining the findings of Transport Canada and reviewing all 
available information related to the incidents described above 
including the referenced service information, the FAA has determined 
that (1) incorporating Modification 3/935 provides an equivalent level 
of safety to the repetitive inspections required by AD 90-12-08; and 
(2) AD action should be taken to prevent failure of the tailplane 
structure caused by cracked tailplane main rib forward flanges or main 
rib forward lower flanges at the tailplane front attachment fitting, 
which, if not detected and corrected, could result in loss of control 
of the airplane.
    Since an unsafe condition has been identified that is likely to 
exist or develop in other de Havilland Model DHC-3 airplanes of the 
same type design that do not have Modification 3/935 incorporated, the 
proposed AD would supersede AD 90-12-08 with a new AD that would (1) 
retain the requirement of repetitively inspecting the tailplane main 
rib forward flanges and the main rib forward lower flanges at the 
tailplane front attachment fitting for cracks and repairing any cracked 
flange; and (2) allowing for the provision of incorporating 
Modification 3/935 as terminating action for the repetitive 
inspections. Accomplishment of the proposed inspections would be in 
accordance with de Havilland SB No. 3/46, Revision B, dated December 1, 
1989. Accomplishment of the proposed modification would be in 
accordance with de Havilland SB No. 3/50, Revision A, dated February 
17, 1995.
    The FAA estimates that 49 airplanes in the U.S. registry would be 
affected by the proposed AD, that it would take approximately 35 
workhours per airplane to accomplish the proposed inspection and that 
the average labor rate is approximately $60 an hour. Based on these 
figures, the total cost impact of the proposed AD on U.S. operators is 
estimated to be $102,900 or $2,100 per airplane. This figure represents 
the cost of the initial inspection, and does not reflect the costs for 
repetitive inspections or possible repairs. The FAA has no way of 
determining how many tailplane main rib forward or main rib forward 
lower flanges may need repaired or how many repetitive inspections each 
owner/operator of the affected airplanes would incur over the life of 
the airplane.
    The FAA has issued alternative methods of compliance (AMOC) to the 
repetitive inspection requirement of AD 90-12-08 for owners/operators 
of three de Havilland Model DHC-3 airplanes. These AMOC's consist of 
the incorporation of a certain design modification in the tailplane 
root rib area of the affected airplanes. These AMOC's would remain in 
effect for the proposed AD, which would eliminate the inspection costs 
for these three airplanes. With this in mind, the cost of the proposed 
AD would be reduced by $6,300 from $102,900 to $96,600.
    The compliance time of the proposed AD is in calendar time instead 
of hours time-in-service (TIS). In developing the compliance time of AD 
90-12-08, the FAA utilized calendar time because it was unknown whether 
the rib flange cracking was a result of in-flight loads (flight hours) 
or loads associated with ground gusts. With this in mind, airplanes 
with lower usage may experience a cracked rib flange before an airplane 
with higher usage. For this reason, calendar time rather than flight 
hours was judged to be an appropriate inspection basis. This situation 
still exists and in order to maintain the repetitive inspection 
continuity between AD 90-12-08 and the proposed AD, a compliance based 
on calendar time is proposed.
    The regulations proposed herein would not have substantial direct 
effects on the States, on the relationship between the national 
government and the States, or on the distribution of 

[[Page 57203]]
power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. 
Therefore, in accordance with Executive Order 12612, it is determined 
that this proposal would not have sufficient federalism implications to 
warrant the preparation of a Federalism Assessment.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this action (1) is 
not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866; 
(2) is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and 
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and (3) if promulgated, 
will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a 
substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act. A copy of the draft regulatory evaluation 
prepared for this action has been placed in the Rules Docket. A copy of 
it may be obtained by contacting the Rules Docket at the location 
provided under the caption ADDRESSES.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration proposes to amend 14 
CFR part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

    1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g); 40101, 40113, 44701.

Sec. 39.13  [Amended]

    2. Section 39.13 is amended by removing Airworthiness Directive 
(AD) 90-12-08, Amendment 39-6622 (55 FR 1450, January 16, 1990), and by 
adding the following new AD:

De Havilland: Docket No. 95-CE-47-AD; Supersedes AD 90-12-08, 
Amendment 39-6622.
    Applicability: Model DHC-3 Airplanes (all serial numbers), 
certificated in any category, that do not have Modification 3/935 
incorporated in accordance with de Havilland Service Bulletin (SB) 
number (No.) 3/50, Revision A, dated February 17, 1995.

    Note 1: This AD applies to each airplane identified in the 
preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been 
modified, altered, or repaired in the area subject to the 
requirements of this AD. For airplanes that have been modified, 
altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of 
this AD is affected, the owner/operator must request approval for an 
alternative method of compliance in accordance with paragraph (e) of 
this AD. The request should include an assessment of the effect of 
the modification, alteration, or repair on the unsafe condition 
addressed by this AD; and, if the unsafe condition has not been 
eliminated, the request should include specific proposed actions to 
address it. Compliance: Within the next 3 calendar months after the 
effective date of this AD, unless already accomplished (compliance 
with AD 90-12-08), and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 24 
calendar months.
    To prevent failure of the tailplane structure caused by cracked 
tailplane main rib forward flanges or main rib forward lower flanges 
at the tailplane front attachment fitting, which, if not detected 
and corrected, could result in loss of control of the airplane, 
accomplish the following:
    (a) Inspect, using dye penetrant methods, the tailplane main rib 
forward flanges and the main rib forward lower flanges at the 
tailplane front attachment fitting in accordance with the 
ACCOMPLISHMENT INSTRUCTIONS section of de Havilland SB No. 3/46, 
Revision B, dated December 1, 1989.
    (b) Prior to further flight, repair any tailplane main rib 
forward flange or main rib forward lower flange found cracked during 
any inspection required by this AD. Accomplish this repair in 
accordance with the ACCOMPLISHMENT INSTRUCTIONS section of de 
Havilland SB No. 3/46, Revision B, dated December 1, 1989.
    (c) Installing tailplane root rib angles and plates of improved 
design (Modification 3/935) in accordance with de Havilland SB 3/50, 
Revision A, dated February 17, 1995, terminates the repetitive 
inspection requirement of this AD. Modification 3/935 may be 
incorporated at any time provided that any tailplane main rib 
forward flange or main rib forward lower flange found cracked during 
any inspection required by this AD is repaired.
    (d) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with 
sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 
CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to a location where 
the requirements of this AD can be accomplished.
    (e) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the 
initial or repetitive compliance times that provides an equivalent 
level of safety may be approved by the Manager, New York Aircraft 
Certification Office (ACO), 10 5th St., 3rd Floor, Valley Stream, 
New York 11581. The request shall be forwarded through an 
appropriate FAA Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then 
send it to the Manager, New York ACO.

    Note 2: Information concerning the existence of approved 
alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be 
obtained from the New York ACO.

    (f) Alternative methods of compliance approved in accordance 
with AD 90-12-08 (superseded by this action) are considered approved 
as alternative methods of compliance with this AD.
    (g) All persons affected by this directive may obtain copies of 
the document referred to herein upon request to Bombardier Inc., 
Bombardier Regional Aircraft Division, Garrett Boulevard, Downsview, 
Ontario, Canada M3K 1Y5; telephone (416) 633-7310; or may examine 
this document at the FAA, Central Region, Office of the Assistant 
Chief Counsel, Room 1558, 601 E. 12th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 
64106.
    (h) This amendment supersedes AD 90-12-08, Amendment 39-6622.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on November 6, 1996.
Henry A. Armstrong,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 95-27984 Filed 11-13-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-U

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-27975 High-Voltage Longwall Equipment Standards for Underground Coal Mines
[Federal Register Volume 60, Number 219 (Tuesday, November 14, 1995)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 57203-57204]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-27975]

=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Mine Safety and Health Administration

30 CFR Parts 18 and 75

RIN 1219-AA75

High-Voltage Longwall Equipment Standards for Underground Coal 
Mines

AGENCY: Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), Labor.

ACTION: Proposed rule; extension of comment period.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: In response to requests from the mining community for 
additional time in which to prepare comments, the Mine Safety and 
Health Administration (MSHA) is extending the period for public comment 
on its proposed rule addressing the use of high-voltage longwall 
equipment in production areas of underground coal mines.

DATES: All comments must be submitted on or before December 18, 1995.

ADDRESSES: Send comments to MSHA, Office of Standards, Regulations and 
Variances, 4015 Wilson Boulevard, Room 631, Arlington, VA 22203. 
Commenters are encouraged to submit comments on a computer disk along 
with a hard copy.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Patricia W. Silvey, Director, Office 
of Standards, Regulations and Variances, 703-235-1910.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On October 18, 1995, MSHA published a 
document in the Federal Register (60 FR 53891) announcing the reopening 
of the rulemaking record on its proposed standard allowing the use of 
high-voltage longwall equipment in underground coal mines. The comment 
period was scheduled to close on November 17, 1995. By this document, 
the Agency is extending the comment period to December 18, 1995. All 
interested parties are encouraged to submit comments prior to that 
date.

[[Page 57204]]

    Dated: November 7, 1995.
J. Davitt McAteer,
Assistant Secretary for Mine Safety and Health.
[FR Doc. 95-27975 Filed 11-13-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4510-43-P

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 95-27817 End-Use Certificate Program
[Federal Register Volume 60, Number 219 (Tuesday, November 14, 1995)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 57198-57200]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-27817]

========================================================================
Proposed Rules
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of 
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these 
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in 
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.

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

Federal Register / Vol. 60, No. 219 / Tuesday, November 14, 1995 / 
Proposed Rules

[[Page 57198]]

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Consolidated Farm Service Agency

7 CFR Part 782

RIN 0560-AE37

End-Use Certificate Program

AGENCY: Consolidated Farm Service Agency, USDA.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The Consolidated Farm Service Agency (CFSA) is proposing to 
amend the regulations found at 7 CFR part 782 which govern the End-Use 
Certificate Program. The End-Use Certificate Program is administered in 
accordance with section 321(f) of the North American Free Trade 
Agreement Implementation Act. This rule proposes to amend reporting 
requirements, reporting deadlines, and the required notification 
process in a manner that will increase program effectiveness and 
efficiency for government and affected industries. If adopted, the 
provisions of this regulation would simplify the reporting burden 
placed on importers, subsequent buyers, end users and exporters by 
extending reporting deadlines and incorporating alternative reporting 
methods.
    Other minor revisions to the regulations are proposed as well.

DATES: Written comments must be received on or before December 14, 1995 
in order to be assured of consideration.

ADDRESSES: Comments concerning this proposed rule must be mailed to 
Deputy Administrator, Commodity Operations, CFSA, P.O. Box 2415, 
Washington, DC 20013-2415. All written comments will be available for 
public inspection in Room 5962, South Building, U.S. Department of 
Agriculture, 14th and Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC, between 
8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Steve Gill, Acting Deputy Director, 
Warehouse and Inventory Division, CFSA, Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-
2415; telephone (202) 720-5647 or FAX (202) 690-0014.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

 Executive Order 12866

    This proposed rule has been determined to be significant and was 
reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Order 
12866.

Executive Order 12778

    This proposed rule has been reviewed in accordance with Executive 
Order 12778. The provisions of this proposed rule do not preempt State 
laws, are not retroactive, and do not involve administrative appeals.

Environmental Evaluation

    It has been determined by an environmental evaluation that this 
action will not have a significant impact on the quality of the human 
environment. Therefore, neither an Environmental Assessment nor an 
Environmental Impact Analysis is needed.

Executive Order 12372

    This program/activity is not subject to the provisions of Executive 
Order 12372, which requires intergovernmental consultation with State 
and local officials. See notice related to 7 CFR part 3015, subpart V, 
published at 48 FR 29115 (June 24, 1983).

Paperwork Reduction Act

    This rule proposes to amend the reporting requirements by extending 
reporting deadlines and incorporating alternative reporting methods. 
Since February 27, 1995, the effective date of the end-use certificate 
program, CFSA has determined that entities required to file form CFSA-
750, End-Use Certificate for Wheat, and form CFSA-751, Wheat 
Consumption and Resale Report, have encountered some difficulty in 
meeting the requirement that these forms be filed with the Kansas City 
Commodity Office (KCCO) within 10 workdays following the date of entry, 
or the date of resale, as applicable. This proposal to increase the 
reporting requirement from 10 workdays following the date of entry or 
resale, as applicable, to 15 workdays following the date of entry or 
resale will provide increased flexibility to the entity that is 
required to file the report without decreasing the efficiency of the 
program on the part of the government. Additionally, numerous requests 
have been received by CFSA to permit facsimile transmission and 
computer generation of forms CFSA-750, End-Use Certificate for Wheat, 
and CFSA-751, Wheat Consumption and Resale Report. In an attempt to 
utilize technology that is currently available, CFSA is proposing that 
such report submissions will be acceptable under the End-Use 
Certificate Program. While all of the entities that are required to 
file forms CFSA-750 and CFSA-751 have the potential of being affected 
by these proposed changes in reporting requirements, no entities will 
be adversely affected.
    The changes proposed in this rule do not impact recordkeeping 
requirements.
    The reporting requirements for CFSA-750 and CFSA-751 were 
previously approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and 
assigned OMB control number 0560-0151.
    These revised reporting requirements will be submitted to OMB for 
approval under the provisions of 44 U.S.C. 35. Send comments regarding 
this collection of information to: Department of Agriculture, Clearance 
Officer, Office of Information Resources Management, Room 404-W, 
Washington, DC 20250, and Regulatory Affairs of OMB, Attention: Desk 
Officer for USDA, Room 3201, New Executive Office Building, Washington, 
DC 20503.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    On January 26, 1995, CFSA published a final rule that established 
program requirements for the End-Use Certificate Program. At that time, 
a Regulatory Flexibility Analysis was prepared to discuss the impact of 
the implementation of the End-Use Certificate Program. A copy of this 
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis is available upon request from Helen 
Linden, Warehouse and Inventory Division, CFSA, P.O. Box 2415, 
Washington, DC 20013-2415; telephone: (202) 690-4321.
    The changes that are proposed in this rule are intended to reduce 
the reporting burden for all businesses, including small businesses. 
Because these proposed changes will not have an adverse impact on a 
substantial number of small businesses, a Regulatory Flexibility 
Assessment is not required for this proposed rule.

[[Page 57199]]

Background

    This rule proposes to amend the regulations at 7 CFR part 782 with 
respect to the U.S. End-Use Certificate Program. Since February 27, 
1995, the effective date for the implementation of the End-Use 
Certificate Program, several items have been identified that could 
improve the effectiveness and the efficiency of the End-Use Certificate 
Program.
    The final rule published on January 26, 1995, at 60 FR 5087, did 
not include a specific time requirement for importers and subsequent 
buyers to inform subsequent buyers or end users that wheat being 
purchased is of Canadian origin, and as such, is subject to these 
regulations. In some instances, importers are delivering Canadian wheat 
to subsequent buyers and end users through grain handlers. CFSA has 
found that this method of transporting Canadian wheat results in some 
grain handlers acquiring title to a portion of the wheat, thus becoming 
either a subsequent buyer or end user. The general interpretation of 
existing regulations by affected parties is that the importer or 
subsequent buyer has 10 days to provide a copy of the form End-Use 
Certificate for Wheat, ASCS-750, to the subsequent buyer or exporter, 
which mirrors the requirement for submitting forms to the Kansas City 
Commodity Office (KCCO). This delay in notification has resulted in 
situations where subsequent buyers and end users have either commingled 
Canadian wheat with U.S. origin wheat or resold Canadian wheat before 
they were informed that the wheat is of Canadian origin. Therefore, 
CFSA proposes to amend the regulations at 7 CFR part 782 to require 
importers and subsequent buyers to provide immediate notification to 
purchasers and grain handlers when wheat being sold is of Canadian 
origin.
    Secondly, in an effort to simplify and expedite the receipt of 
reports, this proposed rule would extend the time requirements for 
filing form ASCS-750 with KCCO from 10 to 15 workdays following the 
date of entry and incorporate provisions which will permit the 
electronic transmission and computer generation of required forms.
    Finally, this proposed rule includes nomenclature changes to revise 
form numbers ASCS-750 and ASCS-751 to CFSA-750 and CFSA-751, 
respectively.
    For the reasons set out in the preamble, 7 CFR part 782 is proposed 
to be amended as follows:

PART 782--END-USE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

    1. The authority citation for part 782 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 19 U.S.C. 3391(f).

    2. In part 782 all references to ``ASCS-750'' are revised to read 
``CFSA-750.''
    3. In part 782 all references to ``ASCS-751'' are revised to read 
``CFSA-751.''
    4. Section 782.2 is amended to add the following definition 
immediately following the definition for ``Entry'':

Sec. 782.2   Definition.

* * * * *
    Grain handler means an entity other than the importer, exporter, 
subsequent buyer, or end user that handles wheat on behalf of an 
importer, exporter, subsequent buyer, or end user.
* * * * *
    5. Section 782.4 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 782.4   OMB control numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork 
Reduction Act.

    The information collection requirements in this part have been 
approved by the Office of Management and Budget and assigned OMB 
control number 0560-0151.
    6. Section 782.12 is amended by:
    A. Removing the number ``10'' in the first sentence of paragraph 
(a) and adding the number ``15'' in its place,
    B. Removing paragraph (a)(8),
    C. Redesignating paragraphs (a)(9) and (a)(10) as paragraphs (a)(8) 
and (a)(9), respectively,
    D. Redesignating paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) as paragraphs (d), 
(e), and (f), respectively, and revising newly redesignated paragraph 
(e) to read as set forth below,
    E. Adding new paragraphs (b) and (c) to read as follows:

Sec. 782.12   Filing CFSA-750, End-Use Certificate for Wheat.

* * * * *
    (b) Importers may provide computer generated form CFSA-750, 
provided such computer generated forms:
    (1) Are approved in advance by KCCO,
    (2) Contain a KCCO assigned serial number, and
    (3) Contain all of the information required in paragraphs (a)(1) 
through (a)(9) of this section.
    (c) KCCO will accept form CFSA-750 submitted through the following 
methods:
    (1) Mail service, including express mail,
    (2) Facsimile machine, and
    (3) Other electronic transmissions, provided such transmissions are 
approved in advance by KCCO. The importer remains responsible for 
ensuring that electronically transmitted forms are received in 
accordance with paragraph (a) of this section.
* * * * *
    (e) Distribution of form CFSA-750 will be as follows:
    (1) If form CFSA-750 is submitted to KCCO in accordance with 
paragraph (c)(1) of this section, the original shall be forwarded to 
Kansas City Commodity Office, Warehouse License and Contract Division, 
P.O. Box 419205, Kansas City, MO 64141-6205, by the importer,
    (2) If form CFSA-750 is submitted to KCCO in accordance with 
paragraphs (c)(2) or (c)(3) of this section, the original form CFSA-750 
that is signed and dated by the importer in accordance with paragraph 
(d) of this section shall be maintained by the importer,
    (3) One copy shall be retained by the importer,
    (4) The importer shall provide a photocopy to the end user or, if 
the wheat is purchased for purposes of resale, the subsequent buyer(s).
* * * * *
    7. Section 782.13 is amended by:
    A. Redesignating paragraphs (b) and (c) as paragraphs (c) and (d), 
respectively, and by removing the number ``10'' in the new paragraph 
(d) and adding the number ``15'' in its place,
    B. Adding paragraph (b) to read as follows:

Sec. 782.13  Importer Responsibilities.

* * * * *
    (b) Immediately notify each subsequent buyer, grain handler, or end 
user that the wheat being purchased or handled originated in Canada and 
may only be commingled with U.S.-produced wheat by the end user or when 
loaded onto a conveyance for direct delivery to the end user or a 
foreign country.
* * * * *
    8. Section 782.15 is amended by:
    A. Removing the number ``10'' in paragraph (a)(1) and adding the 
number ``15'' in its place, and
    B. Adding paragraphs (e), (f), and (g) to read as follows:

Sec. 782.15  Filing CFSA-751, Wheat Consumption and Resale Report.

* * * * *
    (e) Filers may provide computer generated form CFSA-751, provided 
such computer generated forms:
    (1) Are approved in advance by KCCO, and 

[[Page 57200]]

    (2) Contain the information required in paragraphs (b)(1) through 
(b)(9).
    (f) KCCO will accept form CFSA-751 submitted through the following 
methods:
    (1) Mail service, including express mail,
    (2) Facsimile machine, and
    (3) Other electronic transmissions, provided such transmissions are 
approved in advance by KCCO. The importer remains responsible for 
ensuring that electronically transmitted forms are received in 
accordance with this section.
    (g) Distribution of form CFSA-751 will be as follows:
    (1) If form CFSA-751 is submitted to KCCO in accordance with 
paragraph (f)(1) of this section, the original shall be forwarded to 
Kansas City Commodity Office, Warehouse License and Contract Division, 
P.O. Box 419205, Kansas City, MO 64141-6205, by the importer, end user, 
exporter, or subsequent buyer,
    (2) If form CFSA-751 is submitted to KCCO in accordance with 
paragraphs (f)(2) or (f)(3) of this section, the original form CFSA-751 
that is signed and dated by the importer, end user, exporter, or 
subsequent buyer in accordance with paragraph (b)(8)(v) or (b)(9)(iv) 
of this section shall be maintained by the importer, end user, 
exporter, or subsequent buyer,
    (3) One copy shall be retained by the importer, end user, exporter, 
or subsequent buyer.
* * * * *
    9. Section 782.17 is amended by:
    A. Redesignating paragraph (b) as paragraph (c), and
    B. Adding a new paragraph (b) to read as follows:

Sec. 782.17  Wheat purchased for resale.

* * * * *
    (b) The importer or subsequent buyer shall immediately notify each 
subsequent buyer, grain handler, exporter, or end user that the wheat 
being purchased or handled originated in Canada and may only be 
commingled with U.S.--produced wheat by the end user or when loaded 
onto a conveyance for direct delivery to the end use or a foreign 
country.
* * * * *
    Signed at Washington, DC, on November 3, 1995.
Grant Buntrock,
Administrator, Consolidated Farm Service Agency.
[FR Doc. 95-27817 Filed 11-13-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-05-P

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