Federal Register proposed rules — 1996-04-01

issue-1996-04-01Federal Register proposed rules — 1996-04-01Proposed Regulation

Abrir fonte

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. 96-7887 Northeast Multispecies Fishery; Amendment 7; Resubmission of Disapproved Measure
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 63 (Monday, April 1, 1996)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Page 14284]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-7887]

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

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

50 CFR Part 651

[I.D. 032196D]

Northeast Multispecies Fishery; Amendment 7; Resubmission of 
Disapproved Measure

AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce.

ACTION: Notice of availability; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: NMFS announces that the New England Fishery Management Council 
(Council) has revised a management measure concerning additional days-
at-sea (DAS) for vessels enrolled in the Large Mesh Individual DAS 
category in Amendment 7 to the Fishery Management Plan for the 
Northeast Multispecies Fishery (FMP). The original measure was 
disapproved. A revised version of that measure has been submitted and 
accepted for Secretarial review. The intended effect of this measure is 
to promote conservation by providing an equitably applied incentive to 
use nets constructed of mesh that are larger than the minimum size.

DATES: Comments on the revised portion of Amendment 7 must be received 
on or before April 19, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Send comments to Dr. Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Director, 
NMFS, Northeast Regional Office, 1 Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 
01930-3799. Mark the outside of the envelope ``Comments on large-mesh 
individual DAS vessels.''
    Copies of the original Amendment 7 and related documents are 
available from the New England Fishery Management Council, 5 Broadway 
(U.S. Rte. 1), Saugus, MA, 01906-1097.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Susan A. Murphy, Fishery Policy 
Analyst, 508-281-9252.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Amendment 7 was prepared by the Council and 
submitted to the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) for review under 
section 304(b) of the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act 
(Magnuson Act). The Magnuson Act requires the Secretary to approve, 
disapprove, or partially disapprove FMPs or amendments, based upon a 
determination of consistency with national standards and other 
applicable laws. On February 14, 1996, the Secretary announced 
disapproval of three measures contained in Amendment 7: The additional 
allowance of DAS for trawl vessels enrolled in the Individual DAS 
category that use exclusively 8-inch (20.32 cm) mesh; the 300-lb 
(136.1-kg) possession allowance of regulated species for vessels that 
use 8-inch (20.32 cm) mesh in an exempted fishery; and the 
establishment of a limited access category for vessels that fished in 
the Possession Limit open access category under Amendment 5. The 
remainder of Amendment 7 was published as a proposed rule on March 5, 
1996 (61 FR 8492).
    Pursuant to section 304(b)(3)(A) of the Magnuson Act, the Council 
has resubmitted two of the three measures originally disapproved. One 
of the resubmitted measures would give additional groundfish DAS to all 
groundfish vessels fishing exclusively with large mesh and that elect 
to fish under the Large Mesh Individual DAS category under Amendment 7 
to the FMP. The Council remedied the defect that led to preliminary 
disapproval by clarifying that the proposed measure to increase fishing 
time in the individual category would apply to all vessels using large 
mesh, whether they are trawl vessels or gillnet vessels.
    NMFS, on behalf of the Secretary, disapproved a second resubmitted 
measure that would have allowed a 300-lb (136.1-kg) regulated species 
possession limit for vessels fishing with 8-inch (20.32-cm) mesh in an 
exempted fishery. This measure was disapproved before publishing this 
notice of availability as authorized under section 304(a)(1)(A)(ii) of 
the Magnuson Act.
    Regulations proposed by the Council to implement the resubmitted 
measure for Amendment 7 to the FMP are scheduled to be published within 
15 days.

    Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.

    Dated: March 27, 1996.
Richard W. Surdi,
Acting Director, Office of Fisheries Conservation and Management, 
National Marine Fisheries Service.
[FR Doc. 96-7887 Filed 3-27-96; 4:28 pm]
BILLING CODE 3510-22-F

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 96-7880 Regulations Governing Payments by Banks and Other Financial Institutions of United States Savings Bonds and United States Savings Notes (Freedom Shares)
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 63 (Monday, April 1, 1996)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14444-14445]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-7880]

[[Page 14443]]

_______________________________________________________________________

Part X

Department of the Treasury

_______________________________________________________________________

Fiscal Service

_______________________________________________________________________

31 CFR Part 321

Regulations Governing Payments by Banks and Other Financial 
Institutions of United States Savings Bonds and United States Savings 
Notes (Freedom Shares); Proposed Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 63 / Monday, April 1, 1996 / Proposed 
Rules

[[Page 14444]]

DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY

Fiscal Service

31 CFR Part 321

[Department of the Treasury Circular, Public Debt Series No. 750]

Regulations Governing Payments by Banks and Other Financial 
Institutions of United States Savings Bonds and United States Savings 
Notes (Freedom Shares)

AGENCY: Bureau of the Public Debt, Fiscal Service, Department of the 
Treasury.

ACTION: Proposed Rule.

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

SUMMARY: The Department of the Treasury hereby publishes, for comment, 
a proposed rule amending the regulations to update procedures used by 
the Bureau of the Public Debt for collecting debts owed by paying 
agents of United States Savings Bonds and Savings Notes (collectively 
referred to herein as savings bonds or bonds). These collection 
procedures are used when a paying agent cannot be relieved of liability 
for a savings bond transaction and the paying agent fails to reimburse 
Public Debt in a timely manner. Accounts designated or utilized by 
paying agents at Federal Reserve Banks for receiving settlements for 
savings bond redemptions are immediately credited upon the receipt of 
paid bonds with cash letters by Federal Reserve Banks or Branches 
through the EZ CLEAR system. These immediate settlements occur with the 
understanding that adjustments to correct errors may later be 
necessary.
    This system has expedited the process of crediting the accounts 
paying agents have designated or utilized for receiving savings bond 
transaction settlements. However, the system has also made it more 
cumbersome for Public Debt to collect monies from paying agents, not 
relieved of liability, that fail to reimburse Public Debt in a timely 
manner. This amendment will correct this problem by providing that 
paying agents are deemed to have authorized the debit of any overdue 
amount, interest, administrative cost, and penalty assessed, directly 
from the agents' Reserve, correspondent, or clearing accounts 
designated or utilized at Federal Reserve Banks or Branches for 
settlement of redeemed savings bonds.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before May 1, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Comments should be sent to: Department of the Treasury, 
Bureau of the Public Debt, P. O. Box 1328, Parkersburg, West Virginia 
26106-1328, Attention Debit Reg. Group, Room 507, Division of Staff 
Services. Comments received will be available for public inspection and 
copying at the Treasury Department Library, FOIA Collection, Room 5030, 
Main Treasury Building, 1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 
20220. Persons wishing to visit the library should call (202) 622-0990 
for an appointment.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wallace L. Earnest, Division Director, 
Division of Staff Services, Bureau of the Public Debt, (304) 480-6319, 
or Edward Gronseth, Deputy Chief Counsel, Office of the Chief Counsel, 
Bureau of the Public Debt, (304) 480-5192.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Background

    The Proposed Rule will update the debt collection process used by 
the Bureau of the Public Debt. This update is necessitated by the 
automated processing of redeemed savings bonds through EZ CLEAR.
    The collection procedures will apply when a paying agent cannot be 
relieved of liability under 31 U.S.C. 3126(a) for a loss resulting from 
a payment of a savings bond pursuant to 31 CFR Part 321. No change is 
being made in the procedure for assessing liability under 31 U.S.C. 
3126(a), or in the regulations with respect to such liability 
determinations.
    Relief of a paying agent from liability for a loss related to the 
redemption of a savings bond is a determination made under authority of 
31 U.S.C. 3126(a).
    When a depository financial institution qualifies as a savings bond 
paying agent, it agrees in writing to be bound by all of the provisions 
set out in 31 CFR Part 321 and the Appendix, as revised and amended, 
including any instructions promulgated by Treasury and its fiscal 
agents.
    Paying agents receive settlements for the value of savings bonds 
redeemed via credits to Reserve, correspondent, and clearing accounts 
with Federal Reserve Banks, or their Branches.

II. Summary of Amendments

    Section 321.21 will refer to collection procedures outlined in 
Paragraph 21 of the Appendix to this Part.
    Paragraph 21 of the Appendix to this Part, will provide a detailed 
explanation of the consequences of a paying agent's failure to make 
reimbursement within 30 days of Public Debt's mailing the first demand 
letter, provided the paying agent cannot be relieved of liability under 
31 U.S.C. 3126(a) for an erroneous payment.
    A paying agent receiving settlement for the redemption value of 
redeemed savings bonds via credits to a Reserve, correspondent, or 
clearing account is deemed to have authorized the Federal Reserve Bank 
or Branch to debit the amount due from that account. Such debits shall 
be made if the paying agent fails to make timely reimbursement or 
submit new evidence sufficient for Public Debt to change a 
determination of liability within 120 days of the mailing of the first 
demand letter. The amount due from the redemption of a security for 
which the paying agent is not relieved of liability, under 31 U.S.C. 
3126(a), shall include the amount of the final loss resulting from the 
erroneous payment, interest, administrative costs, and penalty charges.
    A financial institution designated by a paying agent to receive 
settlement for redeemed savings bonds on behalf of that paying agent 
via a credit to a Reserve, correspondent, or clearing account with a 
Federal Reserve Bank or Branch is deemed to have authorized a debit 
from such account to collect an amount due from the paying agent. The 
consequences of a paying agent's failure to make timely reimbursement 
include the paying agent's being required to pay:
    (a) Interest charges accruing from the date the first demand letter 
is mailed to the date of reimbursement, at the current value of funds 
rate published by the Secretary of the Treasury annually or quarterly 
in the Federal Register;
    (b) Administrative costs (currently processing costs of $6.00) will 
be assessed, if reimbursement is not made within 30 days of the date 
the first demand letter is mailed;
    (c) Penalty charges in accordance with 31 U.S.C. 3717(e), if 
reimbursement is not made within 120 days of the date the first demand 
letter is mailed. When assessed, the penalty charge will accrue and be 
calculated from 30 days after the date the first demand letter is 
mailed to the date of reimbursement.

Procedural Requirements

    It has been determined that this Proposed Rule is not a 
``significant regulatory action,'' pursuant to Executive Order 12866.
    Although this rule is being issued in proposed form to secure the 
benefit of public comment, the rule relates to matters of public 
contract, as well as the borrowing power and fiscal authority of the 
United States. The notice and public procedures requirements of the 
Administrative Procedure Act are inapplicable, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 
553(a)(2). As no notice of proposed rulemaking is required, the 
provisions

[[Page 14445]]
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601, et seq.) do not apply.
    There are no collections of information required by this Proposed 
Rule, therefore, the Paperwork Reduction Act does not apply.
    Comments: Consideration will be given to any written comments that 
are submitted to the Bureau of the Public Debt. All comments will be 
available for public inspection and copying.

List of Subjects in 31 CFR Part 321

    Banks, Banking, Bonds, Government securities.

    Dated: March 26, 1996.
Gerald Murphy,
Fiscal Assistant Secretary.

    For the reasons set forth in the preamble, Part 321 of Title 31 of 
the Code of Federal Regulations is proposed to be amended as follows:

PART 321--PAYMENTS BY BANKS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS OF 
UNITED STATES SAVINGS BONDS AND UNITED STATES SAVINGS NOTES 
(FREEDOM SHARES)

    1. The authority citation for Part 321 is proposed to be revised as 
follows:

    Authority: 2 U.S.C. 901, 5 U.S.C. 301, 12 U.S.C. 391, 31 U.S.C. 
3105, 31 U.S.C. 3126.

    2. Section 321.21 is proposed to be revised to read as follows:

Sec. 321.21  Replacement and recovery of losses.

    (a) If a final loss results from the redemption of a security, and 
the paying agent redeeming the security is not relieved of liability 
for such loss under 31 U.S.C. 3126(a), the Bureau of the Public Debt 
will demand that the paying agent promptly reimburse the United States 
in the amount of the final loss and will take such other action as may 
be necessary to collect such amount as set out in the procedure 
described in Paragraph 21 of the Appendix to this Part.
    (b) If a final loss has resulted from the redemption of a security, 
and no reimbursement has been or will be made, the loss shall be 
subject to replacement out of the fund established by the Government 
Losses in Shipment Act, as amended.
    3. Subpart E, Paragraph 21 of the Appendix to this Part is proposed 
to be revised to read as follows:

Appendix to Department of the Treasury Circular No. 750, Fourth 
Addition

* * * * *
    21. Determination of liability. [Sec. 321.18 and Sec. 321.21]
    (a) Upon completing the investigation, the Bureau of the Public 
Debt will examine the available information and determine whether a 
paying agent may be relieved of liability for any loss resulting 
from a payment. If the paying agent cannot be relieved of liability, 
demand will be made upon the paying agent to reimburse the Treasury 
promptly. Any amount not paid within 30 days following the mailing 
of the first demand letter is subject to the following charges.
    (1) Interest shall accrue from the date the first demand letter 
is mailed to the date reimbursement is made. The rate of interest to 
be used will be the current value of funds rate published annually 
or quarterly in the Federal Register and in effect during the entire 
period in which the remittance is late.
    (2) Administrative costs shall be assessed as set out in the 
first demand letter, if reimbursement is not made within 30 days of 
the date the first demand letter is mailed.
    (3) Penalty charges shall be assessed, in accordance with 31 
U.S.C. 3717(e), if reimbursement is not made within 120 days of the 
date the first demand letter is mailed. The penalty charge will 
accrue and be calculated from 30 days after the date the first 
demand letter is mailed to the date of reimbursement.
    (b) When a paying agent fails, within 120 days of the date the 
first demand letter is mailed, to make such reimbursement or to 
submit new evidence sufficient for Public Debt to change the 
determination of liability; by virtue of the paying agent's 
acceptance of settlement via credits to a Reserve, correspondent, or 
clearing account with a Federal Reserve Bank or Branch, the agent is 
deemed to have authorized the Federal Reserve Bank to debit the 
amount due from that account designated or utilized by the agent at 
the Federal Reserve Bank or Branch. An institution, designated by a 
paying agent to receive settlement on its behalf, in authorizing 
such paying agent to utilize its Reserve, correspondent, or clearing 
account on the books at the Federal Reserve Bank shall similarly be 
deemed to authorize such debits from that account.
    (c) Reconsideration of a determination of liability will be made 
in any case when a paying agent so requests and presents additional 
evidence and information regarding the transaction.

[FR Doc. 96-7880 Filed 3-29-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4810-39-P

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 96-7856 Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 727 Series Airplanes
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 63 (Monday, April 1, 1996)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14269-14271]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-7856]

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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. 95-NM-222-AD]

Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 727 Series Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: This document proposes to revise an existing airworthiness 
directive (AD), applicable to all Boeing Model 727 series airplanes, 
that currently requires inspections to detect loose attach fitting 
bolts of the door actuator of the main landing gear (MLG), inspections 
to determine whether serrations are fully mated, and various follow-on 
corrective actions. That AD also provides for an optional terminating 
modification for certain requirements. That AD was prompted by reports 
of loose attach fitting bolts of the door actuator of the MLG. The 
actions specified by that AD are intended to prevent an airplane from 
landing with one MLG partially extended. This action would provide 
operators the option of terminating all of the requirements of that AD 
by replacing the aluminum rib fitting with a new steel rib fitting, or 
by modifying the rib fitting assembly and performing various follow-on 
actions.

DATES: Comments must be received by May 9, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Submit comments in triplicate to the Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA), Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-103, 
Attention: Rules Docket No. 95-NM-222-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington 98055-4056. Comments may be inspected at this location 
between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays.
    The service information referenced in the proposed rule may be 
obtained from Boeing Commercial Airplane Group, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, 
Washington 98124-2207.
    This information may be examined at the FAA, Transport Airplane 
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Walter Sippel, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington; telephone (206) 227-2774; fax 
(206) 227-1181.

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 shall 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 summarizing each FAA-public contact concerned with 
the substance of this

[[Page 14270]]
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 Number 95-NM-222-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, Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-103, Attention: Rules 
Docket No. 95-NM-222-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 
98055-4056.

Discussion

    On January 11, 1993, the FAA issued AD 93-01-14, amendment 39-8468 
(58 FR 5574, January 22, 1993), applicable to all Boeing Model 727 
series airplanes, to require inspections to detect loose attach fitting 
bolts of the door actuator of the main landing gear (MLG), inspections 
to determine whether serrations are fully mated, and various follow-on 
corrective actions. That action also provides for the termination of 
certain inspection requirements. That action was prompted by reports of 
loose attach fitting bolts of the door actuator of the MLG. The 
requirements of that AD are intended to prevent an airplane from 
landing with one MLG partially extended.
    Additionally, on December 15, 1989, the FAA issued AD 90-02-19, 
amendment 39-6433 (55 FR 601, January 8, 1990), to require inspections 
of all Model 727 series airplanes to detect cracking of the actuator 
rib fitting of the inboard door of the MLG, and rework or replacement 
of any cracked fitting. That action was prompted by an incident in 
which the actuator rib fitting of the MLG door on a Model 727 series 
airplane fractured and, consequently, the left MLG of the airplane 
failed to extend for landing. The requirements of that AD are intended 
to prevent damage to the airplane caused by a failure of the landing 
gear to extend due to a fractured rib fitting.
    Since the issuance of those AD's, the FAA has reviewed and approved 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-32A0399, dated July 13, 1995. The 
alert service bulletin describes procedures for:
    1. Either a high frequency eddy current or dye penetrant inspection 
to detect cracking of the actuator rib fitting of the MLG.
    2. Modification of the rib fitting assembly, which includes 
changing the existing 0.250-inch radius to a 0.42-inch radius, and 
repetitive high frequency eddy current or dye penetrant inspections, 
for findings of no cracking. The modification also includes installing 
new shims, nuts, bolts, lockwires, and cotter pins, as well as 
establishing new torque requirements. (These actions are specified in 
Figure 4 of the alert service bulletin.) Accomplishment of this 
modification and the follow-on actions would eliminate the need for all 
of the inspections required by AD 93-01-14.
    3. Replacement of the currently installed aluminum rib fitting with 
a new steel rib fitting, for findings of cracking. (This action is 
specified in Figure 5 of the alert service bulletin.) Such replacement 
would eliminate the need for all of the inspections required by AD 93-
01-14.
    The FAA is currently proposing, in a separate rulemaking action 
(Docket No. 95-NM-223-AD), to mandate the inspections specified in Item 
1., above, and the modification of the rib fitting assembly, specified 
in Item 2., above. Accomplishment of either of these actions would 
terminate the requirements of AD 93-01-14.
    Since an unsafe condition has been identified that is likely to 
exist or develop on other products of this same type design, the 
proposed AD would revise AD 93-01-14 to continue to require inspections 
of the attach fitting bolts of the door actuator of the MLG, 
inspections to determine whether serrations are fully mated, and 
various follow-on corrective actions.
    This proposed AD would provide operators the option of terminating 
all of the inspections required by AD 93-01-14 by either replacing the 
currently installed aluminum rib fitting with a new steel rib fitting, 
or modifying the rib fitting assembly and accomplishing the follow-on 
actions. Such replacement or modification would also terminate the 
inspections required by AD 90-02-19. If accomplished, the replacement, 
or modification and follow-on actions, would be required to be 
performed in accordance with the alert service bulletin described 
previously.
    The FAA is not proposing to mandate replacement of the currently 
installed aluminum rib fitting, or modification of the rib fitting 
assembly and follow-on actions, because the inspections required by AD 
93-01-14 have consistently detected, prior to catastrophic 
consequences, loose attach fitting bolts of the door actuator of the 
MLG and serrations that are not fully mated. Service history has 
demonstrated that these inspections have ensured safety of the fleet 
adequately for a number of years.
    There are approximately 1,631 Boeing Model 727 series airplanes of 
the affected design in the worldwide fleet. The FAA estimates that 
1,166 airplanes of U.S. registry would be affected by this proposed AD.
    The inspections currently required by AD 93-01-14 take 
approximately 1 work hour per airplane to accomplish, at an average 
labor rate of $60 per work hour. Based on these figures, the cost 
impact of the proposed AD on U.S. operators is estimated to be $69,960, 
or $60 per airplane, per inspection cycle.
    Should an operator elect to accomplish the optional terminating 
action by replacing the currently installed aluminum rib fitting with a 
new steel rib fitting, it would take approximately 4 work hours per 
airplane at an average labor rate of $60 per work hour. Required parts 
would cost approximately $428 per airplane. Based on these figures, the 
cost impact of this proposed optional terminating action on U.S. 
operators is estimated to be $668 per airplane.
    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 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 proposed 
regulation (1) is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under 
Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ``significant rule'' under the 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 is contained 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 
part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as 
follows:

[[Page 14271]]

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

    Authority: 49 USC 106(g), 40113, 44701.

Sec. 39.13  [Amended]

    2. Section 39.13 is amended by removing amendment 39-8468 (58 FR 
5574, January 22, 1993), and by adding a new airworthiness directive 
(AD), to read as follows:

Boeing: Docket 95-NM-222-AD. Revises AD 93-01-14, Amendment 39-8468.

    Applicability: All Model 727 airplanes, certificated in any 
category.

    Note 1: This AD applies to each airplane identified in the 
preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been 
otherwise 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 (j) 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: Required as indicated, unless accomplished 
previously.
    To prevent an airplane from landing with one main landing gear 
(MLG) partially extended due to loose attach fitting bolts, 
accomplish the following:
    (a) Within the next 1,500 flight cycles after October 15, 1991 
(the effective date of AD 91-15-14, amendment 39-7078), inspect to 
detect loose attach fitting bolts of the door actuator of the MLG in 
accordance with paragraph III., Accomplishment Instructions, of 
Boeing Service Bulletin 727-32-0383, dated December 6, 1990.
    (b) If any loose bolt is detected during the inspection required 
by paragraph (a) of this AD, prior to further flight, accomplish 
either Figure 1 or 2 of Boeing Service Bulletin 727-32-0383, dated 
December 6, 1990.
    (c) For airplanes that have accomplished the actions required by 
paragraph (a) of this AD prior to February 23, 1993 (the effective 
date of AD 93-01-14, amendment 39-8468): Prior to the accumulation 
of 3,700 flight cycles after accomplishing the inspection or 
replacement required by paragraphs (a) and (b) of this AD, or within 
3 years after February 23, 1993, whichever occurs earlier, inspect 
to ensure that serrations of the attach fitting of the door actuator 
of the MLG are fully mated, and to detect loose attach fitting bolts 
of the door actuator of the MLG; in accordance with paragraph III., 
Accomplishment Instructions, of Boeing Service Bulletin 727-32-0383, 
Revision 1, dated January 30, 1992. Repeat this inspection 
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 3,700 flight cycles or 3 years 
after the immediately preceding inspection, whichever occurs 
earlier.
    (d) If serrations are not fully mated, or if any loose bolt is 
detected during the inspections required by paragraph (c) of this 
AD, prior to further flight, accomplish either Figure 1 or Figure 2 
of Boeing Service Bulletin 727-32-0383, dated December 6, 1990; or 
Revision 1, dated January 30, 1992.
    (1) If Figure 1 of either service bulletin is accomplished, 
repeat the inspection required by paragraph (c) of this AD at 
intervals not to exceed 3,700 flight cycles or 3 years after the 
immediately preceding inspection, whichever occurs earlier.
    (2) Accomplishment of Figure 2 of Revision 1 of the service 
bulletin (for all bolts); or accomplishment of Figure 2 of the 
service bulletin dated December 6, 1990 (for bolts 1 and 2) and 
accomplishment of a torque check of bolt 3 in accordance with 
Revision 1 of the service bulletin; constitutes terminating action 
for the inspection requirements of paragraph (c) of this AD.
    (e) For airplanes on which the inspections required by paragraph 
(a) of this AD prior to February 23, 1993 (the effective date of AD 
93-01-14, amendment 39-8468) have not previously accomplished the 
actions: Prior to the accumulation of 1,500 flight cycles after 
February 23, 1993, or within 18 months after February 23, 1993, 
whichever occurs earlier, inspect to ensure that serrations of the 
attach fitting bolts of the door actuator of the MLG are fully 
mated, and to detect loose attach fitting bolts; in accordance with 
paragraph III., Accomplishment Instructions, of Boeing Service 
Bulletin 727-32-0383, Revision 1, dated January 30, 1992. Repeat 
this inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 3,700 flight 
cycles or 3 years after the immediately preceding inspection, 
whichever occurs earlier;
    (f) If serrations are not fully mated, or if any loose bolt is 
detected during the inspections required by paragraph (e) of this 
AD, prior to further flight, accomplish either Figure 1 or Figure 2 
of Boeing Service Bulletin 727-32-0383, Revision 1, dated January 
30, 1992.
    (1) If Figure 1 of the service bulletin is accomplished, repeat 
the inspection required by paragraph (e) of this AD at intervals not 
to exceed 3,700 flight cycles or 3 years after the immediately 
preceding inspection, whichever occurs earlier.
    (2) Accomplishment of Figure 2 of the service bulletin 
constitutes terminating action for the inspection requirements of 
paragraph (e) of this AD.
    (g) Accomplishment of the actions specified in either paragraphs 
(g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD constitutes terminating action for all 
of the requirements of this AD.
    (1) Replace the currently installed aluminum rib fitting with a 
new steel rib fitting in accordance with Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 727-32A0399, dated July 13, 1995. Or
    (2) Modify the rib fitting assembly in accordance with Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 727-32A0399, dated July 13, 1995, and 
accomplish the follow-on actions specified in Figure 4 of the alert 
service bulletin.
    (h) As of the effective date of this AD, no person shall install 
an aluminum rib fitting on any airplane unless that fitting has been 
previously modified in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
727-32A0399, dated July 13, 1995.
    (i) 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.
    (j) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the 
compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used if approved by the Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification 
Office (ACO), FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate. Operators shall 
submit their requests through an appropriate FAA Principal 
Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the 
Manager, Seattle ACO.

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

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 26, 1996.
Darrell M. Pederson,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 96-7856 Filed 3-29-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-U

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 96-7855 Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 727 Series Airplanes
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 63 (Monday, April 1, 1996)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14271-14273]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-7855]

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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. 95-NM-223-AD]

Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 727 Series Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: This document proposes the supersedure of an existing 
airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to all Boeing Model 727 series 
airplanes, that currently requires inspections to detect cracking of 
the actuator rib fitting of the inboard door of the main landing gear 
(MLG); and rework or replacement of any cracked fitting. That action 
was prompted by reports that the MLG failed to extend for a landing due 
to a fractured rib fitting. This action would require inspections to 
detect cracking in an expanded area of the actuator rib fitting, and 
various follow-on actions. This action is prompted by a report of a 
fractured rib fitting that had been reworked in accordance with the 
existing AD. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to 
prevent damage to the airplane caused by a failure of the landing gear 
to extend due to a fractured rib fitting.

DATES: Comments must be received by May 9, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Submit comments in triplicate to the Federal Aviation

[[Page 14272]]
Administration (FAA), Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-103, 
Attention: Rules Docket No. 95-NM-223-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., 
Renton, Washington 98055-4056. Comments may be inspected at this 
location between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except 
Federal holidays. -
    The service information referenced in the proposed rule may be 
obtained from Boeing Commercial Airplane Group, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, 
Washington 98124-2207.
    This information may be examined at the FAA, Transport Airplane 
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Walter Sippel, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; telephone (206) 227-2774; 
fax (206) 227-1181.

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 shall 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 summarizing 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 Number 95-NM-223-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, Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-103, Attention: Rules 
Docket No. 95-NM-223-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 
98055-4056.

Discussion -

    On December 15, 1989, the FAA issued AD 90-02-19, amendment 39-6433 
(55 FR 601, January 8, 1990), applicable to all Boeing Model 727 series 
airplanes, to require inspections to detect cracking of the actuator 
rib fitting of the inboard door of the main landing gear (MLG); and 
rework or replacement of any cracked fitting with a reworked or new 
fitting. That action was prompted by an incident in which the actuator 
rib fitting of the MLG door on a Model 727 series airplane fractured 
and, consequently, the left MLG of the airplane failed to extend for 
landing. The requirements of that AD are intended to prevent damage to 
the airplane caused by a failure of the landing gear to extend due to a 
fractured rib fitting. -
    Additionally, on January 11, 1993, the FAA issued AD 93-01-14, 
amendment 39-8468 (58 FR 5574, January 22, 1993). That AD requires 
inspections to detect loose attach fitting bolts of the door actuator 
of the MLG, inspections to determine whether serrations are fully 
mated, and various follow-on corrective actions. The requirements of 
that AD are intended to prevent landing with one MLG partially 
extended. -
    Since the issuance of those AD's, the FAA has received an 
additional report of an MLG on a Model 727 series airplane failing to 
extend for landing, due to a fractured rib fitting. The broken rib 
fitting caused the MLG door and MLG to retract improperly (out of 
sequence), which led to the MLG jamming against the MLG door. That 
airplane had accumulated 34,038 flight hours and 22,776 landings. The 
fitting on that airplane had been reworked in accordance with the 
requirements of AD 90-02-19; no follow-on inspections of the fitting 
were required by that AD. Further, the area of inspection specified by 
AD 90-02-19 did not include the area of the fitting in which this most 
recent incident of cracking was found. -
    The FAA has reviewed and approved Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
727-32A0399, dated July 13, 1995. This alert service bulletin describes 
procedures for:
    1. Either a high frequency eddy current or dye penetrant inspection 
to detect cracking in an expanded area of the actuator rib fitting of 
the MLG. -
    2. Modification of the rib fitting assembly, which includes 
changing the existing 0.250-inch radius to a 0.42-inch radius, and 
repetitive high frequency eddy current or dye penetrant inspections, 
for findings of no cracking. The modification also includes installing 
new shims, nuts, bolts, lockwires, and cotter pins, as well as 
establishing new torque requirements. Accomplishment of this 
modification and follow-on actions eliminates the need for all of the 
inspections required by AD 93-01-14. -
    3. Replacement of the currently installed aluminum rib fitting with 
a new steel rib fitting when cracking is found. Accomplishment of this 
replacement eliminates the need for all of the inspections required by 
AD 93-01-14. -
    Since an unsafe condition has been identified that is likely to 
exist or develop on other products of this same type design, the 
proposed AD would supersede AD 90-02-19 to require either a high 
frequency eddy current or dye penetrant inspection to detect cracking 
in an expanded area of the actuator rib fitting of the MLG, and various 
follow-on actions. -
    This proposed AD would also require modification of the rib fitting 
assembly, and either repetitive high frequency eddy current or dye 
penetrant inspections for cases in which no cracking is found. Such 
modification and repetitive inspections would terminate the 
requirements of AD 93-01-14. -
    This proposed AD would also require replacement of the currently 
installed aluminum rib fitting with a new steel rib fitting for 
findings of cracking. Such replacement would terminate the proposed 
requirement to inspect the fitting repetitively and would terminate the 
requirements of AD 93-01-14. The FAA is currently proposing, in a 
separate rulemaking action (reference Docket 95-NM-222-AD), to revise 
AD 93-01-14 to include this optional terminating action for the 
requirements of that AD. -
    The actions proposed by this AD would be required to be 
accomplished in accordance with the alert service bulletin described 
previously. -
    The FAA is not proposing to mandate replacement of the currently 
installed aluminum rib fittings that are not cracked. The FAA finds 
that modification of rib fitting assembly and follow-on actions will 
preclude fractured rib fittings of the MLG. -
    There are approximately 1,631 Boeing Model 727 series airplanes of 
the affected design in the worldwide fleet. The FAA estimates that 
1,166 airplanes of U.S. registry would be affected by this proposed AD. 
-
    The new actions that are proposed in this AD action would take 
approximately 10 work hours per

[[Page 14273]]
airplane to accomplish, at an average labor rate of $60 per work hour. 
Based on these figures, the cost impact on U.S. operators of the 
proposed requirements of this AD is estimated to be $699,600, or $600 
per airplane. -
    The cost impact figures discussed above are based on assumptions 
that no operator has yet accomplished any of the current or proposed 
requirements of this AD action, and that no operator would accomplish 
those actions in the future if this AD were not adopted. -
    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 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 proposed 
regulation (1) is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under 
Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ``significant rule'' under the 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 is contained 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 
part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as 
follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES -

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

    Authority: 49 USC 106(g), 40113, 44701.

Sec. 39.13  [Amended] -

    2. Section 39.13 is amended by removing amendment 39-6433 (55 FR 
601, January 8, 1990), and by adding a new airworthiness directive 
(AD), to read as follows:

Boeing: Docket 95-NM-223-AD. Supersedes AD 90-02-19, Amendment 39-
6433.

    -Applicability: All Model 727 series airplanes, certificated in 
any category.

    -Note 1: This AD applies to each airplane identified in the 
preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been 
otherwise 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 (f) 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: Required as indicated, unless accomplished 
previously. -
    To prevent failure of the main landing gear (MLG) to extend for 
landing and subsequent damage to the airplane, accomplish the 
following:
    (a) Perform either a high frequency eddy current or dye 
penetrant inspection to detect cracking of the actuator rib fitting 
of the MLG in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-
32A0399, dated July 13, 1995, at the later of the times specified in 
either paragraph (a)(1) or (a)(2) of this AD. -
    (1) Prior to the accumulation of 20,000 total flight cycles; or 
-
    (2) Prior to the accumulation of 1,000 flight cycles after the 
effective date of this AD, or within 2,500 flight cycles after the 
immediately preceding inspection performed in accordance with AD 90-
02-19, amendment 39-6433, whichever occurs earlier. -
    (b) If no cracking is detected during the inspection required by 
paragraph (a) of this AD, prior to further flight, modify the rib 
fitting assembly in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
727-32A0399, dated July 13, 1995. Within 7,500 flight cycles after 
accomplishing this modification, perform either a high frequency 
eddy current or dye penetrant inspection to detect cracking of the 
modified actuator rib fitting of the MLG in accordance with the 
alert service bulletin. Repeat the inspection thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 2,500 flight cycles, until the fitting is 
replaced in accordance with paragraph (d) of this AD. -
    (c) If any cracking is detected during the inspections required 
by either paragraph (a) or (b) of this AD, prior to further flight, 
replace the currently installed aluminum rib fitting with a new 
steel rib fitting, in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
727-32A0399, dated July 13, 1995. Such replacement constitutes 
terminating action for the requirements of this AD. -
    (d) Replacement of the currently installed aluminum rib fitting 
with a new steel rib fitting in accordance with Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 727-32A0399, dated July 13, 1995, constitutes terminating 
action for the requirements of this AD. -
    (e) As of the effective date of this AD, no person shall install 
an aluminum rib fitting on any airplane unless that fitting has been 
previously modified in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
727-32A0399, dated July 13, 1995. -
    (f) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the 
compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used if approved by the Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification 
Office (ACO), FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate. Operators shall 
submit their requests through an appropriate FAA Principal 
Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the 
Manager, Seattle ACO.

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

    -(g) 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.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 26, 1996.
Darrell M. Pederson,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 96-7855 Filed 3-29-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 96-7854 Airworthiness Directives; Fokker Model F28 Series Airplanes (Excluding Fokker Model F28 Mark 0100 Series Airplanes)
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 63 (Monday, April 1, 1996)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14273-14275]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-7854]

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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. 95-NM-151-AD]

Airworthiness Directives; Fokker Model F28 Series Airplanes 
(Excluding Fokker Model F28 Mark 0100 Series Airplanes)

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness 
directive (AD) that is applicable to certain Fokker Model F28 series 
airplanes. This proposal would require replacement of certain junction 
fittings of the horizontal stabilizer with improved fittings. For 
certain airplanes, the proposal also would require replacement of the 
drive-fitting bushings and bolts of the horizontal stabilizer with 
improved bushings and bolts. This proposal is prompted by reports of 
stress corrosion cracking in a junction fitting lug of the horizontal 
stabilizer. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to 
prevent such cracking, which could result in failure of a lug and 
uncommanded movement of the horizontal stabilizer. This condition, if 
not corrected, could result in reduced controllability of the airplane.

[[Page 14274]]

DATES: Comments must be received by May 9, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Submit comments in triplicate to the Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA), Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-103, 
Attention: Rules Docket No. 95-NM-151-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington 98055-4056. Comments may be inspected at this location 
between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. -
    The service information referenced in the proposed rule may be 
obtained from Fokker Aircraft USA, Inc., 1199 North Fairfax Street, 
Alexandria, Virginia 22314. This information may be examined at the 
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Dulin, Aerospace Engineer, 
Standardization Branch, ANM-113, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98055-4056; telephone (206) 
227-2141; fax (206) 227-1149.

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 shall 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 summarizing 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 Number 95-NM-151-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, Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-103, Attention: Rules 
Docket No. 95-NM-151-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 
98055-4056.

Discussion

    The Rijksluchtvaartdienst (RLD), which is the airworthiness 
authority for the Netherlands, notified the FAA that an unsafe 
condition may exist on certain Fokker Model F28 series airplanes. The 
RLD advises that it has received several reports indicating that 
cracking was found in the right-hand upper lug of the junction fitting 
of the horizontal stabilizer on these airplanes. This cracking has been 
attributed to stress corrosion. Such cracking can result in failure of 
a lug. Although ultimate load can be carried by the structure with one 
lug failure, uncommanded movement of the horizontal stabilizer can 
occur. This condition, if not corrected, could result in reduced 
controllability of the airplane.
    Fokker has issued Service Bulletin F28/55-029, Revision 1, dated 
January 23, 1993, which describes procedures for replacement of 
aluminum 7079 junction fittings (left and right) of the horizontal 
stabilizer with improved junction fittings made from aluminum 7075, 
which is much less sensitive to stress corrosion cracking. For certain 
airplanes, the service bulletin also describes procedures for 
replacement of the drive-fitting bushings and bolts of the horizontal 
stabilizer with new bushings and bolts made from a different material 
having improved resistance to corrosion. The RLD classified this 
service bulletin as mandatory and issued Dutch airworthiness directive 
BLA 92-119, dated October 23, 1992, in order to assure the continued 
airworthiness of these airplanes in the Netherlands.
    This airplane model is manufactured in the Netherlands 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. Pursuant to this 
bilateral airworthiness agreement, the RLD has kept the FAA informed of 
the situation described above. The FAA has examined the findings of the 
RLD, reviewed all available information, and determined that AD action 
is necessary for products of this type design that are certificated for 
operation in the United States.
    Since an unsafe condition has been identified that is likely to 
exist or develop on other airplanes of the same type design, the 
proposed AD would require replacement of aluminum 7079 junction 
fittings (left and right) of the horizontal stabilizer with improved 
fittings made from aluminum 7075. For certain airplanes, the proposed 
AD also would require replacement of the drive-fitting bushings and 
bolts of the horizontal stabilizer with new bushings and bolts made 
from a different material having improved resistance to corrosion. The 
actions would be required to be accomplished in accordance with the 
service bulletin described previously.
    Operators should note that the compliance time specified in the 
Dutch airworthiness directive for accomplishment of the replacements 
differs from that specified in this proposed AD. In developing an 
appropriate compliance time, the FAA considered the safety 
implications, parts availability, and normal maintenance schedules for 
timely accomplishment of the replacements. In light of these items, the 
FAA has determined that 18 months for compliance is appropriate.
    The FAA estimates that 14 airplanes of U.S. registry would be 
affected by this proposed AD.
    For airplanes on which replacement of aluminum 7079 junction 
fittings with improved fittings is required, the FAA estimates that it 
would take approximately 430 work hours per airplane to accomplish the 
replacement, at an average labor rate of $60 per work hour. Required 
parts would cost approximately $40,000 per airplane. Based on these 
figures, the cost impact of the proposed AD on U.S. operators for 
replacement of aluminum 7079 fittings is estimated to be $65,800 per 
airplane.
    For airplanes on which replacement of the drive-fitting bushings 
and bolts on the horizontal stabilizer with new bushings and bolts is 
required, the FAA estimates that it would take approximately 10 work 
hours per airplane to accomplish the replacement, at an average labor 
rate of $60 per work hour. Required parts would cost approximately 
$2,100 per airplane. Based on these figures, the cost impact of the 
proposed AD on U.S. operators for replacement of the drive-fitting 
bushings and bolts is estimated to be $2,700 per airplane.
    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 power and 
responsibilities among the

[[Page 14275]]
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 proposed 
regulation (1) is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under 
Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ``significant rule'' under the 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 is contained 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 
part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as 
follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES -

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

    Authority: 49 USC 106(g), 40113, 44701.

Sec. 39.13  [Amended]

    2. Section 39.13 is amended by adding the following new 
airworthiness directive:

Fokker: Docket 95-NM-151-AD.

    Applicability: Model F28 series airplanes (excluding Model F28 
Mark 0100 series airplanes); serial numbers 11003 through 11151 
inclusive, 11991, and 11992; certificated in any category.

    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 (d) 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: Required as indicated, unless accomplished 
previously.
    To prevent stress corrosion cracking of the junction fitting lug 
of the horizontal stabilizer, which could result in failure of the 
lug and uncommanded movement of the horizontal stabilizer, and 
subsequent reduced controllability of the airplane; accomplish the 
following:
    (a) Within 18 months after the effective date of this AD, 
replace the aluminum 7079 junction fittings (left and right) of the 
horizontal stabilizer with improved fittings made from aluminum 
7075, in accordance with Part 1 of the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Fokker Service Bulletin F28/55-029, Revision 1, dated January 23, 
1993.
    (b) For airplanes on which the drive-fitting bushings and bolts 
of the horizontal stabilizer have not been replaced in accordance 
with Fokker Service Bulletin F28/55-24: Within 18 months after the 
effective date of this AD, replace the drive-fitting bushings and 
bolts of the horizontal stabilizer with new bushings and bolts, in 
accordance with Part 2 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Fokker 
Service Bulletin F28/55-029, Revision 1, dated January 23, 1993.
    (c) Accomplishment of the replacements required by paragraphs 
(a) and (b) of this AD constitute terminating action for the 
inspections identified as item 55-50-05 in the Fokker Structural 
Integrity Program (SIP) Document 28438, Part 1, revised up through 
October 15, 1992, which are required by AD 93-13-04, amendment 39-
8617 (58 FR 38513, July 19, 1993). Once these replacements are 
accomplished, the life limits of the fitting lugs (identified as 
items 55-50-01 and 55-50-02 in the SIP Document) no longer apply.
    (d) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the 
compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used if approved by the Manager, Standardization Branch, ANM-113, 
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate. Operators shall submit their 
requests through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector, 
who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, 
Standardization Branch, ANM-113.

    Note 2: Information concerning the existence of approved 
alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be 
obtained from the Standardization Branch, ANM-113.

    (e) 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.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 26, 1996.
Darrell M. Pederson,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 96-7854 Filed 3-29-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-U

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 96-7853 Airworthiness Directives; Fokker Model F28 Series Airplanes (Excluding Model F28 Mark 0100 Series Airplanes)
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 63 (Monday, April 1, 1996)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14275-14277]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-7853]

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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. 95-NM-170-AD]

Airworthiness Directives; Fokker Model F28 Series Airplanes 
(Excluding Model F28 Mark 0100 Series Airplanes)

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness 
directive (AD) that is applicable to certain Fokker Model F28 series 
airplanes. This proposal would require a one-time detailed visual 
inspection to detect cracking of the elevator gust lock housing and the 
gust lock support structure, and repair or replacement of cracked 
parts. This proposal is prompted by a report of failure of an elevator 
gust lock housing due to fatigue cracking. The actions specified by the 
proposed AD are intended to prevent fatigue cracking of the elevator 
gust lock housing and the gust lock support structure, which could 
result in loss of the elevator and the support structure, and 
subsequent possible loss of primary pitch control.

DATES: Comments must be received by May 9, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Submit comments in triplicate to the Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA), Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-103, 
Attention: Rules Docket No. 95-NM-170-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington 98055-4056. Comments may be inspected at this location 
between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays.
    The service information referenced in the proposed rule may be 
obtained from Fokker Aircraft USA, Inc., 1199 North Fairfax Street, 
Alexandria, Virginia 22314. This information may be examined at the 
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Connie Beane, Aerospace Engineer, 
Standardization Branch, ANM-113, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98055-4056; telephone (206) 
227-2796; fax (206) 227-1149.

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 shall

[[Page 14276]]
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 summarizing 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 Number 95-NM-170-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, Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-103, Attention: Rules 
Docket No. 95-NM-170-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 
98055-4056.

Discussion -

    The Rijksluchtvaartdienst (RLD), which is the airworthiness 
authority for the Netherlands, recently notified the FAA that an unsafe 
condition may exist on certain Fokker Model F28 series airplanes. The 
RLD advises that it received a report indicating that the elevator gust 
lock housing on a Model F28 series airplane failed during maintenance. 
This failure occurred after the cockpit control column was moved with 
the gust lock in the ``ON'' position and the hydraulic system 
activated. After the gust lock was disengaged, the elevator appeared to 
be obstructed. Results of a subsequent investigation revealed that the 
two upper legs of the gust lock housing had broken off, while the 
housing was bent towards the tension regulator quadrant. The gust lock 
support structure on which the two lower legs were mounted also was 
damaged. The cause of breakage of the gust lock housing and damage to 
the support structure has been attributed to fatigue cracking. Fatigue 
cracking of the elevator gust lock housing and the gust lock support 
structure, if not detected and corrected in a timely manner, could 
result in loss of the elevator and the support structure, and 
subsequent possible loss of primary pitch control. -
    Fokker has issued Service Bulletin F28/55-30, Revision 1, dated 
January 4, 1993, which describes procedures for a one-time detailed 
visual inspection to detect cracking of the elevator gust lock housing 
and the gust lock support structure, and repair or replacement of 
cracked parts with new or serviceable parts. The service bulletin 
permits further flight with cracking of the gust lock support 
structure, provided that cracking is within certain limits, until the 
structure is replaced or repaired. However, the service bulletin 
specifies that inspections to detect further cracking should be 
accomplished in the interim. The service bulletin also specifies that, 
if any cracking is found, use of the gust lock system is prohibited 
until the cracked part is replaced. The RLD classified this service 
bulletin as mandatory and issued Dutch airworthiness directive BLA 92-
101/4 (A), dated January 28, 1994, in order to assure the continued 
airworthiness of these airplanes in the Netherlands. -
    These airplane models are manufactured in the Netherlands and are 
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. Pursuant 
to this bilateral airworthiness agreement, the RLD has kept the FAA 
informed of the situation described above. The FAA has examined the 
findings of the RLD, reviewed all available information, and determined 
that AD action is necessary for products of this type design that are 
certificated for operation in the United States. -
    Since an unsafe condition has been identified that is likely to 
exist or develop on other airplanes of the same type design, the 
proposed AD would require a one-time detailed visual inspection to 
detect cracking of the elevator gust lock housing and the gust lock 
support structure, and repair or replacement of cracked parts with new 
or serviceable parts. For airplanes on which cracking is found, the 
proposed AD also would prohibit use of the gust lock system until 
cracked parts are replaced. The actions would be required to be 
accomplished in accordance with the service bulletin described 
previously. -
    Operators should note that, unlike the procedures described in the 
referenced service bulletin, this proposed AD would not permit further 
flight with cracking detected in the gust lock support structure. The 
FAA has determined that, due to the safety implications and 
consequences associated with such cracking, all structure that is found 
to be cracked must be replaced or repaired prior to further flight.
    The FAA estimates that 43 airplanes of U.S. registry would be 
affected by this proposed AD, that it would take approximately 2 work 
hours per airplane to accomplish the proposed actions, and that the 
average labor rate is $60 per work hour. Based on these figures, the 
cost impact of the proposed AD on U.S. operators is estimated to be 
$5,160, or $120 per airplane. -
    The cost impact figure discussed above is based on assumptions that 
no operator has yet accomplished any of the proposed requirements of 
this AD action, and that no operator would accomplish those actions in 
the future if this AD were not adopted. -
    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 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 proposed 
regulation (1) is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under 
Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ``significant rule'' under the 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 is contained 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 
part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as 
follows:

[[Page 14277]]

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES -

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

    Authority: 49 USC 106(g), 40113, 44701.

Sec. 39.13  [Amended] -

    2. Section 39.13 is amended by adding the following new 
airworthiness directive:

Fokker: Docket 95-NM-170-AD.

    -Applicability: Model F28 series airplanes, excluding Model F28 
Mark 0100 series airplanes, certificated in any category.

    -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 (c) 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: Required as indicated, unless accomplished 
previously. -
    To prevent fatigue cracking of the elevator gust lock housing 
and the gust lock support structure, which could result in loss of 
the elevator and the support structure, and subsequent possible loss 
of primary pitch control, accomplish the following: -
    (a) Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, perform 
a one-time detailed visual inspection to detect cracking of the 
elevator gust lock housing and the gust lock support structure, in 
accordance with Fokker Service Bulletin F28/55-30, Revision 1, dated 
January 4, 1993. -
    (b) If any cracking is found, prior to further flight, repair or 
replace the cracked elevator gust lock housing or gust lock support 
structure with a new or serviceable part in accordance with Fokker 
Service Bulletin F28/55-30, Revision 1, dated January 4, 1993. Use 
of the elevator gust lock system is prohibited until cracked parts 
are replaced with new or serviceable parts. -
    (c) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the 
compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used if approved by the Manager, Standardization Branch, ANM-113, 
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate. Operators shall submit their 
requests through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector, 
who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, 
Standardization Branch, ANM-113.

    -Note 2: Information concerning the existence of approved 
alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be 
obtained from the Standardization Branch, ANM-113.

    -(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.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 26, 1996.
Darrell M. Pederson,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 96-7853 Filed 3-29-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 96-7839 Importation of Horses
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 63 (Monday, April 1, 1996)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14268-14269]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-7839]

      
========================================================================
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. 61, No. 63 / Monday, April 1, 1996 / Proposed 
Rules

[[Page 14268]]

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

9 CFR Part 92

[Docket No. 95-079-1]

Importation of Horses

AGENCY: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, USDA.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are proposing to amend the horse importation regulations to 
add vesicular stomatitis to the list of diseases from which a premises, 
and adjoining premises, must be free before a horse from that premises 
can be imported into the United States. This action appears necessary 
to prevent the introduction of vesicular stomatitis into the United 
States.

DATES: Consideration will be given only to comments received on or 
before May 31, 1996.
ADDRESSES: Please send an original and three copies of your comments to 
Docket No. 95-079-1, Regulatory Analysis and Development, PPD, APHIS, 
suite 3C03, 4700 River Road Unit 118, Riverdale, MD 20737-1238. Please 
state that your comments refer to Docket No. 95-079-1. Comments 
received may be inspected at USDA, room 1141, South Building, 14th 
Street and Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC, between 8 a.m. and 
4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays. Persons wishing to 
inspect comments are requested to call ahead on (202) 690-2817 to 
facilitate entry into the comment reading room.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dr. Gary Colgrove, Associate Director, 
National Center for Import and Export, VS, APHIS, 4700 River Road Unit 
38, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231, (301) 734-3276.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    The regulations in 9 CFR part 92 (referred to below as ``the 
regulations'') govern the importation into the United States of 
specified animals, including horses, to prevent the introduction of 
various animal diseases into the United States.
    Under Sec. 92.314, horses imported into the United States must be 
accompanied by a health certificate. The health certificate must 
contain certain information to ensure that the horses intended for 
importation into the United States are free from communicable diseases. 
Among other things, the health certificate must state that no cases of 
certain communicable diseases, including African horse-sickness, 
dourine, glanders, surra, epizootic lymphangitis, ulcerative 
lymphangitis, equine piroplasmosis, Venezuelan equine 
encephalomyelitis, and equine infectious anemia, have occured on the 
horses' premises of origin, or an adjoining premises, in the 60 days 
preceding the horses' importation into the United States.
    We are proposing to amend the regulations by adding vesicular 
stomatitis to the list of diseases from which a horse's premises of 
origin and adjoining premises must be free before the horse may be 
imported into the United States. We are proposing this change because 
an outbreak of vesicular stomatitis in the United States could cause 
significant productivity losses in the horse, cattle, swine, and llama 
industries in the United States.
    Vesicular stomatitis, a viral disease, is known for its sporadic 
and rapid spread among animal populations. While vesicular stomatitis 
is not considered either a foreign animal disease in the United States 
or a fatal disease, it is a disease of concern to the livestock 
industry and to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Animals 
that are infected with vesicular stomatitis develop blister-like 
lesions in the mouth and on the dental pad, tongue, lips, nostrils, 
hooves, and teats. These lesions swell and break, exposing raw tissue. 
This raw tissue is so painful for the infected animals that they often 
refuse to eat and show signs of lameness. Substantial weight loss 
normally follows. As a result of infection, dairy cows often develop 
mastitis, infection of the udder, and many go dry. As such, vesicular 
stomatitis represents a serious disease threat to the U.S. livestock 
population. Additionally, the symptoms of vesicular stomatitis are 
similiar to those of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), a livestock disease 
with a high morbidity rate. Only laboratory tests can distinguish 
between vesicular stomatitis and FMD.
    Although vesicular stomatitis is a serious disease threat to 
different types of livestock, we are proposing to restrict the 
importation of horses from premises, and adjoining premises, where 
vesicular stomatitis is present because horses imported into the United 
States have a greater potential for movement throughout the United 
States once they have been imported than most other types of livestock. 
Imported horses are moved to farms throughout the United States, and, 
over time, they are often relocated to different farms in different 
parts of the country. Therefore, imported horses have the potential to 
come into contact with, and possibly infect, a large number of other 
animals. Therefore, our proposal would restrict the importation of 
horses from premises, and adjoining premises, where vesicular 
stomatitis is present in order to reduce the risk of the introduction 
of vesicular stomatitis into the United States.
    Currently, no premises in the United States are under quarantine 
because of the presence of vesicular stomatitis, but, during the summer 
of 1995, several premises in four western States were under quarantine 
because of the presence of vesicular stomatitis. Horses were the first 
animals in the United States to be affected by the most recent outbreak 
of vesicular stomatitis. We believe that our proposal would help 
prevent further occurrences of vesicular stomatitis in the United 
States by prohibiting the importation into the United States of horses 
from premises that are not free from vesicular stomatitis or from 
premises that are adjoining such premises. We believe that this action 
is necessary to protect the health of livestock in the United States.

Executive Order 12866 and Regulatory Flexibility Act

    This proposed rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 12866. 
The rule has been determined to be not significant for the purposes of 
Executive Order 12866 and, therefore, has not

[[Page 14269]]
been reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget.
    We are proposing to add vesicular stomatitis to the list of 
diseases from which a horse's premises of origin and adjoining premises 
must be free before the horse may be imported into the United States. 
Vesicular stomatitis is recognized internationally as a serious disease 
of horses, cattle, swine, and llamas. Animals that are infected with 
vesicular stomatitis develop lesions in the mouth and on the dental 
pad, tongue, lips, nostrils, hooves, and teats. These lesions swell and 
break, exposing raw tissue. This raw tissue is so painful for the 
infected animals that they often refuse to eat and show signs of 
lameness. Substantial weight loss normally follows. As a result of 
infection, dairy cows often develop mastitis, infection of the udder, 
and many go dry.
    Many countries that import U.S. livestock and animal products could 
refuse to import such products from the United States if vesicular 
stomatitis were allowed to spread across the United States. Currently, 
no premises in the United States are under quarantine because of 
vesicular stomatitis, but as recently as the summer of 1995, several 
premises in four Western States were under quarantine because of 
vesicular stomatitis. This proposed rule would help prevent future 
outbreaks of this disease.
    This proposed rule would involve no additional costs for U.S. horse 
importers, large or small. Additionally, this proposed rule should not 
affect the availability of horses for importation to the United States. 
Restrictions would only be placed on horses from specific premises.
    Under these circumstances, the Administrator of the Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service has determined that this action would 
not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities.

Executive Order 12778

    This proposed rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 12778, 
Civil Justice Reform. If this proposed rule is adopted: (1) All State 
and local laws and regulations that are inconsistent with this rule 
will be preempted; (2) no retroactive effect will be given to this 
rule; and (3) administrative proceedings will not be required before 
parties may file suit in court challenging this rule.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    This proposed rule contains no new information collection or 
recordkeeping requirements under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 
(44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.).

List of Subjects in 9 CFR Part 92

    Animal diseases, Imports, Livestock, Poultry and poultry products, 
Quarantine, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

    Accordingly, 9 CFR part 92 would be amended as follows:

PART 92--IMPORTATION OF CERTAIN ANIMALS AND POULTRY AND CERTAIN 
ANIMAL AND POULTRY PRODUCTS; INSPECTION AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS FOR 
CERTAIN MEANS OF CONVEYANCE AND SHIPPING CONTAINERS THEREON

    1. The authority citation for part 92 would continue to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 1622; 19 U.S.C. 1306; 21 U.S.C. 102-105, 
111, 114a, 134a, 134b, 134c, 134d, 134f, 135, 136, and 136a; 31 
U.S.C. 9701; 7 CFR 2.22, 2.80, and 371.2(d).

Sec. 92.314  [Amended]

    2. In Sec. 92.314, the first sentence would be amended by adding 
``vesicular stomatitis,'' immediately following ``Venezuelan equine 
encephalomyelitis,''.

    Done in Washington, DC, this 26th day of March 1996.
Lonnie J. King,
Administrator, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
[FR Doc. 96-7839 Filed 3-29-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-34-P

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 96-7815 Inmate Personal Property
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 63 (Monday, April 1, 1996)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14440-14441]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-7815]

[[Page 14439]]

_______________________________________________________________________

Part IX

Department of Justice

_______________________________________________________________________

Bureau of Prisons

_______________________________________________________________________

28 CFR Part 553

Inmate Personal Property; Proposed Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 63 / Monday, April 1, 1996 / Proposed 
Rules

[[Page 14440]]

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Bureau of Prisons

28 CFR Part 553

[BOP-1051-P]
RIN 1120-AA46

Inmate Personal Property

AGENCY: Bureau of Prisons, Justice.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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

SUMMARY: In this document, the Bureau of Prisons is proposing to amend 
its regulations on inmate personal property to allow for the 
standardization of authorized personal property lists at Bureau 
institutions and to facilitate procedures for the transportation of 
personal property due to inmate transfer or release. This amendment is 
intended to provide for the more efficient and secure operation of the 
institution.

DATES: Comments must be submitted by May 31, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Office of General Counsel, Bureau of Prisons, HOLC Room 754, 
320 First Street NW., Washington, DC 20534.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Roy Nanovic, Office of General 
Counsel, Bureau of Prisons, phone (202) 514-6655.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Bureau of Prisons is proposing to amend 
its regulations on inmate personal property (28 CFR part 553, subpart 
B). A final rule on this subject was published in the Federal Register 
April 29, 1983 (48 FR 19573).
    Current regulations governing inmate personal property specify 
that, consistent with the mission of the institution, each Warden shall 
identify in writing that personal property which may be retained by an 
inmate (see 28 CFR 553.10). Because of variations among institution 
lists, when inmates transfer between institutions not all property 
authorized at the sending institution may be considered authorized at 
the receiving institution. Any unauthorized property is mailed at 
government expense to another party of the inmate's choice.
    In order to alleviate this problem, the Bureau is implementing a 
standardized list of property which would be authorized for retention 
at all institutions. The Warden retains the discretion to authorize 
additional items for retention at his or her institution. Typically, 
these additional items will be government-issued or perishable. The 
Bureau proposes that this standardized property list become fully 
implemented by November 1, 1997. Consequently, Sec. 553.10 is being 
amended to refer to the standardized list and to additions authorized 
by the Warden. Under this new procedure, less personal property being 
transferred between institutions will be subject to rejection by the 
receiving institution. Property authorized for retention by the Warden 
in addition to the standardized list will be identified as such. Until 
full implementation of this procedure (i.e., November 1, 1997), the 
Bureau would continue to bear the cost of remailing to a non-Bureau 
address of the inmate's choice any property which would not be 
authorized by the receiving institution. After November 1, 1997, the 
inmate would be responsible for the cost of such remailing.
    Both the standardized list and the additional items authorized by 
the Warden may include numerical limits on specific types of property 
(for example, two pair of athletic shoes). Such numerical limits 
reduces the reliance in the previous regulations on the amount of 
storage as a determining factor in the retention of personal property 
(former Sec. 553.11(a)(1) had stated ``Staff may allow an inmate to 
retain that authorized property which the inmate may neatly and safely 
store in the designated area''). Revised Sec. 553.11 now includes 
reference to possible numerical limitations along with the procedures 
for notifying inmates of such limits.
    The provisions for storage space in new paragraph (b) contain a 
clear statement that authorized personal property is to be stored in 
the designated area. Specific provisions in the former regulations as 
to the requirement to store special purchase items, commissary items, 
correspondence, and reading materials have been removed to reduce 
redundancy. New paragraphs (c) through (h) now focus on limitations 
other than those imposed by space constraints. With respect to 
clothing, new paragraph (c) provides that civilian clothing (i.e., 
clothing not issued to the inmate by the Bureau or purchased by the 
inmate from the commissary) ordinarily is not authorized for retention 
by the inmate. This is in keeping with the standardized list of 
personal property. The regulations formerly allowed for some variation 
(former Sec. 553.11(b), ``Staff may allow an inmate to retain that 
clothing, whether civilian (at institutions where authorized) or 
institution . . .''). Under new paragraph (c), such civilian clothing 
possessed by current inmates could be retained no later than November 
1, 1997. New paragraphs (d) and (e) are unchanged and are being 
republished here for ease of review. New paragraph (f) is merely being 
redesignated from former paragraph (g) and is also being republished 
for ease of review.
    Section 553.14 has been revised to address more completely 
procedures for the shipment or disposal of property due to inmate 
transfer and release. The revised procedures allow for more flexibility 
in shipping property. As mentioned above, until November 1, 1997, these 
procedures continue to provide for the remailing, at Bureau expense, of 
personal property not authorized for retention by the receiving 
institution. After that date, the inmate would be responsible for such 
costs. Because the standardized list would be fully implemented by that 
date, the Bureau expects that there would be substantially reduced need 
for such remailings.
    Interested persons may participate in this proposed rulemaking by 
submitting data, views, or arguments in writing to the Bureau of 
Prisons, 320 First Street, NW., HOLC Room 754, Washington, DC 20534. 
Comments received during the comment period will be considered before 
final action is taken. All comments received remain on file for public 
inspection at the above address. The proposed rule may be changed in 
light of the comments received. No oral hearings are contemplated.
    The Bureau of Prisons has determined that this rule is not a 
significant regulatory action for the purpose of E.O. 12866, and 
accordingly this rule was not reviewed by the Office of Management and 
Budget. After review of the law and regulations, the Director, Bureau 
of Prisons has certified that this rule, for the purpose of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act (Pub. L. 96-354), does not have a 
significant impact on a substantial number of small entities.

List of Subjects in 28 CFR Part 553

    Prisoners.
Kathleen M. Hawk,
Director, Bureau of Prisons.

    Accordingly, pursuant to the rulemaking authority vested in the 
Attorney General in 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and delegated to the Director, 
Bureau of Prisons in 28 CFR 0.96(p), part 553 in subchapter C of 28 
CFR, chapter V is proposed to be amended as set forth below.

Subchapter C--Institutional Management

PART 553--INMATE PROPERTY

    1. The authority citation for 28 CFR part 553 is revised to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 18 U.S.C. 3621, 3622, 3624, 4001, 4042, 
4081, 4082 (Repealed

[[Page 14441]]
in part as to offenses committed on or after November 1, 1987), 
4126, 5006-5024 (Repealed October 12, 1984 as to offenses committed 
after that date), 5039; 28 U.S.C. 509, 510; 28 CFR 0.95-0.99.

    2. Section 553.10 is amended by revising the last sentence to read 
as follows:

Sec. 553.10  Purpose and scope.

    * * * Consistent with the mission of the institution, each Warden 
shall identify in writing that personal property which may be retained 
by an inmate in addition to that personal property which has been 
approved by the Director for retention at all institutions.
    3. Section 553.11 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 553.11  Limitations on inmate personal property.

    (a) Numerical limitations. Authorized personal property may be 
subject to numerical limitations. The institution's Admission and 
Orientation program shall include notification to the inmate of any 
numerical limitations in effect at the institution and a current list 
of any numerical limitations shall be posted on inmate unit bulletin 
boards.
    (b) Storage space. Staff shall set aside space within each housing 
area for use by an inmate. The designated area shall include a locker 
or other securable area in which the inmate is to store authorized 
personal property. The inmate shall be allowed to purchase an approved 
locking device for personal property storage in regular living units. 
Staff may not allow an inmate to accumulate materials to the point 
where the materials become a fire, sanitation, security, or 
housekeeping hazard.
    (c) Clothing. Civilian clothing (i.e., clothing not issued to the 
inmate by the Bureau or purchased by the inmate from the commissary) 
ordinarily is not authorized for retention by the inmate. Civilian 
clothing which previously had been approved for retention may not be 
retained after November 1, 1997. Prerelease civilian clothing for an 
inmate may be retained by staff in the Receiving and Discharge area 
during the last 30 days of the inmate's confinement.
    (d) Legal materials. Staff may allow an inmate to retain those 
legal materials which are necessary for an inmate's legal actions. 
Legal reference materials, such as books, may be retained if such 
materials are not available in the institution library. To ensure that 
materials do not become a fire, sanitation, security, or housekeeping 
hazard, each institution may establish a limit on the amount of, and 
storage location for, legal materials in the inmate's living area. 
Staff may authorize additional storage space, on a temporary, short-
term basis, to an inmate who demonstrates a need for additional 
material in connection with that inmate's on-going litigation.
    (e) Hobbycraft materials. Staff shall limit an inmate's hobby shop 
projects within the cell or living area to those projects which the 
inmate may store in designated personal property containers. Staff may 
make an exception for an item (for example, a painting) where size 
would prohibit placing the item in a locker. This exception is made 
with the understanding that the placement of the item is at the 
inmate's own risk. Staff shall require that hobby shop items be removed 
from the living area when completed, and be disposed of in accordance 
with the provisions of part 544, subpart D.
    (f) Radios and watches. An inmate may possess only one approved 
radio and one approved watch at a time. The inmate must be able to 
demonstrate proof of ownership. An inmate who purchases a radio or 
watch through a Bureau of Prisons commissary is ordinarily permitted 
the use of that radio or watch at any Bureau institution if the inmate 
is later transferred. If the inmate is not allowed to use the radio or 
watch at the new institution, the inmate shall be permitted to mail, at 
the receiving institution's expense, the radio or watch to a 
destination of the inmate's choice. Where the inmate refuses to provide 
a mailing address, the radio and/or watch may be disposed of through 
approved methods, including destruction of the property.
    (g) Education program materials. Education program materials or 
current correspondence courses may be retained even if not stored as 
provided in paragraph (b) of this section.
    (h) Personal photos. An inmate may possess photographs, subject to 
the limitations of paragraph (b) of this section, so long as they are 
not detrimental to personal safety or security, or to the good order of 
the institution.
    4. Section 553.14 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 553.14  Inmate transfer between institutions and inmate release.

    (a) Except as provided for in paragraphs (a) (1) through (3) of 
this section, authorized personal property shall be shipped by staff to 
the receiving institution.
    (1) The Warden ordinarily shall allow an inmate transferring to 
another institution to transport personal items determined necessary or 
appropriate by staff and, if applicable, legal materials for active 
court cases.
    (2) The Warden may require or allow an inmate who is transferring 
to another institution under furlough conditions to transport all the 
inmate's authorized personal property with him or her.
    (3) An inmate who is being released or who is transferring to a 
Community Corrections Center may arrange to ship personal property at 
the inmate's expense. The inmate is responsible for transporting any 
personal property not so shipped.
    (b) If the inmate's personal property is not authorized for 
retention by the receiving institution, staff at the receiving 
institution shall arrange for the inmate's excess personal property to 
be mailed to a non-Bureau destination of the inmate's choice. Until 
November 1, 1997, the receiving institution shall bear the expense for 
this mailing. After November 1, 1997, the inmate shall bear the expense 
for this mailing.
    (c) Whenever the inmate refuses to provide a mailing address for 
return of the property or, when required, refuses to bear the expense 
of mailing the property, the property is to be disposed of through 
approved methods, including destruction of the property.

[FR Doc. 96-7815 Filed 3-29-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410-05-P

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 96-7784 Medical Devices; Reclassification and Codification of Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lens Solution; Soft (Hydrophilic) Contact Lens Solution; and Contact Lens Heat Disinfecting Unit
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 63 (Monday, April 1, 1996)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14277-14280]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-7784]

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

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Food and Drug Administration

21 CFR Part 886

[Docket No. 95N-0400]
RIN 0910-AA09

Medical Devices; Reclassification and Codification of Rigid Gas 
Permeable Contact Lens Solution; Soft (Hydrophilic) Contact Lens 
Solution; and Contact Lens Heat Disinfecting Unit

AGENCY: Food and Drug Administration, HHS.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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

SUMMARY: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing to 
reclassify from class III (premarket approval) to class II (special 
controls) rigid gas permeable contact lens solution, soft (hydrophilic) 
contact lens solution, and the contact lens heat disinfection unit. 
Collectively, these devices are referred to as transitional contact 
lens care products, which include saline solutions, in-eye lubricating/
rewetting drops, disinfecting and conditioning products, contact lens 
cleaners, and heat disinfecting units. This reclassification is in 
response to provisions in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the 
act), as amended by the Medical Device Amendments of 1976 (the 1976 
amendments) and the Safe Medical Devices Act of 1990 (the SMDA). FDA is 
also amending the regulations for transitional contact lens care 
products to more accurately reflect the intent of the original 
regulation. Under the SMDA, FDA is implementing a special control that 
the agency has determined is necessary to provide reasonable assurance 
of the safety and effectiveness of the proposed reclassified contact 
lens care products. That special control is the availability of 
guidance for premarket notification submissions for these products. 
Elsewhere in this issue of the Federal Register, FDA is announcing the 
availability of a draft guidance describing the evidence that 
demonstrates the substantial equivalence of new contact lens care 
products to contact lens care products already marketed.

DATES: Written comments by June 17, 1996. The agency proposes that any 
final rule that may issue based on this proposal become effective 30 
days after date of publication of the final rule in the Federal 
Register.

ADDRESSES: Submit written comments to the Dockets Management Branch 
(HFA-305), Food and Drug Administration, 12420 Parklawn Dr., rm. 1-23, 
Rockville, MD 20857.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: David M. Whipple, Center for Devices 
and Radiological Health (HFZ-460), Food and Drug Administration, 9200 
Corporate Blvd., Rockville, MD 20850, 301-594-2205.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

I. Background

    The act (21 U.S.C. 321 et seq.), as amended by the 1976 amendments 
(Pub. L. 94-295) and the SMDA (Pub. L. 101-629), establishes a 
comprehensive system for the regulation of medical devices intended for 
human use. Section 513 of the act (21 U.S.C. 360c) establishes three 
classes of devices, depending on the regulatory controls needed to 
provide reasonable assurance of their safety and effectiveness: Class 
I, general controls; class II, special controls; and class III, 
premarket approval.
    The 1976 amendments broadened the definition of ``device'' in 
section 201(h) of the act (21 U.S.C. 321(h)) to include certain 
articles that were once regulated as drugs. Under the 1976 amendments, 
Congress classified all transitional devices (i.e., those devices 
previously regulated as new drugs), including: Rigid gas permeable 
contact lens solutions; soft (hydrophilic) contact lens solutions; and 
contact lens heat disinfecting units, into class III (premarket 
approval). The legislative history of the SMDA reflects congressional 
concern that many transitional devices were being over regulated in 
class III. H. Rept. 808, 101st Cong., 2d sess. 26-27 (1990); S. Rept. 
513, 101st Cong., 2d sess. 26-27 (1990). Congress amended section 
520(l) of the act, (21 U.S.C. 360j(l)) to direct FDA to collect certain 
safety and effectiveness information from the manufacturers of 
transitional devices and review the classification of those still 
remaining in class III to determine if the device could be reclassified 
into class II (special controls) or class I (general controls).

[[Page 14278]]
Thus, in the Federal Register of November 14, 1991 (56 FR 57960), FDA, 
pursuant to section 520(l)(5)(A) of the act, issued an order requiring 
manufacturers of transitional devices, including rigid gas permeable 
contact lens solution (Sec. 886.5918 (21 CFR 886.5918)); soft 
(hydrophilic) contact lens solution (Sec. 886.5928 (21 CFR 886.5928)); 
and the contact lens heat disinfection unit (Sec. 886.5933 (21 CFR 
886.5933)), to submit to FDA a summary of, and a citation to, any 
information known or otherwise available to them respecting the 
devices, including adverse safety or effectiveness information, which 
has not been submitted under section 519 of the act (21 U.S.C. 360i). 
Manufacturers were to submit the summaries and citations to FDA by 
January 13, 1992. However, because of misunderstandings and 
uncertainties regarding the information required by the order, and 
whether the order applied to certain manufacturers' devices, many 
transitional class III device manufacturers failed to comply with the 
reporting requirement by January 13, 1992. Thus, in the Federal 
Register of March 10, 1992 (57 FR 8462), FDA extended the reporting 
period to March 31, 1992.
    Section 520(l)(5)(B) of the act (21 U.S.C. 360j(l)(5)(B)), stated 
that, after the issuance of an order requiring manufacturers to submit 
a summary of, and citation to, any information known or otherwise 
available respecting the devices, but before December 1, 1992, FDA was 
to publish regulations either leaving the transitional class III 
devices in class III or reclassifying them into class I or class II. 
Subsequently, as permitted by section 520(l)(5)(C) of the act (21 
U.S.C. 360j(l)(5)(C)), in the Federal Register of November 30, 1992 (57 
FR 56586), the agency published a notice extending the period for 
issuing such regulations until December 1, 1993. Due to limited 
resources, FDA was unable to publish regulations before the December 1, 
1993, deadline. Nevertheless, in accordance with sections 520(l)(5)(B) 
and 513(a) of the act, FDA is now proposing to reclassify rigid gas 
permeable contact lens solution (Sec. 886.5918); soft (hydrophilic) 
contact lens solution (Sec. 886.5928); and the contact lens heat 
disinfection unit (Sec. 886.5933) from class III (premarket approval) 
to class II (special controls). FDA does not believe that these devices 
can be classified into class I because general controls by themselves 
are insufficient to provide reasonable assurance of the safety and 
effectiveness of the devices. However, FDA does believe that these 
devices can be classified into class II because sufficient information 
exists to establish special controls to provide reasonable assurance of 
their safety and effectiveness. The draft guidance entitled ``Premarket 
Notification (510(k)) Guidance Document for Contact Lens Care 
Products,'' the availability of which is being announced elsewhere in 
this issue of the Federal Register, is the special control that FDA 
believes is necessary to provide such assurance.

II. Description of the Devices Proposed for Reclassification and 
Explanation of Proposed Modifications

    The proposed reclassification and modifications are described 
below:

A. Section 886.5918 Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lens Care Products

    FDA is proposing to change the classification title ``Rigid gas 
permeable contact lens solution'' to ``Rigid gas permeable contact lens 
care products'' to more accurately reflect the types of products 
classified under this regulation. Changing the word ``solution'' to 
``products'' allows the agency to regulate other rigid gas permeable 
care products under this section.
    FDA is also proposing to change the phrase ``to clean, disinfect, 
wet, or store a rigid gas permeable contact lens'' to ``for use in the 
cleaning, conditioning, rinsing, lubricating/rewetting, or storing of a 
rigid gas permeable contact lens'' to more accurately describe the 
intended use of contact lens care products rather than limit the 
description to solutions only. FDA does not consider this proposed 
modification a change in intended use for the following reasons:
    1. Adding the word ``rinsing'' is proposed to accurately describe 
products (i.e., salines) approved under this classification for rinsing 
rigid gas permeable contact lenses;
    2. Replacing the word ``wet'' with the phrase ``lubricating/
rewetting'' is proposed to more accurately describe the intended use 
(i.e., in-eye) of lubricating and rewetting drops that have been 
approved for use with rigid gas permeable contact lenses; and
    3. Replacing the word ``disinfect'' with the word ``conditioning'' 
is proposed because rigid gas permeable ``disinfecting'' solutions are 
more accurately called conditioning solutions. Not only are these 
solutions used to disinfect rigid gas permeable lenses, but they are 
also used to condition the surface of the lenses prior to insertion. 
The combination of these two intended uses, disinfecting and 
conditioning, is commonly referred to as a conditioning solution when 
indicated for use with rigid gas permeable lenses.
    Finally, FDA is proposing to add ``This includes all solutions and 
tablets used together with rigid gas permeable contact lenses'' to 
further clarify that tablets (i.e., enzyme tablets used for periodic 
cleaners) are also included in this proposed reclassification. Tablets 
were not included in the original regulation because, at the time of 
its issuance, these care products were not approved for use with rigid 
gas permeable lenses. However, this is no longer the case.

B. Section 886.5928 Soft (Hydrophilic) Contact Lens Care Products

    FDA is proposing to change the classification title ``Soft 
(hydrophilic) contact lens solution'' to ``Soft (hydrophilic) contact 
lens care products'' to more accurately reflect the intent of the 
original regulation. Changing the word ``solution'' to ``products'' 
allows the agency to regulate other soft (hydrophilic) contact lens 
care products (i.e., lens cases) under this section. It also allows FDA 
to include heat disinfecting units under this section.
    FDA is also proposing to change the phrase ``to clean, disinfect, 
wet, or store a soft (hydrophilic) contact lens'' to ``for use in the 
cleaning, disinfecting, rinsing, lubricating/rewetting, or storing of a 
soft (hydrophilic) contact lens'' to more accurately describe the 
intended use of contact lens care products rather than limit the 
description to solutions only. FDA does not consider this modification 
a change in intended uses for the following reasons:
    1. Adding the word ``rinsing'' is proposed because rinsing 
solutions have always been a part of the care regimen for soft 
(hydrophilic) contact lenses. FDA believes the word was inadvertently 
omitted from the original regulation; and
    2. Replacing the word ``wet'' with the phrase ``lubricating/
rewetting'' is proposed to more accurately describe the intended use 
(i.e., in-eye) of lubricating and rewetting drops that have been 
approved for use with soft (hydrophilic) contact lenses.
    Finally, FDA is proposing to add ``This includes all solutions and 
tablets used together with soft (hydrophilic) contact lenses and heat 
disinfecting units intended to disinfect a soft (hydrophilic) contact 
lens by means of heat'' to further clarify that tablets (i.e., salt 
tablets used to make saline solutions, enzyme tablets used for periodic 
cleaners, and neutralizing tablets used to neutralize hydrogen peroxide 
disinfecting solution in soft

[[Page 14279]]
(hydrophilic) lenses) are also included in the proposed 
reclassification. This sentence also clarifies the fact that the heat 
disinfecting unit classification has been combined with the 
classification for soft (hydrophilic) contact lens care products.

C. Section 886.5933 Contact Lens Heat Disinfecting Unit

    Finally, because FDA is proposing to classify contact lens heat 
disinfecting units in the same classification as other soft contact 
lens products, FDA is proposing to remove in its entirety the contact 
lens heat disinfecting unit classification (Sec. 886.5933), combine 
this classification with soft (hydrophilic) contact lens care products 
(Sec. 886.5928), and reclassify from class III (premarket approval) to 
class II (special controls) this proposed combined device.

III. Summary of Reasons for the Proposed Reclassification

    The following are reasons in support of FDA's proposal to 
reclassify from class III to class II rigid gas permeable contact lens 
care products and soft (hydrophilic) contact lens care products, which 
include contact lens heat disinfecting units:
    1. General controls by themselves are insufficient to provide 
reasonable assurance of the safety and effectiveness of the devices.
    2. There is sufficient information to establish special controls to 
provide reasonable assurance of the safety and effectiveness of the 
devices for their intended uses.
    3. The special control, which is draft guidance entitled 
``Premarket Notification (510(k)) Guidance Document for Contact Lens 
Care Products,'' describes the testing and information applicable to 
premarket notifications for the devices.
    4. There is sufficient information to demonstrate that the devices 
are not potentially hazardous to the life, health, or well-being of the 
user. FDA has identified no new risks to health associated with the use 
of the devices, has determined that the identified potential risks to 
health can be addressed by using the special control (guidance), and 
that the probable benefits to health of the devices outweigh any 
probable risks to health.
    FDA believes that current and future manufacturers of the devices 
can use the special controls draft guidance and that the safety and 
effectiveness of devices made by new manufacturers can be assured 
through the premarket notification procedures under section 510(k) of 
the act (21 U.S.C. 360(k)) as described in the special control draft 
guidance. Consequently, FDA believes that premarket approval is not 
necessary to provide reasonable assurance of the safety and 
effectiveness of these devices.

IV. Risks to Health

    The risks associated with the devices proposed for reclassification 
have been identified through over 25 years of FDA experience in the 
review and evaluation of the following publicly available information: 
(1) Preclinical and clinical data submitted in premarket approval 
applications (PMA's); (2) PMA annual reports and Mandatory Device 
Reporting (MDR) for contact lens devices; (3) scientific literature 
relating to contact lens devices; and (4) information submitted under 
section 520(l)(5)(A) of the act. A summary of the risks to health 
presented by each of the devices is described below:
    1. Risks associated with use of rigid gas permeable and soft 
(hydrophilic) contact lens care products, other than contact lens heat 
disinfection units include:
    Eye infection, irritation, burning and stinging, discomfort or 
pain, redness, excessive tearing, sensitivity to light, unusual 
secretions, dryness or vision changes; allergic, toxic or sensitivity 
reactions; damaged lenses which are caused by contaminated solutions; 
use of contact lens care products that fail to adequately perform their 
intended functions; sensitizing or toxic ingredients used in contact 
lens care product formulations; and inadequate labeling (e.g., 
warnings, precautions, and directions for use) for the safe and 
effective use of the device.
    2. Risks associated with use of contact lens heat disinfection 
units include:
    Fire, burns, or electrical shock; eye infections; damage to lenses 
caused by failure of the unit to adequately perform its intended 
function; and inadequate labeling (e.g., warnings, precautions, 
directions for use) for safe and effective use of the device.
    Based upon FDA's experience in evaluating publicly available data 
and information contained in PMA's, PMA annual reports, MDR, and 
scientific literature, FDA has concluded that the risks to health 
associated with the use of the devices could be controlled by special 
controls. On the basis of its review, FDA now believes that use of the 
rigid gas permeable contact lens care products and soft (hydrophilic) 
contact lens care products, including contact lens heat disinfection 
units, do not present a potential unreasonable risk to the public 
health, and that special controls in the form of guidance to 510(k) 
submitters would provide reasonable assurance of the safety and 
effectiveness of the device.

V. Summary of Data Upon Which the Proposed Reclassification is 
Based (1)

     FDA based its proposed reclassification of contact lens care 
products on over 25 years of experience in the review and evaluation of 
publicly available preclinical and clinical data contained in: More 
than 100 PMA's; hundreds of PMA annual reports that included 
identification of adverse reactions reported for the device; the MDR 
data base within FDA; information submitted under section 520(l)(5)(A) 
of the act; and scientific literature for contact lens care products. 
From this experience in evaluating this information, FDA has identified 
the risks to health associated with these devices as listed in section 
IV. of this document and has developed product-specific ``special 
controls'' to address these risks for purposes of this reclassification 
proposal. On the basis of the review, FDA believes that use of the 
rigid gas permeable contact lens care products and soft (hydrophilic) 
contact lens care products, including heat disinfection units, does not 
present an unreasonable risk to the public health, and that the special 
controls will provide reasonable assurance of the safety and 
effectiveness of the devices.
    The special control, the draft guidance entitled ``Premarket 
Notification (510(k)) Guidance Document for Contact Lens Care 
Products,'' sets forth the tests and information that FDA believes are 
needed to ensure the continued safety and effectiveness of contact lens 
care products. The guidance is organized into product specific sections 
that describe the information that addresses the risks associated with 
use of each device. In addition, the guidance will enable a 
manufacturer of a contact lens care product to conduct the necessary 
preclinical and clinical testing recommended in a 510(k) premarket 
notification to demonstrate substantial equivalence of the device to a 
legally marketed contact lens care product (predicate device).
    The draft guidance outlines the types of manufacturing and 
chemistry, toxicology, and microbiology testing that should be 
completed for each device, and contains a summary of the basic 
requirements and suggested methods for meeting these preclinical 
requirements. If the results of preclinical testing demonstrate that 
the device will have new characteristics, clinical performance data may 
be needed to establish substantial equivalence. If clinical performance

[[Page 14280]]
data are needed, the draft guidance document provides suggested 
methodologies (e.g., size and scope of the study) to be included in the 
investigational protocol. This draft guidance document also provides 
general and product specific labeling guidance that identifies 
warnings, precautions, and directions for use that further address the 
risks associated with the use of these devices.
    Other elements of the draft guidance include: (1) General 
information on the regulations and requirements for labeling contact 
lens care products; (2) information about 510(k) requirements relating 
to modifying a marketed contact lens care product; and (3) guidance for 
submitting a 510(k) for contact lens cases and contact lens accessories 
(i.e., mechanical cleaning aids and accessory cleaning pads).
    The draft guidance explains that, in the event that clinical trials 
are necessary, manufacturers must conduct the trials in accordance with 
the investigational device exemption regulations in 21 CFR part 812. At 
this time, FDA considers clinical studies of most contact lens care 
products to be nonsignificant risk investigations. For nonsignificant 
risk investigations, approval of an institutional review board (IRB) is 
necessary before initiating a clinical study, and an investigational 
plan and informed consent document must be presented to an IRB for 
review and approval. Prior FDA approval is not required. However, FDA 
considers most clinical studies of solutions that contain new active 
ingredients for ophthalmic use and are intended for use directly in the 
eye to be significant risk investigations that would require both IRB 
and FDA review and approval.

VI. Environmental Impact

    The agency has determined under 21 CFR 25.24(a)(8) that this action 
is of a type that does not individually or cumulatively have a 
significant effect on the human environment. Therefore, neither an 
environmental assessment nor an environmental impact statement is 
required.

VII. Analysis of Impacts

    FDA has examined the impacts of the proposed rule under Executive 
Order 12866 and the Regulatory Flexibility Act (Pub. L. 96-354). 
Executive Order 12866 directs agencies to assess all costs and benefits 
of available regulatory alternatives and, when regulation is necessary, 
to select regulatory approaches that maximize net benefits (including 
potential economic, environmental, public health and safety, and other 
advantages; distributive impacts; and equity). The agency believes that 
this proposed rule is consistent with the regulatory philosophy and 
principles identified in the Executive Order. In addition, the proposed 
rule is not a significant regulatory action as defined by the Executive 
Order and so is not subject to review under the Executive Order.
    The Regulatory Flexibility Act requires agencies to analyze 
regulatory options that would minimize any significant impact of a 
proposal on small entities. Because this proposal would reduce the 
regulatory burdens for all manufacturers of contact lens care products 
covered by this proposal, the agency certifies that the proposed rule 
will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of 
small entities. Therefore, under the Regulatory Flexibility Act, no 
further analysis is required.
    Accordingly, FDA proposes to amend the regulations in 
Secs. 886.5918, 886.5928, and 886.5933 as set forth below.

VIII. Effective Date

    FDA is proposing that any final rule that may issue based on this 
proposed rule become effective 30 days after date of publication of the 
final rule in the Federal Register.

IX. Comments

    Interested persons may, on or before June 17, 1996, submit to the 
Dockets Management Branch (address above) written comments regarding 
this proposal. Two copies of any comments are to be submitted, except 
that individuals may submit one copy. Comments are to be identified 
with the docket number found in brackets in the heading of this 
document. Received comments may be seen in the office above, between 9 
a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

List of Subjects in 21 CFR Part 886

    Medical devices, Ophthalmic goods and services.
    Therefore, under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and under 
authority delegated to the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, it is 
proposed that 21 CFR part 886 be amended as follows:

PART 886--OPHTHALMIC DEVICES

    1. The authority citation for 21 CFR part 886 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: Secs. 501, 510, 513, 515, 520, 701 of the Federal 
Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 351, 360, 360c, 360e, 360j, 
371).

    2. Section 886.5918 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 886.5918-  Rigid gas permeable contact lens care products.

    (a) Identification. A rigid gas permeable contact lens care product 
is a device intended for use in the cleaning, conditioning, rinsing, 
lubricating/rewetting, or storing of a rigid gas permeable contact 
lens. This includes all solutions and tablets used together with rigid 
gas permeable contact lenses.
    (b) Classification. Class II (Special Controls) Guidance Document: 
``Premarket Notification (510(k)) Guidance Document for Contact Lens 
Care Products.''
    3. Section 886.5928 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 886.5928-  Soft (hydrophilic) contact lens care products.

    (a) Identification. A soft (hydrophilic) contact lens care product 
is a device intended for use in the cleaning, rinsing, disinfecting, 
lubricating/rewetting, or storing a soft (hydrophilic) contact lens. 
This includes all solutions and tablets used together with soft 
(hydrophilic) contact lenses and heat disinfecting units intended to 
disinfect a soft (hydrophilic) contact lens by means of heat.
    (b) Classification. Class II (Special Controls) Guidance Document: 
``Premarket Notification (510(k)) Guidance Document for Contact Lens 
Care Products.''

Sec. 886.5933  [Removed and Reserved]

4. Section 886.5933 Contact lens heat disinfection unit is removed and 
reserved.

    Dated: March 18, 1996.
Joseph A. Levitt,
Deputy Director for Regulations Policy, Center for Devices and 
Radiological Health.
[FR Doc. 96-7784 Filed 3-29-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4160-01-F

Complete official Federal Register PDF

FR Doc. 96-7745 National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan; National Priorities List
[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 63 (Monday, April 1, 1996)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14280-14284]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-7745]

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

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR PART 300

[FRL-5448-8]

National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan; 
National Priorities List

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency.

ACTION: Notice of intent to delete the Washington County landfill from 
the National Priorities List; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: The United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S.

[[Page 14281]]
EPA) Region 5 announces its intent to delete the Washington County 
Landfill Superfund Site from the National Priorities List (NPL) and 
requests public comment on this action. The NPL constitutes Appendix B 
of 40 CFR part 300 which is the National Oil and Hazardous Substances 
Pollution Contingency Plan (NCP), which U.S. EPA promulgated pursuant 
to section 105 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, 
Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) as amended. This 
action is being taken by U.S. EPA, because it has been determined that 
fund-financed responses under CERCLA have been implemented and U.S. 
EPA, in consultation with the State of Minnesota, has determined that 
no further response under CERCLA is necessary. U.S. EPA and the State 
have determined that remedial activities conducted at the Site to date 
have been protective of public health, welfare, and the environment. In 
addition, based on the results of a five-year review of the remedial 
action completed in January 1994, the existing remedy is being upgraded 
to improve long-term protectiveness. The State of Minnesota will 
undertake any further response actions that may be necessary, using 
funds provided under the Minnesota Landfill Cleanup Law.

DATES: Comments concerning the proposed deletion of the Site from the 
NPL may be submitted on or before May 1, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Comments may be mailed to Gladys Beard (SR-6J) Associate 
Remedial Project Manager, Superfund Division, U.S. EPA, Region 5, 77 W. 
Jackson Blvd. (SR-6J), Chicago, IL 60604. Comprehensive information on 
the site is available at U.S. EPA's Region 5 office and at the local 
information repository located at: Minnesota Pollution Control Agency 
Public Library, 520 Lafayette Rd., St. Paul, MN 55155-4194. Requests 
for comprehensive copies of documents should be directed formally to 
the Region 5 Docket Office. The address and phone number for the 
Regional Docket Officer is Jan Pfundheller (SMR-7J), U.S. EPA, Region 
5, 77 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604, (312) 353-5821.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lawrence Schmitt, Remedial Project 
Manager at (312) 353-6565, Gladys Beard (SR-6J) Associate Remedial 
Project Manager, Superfund Division, U.S. EPA, Region 5, 77 W. Jackson 
Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604, (312) 886-7253 or Don de Blasio (P-19J), 
Office of Public Affairs, U.S. EPA, Region 5, 77 W. Jackson Blvd., 
Chicago, IL 60604, (312) 886-4360.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Table of Contents

I. Introduction
II. NPL Deletion Criteria
III. Deletion Procedures
IV. Basis for Intended Site Deletion

I. Introduction

    The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 announces 
its intent to delete the Washington County Landfill Site from the 
National Priorities List (NPL), which constitutes Appendix B of the 
National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan (NCP), 
and requests comments on the proposed deletion. The EPA identifies 
sites that appear to present a significant risk to public health, 
welfare, or the environment, and maintains the NPL as the list of those 
sites. Sites on the NPL may be the subject of remedial actions financed 
by the Hazardous Substance Superfund Response Trust Fund (Fund). 
Pursuant to Section 300.425(e)(3) of the NCP, any site deleted from the 
NPL remains eligible for fund-financed remedial actions if the 
conditions at the site warrant such action.
    The U.S. EPA will accept comments on this proposal for thirty (30) 
days after publication of this notice in the Federal Register.
    Section II of this notice explains the criteria for deleting sites 
from the NPL. Section III discusses procedures that EPA is using for 
this action. Section IV discusses the history of this site and explains 
how the site meets the deletion criteria.
    Deletion of sites from the NPL does not itself create, alter, or 
revoke any individual's rights or obligations. Furthermore, deletion 
from the NPL does not in any way alter U.S. EPA's right to take 
enforcement actions, as appropriate. The NPL is designed primarily for 
informational purposes and to assist in Agency management.

II. NPL Deletion Criteria

    The NCP establishes the criteria the Agency uses to delete Sites 
from the NPL. In accordance with 40 CFR 300.425(e), sites may be 
deleted from the NPL where no further response is appropriate. In 
making this determination, U.S. EPA will consider, in consultation with 
the State, whether any of the following criteria have been met:
    (I) Responsible parties or other persons have implemented all 
appropriate response actions required; or
    (ii) All appropriate fund-financed responses under CERCLA have been 
implemented, and no further response action by responsible parties is 
appropriate; or
    (iii) The Remedial investigation has shown that the release poses 
no significant threat to public health or the environment and, 
therefore, remedial measures are not appropriate.

III. Deletion Procedures

    Upon determination that at least one of the criteria described in 
300.425(e) has been met, U.S. EPA may formally begin deletion 
procedures once the State has concurred. This Federal Register notice, 
and a concurrent notice in the local newspaper in the vicinity of the 
Site, announce the initiation of a 30-day comment period. The public is 
asked to comment on U.S. EPA's intention to delete the Site from the 
NPL. All critical documents needed to evaluate U.S. EPA's decision are 
included in the local information repository and the deletion docket.
    Upon completion of the public comment period, the U.S. EPA Regional 
Office will prepare a Responsiveness Summary to evaluate and address 
each significant comment that was received. The public is welcome to 
contact the U.S. EPA Region 5 Office to obtain a copy of this 
responsiveness summary. If U.S. EPA then determines the deletion from 
the NPL is appropriate, final notice of deletion will be published in 
the Federal Register.

IV. Basis for Intended Site Deletion

    The Washington County Landfill site is located within the city 
limits of Lake Elmo in Washington County, Minnesota. Lake Elmo is 
approximately nine miles northeast of St. Paul. The site occupies a 110 
acre parcel, and the landfill covers 40 acres of the site. The area 
adjacent to the site is predominantly residential with a small amount 
of farming. Residences are directly adjacent to the site on the north, 
west, and south. There is a city park to the east of the site. 
Approximately 3000 people reside within a three mile radius of the 
site. A recreational lake, Lake Jane, is located 250 feet north of the 
site.
    The landfill is located in a gently sloping area and is underlain 
by sand and gravel deposits. Ground water flow in the sand and gravel 
aquifer below the site is generally to the south away from Lake Jane. 
The site was extensively mined for sand and gravel prior to its use as 
a sanitary landfill during the years 1969 through 1975. The landfill 
was operated jointly by Washington and Ramsey Counties (``the 
Counties''), which accepted approximately 2.6

[[Page 14282]]
million cubic yards of solid waste. The solid waste is estimated to be 
73% residential waste, 26% commercial waste, and 1% demolition waste.
    Following landfill closure, ground water at the site was found to 
contain elevated levels of organic and inorganic substances in wells on 
and off-site, including residential wells. Volatile organic compounds 
(VOCs) found in residential wells were the most serious concern. The 
site was proposed for the NPL July 8, 1983. The listing was finalized 
in September 21, 1984, 49 FR 37070.

Operable Unit 1

    Remedial planning activities began under the authority of the 
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) prior to finalization of the 
site on the National Priorities List. In 1982, MPCA requested that the 
Counties begin investigating the need for remedial action at the site.
    On October 24, 1984, the Counties and MPCA signed a Response Order 
by Consent which required the following:
    Installation and operation of a ground water gradient control 
system, which captured contaminated ground water and prevented further 
movement of contaminants off-site;
    Installation and operation of a spray irrigation system for VOCs in 
the captured ground water;
    Monitoring of the landfill and area ground water to ensure the 
effectiveness of the gradient control system and the protection of 
residential wells; and
    Provision of safe drinking water supplies to residents whose 
private wells contained substances in excess of Minnesota private 
drinking water well criteria. An interim water supply was required 
immediately upon effect of the Order and a permanent supply was to be 
developed.
    Construction of monitoring wells, a gradient control well, and the 
air stripping system was accomplished in sequence with the Phase I thru 
Phase IV investigations during 1982 and 1983. The gradient control 
system began full operations on December 12, 1983. The system consisted 
of one gradient control well near the southwest corner of the landfill, 
designed to extract 200 gallons per minute, and a spray irrigation area 
in the southeast portion of the site. The spray irrigation area 
consisted of an area of 1.9 acres with sandy soils. This area was 
believed to be contained within the capture zone of the gradient 
control system. Twenty-seven monitoring wells were installed and an 
additional 25 residential wells were being monitored for the presence 
of contaminants.
    The Phase V report in February 1984 provided the first evaluation 
of the performance of the system. Regular evaluations, modifications, 
and improvements to the system continued after 1984. During that time, 
the gradient control system was expanded to include 4 wells capable of 
extracting a maximum of 400 gallons per minute, berms were constructed 
and other improvements were made to increase infiltration of treated 
ground water at the treatment area, and an off-site discharge was added 
for some extracted ground water. A backup treatment area was added and 
used while the primary treatment area was down for maintenance. The 
backup treatment area is not currently in use. Finally, the number of 
monitoring wells was expanded to 38.
    The interim alternative water supply consisted of bottled water for 
4 residences, which was implemented immediately after the Response 
Order was effective in 1984. Planning for a permanent water supply for 
affected residents resulted in the report: ``Long Term Drinking Water 
Supply Plan for Washington County Sanitary Landfill No. 1'' dated 
October 1985. On July 7, 1986, MPCA issued a Minnesota Enforcement 
Decision Document (MEDD) which approved the use of activated carbon 
filters for the residences with drinking water well advisories issued 
by the Minnesota Department of Health. The activated carbon filters for 
the 4 affected residences were installed immediately after the MEDD was 
effective in 1986.
    Operable Unit 1 is a containment remedy, with treatment of the 
extracted ground water. The reports provided by the Counties documented 
the results of regular sampling of monitoring wells and residential 
wells, which indicated that the gradient control system adequately 
contained the ground water contamination on site. Remedial action 
implementation for Operable Unit 1 ground water and drinking water 
measures was conducted by the Counties under MPCA authority and 
oversight prior to the issuance of U.S. EPA's Unilateral Administrative 
Order on January 16, 1992. U.S. EPA's Unilateral Administrative Order 
required the Counties to continue the implementation of MPCA's previous 
requirements. Under the requirements of MPCA's terminated Response 
Order by Consent, there were no cleanup levels or termination 
provisions for this operable unit at the site.
    Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) measures for ground water 
sampling and analysis were specified in MPCA's Response Order by 
Consent. U.S. EPA adopted these same measures in its Order. QA/QC for 
all other activities was monitored by MPCA, and all documentation is 
contained in correspondence between the Counties and MPCA or in 
internal MPCA memos and reports.
    In September 1992, a soil gas survey conducted at the site by the 
MPCA discovered explosive levels of landfill gases in soils at the 
western boundary of the site. After further investigation confirmed 
that there was significant off-site migration of explosive gases, U.S. 
EPA issued a First Amended Unilateral Administrative Order on February 
17, 1993. This Order required the Counties to control landfill gas 
migration so that explosive levels are not exceeded at the property 
boundary.
    A barrier extraction vent system was constructed along the west 
side of the landfill to intercept migrating gases; this system was 
completed in December 1993. The system consisted of 11 extraction vents 
connected to a blower system. The gas control system effectively 
controlled gas migration from the western portion of the site 
immediately. The mixture of air and landfill gases collected by the 
system was found to be safe for discharge to the atmosphere without 
treatment. Off-site areas which contained elevated levels of explosive 
gas in soils were monitored and gas levels were found to slowly 
dissipate. Monitoring of basements in nearby residences for gas 
accumulation was initiated shortly after discovery of the gas, and no 
exceedences of safe levels occurred.
    Remedial action implementation for Operable Unit 1 explosive gas 
control measures was conducted by the Counties under U.S. EPA authority 
and MPCA oversight. QA/QC measures for landfill gas sampling and 
analysis were specified in the approved work plans. U.S. EPA approved a 
Remedial Action Report documenting the QA/QC for completion of 
construction activities for explosive gas control in March 1995. This 
report describes the activities completed pursuant to the First Amended 
Unilateral Administrative Order.

Operable Unit 2

    Based on the results of residential well sampling conducted during 
1988 and 1989, MPCA requested the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) 
to reassess the health risks to residents. As a result, the MDH issued 
drinking water well advisories to 10 residences. MPCA subsequently 
requested the Counties to re-evaluate the long-term drinking water 
supply needs of affected residences. The Counties submitted the report 
``Long-Term Drinking Water Supply Plan, Washington County

[[Page 14283]]
Sanitary Landfill No. 1'' dated June 30, 1990. This report constitutes 
the Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study for Operable Unit 2. MPCA 
executed a Record of Decision (ROD) requiring the construction of a 
public water supply system to serve the 10 residences on September 27, 
1990. U.S. EPA concurred with this ROD on November 15, 1990.
    Although not required by the ROD, the Counties elected to provide 
the alternate water supply to 73 additional residences within a service 
area which surrounds the site. The service area was developed to 
include all residences which might possibly be affected by the site. 
The additional work also includes the abandonment and sealing of 68 
residential wells within the service area, since continued use of these 
could possibly contribute to further movement of contaminants away from 
the site. Construction of the water supply system was initiated in June 
1991 and connection of the 10 residences with drinking water advisories 
to the system was completed in December 1991. Connection of 72 of the 
remaining 73 residences was completed by June 1992.
    A Remedial Action Report dated September 1992 documents 
construction activities for Operable Unit 2. The report describes both 
the activities required by the ROD and the additional work performed by 
the Counties in order to increase the protectiveness of the remedy.
    Community relations activities conducted by MPCA for Operable Unit 
2 began on July 27, 1990, when the RI/FS and Proposed Plan were 
released to the public. The documents were placed in an information 
repository at the Lake Elmo Branch of the Washington County Public 
Library, 3459 Lake Elmo Avenue, Lake Elmo, MN and notices published in 
local newspapers. A public comment period was open from July 31, 1990 
thru August 31, 1990, and a public meeting was held on August 14, 1990. 
A responsiveness summary was included with the ROD.
    Remedial action implementation for Operable Unit 2 was conducted by 
the Counties under MPCA authority and oversight. The MDH reviewed plans 
and specifications for the installation of the public water supply 
system and the sealing of residential wells. Documentation of QA/QC for 
this operable unit is contained in the Remedial Action Report.
    Operable Unit 2 is an alternate water supply, and there are no 
cleanup levels for this activity. The Remedial Action Report documents 
that the system was properly installed and tested, and is functioning. 
The water supply system is connected to the City of Oakdale's 
distribution system. Lake Elmo and Oakdale are jointly responsible for 
maintaining the distribution system and assuring the quality of the 
drinking water delivered to the residents. Operable Unit 2 is completed 
and there are no operation and maintainance (O&M) requirements for the 
alternate water supply system. Responsibility for routine operation of 
the water supply system has been assumed by the local municipalities.
    The QA/QC program utilized throughout this remedial action has been 
sufficiently rigorous and adequately complied with to enable the 
determination by U.S. EPA that all activities have been correctly 
carried out and all results accurately reported. U.S. EPA is thereby 
assured of the satisfactory execution of the remedial action consistent 
with MPCA's Response Order by Consent, MEDD, and Record of Decision, as 
well as U.S. EPA's 1992 and 1993 Unilateral Administrative Orders.

Five-Year Review

    Hazardous substances will remain on-site above levels that will 
allow unrestricted use and unrestricted exposure, and CERCLA Section 
121 provides that reviews will be performed every five years for 
remedial actions which result in hazardous substances, pollutants, or 
contaminants remaining at the site above levels that allow for 
unlimited use and unrestricted exposure. The first Five-Year Review was 
completed in January 1994. U.S. EPA and MPCA concluded that the remedy 
has been reasonably effective in limiting further uncontrolled releases 
of contaminants to the environment. However, the inadequacies 
documented in the review indicated the need for modifications to the 
remedy. The remedy was not found to be sufficiently protective of human 
health and the environment and as operated unlikely to be cost-
effective for the long-term. Specific recommendations follow:

Long-Term Water Supply

    U.S. EPA and MPCA recommended that the long-term water supply 
system remedy continue as it currently exists. The public water supply 
along with well abandonment continued to provide an alternative safe, 
long-term source of water to the owners of residences near the landfill 
who were issued drinking water well advisories by the State.

Ground Water Remedial Action

    The long-term need for a ground water remedial action was found to 
be related to recommendations for closure and post-closure as described 
below. A final landfill cover combined with a long-term landfill gas 
extraction and treatment system, if necessary, would reduce long-term 
reliance on the current gradient control well and treatment system. 
However, in the short-term, a ground water gradient control well and 
treatment system would continue to be necessary at the Site. The need 
for a gradient control system should be evaluated at least on an annual 
basis.
    U.S. EPA and MPCA recommended that the ground water and treatment 
system be modified to utilize either an air stripper or granular 
activated carbon filtration system prior to spray irrigation. Winter 
spraying will be halted and storage capacity of effluent will be 
provided if the effluent cannot be properly treated.

Ground Water Monitoring Well Network

    U.S. EPA and MPCA recommended that the existing ground water and 
ground water monitoring plan used to evaluate the performance of the 
system be maintained, with the addition of several monitoring wells.

Landfill Closure and Post-Closure Requirements

    U.S. EPA and MPCA recommended that a final landfill cover be 
installed to current MPCA standards. A final landfill cover should 
limit infiltration of precipitation into the fill and help to reduce 
leachate production. The reduction of leachate should in turn reduce 
the amount of loading to ground water at the landfill site. Reduction 
of the moisture in the fill should also help to reduce the 
bacteriological activity in the fill, thus reducing the rate of methane 
production.

Minnesota Landfill Cleanup Law

    In 1994, the Legislature of the State of Minnesota enacted the 
Landfill Cleanup Law, Minnesota Laws 1994, ch. 639, codified at 
Minnesota Stat. Sec. Sec. 115B.39 to 115B.46 (the Act), authorizing the 
Commissioner of the MPCA to assume responsibility for future 
environmental response actions at qualified landfills that have 
received notices of compliance from the Commissioner. Additionally, the 
Act established funds to enable the MPCA to perform all necessary 
response, operation, and maintenance at such landfills.
    A notice of compliance was issued by MPCA for the Washington County 
Landfill Site on November 21, 1995. MPCA has since assumed all 
responsibility for the Washington County Landfill under the Act. This 
includes operating the ground water gradient control and gas control 
systems

[[Page 14284]]
as well as the implementation of the recommendations of the Five-Year 
Review. Therefore, no further response actions under CERCLA are 
appropriate at this time. Consequently, U.S. EPA proposes to delete the 
site from the NPL.

    Dated: March 18, 1996.
David A. Ullrich,
Acting Regional Administrator, U.S. EPA, Region 5.
[FR Doc. 96-7745 Filed 3-29-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P

Complete official Federal Register PDF

Continue sua pesquisa no ChatGPT ou Claude

Conecte o Omnilex para pesquisar o corpus jurídico pelo seu assistente de IA.