The Federal Register

Medicare Program; Proposed Changes to the Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment Systems and Fiscal Year 2008 Rates

Thu, May 3 2007 11:00:00 GMT

We are proposing to revise the Medicare hospital inpatient prospective payment systems (IPPS) for operating and capitalrelated costs to implement changes arising from our continuing experience with these systems, and to implement certain provisions made by the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 (Pub. L. 109171), the Medicare Improvements and Extension Act under Division B, Title I of the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 (Pub. L. 109432), and the Pandemic and AllHazards Preparedness Act (Pub. L. 109417). In addition, in the Addendum to this proposed rule, we describe the proposed changes to the amounts and factors used to determine the rates for Medicare hospital inpatient services for operating costs and capitalrelated costs. We also are setting forth proposed rateofincrease limits for certain hospitals and hospital units excluded from the IPPS that are paid in full or in part on a reasonable cost basis subject to these limits or that have a portion of a prospective payment system payment base

National Air Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Halogenated Solvent Cleaning

Thu, May 3 2007 11:00:00 GMT

EPA is promulgating revised standards to limit emissions of methylene chloride (MC), trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE) from facilities engaged in halogenated solvent cleaning. On December 2, 1994, EPA promulgated technologybased emission standards to control HAP emissions of halogenated solvents from halogenated solvent cleaning. Pursuant to the Clean Air Act (CAA) section 112(f), EPA has evaluated the remaining risk to public health and the environment following implementation of the technologybased rule and is promulgating more stringent standards in order to provide an ample margin of safety to protect public health. These final standards will provide further reductions of MC, PCE, and TCE beyond the 1994 national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants (NESHAP), through application of a facilitywide total MC, PCE, and TCE emission standard. In addition, EPA has reviewed the standards as required by section 112(d)(6) of the CAA and has determined that, taking into

Hazardous Materials: Revision and Reformatting of Requirements for the Authorization To Use International Transport

Thu, May 3 2007 11:00:00 GMT

In this final rule, PHMSA is amending the Hazardous Materials Regulations to revise and consolidate the requirements applicable to the use of the International Civil Aviation Organization's Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air, the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code, Transport Canada's Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations, and the International Atomic Energy Agency's Safety Standards Series: Regulations for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Material. The revisions and reformatting provide a userfriendly format to promote understanding of the conditions and limitations on the use of international standards and regulations. In addition, PHMSA is authorizing the use in domestic transportation of portable tanks, cargo tank motor vehicles, and rail tank cars manufactured in accordance with Transport Canada's Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations. The amendments adopted in this final rule maintain the high transportation safety standard es

Thu, May 3 2007 11:00:00 GMT

___________________________________________________________________ Title 3--
The President
[[Page 25181]]
Proclamation 8136 of April 30, 2007

Jewish American Heritage Month, 2007
By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation
The faith and hard work of Jewish Americans have played an integral role in shaping the cultural fabric of America. During Jewish American Heritage Month, we celebrate the vital contributions of Jewish Americans to our Nation.
Throughout our history, Jewish Americans have contributed to the strength of our country and the preservation of our values. The talent and imagination of these citizens have helped our Nation prosper, and their efforts continue to remind us of America's gift of religious freedom and the blessings of God's steadfast love. Jewish Americans have worked to promote civil rights and build bridges of mutual understanding among the world's religions. Their deep commitment to faith and strong ties to family enrich our country and set a positive example for others.
This month is also a time to recognize the sacrifices of Jewish Americans who serve our Nation in the Armed Forces. These brave men and women are dedicated to freedom's cause, and all those who live in freedom live in their debt.
Jewish American Heritage Month is an opportunity to honor the accomplishments of Jewish-American citizens and to remember that our Nation is a melting pot of cultures. I join all Americans in celebrating the rich Jewish heritage and the many ways Jewish Americans contribute to a bright future for our country. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2007 as Jewish American Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities to honor Jewish Americans across the country.
[[Page 25182]]
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-first.

(Presidential Sig.)
[FR Doc. 07-2217
Filed 5-2-07; 8:54 am]
Billing code 3195-01-P

Thu, May 3 2007 11:00:00 GMT

[[Page 25183]]
Proclamation 8137 of April 30, 2007

Loyalty Day, 2007
By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation
America was founded by patriots who risked their lives to bring freedom to our Nation. Today, our citizens are grateful for our Founding Fathers and confident in the principles that lead us forward. On Loyalty Day, we celebrate the blessings of freedom and remember our responsibility to continue our legacy of liberty. Our Nation has never been united simply by blood, birth, or soil, but instead has always been united by the ideals that move us beyond our background and teach us what it means to be Americans. We believe deeply in freedom and self-government, values embodied in our cherished documents and defended by our troops over the course of generations. Our citizens hold the truths of our founding close to their hearts and demonstrate their loyalty in countless ways. We are inspired by the patriotic service of the men and women who wear our Nation's uniform with honor and decency. The military spouses and families who stand by their loved ones represent the best of the American spirit, and we are profoundly grateful for their sacrifice. Our country is strengthened by the millions of volunteers who show deep compassion toward their neighbors in need. All citizens can express their loyalty to the United States by flying the flag, participating in our democracy, and learning more about our country's grand story of courage and simple dream of dignity.
The Congress, by Public Law 85-529, as amended, has designated May 1 of each year as ``Loyalty Day.'' This Loyalty Day, and throughout the year, I ask all Americans to join me in reaffirming our allegiance to our Nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2007, as Loyalty Day. I call upon the people of the United States to participate in this national observance and to display the flag of the United States on Loyalty Day as a symbol of pride in our Nation. [[Page 25184]]
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-first.

(Presidential Sig.)
[FR Doc. 07-2218
Filed 5-2-07; 8:54 am]
Billing code 3195-01-P

Thu, May 3 2007 11:00:00 GMT

[[Page 25185]]
Proclamation 8138 of May 1, 2007

National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, 2007 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation
National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is an opportunity to educate Americans about the importance of healthy habits and regular physical activity. During this annual observance, we renew our commitment to helping keep our citizens physically active, and we recognize the value of incorporating exercise and sports into our daily lives.
Regular physical activity is vital to good health. By maintaining an active lifestyle, citizens can reduce their risk of developing chronic health conditions. Participating in outdoor activities and individual or team sports helps promote physical fitness. These activities also teach young people important life lessons, including teamwork, patience, and discipline. My Administration is committed to helping ensure the good health of all Americans. This year is the fifth anniversary of the HealthierUS initiative, which helps Americans improve their personal health and fitness and prevent disease. The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports is spreading the message that a healthy America is a country that is physically active. Additionally, this year the Department of Health and Human Services and its partners launched a public awareness campaign to promote exercise and eating well to America's youth. This campaign encourages kids to ``Be a Player: Get Up and Play an Hour a Day.'' To find out other ways to improve health, Americans can visit fitness.gov or presidentschallenge.org. By making physical fitness a priority, our citizens can help prevent disease and live healthier lives.
NOW, THEREFORE I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2007 as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. I call upon my fellow citizens to participate in athletic activities and make physical fitness a priority in their lives. I also encourage individuals, schools, and communities to celebrate this month with appropriate activities and programs.
[[Page 25186]]
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-first.

(Presidential Sig.)
[FR Doc. 07-2219
Filed 5-2-07; 8:54 am]
Billing code 3195-01-P

Thu, May 3 2007 11:00:00 GMT

[[Page 25187]]
Proclamation 8139 of May 1, 2007

Older Americans Month, 2007
By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation
During Older Americans Month, we pay tribute to our senior citizens for the many ways they strengthen our Nation. Our country is blessed by their compassionate acts, the wisdom of their experiences, and the patriotism they demonstrate.
This year's theme, ``Older Americans: Making Choices for a Healthier Future,'' underscores the importance of making informed decisions regarding lifestyle and personal health. The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports encourages seniors to engage in physical activity through a program called the President's Challenge. By recognizing the importance of staying active, in conjunction with nutritious eating and proper medical care, older Americans can improve heart health, slow bone loss, and lengthen lives. By making an effort to enhance their quality of life, older Americans inspire younger generations to appreciate the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. My Administration is working to modernize the Medicare system and provide better prescription drug coverage and health care so seniors have more choices and improved care. This year, I proposed a standard tax deduction for those who purchase private health insurance. The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 and the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit, Medicare Part D, help seniors receive the medical services and the prescription drugs they need at more affordable prices. This month, we honor older Americans for demonstrating the spirit of our Nation through their positive attitude, strong work ethic, and personal character. America will always be grateful for the legacy of responsibility and service they are leaving to future generations.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2007 as Older Americans Month. I commend older Americans for the many contributions they make to our Nation. I also commend the Federal, State, local, and tribal organizations, service and health care providers, caregivers, and volunteers who dedicate their time and talents to our seniors. I encourage all citizens to honor their elders, care for those in need, and reaffirm our country's commitment to older Americans this month and throughout the year.
[[Page 25188]]
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-first.

(Presidential Sig.)
[FR Doc. 07-2220
Filed 5-2-07; 8:54 am]
Billing code 3195-01-P

Agency Information Collection Activities Under OMB Review

Thu, May 3 2007 11:00:00 GMT

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 35013521), this notice announces that the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Department of Veterans Affairs, has submitted the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information collection and its expected cost and burden and includes the actual data collection instrument.