The Federal Register

Repair Stations: Service Difficulty Reporting

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

This final rule amends the regulations governing service difficulty reports (SDRs) submitted to the FAA by aeronautical repair stations. The FAA is clarifying which type of failures, malfunctions, and defects repair stations must report. Finally, FAA is replacing certain section references with part references. This action will eliminate the need to revise repair station regulations if the FAA revises SDR rules.

Sentencing Guidelines for United States Courts

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to section 994(a), (o), and (p) of title 28, United States Code, the United States Sentencing Commission is considering promulgating certain amendments to the sentencing guidelines, policy statements, and commentary. This notice sets forth the proposed amendments and, for each proposed amendment, a synopsis of the issues addressed by that amendment. This notice also provides multiple issues for comment, some of which are contained within proposed amendments.

The specific proposed amendments and issues for comment in this notice are as follows: (1) Proposed amendments that implement directives to the Commission contained in the Prosecutorial Remedies and Other Tools to end the Exploitation of Children Today Act of 2003 (``PROTECT Act''), Public Law 10821, regarding child pornography and sexual abuse offenses, and related issues for comment; (2) proposed amendments to Chapter Eight (Sentencing of Organizations) to provide a new guideline regarding compliance programs, and related issu

Pistachios Grown in California; Secretary's Decision and Referendum Order on Proposed Marketing Agreement and Order

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

This decision proposes the issuance of a marketing agreement and order (order) for pistachios grown in California, and provides growers with the opportunity to vote in a referendum to determine if they favor promulgation of the order. The proposed order would set standards for the quality of pistachios produced and handled in California by establishing a maximum aflatoxin tolerance level, maximum limits for defects, a minimum size requirement, and mandatory inspection and certification. An elevenmember committee, consisting of eight producers, two handlers, and one public member, would locally administer the program. The program would be financed by assessments on handlers of pistachios grown in the production area. The program would enhance grower returns through the delivery of higherquality pistachios to consumers.

Regulations Governing Practice Before the Internal Revenue Service

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

This notice proposes modifications of the regulations governing practice before the Internal Revenue Service (Circular 230). These regulations affect individuals who are eligible to practice before the IRS. The proposed modifications set forth best practices for tax advisors providing advice to taxpayers relating to Federal tax issues or submissions to the IRS and modify the standards for certain tax shelter opinions. This document also provides notice of a public hearing regarding the proposed regulations.

Trade Policy Staff Committee; Notice of Availability and Request for Public Comment on Interim Environmental Review of

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), on behalf of the Trade Policy Staff Committee (TPSC), seeks comment on the interim environmental review of the proposed U.S.Australia Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The interim environmental review is available at http://www.ustr.gov/environment/environmental.shtml. Copies of the review will also be sent to interested members of the public by mail upon request.

Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA), as Amended: Notice Regarding the 2003 Annual Review

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) received petitions in September 2003 to review certain practices in certain beneficiary developing countries to determine whether such countries are in compliance with the ATPA eligibility criteria. This notice specifies the date of announcement of the results of the preliminary review of those petitions.

FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The OCC, OTS, Board, FDIC, NCUA, FTC, CFTC, and SEC (the Agencies) are requesting comment on whether the Agencies should consider amending the regulations that implement sections 502 and 503 of the GrammLeachBliley Act (GLB Act) to allow or require financial institutions to provide alternative types of privacy notices, such as a short privacy notice, that would be easier for consumers to understand.

Technical Amendments

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS) is amending its regulations to incorporate a number of technical and conforming amendments. They include clarifications, updated statutory and other references, and corrections of typographical errors.

Meeting of the Regional Resource Stewardship Council

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

TVA will convene a meeting of the Regional Resource Stewardship Council (Regional Council) to obtain views and advice on the topic of public involvement practices. Under the TVA Act, TVA is charged with the proper use and conservation of natural resources for the purpose of fostering the orderly and proper physical, economic and social development of the Tennessee Valley region. The Regional Council was established to advise TVA on its natural resource stewardship activities. Notice of this meeting is given under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. App. 2, (FACA).

The meeting agenda includes the following:
(1) Discussion of TVA public involvement practices.
(2) Discussion of order public involvement practices.
(3) Public comments on the topic of TVA's public involvement practices.
(4) Regional Council discussion on the topic of TVA's public involvement practices.
(5) Close out of open Council business (advice on TVA's role in recreation from September 2003 meeting)

Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Periodically, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) will publish a summary of information collection requests under OMB review, in compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35). To request a copy of these documents, call the SAMHSA Reports Clearance Officer on (301) 4437978.

Evaluation of the Buprenorphine Waiver: Longitudinal Patient SurveyNewThe Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration (SAMHSA), Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT), Division of Pharmacologic Therapies (DPT), is evaluating a program that permits officebased physicians to obtain Waivers from the requirements of the Narcotic Addict Treatment Act of 1974 (21 U.S.C. 823(g)). Under the Drug Addiction Treatment Act of 2000 (21 U.S.C. 823 (g)(2)), the Waiver Program permits qualifying physicians to prescribe and dispense buprenorphine, a schedule III narcotic drug recently approved by the FDA for the treatment of opiate addiction. Furthermore, the Dr

Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) Final Rule, 42 CFR part 51(OMB No. 09300172Extension)These regulations meet the directive under 42 U.S.C. 10826(b) requiring the Secretary to promulgate final regulations to carry out the PAIMI Act. The regulations contain information collection requirements. The Act authorized funds to support activities on behalf of individuals with significant (severe) mental illness (adults) or emotional impairment (children/youth) (42 U.S.C. at 10802(4)). However, only entities designated by the governor of each State and six (6) territories (the American Indian Consortium, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern

Finding of No Significant Impact and Summary Environmental Assessment; Valero Logistics LP Pipeline in Webb County, TX

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The proposed action is to issue a Presidential Permit to Valero Logistics Operations LP (Valero) to construct, connect, operate and maintain a 8\5/8\ inch outer diameter pipeline to convey liquid petroleum gas (``LPG'') across the border from Webb County, Texas to the United States of Mexico. On behalf of Valero, URS Corporation of Austin, Texas, prepared a draft environmental assessment under the guidance and supervision of the Department of State (the
``Department''). The Department placed a notice in the Federal Register (68 FR 44560 (July 29, 2003)) regarding the availability for inspection of Valero's Permit application and the draft environmental assessment.

Numerous Federal and state agencies independently reviewed the draft environmental assessment. They include: the United States Section of the International Boundary and Water Commission, the Department of Transportation, the Department of the Interior, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Environmental Protection Agency, the

Shipping Coordinating Committee; Notice of Meeting

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The Shipping Coordinating Committee (SHC) will conduct an open meeting at 9 a.m. on Monday, January 26, 2004, in Room 6319 of the United States Coast Guard Headquarters Building, 2100 2nd Street SW., Washington, DC 205930001. The primary purpose of the meeting is to prepare for the 47th Session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) SubCommittee on Stability and Load Lines and on Fishing Vessels Safety to be held at IMO Headquarters in London, England from September 13th to 17th.

The primary matters to be considered include:
Harmonization of damage stability provisions in SOLAS Chapter II1; Large passenger ship safety;
Review of the Intact Stability Code;
Revision of the Fishing Vessel Safety Code and Voluntary Guidelines; Review of the Offshore Supply Vessel Guidelines;
Harmonization of the damage stability provisions in other IMO instruments, including the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol (probabilistic method);
Revision of technical regulations of the 1966 Load Line Convention; Review

Shipping Coordinating Committee; Notice of Meeting

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The Shipping Coordinating Committee (SHC), through the Subcommittee on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping, will conduct an open meeting at 9:30 a.m. on January 8, 2004. The meeting will be held in Room 6103 of the United States Coast Guard Headquarters Building, 2100 Second Street SW., Washington, DC 205930001. The purpose of the meeting is to prepare for the 35th session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) SubCommittee on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping (STW), to be held on January 2630, 2004, at the IMO Headquarters in London, England.

The primary matters to be considered include:

1. Measures to enhance maritime security, training and certification for ship, company and port facility security officers;

2. Watchkeeping at anchor;

3. Large passenger ship safety;

4. Training of crew in launching and recovery operations of fast rescue boats and the means of rescue in adverse weather conditions;

5. Measures to prevent accidents with li

Bureau of Political-Military Affairs: Directorate of Defense Trade Controls; Notifications to the Congress of Proposed

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Notice is hereby given that the Department of State has forwarded the attached Notifications of Proposed Export Licenses to the Congress on the dates shown on the attachments pursuant to sections 36(c) and 36(d) and in compliance with section 36(f) of the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2776).

Self-Regulatory Organizations; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change by the Pacific

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

December 22, 2003.

Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (``Act'')\1\ and Rule 19b4 thereunder,\2\ notice is hereby given that on December 12, 2003, the Pacific Exchange, Inc. (``PCX'' or ``Exchange'') filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (``Commission'') the proposed rule change as described in Items I, II, and III below, which the Exchange has prepared. The Commission is publishing this notice to solicit comments on the proposed rule change from interested persons.
\1\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1).
\2\ 17 CFR 240.19b4.
I. SelfRegulatory Organization's Statement of the Terms of Substance of the Proposed Rule Change

The Exchange is proposing to amend the General Membership Fees and Floor, Market Maker and Remote Market Maker Fees portions of its Schedule of Fees and Charges (``Schedule''). The text of the proposed change to the fee schedule is available at the Exchange and at the Commission.
II. SelfRegulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpo

Self-Regulatory Organizations; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change by the Pacific

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

December 22, 2003.

The Exchange is proposing to amend the Floor, Market Maker and Remote Market Maker Fees portion of its Schedule of Fees and Charges (``Schedule''). The text of the proposed change to the fee schedule is available at the Exchange and at the Commission.
II. SelfRegulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis fo

Self-Regulatory Organizations; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change by the National

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

December 22, 2003.

Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (``Act'') \1\ and Rule 19b4 thereunder,\2\ notice is hereby given that on December 19, 2003, the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. (``NASD'') filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (``Commission'') the proposed rule change as described in Items I, II, and III below, which Items have been prepared by the NASD. The NASD has designated the proposed rule change as constituting a ``non controversial'' rule change under paragraph (f)(6) of Rule 19b4 under the Act,\3\ which renders the proposal effective upon receipt of this filing by the Commission. The Commission is publishing this amended notice to solicit comments on the proposed rule change from interested persons.
\1\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1).
\2\ 17 CFR 240.19b4.
\3\ 17 CFR 240.19b4(f)(6).
I. SelfRegulatory Organization's Statement of the Terms of Substance of the Proposed Rule Change

The NASD is filing with the Commissio

Self-Regulatory Organizations; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change by National

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

December 22, 2003.

Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (``Act''),\1\ and Rule 19b4 thereunder,\2\ notice is hereby given that on December 11, 2003, the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. (``NASD''), through its subsidiary, The Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc. (``Nasdaq''), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (``Commission'') the proposed rule change as described in Items I, II, and III below, which Items have been prepared by Nasdaq. The Commission is publishing this notice to solicit comments on the proposed rule change from interested persons.
\1\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1).
\2\ 17 CFR 240.19b4.
I. SelfRegulatory Organization's Statement of the Terms of the Substance of the Proposed Rule Change

Nasdaq proposes to modify the pricing for Nasdaq's SuperMontage system. Pursuant to Section 19(b)(3)(A) of the Act,\3\ and Rule 19b 4(f)(6) thereunder,\4\ Nasdaq has designated the proposed rule change as noncontroversial and requests that the

Self-Regulatory Organizations; Notice of Filing of a Proposed Rule Change by the National Association of Securities

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

December 22, 2003.

Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (``Act'') \1\ and Rule 19b4 thereunder,\2\ notice is hereby given that on December 19, 2003, the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. (``NASD'' or ``Association''), through its subsidiary, The Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc. (``Nasdaq'') filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (``Commission'') the proposed rule change as described in Items I and II below, which Items have been prepared by the Nasdaq. The Commission is publishing this notice to solicit comments on the proposed rule change.
\1\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1).
\2\ 17 CFR 240.19b4.
I. SelfRegulatory Organization's Statement of the Terms of Substance of the Proposed Rule Change

The Nasdaq is proposing to extend the pilot program of the National Association of Securities Dealers' short sale rule retroactively to December 15 and prospectively until June 15, 2004. The Nasdaq is also seeking to continue the suspension of the effecti

Self-Regulatory Organizations; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change and Amendment No.

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

December 19, 2003.

Pursuant to section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (``Act''),\1\ and Rule 19b4 thereunder,\2\ notice is hereby given that on November 12, 2003, the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. (``NASD'') filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (``Commission'') the proposed rule change as described in Items I, II, and III below, which Items have been prepared by NASD. NASD amended the proposed rule change on December 18, 2003.\3\ NASD filed the proposed rule change pursuant to section 19(b)(3)(A)(i) of the Act,\4\ and Rule 19b4(f)(1) thereunder,\5\ as one constituting a stated policy, practice, or interpretation with respect to the meaning,
administration, or enforcement of an existing rule, which renders the proposed rule change effective upon filing with the Commission. The Commission is publishing this notice to solicit comments on the proposed rule change, as amended, from interested persons.
\1\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1).
\2\ 17 CFR 240

Self-Regulatory Organizations; Notice of Filing of Proposed Rule Change by the International Securities Exchange, Inc.

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

December 18, 2003.

Pursuant to section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the ``Act''),\1\ and Rule 19b4 thereunder,\2\ notice is hereby given that on December 11, 2003, the International Securities Exchange, Inc. (``Exchange'' or ``ISE'') filed with the Securities and Exchange [[Page 75297]]
Commission (``Commission'') the proposed rule change as described in Items I, II, and III below, which items have been prepared by the ISE. The Commission is publishing this notice to solicit comments on the proposed rule change from interested persons.
\1\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1).
\2\ 17 CFR 240.19b4.
I. SelfRegulatory Organization's Statement of the Terms of Substance of the Proposed Rule Change

The ISE proposes to increase the number of authorized shares of Class B Common Stock, Series B2 from 130 to 160. This increase would result in the creation of 30 additional Competitive Market Maker (``CMM'') Memberships. The text of the proposed rule change is available at the Office of the

Self-Regulatory Organizations; Order Approving Proposed Rule Change and Notice of Filing and Order Granting

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

December 18, 2003.

Pursuant to section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (``Act''),\1\ and Rule 19b4 thereunder,\2\ notice is hereby given that on April 4, 2003, the American Stock Exchange LLC (``Amex'' or ``Exchange'') filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (``SEC'' or ``Commission'') the proposed rule change as described in Items I and II below, which Items have been prepared by the Exchange. On May 14, 2003, the Exchange filed Amendment No. 1 to the proposal.\3\ On June 12, 2003, the Exchange filed Amendment No. 2 to the proposal.\4\ The Commission published the proposal, as amended, for comment in the Federal Register on June 26, 2003.\5\ The Commission received no comments on the proposal. On December 4, 2003, the Exchange filed Amendment No. 3 to the proposal.\6\ In Amendment No. 3, the Amex proposes to replace the proposed rule change as set forth in the original notice in its entirety. The Commission is publishing this notice of Amendment No. 3 to solicit c

Guarantees for Bonds and Notes Issued for Electrification or Telephone Purposes

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

This rule proposes to establish procedures for a guarantee program for cooperatives and other notforprofit lenders that make loans eligible for assistance under the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 (the RE Act). Criteria for eligibility of lenders and transactions are set forth in the rule together with application procedures. Program participants are required to pay an annual fee for the guarantee. The fee will be credited to the Rural Development Subaccount to provide funds for zerointerest loans and grants pursuant to section 313 of the RE Act. The Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (Pub. L. 107171), amended the RE Act, by adding section 313A which establishes this program.

Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Summary: In accordance with the requirement of section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 which provides opportunity for public comment on new or revised data collections, the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) will publish periodic summaries of proposed data collections.

Comments are invited on: (a) Whether the proposed information collection is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information has practical utility; (b) the accuracy of the RRB's estimate of the burden of the collection of the information; (c) ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and (d) ways to minimize the burden related to the collection of information on respondents, including the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

Title and purpose of information collection: Application to Act as Representative Payee; OMB 32200052. Under section 12 of the Railroad Re

Request For Comments and Notice of Round Table Meeting Regarding The Equities of Inter Partes Reexamination

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) seeks comments from former, current and prospective participants and other interested parties on whether inter partes reexamination proceedings are believed to be inequitable to any of the parties in interest and, if so, what changes are suggested to remove such inequities. As a part of this effort, USPTO announces the scheduling of a round table meeting to receive views on the effectiveness and possible improvement of inter partes reexamination proceedings.

Panel Meetings

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

January 20 and 21, 2004Las Vegas, Nevada: The U.S. Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board's panel on the Engineered Barrier System and Panel on the Waste Management System will meet to discuss issues related to the proposed repository at Yucca Mountain in Nevada, including design of the engineered system and information needed to plan for a system to transport highlevel radioactive waste spent nuclear fuel to the proposed repository.

Pursuant to its authority under section 5051 of Public Law 100203, Nuclear Waste Policy Amendments Act of 1987, members of the U.S. Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board's Panel on the Engineered Barrier system and Panel on the Waste Management System will meet in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Tuesday, January 20, and Wednesday, January 21, 2004, respectively. The panels will discuss issues related to the proposed repository at Yucca Mountain in Nevada, including design of the engineered system and information needed as the Department of Energy (DOE) plans a system fo

In the Matter of Scott P. Wolfe; Order Prohibiting Involvement in Certain NRC-Licensed Activities (Effective

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Scott P. Wolfe held Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) senior operator's license SOP437231. The license authorized Mr. Wolfe to operate the Waterford3 Steam Electric Station in accordance with the conditions of the license and 10 CFR part 55. The Waterford3 Steam Electric Station is a nuclear power plant in Killona, Louisiana, and is operated by Entergy Operations, Inc., under the provisions of NRC operating license NPF38.

II

On May 7, 1990, Mr. Wolfe tested positive for an illegal substance in response to a random fitnessforduty test. The test results were confirmed positive on May 14, 1990. On June 1, 1990, Mr. Wolfe signed a ``reentry agreement'' in which he agreed to participate in Entergy Operation, Inc.'s employee assistance program, agreed to abstain from the use of illegal drugs, agreed to periodic unannounced drug and alcohol testing, and confirmed his understanding that a second positive test for drugs or alcohol may result in his employment being terminated.
[[Page 75291]]

In the Matter of University of Missouri, University of Missouri Research Reactor; Confirmatory Order Modifying License

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) is a research reactor regulated by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). MURR is located on the campus of the University of Missouri (MU) in Columbia Missouri.

II

On December 18, 2001, the NRC initiated an investigation of the University of Missouri (the licensee) to determine if a former senior research scientist at the MURR facility was the subject of employment discrimination and continued retaliation by management for previous protected activities. The NRC Office of Investigations (OI) concluded in Office of Investigations Report No. 42001054 that the former senior research scientist was the subject of employment discrimination and continued retaliation by management for previous protected activities.

By letter dated June 4, 2003, the NRC provided the licensee with its conclusions through issuance of an apparent violation of employee protection requirements and a synopsis of the referenced OI report. During subsequent

Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant, Inc., Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant, Unit Nos. 1 and 2; Exemption

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

1.0 Background

Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant, Inc. (CCNPPI or the licensee) is the holder of Renewed Facility Operating License Nos. DPR53 and DPR69, which authorizes operation of Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant, Unit Nos. 1 and 2 (CCNPP12). The license provides, among other things, that the facility is subject to all rules, regulations, and orders of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC, the Commission) now or hereafter in effect.

The facility consists of two pressurizedwater reactors located in Calvert County, Maryland.

2.0 Purpose

Section IV.F.2.b of Appendix E, to 10 CFR part 50 requires each licensee at each site to conduct an exercise of its onsite emergency plan every 2 years and indicates the exercise may be included in the full participation biennial exercise required by paragraph 2.c of the same section. In addition, licensees are to take actions necessary to ensure that adequate emergency response capabilities are maintained during the interval between bienn

Dominion Nuclear Connecticut, Inc.; Millstone Power Station, Unit No. 3 Environmental Assessment and Finding of No

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is considering issuance of an exemption from title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR) Sec. 54.17(c) for Facility Operating License No. NPF49, issued to Dominion Nuclear Connecticut, Inc. (DNC), for operation of Millstone Power Station, Unit No. 3 (MP3), located in Waterford, Connecticut. Therefore, as required by 10 CFR 51.21, the NRC is issuing this environmental assessment and finding of no significant impact.
Environmental Assessment

Identification of the Proposed Action

The proposed action would grant a schedular exemption from the provision of 10 CFR 54.17(c), which stipulates that a licensee may not apply for a renewed operating license earlier than 20 years before the current license expires. The exemption would allow DNC to submit a renewal application for MP3 earlier
[[Page 75292]]
than 20 years before expiration of its operating license.

The Need for the Proposed Action

The proposed action would allow DNC to submit one

Field Office Technical Guidelines

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to Department of the Interior 200 D.M. 2.4 and 200 D.M. 1.10, the National Park Service announces the proposed Amendment two (Amdt. 2) to Southeast Region Order No. 6, Delegation of Authority, to clarify the authority of Field Land Resources Officers.

Notice of Inventory Completion: Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, IL

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Notice is here given in accordance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), 25 U.S.C. 3003, of the completion of an inventory of human remains and associated funerary objects in the possession of the Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, IL. The human remains and associated funerary objects were removed from Fort Peck Indian Reservation, MT, and from an unknown location in Montana.

This notice is published as part of the National Park Service's administrative responsibilities under NAGPRA, 25 U.S.C. 3003 (d)(3). The determinations within this notice are the sole responsibility of the museum, institution, or Federal agency that has control of the Native American human remains and associated funerary objects. The National Park Service is not responsible for the determinations within this notice.

[[Page 75279]]

A detailed assessment of the human remains was made by Field Museum of Natural History professional staff in consultation with representativ

Notice of Availability of the Final Rural Landscape Management Program Environmental Impact Statement for Cuyahoga

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to section 102(2) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, the National Park Service (NPS) announces the availability of the final rural landscape management program environmental impact statement (EIS) for Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio (Park). This notice is being furnished as required by National Environmental Policy Act Regulations 40 CFR 1501.7.

Public Notice of Extension

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to 36 CFR 51.23, public notice is hereby given that the National Park Service proposes to extend the following expiring concession contracts for a period of up to one year, or until such time as a new contract is executed, whichever occurs sooner.

Public Notice of Extension

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Public Notice of Extension

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to 36 CFR 51.23, public notice is hereby given that the National Park Service proposes to extend the following expiring concession contract for a period of up to one year, or until such time as a new contract is executed, whichever occurs sooner.

Concession Contracts

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to the terms of existing concession contracts, public notice is hereby given that the National Park Service intends to request a continuation of visitor services for a period nottoexceed 1 year from the date of contract expiration.

Concession Contracts

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to 36 CFR 51.23, public notice is hereby give that the National Park Service proposes to extend the following expiring concession contracts for a period of up to 1 year, or until such time as a new contract is executed, whichever occurs sooner.

Concession Contracts

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to 36 CFR 51.23, public notice is hereby given that the National Park Service proposes to extend the following expiring concession contract for a period of up to 2 years, or until such time as a new contract is executed, whichever occurs sooner.

Concession Contracts

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to the terms of existing concession permits, with the exception of construction on National Park Service lands, public notice is hereby given that the National Park Service intends to provide visitor services under the authority of a temporary concession contract with a term of up to 1 year from the date of permit expiration.

National Park Service Concession Contracts

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to 36 CFR 51.23, public notice is hereby given that the National Park Service proposes to extend the following expiring concession contract for a period of up to 3 years, or until such time as a new contract is executed, whichever occurs sooner.

Concession Contracts

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Concession Contracts

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Concession Contracts

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Magnuson-Stevens Act Provisions; Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Exempted Fishing and Scientific Research Permits

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Due to public request for an extension of the public comment period, NMFS is reopening the comment period for the notice of intent to issue Exempted Fishing Permits (EFPs) and Scientific Research Permits (SRPs) for the collection of Atlantic highly migratory species (HMS), previously published in the Federal Register on December 9, 2003.

New England Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The New England Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold a 3day Council meeting on January 2729, 2004, to consider actions affecting New England fisheries in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

New England Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The New England Fishery Management Council (Council) is scheduling public meetings of its Habitat, Groundfish and Scallop Oversight Committees and Scallop Advisory Panel in, January, 2004 to consider actions affecting New England fisheries in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Recommendations from these groups will be brought to the full Council for formal consideration and action, if appropriate.

Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic; Reef Fish Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico; Referendum

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

NMFS issues this proposed rule to provide information about the schedule, procedures, and eligibility requirements for participating in referendums to determine whether an individual fishing quota (IFQ) program for the Gulf of Mexico commercial red snapper fishery should be prepared and, if so, whether it should subsequently be submitted to the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) for review. This proposed rule revises a previously published proposed rule based on public comments that were received on the initial proposed rule. In response to those public comments, this proposed rule includes additional options regarding the procedure for weighting votes by eligible participants. NMFS is soliciting additional public comment on this proposed rule and, particularly, comments on the voteweighting options. The intended effect of this proposed rule is to implement the referendums consistent with the requirements of the MagnusonStevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MagnusonStevens Act).

Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone off Alaska; Shortraker/ Rougheye and Northern Rockfish in the Bering Sea

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

NMFS is prohibiting directed fishing for Community Development Quota (CDQ) reserve amounts of shortraker/rougheye rockfish and northern rockfish in the Bering Sea subarea and ``other species'' in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands management area (BSAI). This action is necessary to prevent exceeding the 2004 interim CDQ reserve amounts of shortraker/rougheye rockfish, northern rockfish, and ``other species'' in these areas.

Share Insurance and Appendix

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

NCUA is amending its share insurance rules to simplify and clarify them and provide parity with the deposit insurance rules of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Specifically, the amendments: Provide continuation of coverage following the death of a member and for separate coverage after the merger of insured credit unions for limited periods of time; clarify that the interests of nonqualifying beneficiaries of a revocable trust account are treated as the individually owned funds of the owner even where the owner has not actually opened an individual account; and clarify that there is coverage for Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, formerly Education IRAs.

Organization and Operations of Federal Credit Unions

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

NCUA is updating and clarifying the definitions of certain terms used in NCUA's loan participation rule. Specifically, the definition of ``credit union organization'' is amended to conform to the terms of the credit union service organizations (CUSOs) rule. Also, the definition of ``financial organization'' is broadened to provide federal credit unions (FCUs) greater flexibility in choosing appropriate loan participation partners.

Office of Presidential Libraries; Proposed Disposal of Superseded Version of Clinton Administration Electronic Mail

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has identified an incomplete version of Presidential records on electronic media, housed at the National Archives at College Park, Maryland facility, as appropriate for disposal under the provisions of 44 U.S.C. 2203(f)(3). This notice describes the records and our reasons for determining that the records have insufficient administrative, historical, informational, or evidentiary value to warrant their continued preservation, in light of the fact that NARA is maintaining a comprehensive set of the same records on a different set of electronic media. NARA will review timely public comments received on this notice before making a final determination on the disposal of the records.

This notice does not constitute a final agency action, as described in 44 U.S.C. 2203(f)(3), and no Presidential records will be disposed of following this notice. NARA will publish a second notice only after it has considered any comments received during this 4

Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

NARA is giving public notice that the agency has submitted to OMB for approval the information collection described in this notice. The public is invited to comment on the proposed information collection pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.

National Environmental Policy Act; Outrigger Telescopes Project

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), as amended (42 U.S.C. 4231 et seq.), the Council on Environmental Quality Regulations for Implementing the Procedural Provisions of NEPA (40 CFR parts 15001508), and NASA policy and procedures (14 CFR part 1216 subpart 1216.3), NASA intends to prepare an EIS for the proposed Outrigger Telescopes Project (OTP). The EIS will address environmental issues associated with the onsite construction, installation, and operation of four to six 1.8meter (72 inch) Outrigger Telescopes. NASA proposes to fund the OTP at the W.M. Keck Observatory (WMKO) site within the Astronomy Precinct of the Mauna Kea Science Reserve on the Island of Hawaii, State of Hawaii.

Notice of Information Collection

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general public and other Federal agencies to take this opportunity to comment on proposed and/or continuing information collections, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Public Law 10413, 44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(2)(A)).

Notice of Information Collection

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Notice of Information Collection

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Notice of Information Collection

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Notice of Information Collection Under OMB Review

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Fee Adjustments for Testing, Evaluation, and Approval of Mining Products

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

This notice revises our [MSHA Approval and Certification Center (A&CC)] user fees. Fees compensate us for the costs that we incur for testing, evaluating, and approving certain products for use in underground mines. We based the 2004 fees on our actual expenses for fiscal year 2003. The fees reflect changes both in our approval processing operations and in our costs to process approval actions.

Proposed Information Collection Request Submitted for Public Comment and Recommendations; Qualification and

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Labor, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden conducts a preclearance consultation program to provide the general public and Federal agencies with an opportunity to comment on proposed and/or continuing collections of information in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA95) [44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(2)(A)]. This program helps to ensure that requested data can be provided in the desired format, reporting burden (time and financial resources) is minimized, collection instruments are clearly understood, and the impact of collection requirements on respondents can be properly assessed.

Currently, the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) soliciting comments concerning the extension of the information collection related to the Title 30 CFR 75.153(a)(2) and 77.103(a)(2) require that a program be provided for the qualification of certain experienced personnel as mine electricians. A qualified person is one who has had at least

STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program and STOP Violence Against Indian Women Discretionary Grant Program:

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

This rule proposed to amend the regulations for the STOP (ServicesTrainingOfficersProsecutors) Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program and the STOP Violence Against Indian Women Discretionary Grant Program in 28 CFR 90.17 and 90.55, respectively, to clarify the statutory provision in 42 U.S.C. 3796gg1(f) requiring that each STOP fund grantee provide matching funds in an amount no less than 25% of the total costs of the projects described in the application for funds.

Executive Office for Immigration Review Attorney/Representative Registry

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

This proposed rule would amend the regulations pertaining to appearances by attorneys and representatives before the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). This proposed rule authorizes the Director, EOIR, or his designee to register attorneys and
representatives as
[[Page 75161]]
a condition of practicing before immigration judges and the Board of Immigration Appeals. The proposed rule also provides that the Director or his designee will establish registration procedures including a requirement for electronic registration, and may administratively suspend from practice before EOIR any practitioner who fails to provide certain registration information.

Sunshine Act Meeting

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

In the Matter of Certain Automotive Measuring Devices, Products Containing Same, and Bezels for Such Devices; Notice

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

Notice is hereby given that the U.S. International Trade Commission has determined not to review the initial determination (``ID'') issued by the presiding administrative law judge (``ALJ'') on November 26, 2003, granting complainant Auto Meter Products, Inc.'s motion to amend the complaint and notice of investigation to add Blitz Co., Ltd., as a respondent in the abovecaptioned investigation.

San Diego State University; Notice of Decision on Application for Duty-Free Entry of Electron Microscope

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

This is a decision pursuant to section 6(c) of the Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Materials Importation Act of 1966 (Pub. L. 89 651, 80 Stat. 897; 15 CFR part 301). Related records can be viewed between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. in Suite 4100W, U.S. Department of Commerce, Franklin Court Building, 1099 14th Street, NW., Washington, DC.

Docket Number: 03050. Applicant: San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 921824614. Instrument: Electron Microscope, Model Tecnai G² 12 TWIN. Manufacturer: FEI Company, the Netherlands. Intended Use: See notice at 68 FR 65879, November 24, 2003.

Comments: None received. Decision: Approved. No instrument of equivalent scientific value to the foreign instrument, for such purposes as the instrument is intended to be used, was being manufactured in the United States at the time the instrument was ordered. Reasons: The foreign instrument is a conventional transmission electron microscope (CTEM) and is intended for research or scientific educa

Annual Listing of Foreign Government Subsidies on Articles of Cheese Subject to an In-Quota Rate of Duty

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Commerce (``the Department''), in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture, has prepared its annual list of foreign government subsidies on articles of cheese subject to an inquota rate of duty during the period October 1, 2002, through September 30, 2003. We are publishing the current listing of those subsidies that we have determined exist.

Structural Steel Beams from Japan: Initiation of Changed Circumstances Review

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Commerce has received information sufficient to warrant initiation of a changedcircumstances review of the antidumping order on structural steel beams from Japan. The review will be conducted to determine whether Yamato Steel is the successorin interest to Yamato Kogyo for purposes of determining antidumping and countervailing duty liabilities.

Notice of Extension of Time Limit for Preliminary Results of Administrative Antidumping Review: Stainless Steel Plate

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

A-427-009

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

On September 30, 2003, the Department of Commerce initiated an administrative review of the antidumping duty order on industrial nitrocellulose from France. The review covers one manufacturer/ exporter, Bergerac, N.C. The period of review is August 1, 2002, through July 31, 2003. We are rescinding this review after receiving a timely withdrawal from the party requesting this review.

Notice of Antidumping Duty Order: High and Ultra-High Voltage Ceramic Station Post Insulators from Japan

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

(A-570-831)

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

On September 26, 2003, the Department of Commerce published the preliminary results of the new shipper review of the antidumping duty order on fresh garlic from the People's Republic of China. The period of review is November 1, 2001, through October 31, 2002. The new shipper review initially covered three producers/exporters of subject merchandise. The Department issued a separate notice of preliminary results of the new shipper review for Xiangcheng Yisheng Foodstuffs Co., Ltd. (``Yisheng''). Accordingly, this notice pertains solely to the final results of review for Yisheng. The notice of final results of the review applicable to the other two producers/exporters is due April 8, 2004.

We invited interested parties to comment on our preliminary results. Based on our analysis of the comments received, we have made no changes to our preliminary determination that, based on the use of adverse facts available, the respondent sold subject merchandise to the United States at prices below normal

Bulk Aspirin From the People's Republic of China: Notice of Amended Final Determination and Amended Order Pursuant to

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

On September 9, 2002, the Court of International Trade (``CIT'' or ``the Court'') affirmed the Department's remand determination and entered a judgment order in Rhodia, Inc. v. United States, 240 F. Supp. 2d 1247 (CIT 2002) (``Rhodia II''), a lawsuit challenging certain aspects of the Department of Commerce's (``the Department'') Notice of Final Determination of Sales at Less Than Fair Value: Bulk Aspirin From the People's Republic of China, 65 FR 33805 (May 25, 2000) and accompanying Issues and Decision Memorandum (May 17, 2000) (``Issues and Decision Memorandum''), and Notice of Amended Final Determination of Sales at Less Than Fair Value: Bulk Aspirin from the People's Republic of China, 65 FR 39598 (June 27, 2000) (collectively, ``Final Determination''). On October 14, 2003, the CIT's opinion upholding the Department's final remand was affirmed without opinion by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (``Federal Circuit''). See Rhodia II, 240 F. Supp. 2d 1247 (CIT 2002) aff'd mem

Information Reporting Relating to Taxable Stock Transactions

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

This document withdraws proposed regulations published in the Federal Register on November 18, 2002 (REG14332102). In the Rules and Regulations section of this issue of the Federal Register, the IRS is issuing temporary regulations relating to information reporting relating to taxable stock transactions. This document contains proposed regulations under section 6043(c) requiring information reporting by a corporation if control of the corporation is acquired or if the corporation has a recapitalization or other substantial change in capital structure. This document also contains proposed regulations under section 6045 concerning information reporting requirements for brokers with respect to transactions described in section 6043(c). The text of the temporary regulations serves as the text of these proposed regulations. This document also provides notice of a public hearing on these proposed regulations.

Information Reporting Relating to Taxable Stock Transactions

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

This document contains temporary regulations requiring information reporting by a corporation if control of the corporation is acquired or if the corporation has a recapitalization or other substantial change in capital structure. This document also contains temporary regulations concerning information reporting requirements for brokers with respect to transactions described in section 6043(c). The text of these temporary regulations also serves as the text of proposed regulations set forth in the Proposed Rules section of this issue of the Federal Register.

Confidential Transactions

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

These final regulations modify and clarify the rules relating to confidential transactions under the Income Tax Regulations, and make minor conforming changes to the list maintenance rules under the Procedure and Administration Regulations. These regulations affect taxpayers participating in reportable transactions and persons responsible for maintaining and furnishing lists of investors in reportable transactions.

Establishing Defenses to the Imposition of the Accuracy-Related Penalty

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

This document contains final regulations that affect the defenses available to the imposition of the accuracyrelated penalty when taxpayers fail to disclose reportable transactions or fail to disclose that they have taken a return position based on the conclusion that a regulation is invalid. The final regulations are intended to promote disclosure of reportable transactions and positions based on the conclusion that a regulation is invalid by narrowing a taxpayer's ability to establish good faith and reasonable cause as a defense. The final regulations also clarify the existing regulations with respect to the facts and circumstances to be considered in determining whether a taxpayer acted with reasonable cause and in good faith.

Robinson Rancheria of California Ordinance Governing the Regulation and Licensing of Liquor

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

This notice publishes the Robinson Rancheria of California Ordinance Governing the Regulation and Licensing of Liquor on lands of the Robinson Rancheria. The ordinance regulates and controls the sale, manufacture, and distribution of alcoholic beverages in public places on the Robinson Rancheria as the Robinson Rancheria Citizens Business Council may deem necessary.

Announcement of Funding Award--FY 2000, Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control; President and Fellows of Harvard College of

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

In accordance with section 102(a)(4)(C) of the Department of Housing and Urban Development Reform Act of 1989, this announcement notifies the public of a funding decision made by the Department to the National Academy of Sciences of Washington, DC President and Fellows of Harvard College of Boston, MA. This announcement contains the name and address of the awardee and the amount of the award.

Announcement of Funding Award--FY 2002 and FY 2003, Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control; National Academy of Sciences

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

In accordance with section 102(a)(4)(C) of the Department of Housing and Urban Development Reform Act of 1989, this announcement notifies the public of a funding decision made by the Department to the National Academy of Sciences of Washington, DC. This announcement contains the name and address of the awardee and the amount of the award.

Announcement of Funding Award--FY 2000, Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control; Duke University of Durham, NC

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

In accordance with section 102(a)(4)(C) of the Department of Housing and Urban Development Reform Act of 1989, this announcement notifies the public of a funding decision made by the Department to the Duke University of Durham, NC. This announcement contains the name and address of the awardee and the amount of the award.

Special Areas; Roadless Area Conservation; Applicability to the Tongass National Forest, Alaska

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Agriculture is adopting this final rule to amend regulations concerning the Roadless Area Conservation Rule (hereinafter, referred to as the roadless rule) to temporarily exempt the Tongass National Forest (hereinafter, referred to as the Tongass) from prohibitions against timber harvest, road construction, and reconstruction in inventoried roadless areas. This temporary exemption of the Tongass will be in effect until the Department promulgates a subsequent final rule concerning the application of the roadless rule within the State of Alaska, as announced in the agency's second advance notice of proposed rulemaking published on July 15, 2003 (68 FR 41864).

In State of Alaska v. USDA, the State of Alaska and other plaintiffs alleged that the roadless rule violated a number of Federal statutes, including the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 (ANILCA). Passed overwhelmingly by Congress in 1980, ANILCA sets aside millions of acres in Alaska for the Nation

Draft Guidance for Industry: Clozapine Tablets: In Vivo Bioequivalence and In Vitro Dissolution Testing, Revision;

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is announcing the availability of a draft guidance for industry entitled ``Clozapine Tablets: In Vivo Bioequivalence and In Vitro Dissolution Testing.'' This draft guidance provides recommendations for sponsors of abbreviated new drug applications (ANDAs) on the design of bioequivalence studies for generic clozapine products. This draft guidance is being issued because an earlier guidance on this topic published in November 1996 needed to be revised to
[[Page 75263]]
reflect current agency recommendations. Because of significant potential adverse effects, the agency no longer recommends in vivo bioequivalence testing in healthy subjects.

Revision of the Requirements For Spore-Forming Microorganisms; Companion to Direct Final Rule

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing to amend the biologics regulations by providing options to the existing requirement for separate, dedicated facilities and equipment for work with sporeforming microorganisms. FDA is proposing this amendment due to advances in facility, system, and equipment design and in sterilization technologies that would allow work with sporeforming microorganisms to be performed in multiproduct manufacturing areas. We are amending the regulations because the existing requirement for always using separate, dedicated facilities and equipment for work with spore forming microorganisms is no longer necessary. We are taking this action as part of our continuing effort to reduce the burden of unnecessary regulations on industry and to revise outdated regulations without diminishing public health protection. This proposed rule is a companion document to the direct final rule published elsewhere in this issue of the Federal Register. We are taking this action b

Revision of the Requirements for Spore-Forming Microorganisms

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is amending the biologics regulations by providing options to the existing requirement for separate, dedicated facilities and equipment for work with spore forming microorganisms. FDA is amending the regulations due to advances in facility, system, and equipment design and in sterilization technologies that will allow work with sporeforming microorganisms to be performed in multiproduct manufacturing areas. We are publishing this rule because the existing requirement for always using separate, dedicated facilities and equipment for work with sporeforming microorganisms is no longer necessary. We are taking this action as part of our continuing effort to reduce the burden of unnecessary regulations on industry and to revise outdated regulations without diminishing public health protection. We are issuing these amendments directly as a final rule because they are noncontroversial and there is little likelihood that we will receive any significant comments o

Issuance of Permits

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

The following permits were issued.

Renegotiation Board Interest Rate, Prompt Payment Interest Rate, Contract Disputes Act

Tue, Dec 30 2003 11:00:00 GMT

For the period beginning January 1, 2004 and ending on June 30, 2004, the prompt payment interest rate is 4.000 per centum per annum.