Change Requests

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State Petitions for No-Discharge Zones (NDZs), Emergency Orders, Review of National Standards of Performance, and Enhanced Great Lakes System Requirements under CWA Section 312(p) (Final Rule)

Key Information

Abstract

Clean Water Act section 312(p), titled Uniform National Standards for Discharges Incidental to Normal Operation of Vessels, directs EPA to establish national standards of performance for discharges incidental to the normal operation of commercial vessels greater than 79 feet in length; other non-recreational, non-Armed Forces vessels, such as research and emergency rescue vessels; and ballast water only from small vessels (vessels less than 79 feet in length) and fishing vessels of all sizes. The activities covered by this ICR include petitions from states, as provided for in 312(p), for the establishment of no-discharge zones (NDZs), issuance of emergency orders, review of standards of performance, and establishment of enhanced Great Lakes system requirements. This is not a reporting requirement, nor are there any deadlines associated with these requests. Instead, states may voluntary undertake the burden of pursuing a petition as needed or desired. The information collection burden is largely attributable to the preparation of these petitions by states and EPA's subsequent review of the petitions.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

33 USC 312(p)	View Law

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National Marine Sancturary Permits

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Abstract

This request is for revision and extension of a currently approved information collection by the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries (ONMS). ONMS manages national marine sanctuaries pursuant to the purposes and policies of the National Marine Sanctuaries Act (16 U.S.C. 1431 et seq.). National marine sanctuary regulations at 15 CFR part 922 list specific activities that are prohibited in national marine sanctuaries. These regulations also state that otherwise prohibited activities may be conducted if a permit is issued by ONMS. Persons desiring a permit must submit an application (note that requests for baitfish permits and Tortugas Ecological Reserve North Access permits require contacting Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and do not require a completed ONMS permit application), and anyone obtaining a permit is generally required to submit one or more reports on the activity allowed under the permit. The recordkeeping and reporting requirements at 15 CFR part 922 form the basis for this collection of information. This information is required by ONMS to protect and manage sanctuary resources. The permit application collects information about the proposed activities, the methods proposed to be used, the potential effects to sanctuary resources, and information on the regulatory review criteria at 15 CFR part 922. ONMS uses this information to evaluate whether the proposed activities are consistent with the goals and objectives of the sanctuary and the purposes and policies of the NMSA. Changes to this information collection include revisions to the permit application and instructions to collect information about small businesses to better assess the types of entities engaged in permitting activities. The estimated number of permits issued per year also changed from 424 to 567 to reflect the additional estimated permit numbers if the various proposed national marine sanctuary designations are finalized. In particular, this is based on adding an estimated fifteen additional permits and about 59 certifications for the proposed Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary (88 FR 58123, August 25, 2023), an estimated five additional permits for the proposed designation of the National Marine Sanctuary for the Pacific Remote Islands (88 FR 23624; April 18, 2023), an estimated five additional permits for proposed Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary (88 FR 3334, January 19, 2023), an estimated five additional permits for proposed Lake Erie Quadrangle National Marine Sanctuary (88 FR 32198, July 18, 2023), an estimated nine permits for the proposed sanctuary in the Hudson Canyon area (87 FR 38387, June 8, 2022), and increasing the numbers of amendments and Tortugas access permits to reflect more recent average permit numbers. The number of baitfish permits was diminished by 35 permits and Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary plans to phase out the bait fishing permits over the next three years (87 FR 42800, July 18, 2022).

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

16 USC 1431	View Law

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Evaluation of Public Visitors' Experience at the National Marine Sanctuaries Visitor Centers and Exhibits

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This request is for the extension of a current information collection. The evaluation of visitor demographics, experiences, and opinions about visitor centers and exhibits is needed to support the conservation, education, and management goals of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office of National Marine Sanctuaries (ONMS) to strengthen and improve the stewardship, sustainable use, and protection of natural, cultural, and historical resources. Under the jurisdiction of ONMS and to satisfy legal mandates, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is authorized to conduct evaluations, such as this information collection, under the American Innovation and Competitiveness Act (Section 314(c), codified at 33 U.S.C. § 893(a)) to ensure education programs have measurable objectives and milestones, as well as clear, documented metrics for evaluating its programs. We therefore are seeking to find out if people visiting ONMS’ visitor centers and exhibits are receiving our new messages by conducting an optional exit survey. Conducting thorough evaluations will aid in vital decisions regarding exhibit renovation, new exhibits, interpretation programs, and educational content.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

16 USC 1431 et seq.	View Law

Pub.L. 114 - 329 314(c)	View Law

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10 CFR Part 50, Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities

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Part 50 of title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR), “Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities,” specifies technical information and data to be provided to the NRC or maintained by applicants and licensees so that the NRC may take determinations necessary to protect the health and safety of the public, in accordance with the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended. The reporting and recordkeeping requirements contained in 10 CFR part 50 are mandatory for the affected licensees and applicants.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

Pub.L. 83 - 703 68 Stat. 919	View Law

Pub.L. 109 - 58 119 Stat 594	View Law

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Request for Certificate of Degree of Indian or Alaska Native Blood (CDIB)

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As authorized by law, BIA provides a form which allows applicants to receive documentation of degree of Indian blood and uniform standards by which we issue, amend, or invalidate a CDIB.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

25 USC 46 et seq.	View Law

25 USC 450 et seq.	View Law

25 USC 458aa et seq.	View Law

25 USC 2001 et seq.	View Law

61 Stat. 731

25 USC 21	View Law

25 USC 2007	View Law

25 USC 2201	View Law

43 USC 1601-1624	View Law

25 USC 13	View Law

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Request for Overseas U.S. Citizen Vital Records Services

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The Request for Overseas U.S. Citizen Vital Records Services (form DS-5542) permits U.S. citizens and third parties to request services provided by the Office of Records Management within the Passport Services Directorate in the Bureau of Consular Affairs. The Office of Records Management issues certified or authenticated copies of overseas U.S. citizen vital records such as Consular Reports of Birth/Death Abroad, Certificates of Witness to Marriage, and Panama Canal Zone documents pursuant to authorized requests. Requests for correction, amendment, or replacement of such vital records may be made using this form also.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

8 USC 1104	View Law

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Reporting of Sea Turtle Incidental Takes in Virginia Chesapeake Bay Pound Net Operations

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This request is for extension of a current information collection. This action would continue the reporting measure requiring all Virginia Chesapeake Bay pound net fishermen to report interactions with endangered and threatened sea turtles, found both live and dead, in their pound net operations. This reporting is required under Endangered Species Act (ESA) regulations, and is necessary to ensure sea turtles are being conserved and protected, as mandated by the ESA. When a live or dead sea turtle is discovered during a pound net trip, the Virginia pound net fisherman is required to report the incidental take to National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and, if necessary, the appropriate rehabilitation and stranding network. This information will be used to monitor the level of incidental take in the state-managed Virginia pound net fishery and ensure that the seasonal pound net leader restrictions (50 CFR 223.206(d)(10)) are adequately protecting listed sea turtles. Based on the number of sea turtle takes anticipated in the Virginia pound net fishery and the available number of Virginia pound net fishermen and pound nets, the number of responses anticipated on an annual basis is 1,003.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

16 USC 1531 et seq.	View Law

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Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW) Influent Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Study and National Sewage Sludge Survey

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This data collection is intended to gather data necessary to identify and quantify sources of PFAS discharges, prioritize industrial categories for potential regulation, and establish a current national data set of sewage sludge characteristics. This data collection will support two separate United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) studies. POTW Influent PFAS Study. As announced in the EPAs Effluent Guidelines Program Plan 15, published in January 2023, the EPA will conduct the POTW Influent PFAS Study to gather nationwide data on industrial and domestic wastewater discharges of PFAS into the environment. To accomplish this goal, the EPA will require a subset of POTWs across the United States to complete an electronic questionnaire and conduct wastewater sampling to obtain information on types and quantities of PFAS in discharges from industrial facilities, domestic wastewater or sewage, and POTW influent and effluent. The data will primarily be used to identify and prioritize industrial point source categories where additional study or regulations may be warranted to control PFAS discharges. National Sewage Sludge Survey (NSSS). The EPA also plans to conduct a NSSS to identify the presence of pollutants in sewage sludge using samples collected from POTWs. This NSSS will focus on obtaining a current national data set on PFAS concentrations and ancillary parameters found in sewage sludge. The data generated by the NSSS will inform future risk assessments and risk management options for sewage sludge. The data collection design represents the EPAs efforts to gather sufficient data to perform the analyses required to accurately review and determine whether Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards (ELGs) are warranted to address PFAS discharges from for specific industries and administer an ICR that limits the burden placed on respondents.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

33 USC 1321(j)(5)	View Law

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Urban Waters Federal Partnership Program (New)

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The Urban Waters Federal Partnership (UWFP) is a voluntary program established in 2011. Its primary aim is to reconnect urban communities, particularly those that are overburdened or economically distressed, with their waterways, thereby fostering a sense of stewardship for clean urban waters. The program operates through a diverse network of partners, all working towards a common goal of helping communities restore and protect water quality and revitalize adjacent rural, suburban and urban neighborhoods throughout the watershed. The UWFP program provides a platform for communities to collaborate and work towards holistic environmental and social priorities, thereby enhancing their watersheds. These partnerships are a collective effort, bringing together federal agencies, Tribal governments, state and local agencies, and non-profit and community-led organizations. The program is spearheaded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys Office of Water, in collaboration with fourteen other federal agencies. An organizations decision to participate in UWFP is entirely voluntary. A locations participation in the program generally begins when a group of organizations collaborate to form a local partnership to improve an urban watershed. The partnership consists of state and local government, non-governmental organizations, community-based organizations, federal agencies and may include Tribal government. Each partnership must apply to become a designated UWFP location and hire an Ambassador to manage the partnership who serves as the main point-of-contact between partners and the federal agencies. The UWFP designated twenty locations between 2011 and 2015 and one location in 2023. The twenty-one geographically dispersed locations are working to revitalize urban waterways and the surrounding communities, transforming overlooked watersheds into community assets. Each location conducts different activities depending on the needs of its watershed and communities. Ambassadors serve as the lead coordinator for each location and provide data and information to UWFP on a regular basis. Each location has an active partnership Workplan that will be prepared every other year and provided to the UWFP for review. Ambassadors will provide summary information on workplan achievements and collaborative activities during a year by submitting an Annual Reporting Form. The EPA will use the information collected to track the progress of the program at each location and celebrate the locations successes. In addition to quantitative metrics on the programs activities, the UWFP also will collect qualitative data on the impact and health of the partnership at each location. Partnership Evaluation Forms will be completed by the partner organizations at each location to help the UWFP national program understand the degree to which partnership locations are building organizational capacity, connectedness and collaboration between partner organizations. These forms are also used to plan future activities that support healthy and sustainable partnerships.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

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Representatives of the Administrator, 14 CFR part 183

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Response to this collection of information is required to obtain a benefit, specifically, to obtain a FAA designation as a representative of the Administrator. Designee applicants come from private industry. Experts in the aviation and medical communities who are familiar with the regulations and certification requirements necessary to issue an FAA certificate report information to this collection on occasion. Only highly experienced aviation professionals are expected to respond to the collection. The collection is for reporting of an individual’s eligibility and qualifications and occurs on an as needed basis for initial applicants. However, if an individual is not selected as a designee, their application must be updated whenever information changes (as needed) and at least every 12 calendar months (annually). The collection of information is for the purpose of obtaining essential information concerning the applicant’s professional and personal qualifications. The FAA uses the information provided to screen and select designees who will act as representatives of the FAA Administrator in performing various certification and examination functions under Title VI of Federal Aviation Act. The collection of information involves the following designee types: • Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), § 183.12 • Designated Engineering Representative (DER), §183.29 • Designated Manufacturing Inspection Representatives (DMIR), §183.31 • Designated Airworthiness Representative - Manufacturing (DAR-F), §183.33 • Designated Airworthiness Representative - Maintenance (DAR-T), § 183.33 • Pilot Examiners, § 183.23 •Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) (General Aviation and Air Carrier) •Specialty Aircraft Examiner (SAE) •Administrative Pilot Examiner (Admin-PE) • Technical Personnel Examiners § 183.25 •Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME) •Designated Parachute Rigger Examiner (DPRE) In addition to the reporting by applicants, all appointed designees, regardless of designation type, must report any arrest, indictment, or conviction for violation of local, State, or Federal law to the FAA within 30 days of such arrest, indictment, or conviction. The designee must report such events to the FAA in writing.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

49 USC 44702	View Law

49 USC 44701	View Law

Pub.L. 118 - 63 408(a)(3)	View Law

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Nomination Process for National Marine Sanctuaries.

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This is a request for revision and extension of an existing information collection. There are no changes to the sanctuary nomination process. However, NOAA added an additional information collection to cover the burden imposed by requesting additional information from submitting parties. This added two additional responses, 16 hours, and $48 in miscellaneous costs. National marine sanctuary regulations provide that the public can submit areas of the marine and Great Lakes environments for consideration by NOAA as a national marine sanctuary through the sanctuary nomination process (15 CFR part 922). Persons wanting to submit nominations for consideration should submit information on the qualifying criteria and management considerations for the site to be nominated. The Office of National Marine Sanctuaries reviews the submissions, which could result in the nomination being added to an inventory of areas that NOAA may consider for sanctuary designation at some point in the future. Sanctuary designation is a separate public process that would be conducted pursuant to the requirements of the National Marine Sanctuaries Act, and all other applicable laws. This proposed information collection is for national marine sanctuary nominations received pursuant to NOAA regulations that provide that the public may nominate special places of the marine environment through the sanctuary nomination process (15 CFR part 922).

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

16 USC 1431 et seq.	View Law

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Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport Book and/or Card

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This form is used in conjunction with a DS-11, "Application for a U.S. Passport", or submitted separately to report loss or theft of a U.S. passport. Passport Services collects the information when a U.S. citizen or non-citizen national applies for a new U.S. passport and has been issued a previous, still valid U.S. passport that has been lost or stolen, or when a passport holder independently reports it lost or stolen. Passport applicants can either download the form from the internet or obtain one at any Passport Agency or Acceptance Facility.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

22 USC 211a	View Law

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National Park Service Leasing Program -- 36 CFR 18

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The National Park Service leasing program allows the public to lease property located within the boundaries of the park system. Information is collected from anyone who wishes to submit a bid or proposal in response to a Request for Bids or a Request for Proposals; or from current lease holders who wish to sublet a leased property or assign the lease to a new lessee, construct or demolish portions of a leased property, amend a lease to change the type of activities permitted under the lease, or encumber (mortgage) the leased premises. The information collected will be used to evaluate offers, proposed subleases or assignments, proposed construction or demolition, the merits of proposed lease amendments, and proposed encumbrances.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

54 USC 100102	View Law

54 USC 306121	View Law

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Evaluation of Emergency Housing Voucher Program

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Abstract

This new collection, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), seeks to examine the implementation and outcomes associated with the Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV) program, which was created under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The EHV program awarded roughly 70,000 new Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV) to 611 public housing agencies (PHA) that were targeted to households experiencing or at-risk of experiencing homelessness. The collection aims to explore the structure of the EHV program compared to its analogous program, the Housing Choice Voucher program (HCV). Additionally, the evaluation will examine unique features of the EHV program, e.g., the partnerships formed between Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) and Continuums of Care (CoCs), and program features such as the use of administrative fees and waivers to assist program beneficiaries. In this context, HUD contracted with Social Policy Research Associates (SPR) and its subcontractor, Abt Global (Abt) (“the research team”), to evaluate the EHV program and collect data from three sources: 1) administrative data, 2) a national web survey of PHAs and CoCs, and 3) follow-up telephone interviews with a selected sample of PHAs, CoCs, and other PHA partner organizations in 25 communities. The evaluation will use a mixed-methods approach with administrative data and web survey data to measure outcomes in key interest areas. The follow-up telephone interviews will collect information on the experiences of program staff in implementing the EHV program. Data from this evaluation will help guide any future emergency housing voucher programs and could also inform possible changes to the HCV program to serve households who are experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness. The authority to collect this information is in Sections 501 and 502 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1970 (Public Law 91-609) (12 USC §§ 1701z-1; 1701z-2(d) and (g)).

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

12 USC 1701z-1	View Law

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Permits for Incidental Taking of Endangered or Threatened Species

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Abstract

This request is for an extension of a current information collection. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et. seq.) imposed prohibitions against the taking of endangered species. In 1982, Congress revised the ESA to allow permits authorizing the taking of endangered species incidental to otherwise lawful activities. The corresponding regulations (50 CFR part 222) established procedures for persons to apply for such a permit. In addition, the regulations set forth specific reporting requirements for such permit holders. The regulations contain three sets of information collections: (l) applications for incidental take permits, (2) applications for certificates of inclusion, and (3) reporting requirements for permits issued. Certificates of inclusion are only required if a general permit is issued to a representative of a group of potential permit applicants, rather than requiring each entity to apply for and receive a permit. The required information is used to evaluate the impacts of the proposed activity on endangered species, to make the determinations required by the ESA prior to issuing a permit, and to establish appropriate permit conditions. When a species is listed as threatened, section 4(d) of the ESA requires the Secretary to issue whatever regulations are deemed necessary or advisable to provide for conservation of the species. In many cases those regulations contain a blanket application of the ESA’s section 9 take prohibition. However, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) recognizes certain exceptions to that prohibition, including habitat restoration actions taken in accord with approved state watershed action plans. While watershed plans are prepared for other purposes in coordination with or fulfillment of various state programs, a watershed group wishing to take advantage of the exception for restoration activities (rather than obtaining a section 10 permit) would have to submit the plan for NMFS review.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

16 USC 1531 et seq.	View Law

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National Park Service Creel Survey

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Abstract

This information collection is intended to create a standard creel survey that can be used by National Park Service units open to recreational fishing. Creel surveys are a common fishery management technique designed to determine the angler's catch of each species and the fishing time required to catch the fish. The objective of this collection is to educate Park managers about a park’s angling population and provide information on angling’s potential effects on park resources. Fisheries managers rely on creel surveys to gather biological information, monitor trends, and assess angler satisfaction.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

54 USC 100702	View Law

54 USC 100101	View Law

54 USC 100701	View Law

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EPA’s Voluntary Methane Challenge and Natural Gas STAR Programs (Renewal)

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Abstract

The oil and natural gas industry is the second largest source of anthropogenic methane emissions in the U.S., according to the Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2022. Methane is the primary component of natural gas and a potent greenhouse gas. Since 1993, the US Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) Natural Gas STAR Program has encouraged oil and natural gas companies to adopt cost-saving technologies and practices that improve operational efficiency and reduce methane emissions. This non-regulatory Program supported Partner companies in making voluntary efforts to implement recommended technologies and report related methane emissions reductions to EPA. In 2016, EPA launched a new program--the Methane Challenge Program. This Program leveraged the methane-reducing best practices and technologies developed by the industry and showcased through the Natural Gas STAR Program over the past 20+ years and created a mechanism for oil and natural gas companies to make ambitious, voluntary commitments to reduce their methane emissions. Methane Challenge Partners submitted detailed data to the Program each year so EPA, and the public, could track the progress Partners are making towards these commitments. EPA has recently taken historic steps to tackle wasteful methane emissions from the oil and gas sector beyond voluntary action. The Inflation Reduction Act directed EPA to implement a suite of actions to swiftly reduce methane emissions through the creation of the Methane Emissions Reductions Program (MERP). On December 2, 2023, EPA announced final New Source Performance Standards and Emissions Guidelines (NSPS/EG) to regulate the oil and gas industry under the Clean Air Act, resulting in ambitious requirements to reduce methane from both new and existing sources. The Department of Transportation has also imposed requirements on the transmission segment including implementation of the PIPES Act of 2020. Based on the limited remaining potential for voluntary actions to reduce methane emissions, EPA will be sunsetting the Methane Challenge Partnership, and transitioning its outreach efforts to advance ambitious, sector-wide methane reductions through technical assistance and outreach under the Methane Emissions Reduction Program. This follows EPAs sunsetting of the partnership agreements, implementation plans, and the reporting component of the Natural Gas STAR Program in 2022. Updating the ICR for the Methane Challenge and the Natural Gas STAR programs to reflect these programmatic changes is expected to significantly decrease burden by removing all partner reporting and partnership related data sharing aspects. The sole programmatic element involving voluntary collection of information the EPA plans to retain is the Oil and Gas Equipment and Service Providers Directory. This directory's purpose is to share information about service and technology providers that can facilitate methane emission reduction activities in the oil and gas sector. For this revision, EPA proposes to remove all partnership aspects and related information collection forms for both the Methane Challenge Program and the Natural Gas STAR Program. This includes the removal of annual reporting forms, partnership agreements, and implementation plans. The only information collection EPA proposes to retain under this ICR revision is for the Oil and Gas Equipment and Service Providers Directory. These changes will result in a significant overall decrease in burden for this ICR number.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
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Pacific Islands Short-tailed Albatross Recovery Data Form

Key Information

Abstract

This request is for a revision of a currently approved information collection. We request the revision to the current title changed from Pacific Islands Region Seabird-Fisheries Interaction Recovery Reporting to Pacific Islands Short-tailed Albatross Recovery Data Form because it is a more accurate description of the collection and its purpose. Other changes to the form include removing the field for hook type as only one hook type is currently allowed in the fishery, collecting information on hook size, collecting more details about bird bands, and requesting more information about transportation of an injured bird. These changes will not affect burden estimates. Federal regulations at 50 CFR 665.815(b) require that the operator of a vessel with a Hawaii longline limited access permit notify NMFS, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in the event an endangered short-tailed albatross (Phoebastria albatrus) or STAL is hooked or entangled during fishing operations. Following the retrieval of the albatross from the ocean, the vessel operator must record the condition of the bird on the recovery data form. A veterinarian will use the information to provide advice to the vessel operator for caring for the bird if it is alive. If the albatross is dead, the vessel operator must attach an identification tag to the carcass to assist USFWS biologists in follow-up studies on the specimen. This collection is one of the terms and conditions contained in the Endangered Species Act Section 7 biological opinion issued by USFWS, and is intended to maximize the probability of the long-term survival of short-tailed albatross accidentally taken by longline gear.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

Pub.L. 94 - 265 303	View Law

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Application for Reference and Equivalent Method Determination (Renewal)

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Abstract

To determine compliance with the NAAQS, State air monitoring agencies are required to use, in their air quality monitoring networks, air monitoring methods that have been formally designated by the EPA as either reference or equivalent methods under EPA regulations at 40 CFR part 53. A manufacturer or seller of an air monitoring method (e.g. an air monitoring sampler or analyzer) that seeks to obtain such EPA designation of one of its products must carry out prescribed tests of the method. The test results and other information must then be submitted to the EPA in the form of an application for a reference or equivalent method determination in accordance with 40 CFR part 53. The EPA uses this information, under the provisions of Part 53, to determine whether the particular method should be designated as either a reference or equivalent method. After a method is designated, the applicant must also maintain records of the names and mailing addresses of all ultimate purchasers of all analyzers or samplers sold as designated methods under the method designation. If the method designated is a method for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and coarse particulate matter (PM10-2.5), the applicant must also submit a checklist signed by an ISO-certified auditor to indicate that the samplers or analyzers sold as part of the designated method are manufactured in an ISO 9001-registered facility. Also, an applicant must submit a minor application to seek approval for any proposed modifications to previously designated methods.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

Pub.L. 91 - 604 15(c)(2)	View Law

42 USC 1857g(a)	View Law

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Data Reporting Requirements for State and Local Vehicle Emission Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) Programs (Renewal)

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Abstract

To provide general oversight and support to state and local I/M programs, the U.S Environmental Protection Agency requires that state and local program management for both basic and enhanced I/M programs provide two reports to EPA. The first report is provided annually and includes general program operating data and summary statistics, addressing the program's current design and coverage, a summary of testing data, enforcement program efforts, quality assurance and quality control efforts and other miscellaneous information allowing for an assessment of the program's relative effectiveness. The second report is submitted biennially and addresses any changes to the program over the previous 2-year period and the impact of such changes, including any weaknesses discovered and corrections made or planned.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

42 USC 7401 et seq.	View Law

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List of Gear by Fisheries and Fishery Management Council

Key Information

Abstract

This request is for an extension of a currently approved information collection by the NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Sustainable Fisheries. Under the provisions of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery and Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act) [16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.], as amended by the Sustainable Fisheries Act [Pub. L. 104-297], the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) is required to publish a list of all fisheries under authority of each Regional Fishery Management Council (Council) and all such fishing gear used in such fisheries (see section 305(a) of the Magnuson-Stevens Act). The list has been published and appears in 50 CFR Part 600.725(v). Any person wishing to use gear not on the list, or engage in a fishery not on the list, must provide the appropriate Council or the Secretary, in the case of Atlantic highly migratory species, with 90 days of advance notice. If the Secretary takes no action to prohibit such a fishery or use of such a gear, the person may proceed.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

Pub.L. 94 - 265 305(a)	View Law

Pub.L. 104 - 297 2	View Law

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Textile Mills Industry Data Collection (New)

Key Information

Abstract

As announced in the Effluent Guidelines Program Plan 15, published in January 2023, the EPA plans to continue its detailed study investigating PFAS discharges from facilities in the Textile Mills point source category. Based on information and data collected during the Multi-Industry PFAS Study and the Textile Mills Detailed Study to date, the EPA determined PFAS are used by some textile manufacturing facilities to impart water, grease, and stain resistance to finished textiles, including consumer apparel, carpets, and technical textiles. The EPA, through this Information Collection Request (ICR) package, requests that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) review and approve the ICR for the Textile Mills Detailed Study. Through this collection, the EPA will obtain data essential to determine if updated regulations are required to address PFAS in wastewater discharges from textile manufacturing facilities, including facilities regulated under the Textile Mills point source category as specified by the Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards (ELGs) codified in Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 410. This collection effort is necessary because national data on PFAS use, treatment, and discharge at textile manufacturing facilities is not currently available and EPA requires detailed information on industry practices to determine whether technology based ELGs are appropriate for the textile industry.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

33 USC 1321(j)(5)	View Law

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Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention Vessel Information Family of Forms

Key Information

Abstract

This request is for a revision and extension of the current information collection. The revision will include the following: A section at the beginning of the Area Endorsement form, paper, and online format, was added for vessel IMO numbers to be included, alongside the Official Number and Vessel Name sections. National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) administers regulations that implement decisions of the Commission for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPFC or Commission). The regulations require for the owners or operators of U.S. vessels to (1) apply for and obtain a WCPFC Area Endorsement if the vessel is used for fishing for highly migratory species (HMS) on the high seas in the WCPFC area (or Convention Area) (50 CFR 300.212), (2) complete and submit a Foreign Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Form if the vessel is used for fishing for HMS in the Convention Area in areas under the jurisdiction of any nation other than the United States (50 CFR 300.213), and (3) request and obtain an IMO number if the vessel is used for fishing for HMS on the high seas or in areas under the jurisdiction of any nation other than the United States (50 CFR 300.217(c)).

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

16 USC 6901 et seq.	View Law

Pub.L. 109 - 479 505	View Law

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Compliance Statement Energy/Water Conservation Standards for Appliances

Key Information

Abstract

DOE revised the current certification reporting requirements for consumer products and commercial equipment covered by OMB Control Number 1910-1400. DOE is revising and expanding the collection of information for central air conditioners and heat pumps, dishwashers, residential clothes washers, pool heaters, dehumidifiers, external power supplies, battery chargers, computer room air conditioners, direct-expansion dedicated outdoor air systems, small commercial air conditioners and heat pumps, commercial water heating equipment, automatic commercial ice makers, walk-in coolers and freezers, commercial and industrial pumps, portable air conditioners, compressors, dedicated-purpose pool pump motors, air cleaners, and single package vertical units, and ceiling fan light kits.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

42 USC 6291	View Law

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Formaldehyde Emissions Standards for Composite Wood Products Act (Renewal)

Key Information

Abstract

This ICR renewal covers the recordkeeping and reporting requirements for all aspects of the TSCA Title VI implementing regulations and regulations relating to accreditation bodies (ABs) and third-party certifiers (TPCs) that wish to participate in this third-party certification program. These ABs and TPCs must submit initial applications for recognition and update those applications every three and two years respectively using the Agencys Central Data Exchange (CDX) system. In addition, ABs and TPCs must submit annual reports which relay certain information to the Agency on the TSCA Title VI certification and testing activities both ABs and TPCs have performed over the last year. TPCs are responsible for the certification of regulated composite wood products at the mill level through the oversight of panel producers, routine quarterly testing of composite wood products, and physical inspections of the panel production facilities. Through CDX, TPCs are responsible for reporting information including various notifications and annual reports. Panel producers are responsible for communicating routine testing documentation to their respective TPC pursuant to their responsibilities under 40 CFR 770.20 and 40 CFR 770.40. Panel producers are also responsible for providing certain records to downstream entities and purchasers of regulated composite wood products as well as the Agency, upon request. Importers, fabricators, distributors, and retailers are responsible for maintaining records pursuant to 40 CFR 770.30 and 40 CFR 770.40(d).

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN	View Notice
30-Day FRN	View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

15 USC 2697	View Law

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