A bill to require the Secretary of the Interior to reissue certain regulations relating to the taking of double-crested cormorants at aquaculture facilities. (Congressional Record 2 April 2025 [Senate] Pages S2139-S2140)

A bill to remove the dunes sagebrush lizard from the lists of threatened species and endangered species published pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and to amend that Act to exclude the dunes sagebrush lizard from the authority of that Act. (Congressional Record 1 April 2025 [House] Pages H1401-H1404)

The EPA is closing the reopened comment period on the proposed Standards of Performance for New Stationary Sources and Emission Guidelines for Existing Sources: Large Municipal Waste Combustors Voluntary Remand Response and 5-Year Review. The original proposed rule was published on 23 January 2024, with a 60-day comment period closing 25 March 2024. This comment period was reopened on 16 January 2025, for an additional 6 months. The EPA is providing notice that the comment period for this rule will now close on 30 May 2025. EPA believes that a 6.5-month comment period in total is sufficient for interested stakeholders to submit comments and additional data. Comments on the proposed rule, published at 89 FR 4243 on 23 January 2024, must be received on or before 30 May 2025. POC is Noel Cope, Mail Drop: E143-02, 109 T.W. Alexander Drive, P.O. Box 12055, RTP, North Carolina 27711; tele: (919) 541-2128; and email: cope.noel@epa.gov. (Federal Register 21 April 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 16663-16664)

On 4 October 2021, the USFWS published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking in the Federal Register. The Service is withdrawing this advance notice of proposed rulemaking, consistent with an order by the Secretary of the Interior. The advance notice of proposed rulemaking that published on 4 October 2021, at 86 FR 54667, is withdrawn as of 21 April 2025. POC is Jerome Ford, Assistant Director-Migratory Birds Program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, telephone: 703-358-2606, email: MB_mail@fws.gov. (Federal Register 21 April 2025 [Proposed Rule] Page 16664)

A bill to nullify the final rule of the Environmental Protection Agency titled "Reconsideration of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Particulate Matter" (Congressional Record 24 March 2025 [House] Pages H1217-H1218)

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) are proposing to rescind the regulatory definition of "harm" in the Endangered Species Act (ESA or the Act) regulations. The existing regulatory definition of "harm," which includes habitat modification, runs contrary to the best meaning of the statutory term "take." They are undertaking this change to adhere to the single, best meaning of the ESA. Comments must be received by 19 May 2025. POC is Gina Shultz, Acting Assistant Director, Ecological Services, at 703-358-2171 or ADEcologicalServices@fws.gov. (Federal Register 17 April 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 16102-16105)

A bill to amend the Clean Air Act to prevent the elimination of the sale of motor vehicles with internal combustion engines. [Congressional Record 12 March 2025 [Senate] Pages S1703-S1705]

A bill to prohibit certain actions with respect to certain marine reef species. (Congressional Record 18 March 2025 [House] Pages H1168-H1171)

A bill to prohibit the enforcement of a rule with respect to emissions, to amend the Clean Air Act to ensure that tailpipe regulations do not limit the availability of new motor vehicles. [Congressional Record 12 March 2025 [Senate] Pages S1703-S1705]

A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to exclude prior converted cropland from the definition of "navigable waters". (Congressional Record 27 February 2025 [Senate] Pages S1428-S1429)

A bill to repeal certain executive orders. (Congressional Record 4 March 2025 [Senate] Page S1496)

A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act with respect to permitting terms. (Congressional Record 14 March 2025 [House] Pages H1158-H1162)

A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to optimize conservation through resource prioritization, incentivize wildlife conservation on private lands, provide for greater incentives to recover listed species, create greater transparency and accountability in recovering listed species, streamline the permitting process, eliminate barriers to conservation, and restore congressional intent (Congressional Record 6 March 2025)] [House] Pages H1035-H1039)

A bill to repeal certain executive orders. (Congressional Record: 3 March 2025 [House] Pages H942-H945)

A bill to nullify the final rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to ``New Source Performance Standards for Greenhouse Gas Emissions From New, Modified, and Reconstructed Fossil Fuel-Fired Electric Generating Units; Emission Guidelines for Greenhouse Gas Emissions From Existing Fossil Fuel-Fired Electric Generating Units; and Repeal of the Affordable Clean Energy Rule' (Congressional Record 27 February 2025 [House] Pages H912-H918)

A bill to require the priority and consideration of using native plants in Federal projects. (Congressional Record 21 February 2025 [House] Pages H726-H729)

A bill to amend the Clean Air Act with respect to the ethanol waiver for Reid Vapor Pressure under that Act. (Congressional Record 13 February 2025 [House] Pages H705-H710)

The EPA and the Department of the Army intend to engage with State and Tribal co-regulators; industry and agricultural stakeholders; environmental and conservation stakeholders; and the public on certain key topics related to the implementation of the definition of "waters of the United States" in light of the Supreme Court's 2023 decision in Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency. This notice includes an announcement of forthcoming listening sessions on specific key topic areas to hear interested stakeholders' perspectives on defining "waters of the United States" consistent with the Supreme Court's interpretation of the scope of Clean Water Act jurisdiction and how to implement that interpretation as the agencies consider next steps. The agencies are also accepting written recommendations from members of the public via a recommendations docket. These opportunities are intended to provide for broad, transparent engagement with a full spectrum of stakeholders. Written recommendations must be received on or before 23 April 2025. POC is Stacey Jensen, Oceans, Wetlands and Communities Division, Office of Water (4504-T), EPA, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460; tele: (202) 564-2281; email: WOTUS-outreach@epa.gov. (Federal Register 24 March 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 13428-13431)

USFWS announced that they are reopening the comment periods for proposed rules pertaining to three insect species: monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus), bleached sandhill skipper (Polites sabuleti sinemaculata), and Suckley's cuckoo bumble bee (Bombus suckleyi). They also announce a public hearing for the bleached sandhill skipper. Comments previously submitted on these proposed rules need not be resubmitted as they are already incorporated into the public records for these rulemaking actions and will be fully considered in our development of the final rules. The comment periods on the proposed rules that published on 12 December 2024, at 89 FR 100662, on 17 December 2024, at 89 FR 102074, and on 8 January 2025, at 90 FR 1421 are reopened until 19 May 2025. For information related to the monarch butterfly, bleached sandhill skipper, or Suckley's cuckoo bumble bee, contact John Tirpak, Manager of the Division of Conservation and Classification, USFWS, Headquarters Office; tele 703-358-2163. (Federal Register 19 March 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 12694-12695).

A bill to sunset new Federal regulatory rules after 5 years. (Congressional Record: 12 February 2025 [House] Pages H673-H677)

A bill to extend the customs waters of the United States from 12 nautical miles to 24 nautical miles from the baselines of the United States, consistent with Presidential Proclamation 7219. (Congressional Record: 12 February 2025 [House] Pages H673-H677)

A bill to amend the Clean Air Act to modify the Methane Emissions Reduction Program. (Congressional Record 11 February 2025 [Senate] Pages S859-S860)

A bill to amend the Clean Air Act to modify Reid Vapor Pressure requirements and to provide for the return of certain retired credits. (Congressional Record 13 February 2025 [Senate] Pages S970-S972)

A bill to amend the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to address measuring methane emissions. (Congressional Record 11 February 2025 [House] Pages H643-H645)

USFWS announce a 12-month finding on a petition to list the spinytail crayfish (Procambarus fitzpatricki) as an endangered or threatened species under the ESA. The spinytail crayfish is a small, burrowing freshwater crayfish endemic to southern Mississippi. After a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the spinytail crayfish as an endangered or threatened species is not warranted at this time. However, they ask the public to submit to us at any time any new information relevant to the status of the spinytail crayfish or its habitat.. The finding in this document was made on March 11, 2025. POC is James Austin, Field Supervisor, Mississippi Ecological Services Field Office, 601-540-2576, james_austin@fws.gov. (Federal Register 11 March 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 11696-11698)

A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to exclude certain populations of the lake sturgeon from the authority of such Act. (Congressional Record 7 February 2025 [House] Pages H583-H585)

A bill to provide that the final rule of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service titled ``Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Species Status With Critical Habitat for Guadalupe Fatmucket, Texas Fatmucket, Guadalupe Orb, Texas Pimpleback, Balcones Spike, and False Spike, and Threatened Species Status With Section 4(d) Rule and Critical Habitat for Texas Fawnsfoot`` shall have no force or effect. (Congressional Record 31 January 2025 [House] Pages H429-H433)

A bill to exempt hazardous fuel reduction activities from certain environmental requirements for a 10-year period. (Congressional Record 24 January 2025 [House] Pages H393-H395)

A bill to remove the lesser prairie-chicken from the lists of threatened species and endangered species published pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and to amend that Act to exclude the lesser prairie-chicken from the authority of that Act. (Congressional Record 21 January 2025 [House] Pages H256-H258)

A bill to exempt Federal actions related to energy and mineral activities on certain Federal lands from the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. (Congressional Record 23 January 2025 [House] Pages H383-H387)

A bill to remove the lesser prairie-chicken from the lists of threatened species and endangered species published pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, to amend that Act to exclude the lesser prairie-chicken from the authority of that Act. (Congressional Record 21 January 2025 [Senate] Page S280)

A bill to amend sections 111, 169, and 171 of the Clean Air Act to clarify when a physical change in, or change in the method of operation of, a stationary source constitutes a modification or construction. (Congressional Record 3 January 2025 [House] Pages H27-H36)

In accordance with the memorandum of January 20, 2025, from President Donald J. Trump, entitled "Regulatory Freeze Pending Review," this action temporarily delays until March 21, 2025, the effective date of the regulations listed in the table below. EPA has initially identified 4 regulations that meet the criteria in the memo and may identify additional regulations in subsequent notices. As of January 28, 2025, the effective date of the rules published at 89 FR 102568 (12/17/2024), 89 FR 95034 (11/29/2024), 89 FR 106357 (12/30/2024), and 89 FR 107012 (12/31/2024), are delayed to a new effective date of March 21, 2025. POC is William Nickerson, Director, Office of Regulatory Policy and Management, Office of Policy, Mail code 1804, EPA, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460; (202) 566-0326; nickerson.william@epa.gov. (Federal Register 28 January 2025 [Rule] Pages 8254-8255)

EPA is proposing to promulgate new methods and update the tables of approved methods for the Clean Water Act. The Clean Water Act requires the EPA to promulgate test procedures for the analysis of pollutants. Promulgating new methods and updating the tables of approved methods increases the quality and consistency of data collected for the purposes of the Clean Water Act. In this rule, the EPA proposes to add new EPA methods for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners, and add methods previously published by voluntary consensus bodies that industries and municipalities would use for reporting under the EPA's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit program. The EPA also proposes to withdraw the seven Aroclor (PCB mixtures) parametersComments must be received on or before 20 February 2025. POC is Adrian Hanley, Engineering and Analysis Division, Office of Water (4303T), Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460-0001; telephone: 202-564-1564; email: hanley.adrian@epa.gov. (Federal Register 21 January 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 6967-7037)

USFWS proposes to list the big red sage (Salvia pentstemonoides), a plant species from central Texas, as an endangered species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the big red sage. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. If finalized this rule as proposed would add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Plants and extend the Act's protections to the species. They have determined that designating critical habitat for the big red sage is not prudent. This proposed rule does not mandate when a parameter must be monitored or establish a discharge limit. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 24 March 2025. POC is Karen Myers, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Austin Ecological Services Field Office, 1505 Ferguson Lane, Austin, TX 78754; tele 512-937-7371. (Federal Register 21 January 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 7043-7056)

USFWS proposes to list the Clear Lake hitch (Lavinia exilicauda chi), a freshwater fish subspecies in the North American minnow family that is restricted to the Clear Lake watershed in Lake County, California, as a threatened species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the Clear Lake hitch. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the Clear Lake hitch is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the Clear Lake hitch as a threatened species with protective regulations issued under section 4(d) of the Act ("4(d) rule"). If finalized this rule would add the Clear Lake hitch to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to this subspecies. We will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 17 March 2025. POC is Michael Fris, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office, 2800 Cottage Way, Sacramento, CA 95825; tele 916-414-6700. (Federal Register 16 January 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 4916-4941)

USFWS proposes to designate critical habitat for the San Francisco Bay-Delta distinct population segment (DPS) of the longfin smelt (Spirinchus thaleichthys), a fish species from the San Francisco Bay estuary in California, under the ESA. In total, approximately 91,630 acres (37,082 hectares) in California fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They also announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the species. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 17 March 2025. POC is Donald Ratcliff, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, San Francisco Bay-Delta Fish and Wildlife Office, 650 Capitol Mall Suite 8-300, Sacramento, CA 95814; telephone 916-930-5603. (Federal Register 15 January 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 3765-3783)

USFWS proposes to revise the listing of the grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) in the lower-48 States under the ESA. After a review of the best scientific and commercial data available, they affirm that the currently listed grizzly bear population meets the requirements for consideration as a distinct population segment (DPS) under the Act and that the population remains likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future. USFWS propose to revise the listing by defining the boundaries of the contiguous U.S. grizzly bear DPS. The revised entity would include all geographic portions of the currently listed lower-48 entity that contain suitable habitat and where grizzly bears are currently found or are likely to be found in the future as populations recover. Clarifying that the listing does not include areas outside of the grizzly bear's historical range will assist as recovery proceeds. USFWS are also proposing to revise protective regulations for the grizzly bear issued under section 4(d) of the Act. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 17 March 2025. POC is Hilary Cooley, Grizzly Bear Recovery Coordinator, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, #356 Corbin, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812; tel 406-243-4903. (Federal Register 15 January 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 4234-4276)

USFWS proposes to designate critical habitat for four distinct population segments (DPSs) of the foothill yellow-legged frog (Rana boylii) under the ESA. In total, approximately 760,071 acres (307,590 hectares) in California fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They also announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for four DPSs. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 17 March 2025. POC is Michael Fris, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office, 2800 Cottage Way, Sacramento, CA 95825; tele 916-414-6700. (Federal Register 14 January 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 3412-3470)

USFWS proposes to list the two subspecies of the West Indian manatee, the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) and the Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus), under the ESA. They have conducted status reviews for the two subspecies, and, as a result, they are proposing to list the Florida manatee as a threatened species with protective regulations under section 4(d) of the Act ("4(d) rule"), and the Antillean manatee as an endangered species, under the Act. These two listings would replace the current threatened species listing of the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus). This determination also serves as their 12-month findings on two petitions and as their completed 5-year review of the West Indian manatee. If finalized this rule as proposed would remove the West Indian manatee from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife (List), add the Florida manatee and Antillean manatee to the List, and extend the Act's protections to the Florida manatee and Antillean manatee. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 17 March 2025. POC is Gian Basili, Deputy State Supervisor, Florida Ecological Services Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256-7517; tele 904-731-3079. (Federal Register 14 January 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 3131-3160)

The USFWS proposes to add all species of freshwater mussels from two genera, Asian pond mussels (Sinanodonta species) and golden mussels (Limnoperna species), to the list of injurious mollusks. Additionally, the Service proposes to add marbled crayfish (Procambarus virginalis) to the list of injurious crustaceans. Listing these taxa as injurious will prohibit the importation of any live animal, larvae, viable egg, or hybrid of these taxa into the United States, except as specifically authorized. These listings would also prohibit shipment of any live animal, larvae, viable egg, or hybrid of these species between the continental United States, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or any territory or possession of the United States, except as specifically authorized. The action is necessary to protect wildlife and wildlife resources by preventing the introduction and subsequent establishment of these foreign aquatic invertebrates into ecosystems of the United States. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 11 March 2025. POC is Kristen Sommers, Injurious Wildlife Listing Coordinator, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Branch of Aquatic Invasive Species; MS: FAC; 5275 Leesburg Pike; Falls Church, VA 22041-3803; 571-329-2214. (Federal Register 10 January 2025 [Rule] Pages 1922-1936)

USFWS proposes to list the bleached sandhill skipper (Polites sabuleti sinemaculata), an insect subspecies from Humboldt County, Nevada, as an endangered species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the bleached sandhill skipper. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the subspecies is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the bleached sandhill skipper as an endangered species under the Act. If finalized this rule would add this subspecies to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the subspecies. They find that a designation of critical habitat for the bleached sandhill skipper is not determinable at this time. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 10 March 2025. POC is Justin Barrett, Deputy Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Reno Fish and Wildlife Field Office, 1340 Financial Boulevard, Suite 234, Reno, NV 89502-7147; tele 775-861-6300. (Federal Register 8 January 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 1421-1433).

USFWS propose to remove Ute ladies'-tresses (Spiranthes diluvialis) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to delist Ute ladies'-tresses. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that delisting the species is warranted. Their review indicates that the threats to Ute ladies'-tresses have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species no longer meets the definition of an endangered or threatened species under the ESA. Accordingly, they propose to delist Ute ladies'-tresses. If finalized this rule as proposed, the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act, particularly through sections 7 and 9, would no longer apply to Ute ladies'-tresses. They request information and comments from the public regarding this proposed rule and the draft post-delisting monitoring (PDM) plan for Ute ladies'-tresses. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 10 March 2025. POC is George Weekley, Field Office Supervisor, USFWS, Utah Ecological Services Field Office, 2369 West Orton Circle, Suite 50, West Valley City, UT 84119; tele 801-239-0561. (Federal Register 7 January 2025 [Proposed Rule] Pages 1054-1078)

USFWS proposes to list the Puerto Rican skink (Spondylurus nitidus), a skink species from Puerto Rico and Desecheo Island, and the Lesser Virgin Islands skink (S. semitaeniatus) and Virgin Islands bronze skink (S. sloanii), two skink species from the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands, as endangered species. We propose to list the Culebra skink (S. culebrae), a skink species from Culebra Island and offshore cays of Puerto Rico, as a threatened species with protective regulations under the ESA. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing these species is warranted. If we finalize this rule as proposed, we will add these species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to these species. They also propose to designate critical habitat for the Puerto Rican skink, Culebra skink, Lesser Virgin Islands skink, and Virgin Islands bronze skink under the Act. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 18 February 2025. POC is Lourdes Mena, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office, P.O. Box 491, Boquerón, PR 00622; tele 352-749-2462; email: lourdes_mena@fws.gov. (Federal Register 19 December 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 103938-103989)

USFWS proposes to list the Suckley's cuckoo bumble bee (Bombus suckleyi), an invertebrate species from North America, as an endangered species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the Suckley's cuckoo bumble bee. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the species as an endangered species under the Act. If finalized this rule would add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the species. Due to the current lack of data sufficient to perform required analyses, they conclude that the designation of critical habitat for the species is not determinable at this time. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 18 February 2025. POC is Mike Daigneault, Acting Field Supervisor, Southern Alaska Fish and Wildlife Field Office, 4700 BLM Road, Anchorage, AK 99507; tele 907-271-1467. (Federal Register 19 December 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 102074-102091)

USFWS propose to designate critical habitat for the rayed bean (Villosa fabalis), sheepnose (Plethobasus cyphyus), snuffbox (Epioblasma triquetra), and spectaclecase (Cumberlandia monodonta), all species of freshwater mussels, under the ESA. Specifically, they propose to designate approximately 560 river miles (rmi) (902 river kilometers (rkm)) in 15 units as critical habitat for rayed bean; approximately 801 rmi (1,289 rkm) in 11 units as critical habitat for sheepnose; approximately 2,472 rmi (3,979 rkm) in 38 units as critical habitat for snuffbox; and approximately 1,143 rmi (1,839 rkm) in 12 units as critical habitat for spectaclecase. Portions of these proposed designations overlap among the four species; in total, approximately 3,974 rmi (6,396 rkm) of unique critical habitat within 76 units across 17 States (Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin) fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designations. They also announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed designations of critical habitat for all four species. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 11 February 2025. For POC check Federal Register. (Federal Register 13 December 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 101100-101206)

USFWS propose to list the eastern hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis), a salamander subspecies from Alabama, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). This determination also serves as our 12-month finding on a petition to list the eastern hellbender. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the subspecies is warranted. If finalized this rule as proposed would add this subspecies to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the subspecies. They have determined that designation of critical habitat for the eastern hellbender is not prudent. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 11 February 2025. Erin Knoll, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ohio Ecological Services Field Office, 4625 Morse Road, Suite 104, Columbus, OH 43230; tele 614-528-9704. (Federal Register 13 December 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 100934-100948)

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing a narrow modification to its 2022 CGP to expand the list of areas eligible for coverage to include construction projects in Lands of Exclusive Federal Jurisdiction. This modification is necessary because the EPA is the permitting authority in Lands of Exclusive Federal Jurisdiction, and when the CGP was issued on 17 February 2022, the permit did not specifically provide eligibility for all of these areas. The proposed modification would also clarify the CGP requirements that apply to projects that discharge to receiving waters within Lands of Exclusive Federal Jurisdiction. The EPA seeks comment only on the proposed permit revisions and the accompanying fact sheet. The fact sheet and proposed permit modification can be found at https://www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater-discharges-construction-activities. Comments on the proposed permit modification must be received on or before 13 January 2025. POC is Greg Schaner, EPA Headquarters, Office of Water, Office of Wastewater Management at (202) 564-0721 or by email at schaner.greg@epa.gov. (Federal Register 13 December 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 100929-100934)

EPA is proposing amendments to the Standards of Performance for new, modified, and reconstructed stationary combustion turbines and stationary gas turbines. These amendments are based on a review of available control technologies aimed at limiting emissions of criteria air pollutants. The review of the NSPS is mandated by the CAA. As part of this review, the EPA proposes to create size-based subcategories for new, modified, and reconstructed stationary combustion turbines. These subcategories will also recognize differences in turbines that operate at varying loads or capacity factors and those using natural gas or non-natural gas fuels. The EPA proposes that the BSER for limiting NOX emissions from these turbines is the use of combustion controls along with post-combustion SCR, with some limited exceptions. Based on this BSER and updates in technical information, the EPA aims to lower the NOX standards for most stationary combustion turbines in this source category. Finally, the Agency is proposing amendments to address specific technical and editorial issues to clarify existing regulations. Comments must be received on or before 13 March 2025. POC is John Ashley tele: (919) 541-1458; and email: ashley.john@epa.gov. (Federal Register 13 December 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 101306-101356)

USFWS propose to reclassify the rough popcornflower (Plagiobothrys hirtus) from endangered to threatened (downlist) under the ESA. The proposed downlisting is based on our evaluation of the best available scientific and commercial information, which indicates that the species' status has improved such that it is not currently in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range, but that it is still likely to become so within the foreseeable future. They also propose protective regulations under the authority of section 4(d) of the Act that are necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of the rough popcornflower. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 10 February 2025. Kessina Lee, State Supervisor, USFWS, Oregon Fish and Wildlife Office, 2600 SE 98th Avenue, Suite 100, Portland, OR 97266; tele: (503) 231-6179. (Federal Register 11 December 2024 [Proposed Rule] Page 99809-99826)

USFWS proposes to list the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus), the iconic orange and black butterfly, as a threatened species and designate critical habitat under the ESA. They propose to list the monarch butterfly as a threatened species with protective regulations under section 4(d) of the Act (a "4(d) rule"). Finalizing this rule as proposed would add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the species. They also propose to designate critical habitat for the monarch butterfly under the Act. In total, approximately 4,395 acres (1,778 hectares) in Alameda, Marin, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, and Ventura Counties, California, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They also announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the monarch butterfly. They also are notifying the public that we have scheduled two informational meetings followed by public hearings on the proposed rule. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 12 March 2025. POC is Barbara Hosler, Regional Listing Coordinator, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Midwest Region Headquarters, 5600 American Blvd., Bloomington, MN 55437, telephone 517-580-0254, email: monarch@fws.gov. (Federal Register 12 December 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 100662-100716)

USFWS announced their 12-month finding on a petition to list the giraffe (including its subspecies) as endangered or threatened under the ESA. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that the following listing actions are warranted: They propose to list all three subspecies of the northern giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis)--the West African giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis peralta), the Kordofan giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis antiquorum), and the Nubian giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis camelopardalis)--as endangered species under Act. They propose to list the reticulated giraffe (Giraffa reticulata) and the Masai giraffe (Giraffa tippelskirchi), as threatened species. If finalized this rule would add all giraffes to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife, under the authority of the Act, and extend the Act's protections to these taxa. Comments on the proposals in this document will be accepted before 19 February 2025. POC is Rachel London tele 703-358-2171. (Federal Register 21 Nov 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 92524-92568).

USFWS proposes to list the Pecos pupfish (Cyprinodon pecosensis), a fish species from the Pecos River Basin of New Mexico and Texas, as a threatened species and designate critical habitat under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the Pecos pupfish. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the Pecos pupfish as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act ("4(d) rule"). If finalized the Pecos pupfish would be added to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and the Act's protections would be extended to the species. They also announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for Pecos pupfish. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 21 January 2025. POC is Shawn Sartorius, Field Supervisor, USFWS, New Mexico Ecological Services Field Office, 2105 Osuna NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113; tele 505-697-7606. (Federal Register 22 Nov 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 92744-92785).

NMFS announced the extension of the public comment period on our 25 July 2024 proposed rule to list 5 species of giant clams as endangered and 5 species of giant clams as threatened under the ESA and to issue protective regulations for the 5 proposed threatened species under section 4(d) of the ESA. As part of that proposed action, they solicited comments on the proposed rule, a draft environmental assessment (EA), and an initial regulatory flexibility analysis (IRFA) over a 90-day comment period, which was scheduled to close on 23 October 2024. Comments previously submitted do not need to be resubmitted, as they will be fully considered in the agency's proposed action. The comment period for the proposed rule published July 25, 2024 at 89 FR 60498, is extended. The deadline for receipt of comments is extended from 23 October 2024 to 19 February 2025. POC is John Rippe, NMFS Office of Protected Resources, 301-427-8467; John.Rippe@noaa.gov. (Federal Register 23 October 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 84510-84511)

EPA is proposing to add 16 individually listed per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and 15 PFAS categories to the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) list of toxic chemicals subject to reporting under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) and the Pollution Prevention Act (PPA) to comply with the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (NDAA). EPA also addresses how PFAS categories should be treated. Separately, EPA discusses what events may trigger the automatic addition of a PFAS to the TRI pursuant to the NDAA. This discussion does not propose to list chemicals to TRI pursuant to the NDAA, but rather describes what EPA documents and activities involving PFAS would trigger an automatic addition under the NDAA. Comments must be received on or before 9 December 2024. POC is Rachel Dean, Data Gathering, Analysis, Management, and Policy Division, Mailcode 7406M, Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, EPA, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460-0001; tele: (202) 566-1303; email: dean.rachel@epa.gov. (Federal Register 8 October 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 81776-81814)

USFWS propose to list the Bethany Beach firefly (Photuris bethaniensis), a firefly species from Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia, as a threatened species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the Bethany Beach firefly. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. They also propose protective regulations issued under section 4(d) of the Act to provide for the conservation of the Bethany Beach firefly. If finalized this rule as proposed would add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the species. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 2 December 2024. POC is Genevieve LaRouche, Field Office Supervisor, USFWS, Chesapeake Bay Ecological Services Field Office, 177 Admiral Cochrane Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401; tele 202-341-5882. (Federal Register 1 October 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 79857-79880)

USFWS proposes to list the Kentucky creekshell (Leaunio ortmanni [=Villosa ortmanni]), a freshwater mussel species from Kentucky and Tennessee, as an endangered species and designate critical habitat under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the Kentucky creekshell. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the Kentucky creekshell as an endangered species under the ESA. Finalizing this rule as proposed would add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the species. They also propose to designate critical habitat for the Kentucky creekshell under the Act. In total, approximately 545 river miles (877 river kilometers) in Kentucky and Tennessee fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They also announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Kentucky creekshell. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 18 November 2024. POC is Lee Andrews, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Ecological Services Kentucky Field Office, 330 West Broadway, Room 265, Frankfort, KY 40601; tele 502-653-0571. (Federal Register 17 September 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 76196-76233)

EPA is undertaking this rulemaking to assess the eligibility of six applications to receive priority access to allowances allocated pursuant to the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020. This rulemaking proposes the framework for how EPA will assess whether to renew the eligibility of applications to receive application-specific allowances; decisions to renew or not renew each of the six applications that currently receive application-specific allowances; revisions to the Technology Transitions regulations as relevant to the specific applications under review; a procedural process for submitting a petition to designate a new application as eligible for priority access to allowances; narrow revisions to the methodology used to allocate allowances to application-specific allowance holders for calendar years 2026 and beyond; and limited revisions to existing regulations. EPA is also proposing to authorize an entity to produce regulated substances for export. Lastly, EPA is proposing certain confidentiality determinations for newly reported information if this rulemaking is finalized as proposed. Comments must be received on or before 31 October 2024. POC is Michelle Graff, EPA, Stratospheric Protection Division, tele: 202-564-5387; or email: graff.michelle@epa.gov. (Federal Register 16 September 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 75898-75943).

USFWS proposes to list the Black Creek crayfish (Procambarus pictus), a crayfish species from Florida, as an endangered species under ESA. They also propose to designate critical habitat for the Black Creek crayfish under the Act. In total, approximately 1,056 kilometers (656 miles) of streams in Clay, Duval, Putnam, and St. Johns Counties, Florida, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. If finalized this rule would extend the Act's protections to this species and its designated critical habitat. They also announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed critical habitat designation for the Black Creek crayfish. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 12 November 2024. POC is Gian Basili, Deputy State Supervisor, Florida Ecological Services Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256-7517; tele 904-731-3079. (Federal Register 10 August 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 73512-73554)

USFWS proposes to list the Alabama hickorynut (Obovaria unicolor) as an endangered species and the undescribed Obovaria cf. unicolor as a threatened species under the ESA. Both species are freshwater mussels. This document also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the Alabama hickorynut. For Obovaria cf. unicolor, they also propose a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act to provide for the conservation of the species. If this rule as proposed is finalized it would apply the protections of the Act to these species. They find that designation of critical habitat for both the Alabama hickorynut and Obovaria cf. unicolor is prudent but not determinable at this time. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 12 November 2024. Bill Pearson, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Alabama Ecological Services Field Office, 1208 Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526; tele 251-441-5870. (Federal Register 10 September 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 73330-73349).

USFWS are reopening the public comment period on their 20 December 2023, proposed rule to list the West Virginia spring salamander (Gyrinophilus subterraneus), an amphibian species from Greenbrier County, West Virginia, as an endangered species and to designate critical habitat under the Act. They are taking this action to allow all interested parties an additional opportunity to comment on the proposed listing of the species and the proposed critical habitat. The comment period on the proposed rule that published 20 December 2023, at 88 FR 88012, is reopened. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 20 September 2024. (Federal Register 5 September 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 72362-72363)

This action proposes revisions, updates, and corrections to EPA's streamlined fuel quality regulations. This action does not propose to change the stringency of the existing fuel quality standards. Comments must be received on or before 15 October 2024. (Federal Register 28 August 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 70046-70093) POC is Nick Parsons, Office of Transportation and Air Quality, Assessment and Standards Division, EPA, 2000 Traverwood Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105; tele: 734-214-4479; email:parsons.nick@epa.gov.

USFWS proposes to list the Santa Ana speckled dace (Rhinichthys gabrielino), a fish species native to California, as a threatened species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the Santa Ana speckled dace. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the Santa Ana speckled dace as a threatened species with protective regulations issued under section 4(d) of the Act ("4(d) rule"). If finalized, this rule as proposed would add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the species. Due to the current lack of data sufficient to perform required analyses, they conclude that the designation of critical habitat for the species is not determinable at this time. We will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 15 October 2024. POC is Scott Sobiech, Field Supervisor, Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office, USFWS, 2177 Salk Avenue, Carlsbad CA 92008; tele 760-431-9440. (Federal Register 13 August 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 65816-65835)

USFWS proposes to list the Cedar Key mole skink (Plestiodon egregius insularis), a lizard subspecies from the Cedar Keys, Florida, as an endangered species under the ESA. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing this subspecies is warranted. They also propose to designate critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink under the Act. In total, approximately 2,713 acres (1,098 hectares) in Levy County, Cedar Keys, Florida, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. In addition, they announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink. If finalized, this rule as proposed would extend the Act's protections to this subspecies and its designated critical habitat. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 7 October 2024. POC is Lourdes Mena, email: lourdes_mena@fws.gov; tele: 352-749-2462. (Federal Register 8 August 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 65124-65160)

USFWS proposes to list the Long Valley speckled dace (Rhinichthys nevadensis caldera), a fish native to California, as an endangered species under the ESA. This determination also serves as our 12-month finding on a petition to list the Long Valley speckled dace. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the subspecies is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the Long Valley speckled dace as an endangered species under the Act. If finalize, this rule as proposed would add this subspecies to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the subspecies. Designation of critical habitat for the Long Valley speckled dace is not determinable at this time. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 7 October 2024. POC is Justin Barrett, Deputy Field Supervisor, Reno Fish and Wildlife Office, USFWS, 1340 Financial Boulevard, Suite 234, Reno, NV 89502; tele 775-861-6338. (Federal Register 8 August 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 64852-64865)

USFWS proposes to list the eastern regal fritillary (Argynnis idalia idalia) as an endangered species and to list the western regal fritillary (A. i. occidentalis) as a threatened species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the regal fritillary, as these two subspecies make up the entire species. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing both subspecies is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the eastern subspecies as endangered and the western subspecies as threatened with protective regulations issued under section 4(d) of the Act (a "4(d) rule"). They find that designation of critical habitat for both subspecies is not determinable at this time. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 7 October 2024. POC is listed in the Federal Register. (Federal Register 6 August 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 63888-63909)

USFWS proposes to remove the northeastern bulrush (Scirpus ancistrochaetus) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that delisting the species is warranted. Their review indicates that the threats to the northeastern bulrush have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species no longer meets the definition of an endangered or threatened species under ESA. Accordingly, they propose to delist the northeastern bulrush. If finalized, the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act, particularly through Sections 7 and 9 would no longer apply to the northeastern bulrush. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 30 September 2024. POC is Audrey Mayer, Field Supervisor, New England Ecological Services Field Office, 70 Commercial Street, Suite 300, Concord, NH 03301; tele 603-223-2541. (Federal Register 31 July 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 61387-61396)

NMFS, have completed a comprehensive status review of seven species of giant clams (Hippopus hippopus, H. porcellanus, Tridacna derasa, T. gigas, T. mbalavuana, T. squamosa, and T. squamosina) in response to a petition to list these species as threatened or endangered under ESA. Based on the best scientific and commercial data available, including the Status Review Report, and after taking into account efforts being made to protect these species, they have determined that H. porcellanus, T. mbalavuana, and T. squamosina are in danger of extinction throughout the entirety of their respective ranges, T. derasa and T. gigas are in danger of extinction in a significant portion of their respective ranges, and H. hippopus is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout a significant portion of its range. Therefore, they propose to list H. porcellanus, T. mbalavuana, T. squamosina, T. derasa, and T. gigas as endangered species and H. hippopus as a threatened species under the ESA. They have determined that the fluted clam, T. squamosa, does not meet the definition of a threatened or an endangered species under section 4(a) of the ESA. Comments must be received by 23 October 2024. POC is John Rippe, NMFS Office of Protected Resources john.rippe@noaa.gov. (Federal Register 25 July 2024 [Rule] Pages 60498-60547)

USFWS proposes to designate critical habitat for the Barrens topminnow (Fundulus julisia) under the ESA. In total, approximately 1.5 acres (0.6 hectares) of spring pool and 11.4 miles (18.3 kilometers) of spring run in Cannon, Coffee, Dekalb, Franklin, Grundy, and Warren Counties, Tennessee, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They also announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Barrens topminnow. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 9 September 2024. Daniel Elbert, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Tennessee Ecological Services Office, 446 Neal Street, Cookeville, TN 38501; tele 931-528-6481. (Federal Register 9 July 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 56253-56275)

USFWS proposes to remove the white sedge (Carex albida) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants (i.e., "delist" the species). Their review of the best available scientific and commercial data indicate that the white sedge is not a discrete taxonomic entity and does not meet the definition of a species as defined by the ESA. White sedge has been synonymized with Lemmon's sedge (Carex lemmonii). This taxonomic revision means that the white sedge is no longer a scientifically accepted species. If finalized, this rule as proposed, would remove the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act, particularly through sections 7 and 9, for the white sedge. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 3 September 2024. POC is Michael Fris, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office, 2800 Cottage Way, Sacramento, CA 95825; tele 916-414-6700. (Federal Register 2 July 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 54758-54761)

USFWS proposes to designate critical habitat for the Dixie Valley toad (Anaxyrus williamsi) under the ESA. In total, approximately 930 acres (376 hectares) in Churchill County, Nevada, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. If finalize this rule would extend the Act's protections to this species' critical habitat. They also announce the availability of a draft economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Dixie Valley toad. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 29 July 2024. POC is Jodie Mamuscia, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Reno Fish and Wildlife Office, 1340 Financial Blvd., Suite 234, Reno, NV 89502; tele 775-861-6300. (Federal Register 30 May 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 46838-46852)

EPA is proposing a regulatory framework for states and public water systems (PWSs) to identify and assess restructuring alternatives to ensure that every community receives safe, affordable, and reliable drinking water. The proposed regulations would: establish a new mandatory restructuring assessment authority for states; require states with primary enforcement authority (primacy) to develop mandatory restructuring assessment programs and submit primacy revisions for EPA review and approval; establish requirements for states and PWSs that implement system-specific mandatory restructuring assessments; and establish eligibility requirements and limitations for restructuring incentives under state-approved restructuring plans. This proposed rulemaking is required under amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). By taking this action, the EPA intends to strengthen the ongoing efforts of states and PWSs to protect public health. Comments must be received on or before 29 July 2024. POC is Will Bowman, Drinking Water Capacity & Compliance Assistance Division, Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water (MC-4606M) Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460; tele: (202) 564-3782; email: bowman.will@epa.gov. (Federal Register 30 May 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 46998-47026)

NMFS, are proposing to issue protective regulations under section 4(d) of the ESA for the conservation of the threatened oceanic whitetip shark (Carcharhinus longimanus). The proposed regulations would apply all of the prohibitions listed under ESA sections 9(a)(1)(A) through 9(a)(1)(G) for the species, with limited exceptions for scientific research and law enforcement activities that contribute to the conservation of the species. In addition, they are announcing the availability of a draft environmental assessment (EA) that analyzes the environmental impacts of promulgating these regulations. Finally, they solicit comments from the public and all interested parties regarding this proposed rule and the draft EA. Comments on this proposed rule must be received by 15 July 2024. POC is Adrienne Lohe, NMFS Office of Protected Resources, 301-427-8442. (Federal Register 14 May 2024 [Rule] Pages 41917-41924)

USFWS proposes to remove the Roanoke logperch (Percina rex) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife due to recovery. The species is currently listed as endangered. Their review of the best available scientific and commercial data indicates that the threats to the Roanoke logperch have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species no longer meets the definition of an endangered or a threatened species under the ESA. Populations of Roanoke logperch are shown to be stable or expanding and reproducing (as evidenced by sustained recruitment) since the time of listing in each of the following river systems: Upper Roanoke River, Pigg River, Smith River, and Nottoway River. The number of streams where the Roanoke logperch has been observed has increased from 14 streams from the time of listing in 1989 to 31 streams in 2019. Accordingly, they propose to delist the Roanoke logperch throughout all of its range, which is in Virginia and North Carolina. If finalized this rule as proposed, the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act, would no longer apply to the Roanoke logperch. We will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 3 June 2024. POC is Cindy Schulz, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Virginia Ecological Services Field Office, 6669 Short Lane, Gloucester, VA 23061; tele 804-654-1842. (Federal Register 2 April 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 22649-22662)

USFWS propose to list the pygmy three-toed sloth (Bradypus pygmaeus; hereafter "pygmy sloth"), an arboreal mammal species from Panama, as a threatened species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the pygmy sloth. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the pygmy sloth as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act ("4(d) rule"). If finalized, this rule as proposed, will add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the species. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 28 May 2024. POC is Rachel London, Manager, Branch of Delisting and Foreign Species, Ecological Services Program, USFWS, MS: ES, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041–3803; tele 703–358–2171. (Federal Register 26 March 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 20928-20939)

EPA proposes to revise regulations that allow for the open burning and detonation (OB/OD) of waste explosives. This allowance or "variance" to the prohibition on the open burning of hazardous waste was established at a time when there were no alternatives for the safe treatment of waste explosives. However, recent findings from the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) and the EPA have identified safe alternatives which are potentially applicable to treat some energetic/explosive waste streams. Because there may be safe alternatives available and in use today that capture and treat emissions prior to release, regulations would be revised to describe specified procedures for the existing requirements to evaluate and implement alternative treatment technologies. These proposed revisions would reduce OB/OD of waste explosives and increase control of air emissions through improved implementation of existing requirements that facilities must evaluate and use safe and available alternative technologies in lieu of OB/OD. Comments must be received on or before 20 May 2024. POC is Sasha Lucas-Gerhard (email: gerhard.sasha@epa.gov, phone: (202) 566–0346). (Federal Register 20 March 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 19952-20030).

USFWS propose to list the bushy whitlow-wort (Paronychia congesta), a perennial herbaceous plant species from northwestern Jim Hogg County in south Texas, as an endangered species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the bushy whitlow-wort. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. They also propose to designate critical habitat for the bushy whitlow-wort under the Act. In total, approximately 41.96 acres (16.98 hectares) in Jim Hogg County, Texas, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They announce the availability of a draft economic analysis (DEA) of the proposed designation of critical habitat for bushy whitlow-wort. If they finalize this rule as proposed, it would extend the Act's protections to the species and its designated critical habitat. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 20 May 2024. POC is Chuck Ardizzone, Field Supervisor, Texas Coastal Ecological Services Field Office, 17629 El Camino Real, Suite 211, Houston, TX 77058; tele 281–286–8282. (Federal Register 19 March 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 19526-19546)

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is designating critical habitat for 12 federally endangered species on the island of Hawai`i under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Act), as amended. In total, approximately 119,326 acres (48,289 hectares) on the island of Hawai`i, in the State of Hawaii, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule extends the Act's protections to these species' designated critical habitats. The rule is effective 11 April 2024. POC is Earl Campbell, Project Leader, USFWS, Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office, 300 Ala Moana Boulevard Room 3-122 Honolulu, HI; tele: 808-792-9400. (Federal Register 12 March [Rule] Pages 17902-17981)

USFWS announced a finding on the gray wolf (Canis lupus) in the Northern Rocky Mountains (NRM) and in the Western United States. After a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial data, they find that gray wolves within the NRM area do not, on their own, represent a valid listable entity; therefore, the NRM is not warranted for listing under the ESA. They find that the gray wolf in the Western United States is a valid listable entity; however, the gray wolf in the Western United States does not meet the definition of an endangered species or a threatened species. Thus, they find that listing the gray wolf in the Western United States is not warranted at this time. The finding in this document was made on 7 February 2024. POC is Marjorie Nelson, Acting Assistant Regional Director, Ecological Services Mountain-Prairie Region, 720–582–3524, marjorie_nelson@fws.gov. (Federal Register 7 February 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 8391-8395)

The EPA is proposing amendments to the new source performance standards (NSPS) and emission guidelines (EG) for large municipal waste combustion (MWC) units. These proposed amendments reflect the results from a reevaluation of the maximum achievable control technology (MACT) floor levels, a 5-year review, and the removal of startup, shutdown and malfunction exclusions and exceptions. These proposed amendments also streamline regulatory language, revise recordkeeping and electronic notification and reporting requirements, re-establish new and existing source applicability dates, clarify requirements for certain air curtain incinerators, close a 2007 proposed reconsideration action, correct certain typographical errors, make certain technical corrections, and clarify certain provisions in the NSPS and EG. These proposed amendments would revise all emission limits in the EG, except for carbon monoxide (CO) limits for two subcategories of combustors, and all nine emission limits in the NSPS.. Comments must be received on or before 25 March 2024. POC is Charlene E. Spells, Sector Policies and Programs Division (E143–05), Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, EPA, Research Triangle Park, P.O. Box 12055, North Carolina 27711; tele: (919) 541–5255; email:spells.charlene@epa.gov. (Federal Register 23 January 2024 [Proposed Rule] pages 4243-4268)

EPA is finalizing, largely as proposed, a narrow modification to its 2022 Construction General Permit (CGP) to expand the list of areas eligible for coverage to include construction projects in all Lands of Exclusive Federal Jurisdiction. This modification is necessary because the EPA is the permitting authority in Lands of Exclusive Federal Jurisdiction, and when the CGP was issued on February 17, 2022, the permit did not specifically provide eligibility for these areas as a class. The modification also clarifies the CGP requirements that apply to projects that discharge to receiving waters within Lands of Exclusive Federal Jurisdiction in response to the Supreme Court's recent decision in City and County of San Francisco v. EPA. The permit modification and accompanying permit fact sheet can be found at https://www.epa.gov/npdes/2022-construction-general-permit-cgp. Final modification became effective on 8 April 2025, except for EPA Regions 1 and 3. Regions 1 and 3 require additional time to complete procedures under Clean Water Act section 401(a)(2). POC is Greg Schaner, EPA Headquarters, Office of Water, Office of Wastewater Management at (202) 564-0721 or by email at schaner.greg@epa.gov. (Federal Register 15 April 2025 [Rule] Pages 15653-15658)

EPA is postponing the effectiveness of certain regulatory provisions of the final rule entitled "Trichloroethylene (TCE); Regulation Under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)" for 90 days pending judicial review. Specifically, this postponement applies to the conditions imposed on the uses with TSCA exemptions. As of 21 March 2025, the EPA further postpones the conditions imposed on each of the TSCA section 6(g) exemptions, as described in this document, in the final rule published on 17 December 2024 at 89 FR 102568 until 20 June 2025. POC is Gabriela Rossner, Existing Chemicals Risk Management Division, Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460-0001; tele: (202) 565-2426; address: TCE.TSCA@epa.gov. (Federal Register 2 April 2025 [Rule] Pages 14415-14417)

The EPA is promulgating this final rule to extend the reporting deadline under the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Rule for reporting year 2024 data from March 31, 2025, to May 30, 2025. This rule only changes the reporting deadline for annual greenhouse gas (GHG) reports for reporting year 2024. This rule does not change the reporting deadline for future years, and it does not change the requirements for what regulated entities must report. This rule is effective 20 March 2025. POC is Jennifer Bohman, Climate Change Division, Office of Atmospheric Protection (MC-6207A), Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460; telephone number: (202) 343-9548; email address: GHGReporting@epa.gov. (Federal Register 20 March 2025 [Rule] Pages 13085-13089).

EPA is extending the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) compliance reporting deadline for the 2024 compliance year. EPA is also making several minor amendments and technical corrections to other RFS provisions. This rule is effective on 13 March 2025. For operational purposes under the Clean Air Act (CAA), this final rule is effective as of 7 March 2025.POC is For questions regarding this action, contact Nick Parsons, Office of Transportation and Air Quality, Assessment and Standards Division, EPA, 2000 Traverwood Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105; tele: (734) 214-4479; email: RFS-Rulemakings@epa.gov. (Federal Register 14 March 2025 [Rule] Pages 12109-12114)

In response to an order by the United States District Court for the District of Columbia USFWS are opening a public comment period related to a specific issue regarding the listing determination under the ESA for the northern distinct population segment (DPS) of the southern subspecies of the scarlet macaw (Ara macao macao). USFWS seek comments on the explanation presented in this document regarding why USFWS did not conduct an analysis under section 4(e) of the Act pertaining to the DPS. USFWS will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 10 April 2025. POC is Rachel London, Manager, Branch of Delisting and Foreign Species, Ecological Services Program, USFWS, MS: ES, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803 (tele 703-358-2171). (Federal Register 11 March 2025 [Rule] Pages 11674-11678)

The CEQ is issuing this interim final rule to remove the existing implementing regulations for the National Environmental Policy Act, in response to E.O. 14154, Unleashing American Energy. Among other things, E.O. 14154 rescinds E.O. 11991, Relating to Protection and Enhancement of Environmental Quality, which amended E.O. 11514, Protection and Enhancement of Environmental Quality, and directed CEQ to promulgate regulations for implementing NEPA and required Federal agencies to comply with those regulations. E.O. 14154 also directs CEQ to issue guidance on implementing NEPA and to propose rescinding the NEPA implementing regulations. This interim final rule carries out President Trump's latter instruction. See Section II.A. As explained in Section II.B of this rule, CEQ has also concluded that it may lack authority to issue binding rules on agencies in the absence of the now-rescinded E.O. 11191. CEQ cited E.O. 11991 as authority in 1978 when it first issued its NEPA regulations. However, that Executive Order has now been rescinded, and CEQ therefore has determined that it is appropriate to remove its regulations from the Code of Federal Regulations. This interim rule is effective 11 April 2025. Comments are due by 27 March 2025. POC is Megan Healy, Principal Deputy Director for NEPA, 202-395-5750, Megan.E.Healy@ceq.eop.gov. (Federal Register 25 March 2025 [Rule] Pages 10610-10616)

In accordance with the memorandum of 20 January 2025, from the Administration, entitled "Regulatory Freeze Pending Review," published in the Federal Register on 28 January 2025, this action delays the effective date of the final rule NMFS published in the Federal Register on 17 December 2024, regarding the reclassification of the pillar coral (Dendrogyra cylindrus) on the Federal List of Threatened and Endangered Species. As of 18 February 2025, the effective date of the final rule amending 50 CFR parts 223 and 224, that published on 17 December 2024, at 89 FR 101993, is delayed until 21 March 2025. POC is Lisa Manning, NMFS, Office of Protected Resources, 301-427-8466, lisa.manning@noaa.gov. (Federal Register 18 February 2025 [Rule] Pages 9691-9692)

In accordance with the memorandum of January 20, 2025, from President Donald J. Trump, entitled "Regulatory Freeze Pending Review," this action temporarily delays until March 21, 2025, the effective date of the regulations listed in the table below. EPA has identified two additional regulations that meet the criteria in the memo and may identify additional regulations in subsequent notices. As of February 5, 2025, the effective dates of the rules published at 89 FR 99727 (December 11, 2024), and 90 FR 573 (January 6, 2025), are delayed to March 21, 2025. POC is William Nickerson, Director, Office of Regulatory Policy and Management, Office of Policy, Mail code 1804, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20460; (202) 566-0326; nickerson.william@epa.gov. (Federal Register 5 February 2025 [Final Rule] Page 9010)

EPA is finalizing amendments to the National Volatile Organic Compound Emission Standards for Aerosol Coatings. This action revises national emission standards for the aerosol coatings (aerosol spray paints) category under the Clean Air Act (CAA), which requires control of volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from certain categories of consumer and commercial products for purposes of reducing VOC emissions contributing to ozone formation and ozone nonattainment. The regulation employs a relative reactivity-based approach to control aerosol coating products' contribution to ozone formation by encouraging the use of less reactive VOC ingredients in formulations. In this final rule, the EPA is updating coating category product-weighted reactivity (PWR) limits, adding new compounds and reactivity factors, updating existing reactivity factors, revising the rule's default reactivity factor, and amending thresholds for VOC regulated by the rule. The effective date of this final rule is 17 January 2025. POC is Kaye Whitfield, U.S. EPA, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Sector Policies and Programs Division; tele: (919) 541-2509; email: whitfield.kaye@epa.gov. (Federal Register 17 January 2025 [Rule] Pages 5697-5718)

The USFWS is affirming as final the 2016 interim rule that added all species of salamanders from 20 genera to the list of injurious amphibians. Under the injurious wildlife prohibitions of the Lacey Act, this final rule prohibits the importation into the United States and shipment between the continental United States, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or any territory or possession of the United States of any live or dead specimen, including hybrids and parts, of those 20 genera of salamanders, except by permit for certain purposes or by Federal agencies solely for their own use. USFWS takes these actions to protect U.S. ecosystems from the introduction, establishment, and spread of the lethal chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans, which infects and is carried by salamanders, and which is not yet known to be found in the United States. This final rule affirming the 13 January 2016, interim rule and the interim rule set forth in this document are effective 25 January 2025. POC is Kristen Sommers, Injurious Wildlife Listing Coordinator, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Branch of Aquatic Invasive Species; MS: FAC; 5275 Leesburg Pike; Falls Church, VA 22041-3803; 571-329-2214. (Federal Register 10 January 2025 [Rule] Pages 2170-2221)

This action finalizes the Clean Air Act (CAA) technology review (TR) conducted for the commercial and industrial dry cleaning facilities using perchloroethylene (PCE) as the cleaning solvent (PCE Dry Cleaning) source categories regulated under National Emission Standards for Hazardous air Pollutants (NESHAP). This final rule does not finalize the changes made at proposal and makes no amendments to the current NESHAP given the recently finalized action under the Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) which has instituted a 10-year phaseout of the use of PCE for dry cleaning. This action is effective on 7 January 2024. POC is Reginald Goodwin, Mail Drop: D243-04, 109 T.W. Alexander Drive, P.O. Box 12055, RTP, North Carolina 27711; tele: (919) 541-5313; and email: goodwin.reginald@epa.gov. (Federal Register 7 January 2025 [Rule] Pages 1041-1048)

EPA is updating the list of chemicals subject to toxic chemical release reporting under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) and the Pollution Prevention Act (PPA). Specifically, this action updates the regulations to identify nine per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that must be reported pursuant to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (FY2020 NDAA) enacted on 20 December 2019. As this action is being taken to conform the regulations to a Congressional legislative mandate, notice and comment rulemaking is unnecessary. This final rule is effective 5 February 2025. POC is Daniel R. Ruedy, Data Gathering, Management and Policy Division (7607M), Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, EPA, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460-0001; telephone number: (202) 564-7974; email: ruedy.daniel@epa.gov. (Federal Register 6 January 2024 [Rule] Pages 573-577)

USFWS are revising current regulatory authorizations and adding new regulatory authorizations for possession of migratory birds and eagles and for other purposes. These regulatory revisions will allow them to authorize the general public, educators, and government agency employees to possess migratory birds and eagles in certain specific situations and still meet their obligations to protect migratory birds and eagles under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. They also are changing the Airborne Hunting Act regulations to clarify what Federal authorizations may be used to comply with that statute. This final rule is effective 31 December 2024. POC is Jerome Ford, Assistant Director-Migratory Birds Program, USFWS, tele: 703-358-2606, email:MB_mail@fws.gov. (Federal Register 31 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 107026-107043)

EPA has decided not to proceed with the development of a regulation addressing the manufacture, processing, or distribution in commerce of lead for wheel-balancing weights ("lead wheel weights") under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). This action relates to a citizen petition filed with the Agency in 2009 ("2009 petition"). The 2009 petition, which EPA granted, asked EPA to initiate a rulemaking proceeding to regulate the manufacturing, processing, or distribution in commerce of lead wheel weights. In 2023, the same parties filed a petition for a writ of mandamus ("mandamus petition") that sought to compel EPA to initiate the rulemaking proceeding requested in the 2009 petition. After reviewing the information submitted in response to an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) issued in April 2024 and EPA's technical analysis thereof, EPA has decided not to proceed with the development of a proposed rule. This decision is effective 23 December 2024. POC is Sean Duenser, Existing Chemicals Risk Management Division (7404M), Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460-0001; telep: (202) 343-9157; email: duenser.sean@epa.gov. (Federal Register 23 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 104486-104493)

Based on the EPA's review of the air quality criteria for ecological effects and secondary national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for oxides of nitrogen (N oxides), oxides of sulfur (SOX), and particulate matter (PM), the EPA is revising the existing secondary sulfur dioxide (SO2) standard to an annual average, averaged over three consecutive years, with a level of 10 parts per billion (ppb). Additionally, the Agency is retaining the existing secondary standards for N oxides and PM, without revision. The EPA is also finalizing revisions to the data handling requirements for the secondary SO2 NAAQS. This final rule is effective on 27 January 2025. POC is Ms. Ginger Tennant, EPA, Health and Environmental Impacts Division, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (mail code C539-04), Research Triangle Park, NC 27711; tele: (919) 541-4072; email: tennant.ginger@epa.gov. (Federal Register 27 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 105692-105788)

EPA is finalizing a rule to address the unreasonable risk of injury to health presented by carbon tetrachloride (CTC) under its conditions of use. TSCA requires that EPA address by rule any unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment identified in a TSCA risk evaluation and apply requirements to the extent necessary so that the chemical no longer presents unreasonable risk. EPA's final rule will establish workplace safety requirements for most conditions of use, including the condition of use related to the making of low Global Warming Potential (GWP) hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs); prohibit the manufacture (including import), processing, distribution in commerce, and industrial/commercial use of CTC for conditions of use where information indicates use of CTC has ceased; and establish recordkeeping and downstream notification requirements. This final rule is effective on 17 January 2025. POC is Emilia Echeveste Briseño, Existing Chemicals Risk Management Division (7404M), Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, EPA, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460-0001; tele: (202) 566-0543; email: CarbonTetrachlorideTSCA@epa.gov. (Federal Register 18 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 103512-103558)

EPA is finalizing a rule to address the unreasonable risk of injury to health presented by perchloroethylene (PCE) under its conditions of use. TSCA requires that EPA address by rule any unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment identified in a TSCA risk evaluation and apply requirements to the extent necessary so that the chemical no longer presents unreasonable risk. EPA's final rule will, among other things, prevent serious illness associated with uncontrolled exposures to the chemical by preventing consumer access to the chemical, restricting the industrial and commercial use of the chemical while also allowing for a reasonable transition period where the industrial and commercial use of the chemical is being prohibited. This final rule is effective on 17 January 2025.POC is Kelly Summers, Existing Chemicals Risk Management Division (7405M), Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, EPA, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460-0001; telephone number: (202) 564-2201; email address: pce.tsca@epa.gov. (Federal Register 18 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 103560-103616)

Reclassification of Pillar Coral (Dendrogyra cylindrus) From Threatened to Endangered (Final) (finalregs naturalresources nmfs esa dendrogyracylindrus endangered) NMFS is changing the status of pillar coral (Dendrogyra cylindrus) from threatened to endangered on the Federal List of Threatened and Endangered Species. We have considered the 5-year review of the status of D. cylindrus, expert reviewer comments, and public comments submitted on the proposed rule. Based on this information, we have determined that D. cylindrus is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. Thus, they are changing the status of D. cylindrus from threatened to endangered under the ESA. This final rule is effective on 18 February 2025. POC is Alison Moulding, 727-551-5607, alison.moulding@noaa.gov. (Federal Register 17 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 101993-102000)

EPA is finalizing a rule to address the unreasonable risk of injury to health presented by trichloroethylene (TCE) under its conditions of use. TSCA requires that EPA address by rule any unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment identified in a TSCA risk evaluation and apply requirements to the extent necessary so that the chemical no longer presents unreasonable risk. EPA's final rule will, among other things, prevent serious illness associated with uncontrolled exposures to the chemical by preventing consumer access to the chemical, restricting the industrial and commercial use of the chemical while also allowing for a reasonable transition period with interim worker protections in place where an industrial and commercial use of the chemical is being prohibited, and provide time-limited exemptions for critical or essential uses of TCE for which no technically and economically feasible safer alternatives are available. This final rule is effective on 16 January 2025. POC is Gabriela Rossner, Existing Chemicals Risk Management Division, Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460-0001; tele: (202) 565-2426; email: TCE.TSCA@epa.gov. (Federal Register 17 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 102568-102635)

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is making corrections to a final rule that appeared in the Federal Register of 12 November 2024, that finalized several revisions to EPA's lead-based paint (LBP) regulations. Subsequent to publication, the Office of the Federal Register (OFR) informed the Agency that there were errors in the amendatory instructions that describe specific revisions for two sections of the regulation. The corrections to the amendatory instructions will allow for the proper revisions to be incorporated into the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). This final rule correction is effective 13 January 2025. POC is Claire Brisse, Existing Chemicals Risk Management Division (7404M), Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460-0001; tele: (202) 564-9004; email: brisse.claire@epa.gov. (Federal Register 16 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 101489-101490)

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is making corrections to a final rule that appeared in the Federal Register of 12 November 2024, that finalized several revisions to EPA's lead-based paint (LBP) regulations. Subsequent to publication, the Office of the Federal Register (OFR) informed the Agency that there were errors in the amendatory instructions that describe specific revisions for two sections of the regulation. The corrections to the amendatory instructions will allow for the proper revisions to be incorporated into the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). This final rule correction is effective 13 January 2025. POC is Claire Brisse, Existing Chemicals Risk Management Division (7404M), Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460-0001; tele: (202) 564-9004; email: brisse.claire@epa.gov. (Federal Register 16 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 101489-101490)

EPA is finalizing the Health and Safety Reporting Rule under the Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) to require manufacturers (including importers) of the sixteen chemical substances identified in this rulemaking to submit copies and lists of certain unpublished health and safety studies to EPA. Health and safety studies sought by this action will inform EPA actions in carrying out its responsibilities pursuant to TSCA, including prioritization, risk evaluation, and risk management. This rule is effective on 13 January 2025. POC is Lameka Smith, Data Gathering, Management, and Policy Division (7406M), Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460-0001; tele: (202) 564-1629; email: smith.lameka@epa.gov. (Federal Register 13 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 100756-100763)

The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 ("CERCLA" or "the Act"), as amended, requires that the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan ("NCP") include a list of national priorities among the known releases or threatened releases of hazardous substances, pollutants or contaminants throughout the United States. The National Priorities List ("NPL") constitutes this list. The NPL is intended primarily to guide the Environmental Protection Agency ("the EPA" or "the agency") in determining which sites warrant further investigation. These further investigations will allow the EPA to assess the nature and extent of public health and environmental risks associated with the site and to determine what CERCLA-financed remedial action(s), if any, may be appropriate. This rule adds one site to the General Superfund section of the NPL. The rule is effective on 15 January 2025. POC is Vanessa Van Note, Site Assessment and Remedy Decisions Branch, Assessment and Remediation Division, Office of Superfund Remediation and Technology Innovation (Mail code 5203T), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; 1301 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460, tele: (571) 882-3866, email: vannote.vanessa@epa.gov. (Federal Register 13 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 100751-100756)

This action finalizes the Federal plan for existing commercial and industrial solid waste incineration units (CISWI). This final action implements the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) emission guidelines adopted on 7 February 2013, as amended on 23 June 2016, and on 16 April 2019, in states that do not have an approved state plan implementing the emission guidelines in place by the effective date of this Federal plan. The implementation of the emission guidelines will result in emissions reductions of the regulated pollutants including cadmium, hydrogen chloride, lead, mercury, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and sulfur dioxide from the affected CISWI. This final action is also revising the definition of "small, remote incinerator" to reflect new statutory prohibitions on the implementation of CISWI standards to units in the State of Alaska. This final rule is effective 10 January 2025. POC is Dr. Felica Davis, Sector Policies and Programs Division (E14305), Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, EPA, 109 T.W. Alexander Drive, P.O. Box 12055, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711; tele: (919) 541-4857; and email: davis.felica@epa.gov. (Federal Register 11 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 100092-100136)

EPA is finalizing five amendments that were withdrawn in its 6 December 2023, partial withdrawal of direct final rule. Due to receipt of adverse comments, the EPA withdrew eight amendments from the 9 August 2023, direct final rule that included revisions to the 2016 Hazardous Waste Generator Improvements Rule, the 2019 Hazardous Waste Pharmaceuticals Rule and the 2018 Vacatur of the Definition of Solid Waste Rule (88 FR 54086). The EPA is responding to the relevant adverse comments in this action. This final rule is effective on 10 February 2025. POC is Kathy Lett, EPA, Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery (MC: 5304T), 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460, (202) 566-0517, lett.kathy@epa.gov. (Federal Register 11 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 99727-99732)

USFWS determine endangered species status under the ESA, for three butterflies endemic to Brazil: the Fluminense swallowtail (Parides ascanius), Harris' mimic swallowtail (Eurytides (=Mimoides) lysithous harrisianus), and Hahnel's Amazonian swallowtail (Parides hahneli). This rule extends the Act's protections to these species. This rule is effective 9 January 2025. POC is Rachel London, Manager, Branch of Delisting and Foreign Species, Ecological Services Program, USFWS, MS: ES, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803; tele 703-358-2171. (Federal Register 10 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 99129-99138)

USFWS listed the Peñasco least chipmunk (Neotamias minimus atristriatus), a mammal from New Mexico, as an endangered species under the ESA. They also designate critical habitat. In total, approximately 1,774 hectares (4,386 acres) in Lincoln County, New Mexico, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule extends the protections of the Act to this species and its designated critical habitat. This rule is effective 9 January 2025. POC is Shawn Sartorius, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New Mexico Ecological Services Field Office, 2105 Osuna Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113; tele 505-346-2525. (Federal Register 10 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 99656-99687)

USFWS determine endangered species status under the ESA for the swale paintbrush (Castilleja ornata), a flowering plant species from New Mexico within the United States and the states of Chihuahua and Durango in Mexico. This rule extends the Act's protections to the species. They find that designating critical habitat for the swale paintbrush is not prudent. This rule is effective 6 January 2025. Shawn Sartorius, Field Supervisor, USFWS, New Mexico Ecological Services Field Office, 2105 Osuna Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113; tele 505-346-2525. (Federal Register 5 December 2024 [Rule] Pages 96602-96616)

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is promulgating a regulation to facilitate compliance with the requirements of the Waste Emissions Charge in the Clean Air Act's (CAA) Methane Emissions Reduction Program (MERP). Enacted as part of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), this program requires the EPA to impose and collect an annual charge on methane emissions that exceed waste emissions thresholds specified by Congress. This final rule is effective 17 January 2025. POC is Jennifer Bohman, Climate Change Division, Office of Atmospheric Protection (MC-6207A), Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460; tele: (202) 343-9548; email: merp@epa.gov. (Federal Register 18 November 2024 [Rule] Pages 91094-91195)

EPA is correcting a final rule that appeared in the Federal Register (FR) on 17 April 2024. The EPA finalized the Other Solid Waste Incinerators (OSWI); Title V Permitting Provisions rule which removed title V permitting requirements for air curtain incinerators that burn only wood waste, clean lumber, yard waste, or a mixture of these three types of waste. Following publication of this final rule, the EPA discovered inadvertent errors in the regulatory text and is correcting them in this action. The final rule is effective on 14 November 2024. POC is Dr. Felica Davis, Sector Policies and Programs Division (E143-05), Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, EPA, 109 T.W. Alexander Drive, P.O. Box 12055, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711; tele: (919) 541-4857; and email: davis.felica@epa.gov. (Federal Register 14 November 2024 [Rule] Pages 89928-89933)

As part of EPA's efforts to reduce childhood lead exposure EPA is finalizing its proposal to lower the dust-lead hazard standards to any reportable level as analyzed by a laboratory recognized by EPA's NLLAP. EPA's LBP regulations do not compel property owners or occupants to evaluate their property for LBP hazards or to take control actions, but if a LBP activity such as an abatement is performed, then EPA's regulations set requirements for doing so. EPA is also finalizing changes to lower the post-abatement dust-lead clearance levels to 5 micrograms per square foot (µg/ft2), 40 µg/ft2, and 100 µg/ft2 for floors, window sills and troughs respectively. Due to feedback from public comments, EPA is also finalizing changes to adopt the terms dust-lead reportable levels (DLRL) and dust-lead action levels (DLAL). Given the decoupling of the action levels from the reportable levels, EPA is finalizing revisions to the definition of abatement so that the recommendation for action based on dust-lead applies when dust-lead loadings are at or above the action levels, rather than the hazard standards. The dust-lead hazard standards will be described as DLRL moving forward and the dust-lead clearance levels will be described as DLAL. This final rule is effective 13 January 2025. POC is Claire Brisse tele: (202) 564-9004; email: brisse.claire@epa.gov. (Federal Register 12 November 2024 [Rule] Pages 89416-89461)

In December 2023, the EPA requested comment on the proposed the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), which informed the revisions to the National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for lead and copper. After consideration of public comment on the LCRI, and consistent with the provisions set forth under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), the EPA is finalizing revisions to the NPDWR for lead and copper. In this rule, the agency is finalizing requirements for drinking water systems to replace lead and certain galvanized service lines. The final rule also removes the lead trigger level, reduces the lead action level to 0.010 mg/L, and strengthens tap sampling procedures to improve public health protection and simplify implementation relative to the 2021 Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR). The final rule will significantly reduce the adverse human health impacts of exposure to toxic lead in drinking water. This final rule is effective on 30 December 2024. POC is Michael Goldberg, Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water, Standards and Risk Management Division (Mail Code 4607M), EPA, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460; tele: 202-564-1379; email: LCRI@epa.gov. (Federal Register 30 October 2024 [Rule] Pages 86418-86667)

USFWS list the Ocmulgee skullcap (Scutellaria ocmulgee), a plant species from Georgia and South Carolina as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Act), as amended. They also designate critical habitat. In total, approximately 6,661 acres (2,696 hectares) in Bibb, Bleckley, Burke, Columbia, Houston, Monroe, Pulaski, Richmond, Screven, and Twiggs Counties, Georgia, and in Aiken and Edgefield Counties, South Carolina, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule extends the protections of the Act to this species and its designated critical habitat. This rule is effective 29 November 2024. POC is Peter Maholland, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Georgia Ecological Services Field Office, 355 East Hancock Avenue, Room 320, Athens, GA 30601; tele 706-613-9493. (Federal Register 30 October 2024 [Rule] Pages 86670-86712)

USFWS propose to remove the Chipola slabshell (Elliptio chipolaensis) and fat threeridge (Amblema neislerii), both freshwater mussels, from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife due to recovery. These species occur in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River Basin of Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. Their review of the best available scientific and commercial data indicates that the threats to the Chipola slabshell and fat threeridge have been eliminated or reduced to the point that both species have recovered and no longer meet the definition of an endangered or threatened species under the ESA. Accordingly, they propose to delist the Chipola slabshell and the fat threeridge. If finalized the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act, particularly through sections 4 and 7 for the Chipola slabshell and sections 7 and 9 for the fat threeridge, would no longer apply to these species. This proposed rule also serves as the completed status review initiated under section 4(c)(2) of the Act. USFWS will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 30 December 2024. POC is Gian Basili, Deputy State Supervisor, Florida Ecological Services Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256-7517; telephone 904-731-3079; email gianfranco_basili@fws.gov. (Federal Registrar 29 October 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 85909-85934)

USFWS are reclassifying the red-cockaded woodpecker (Dryobates (= Picoides) borealis) from endangered to threatened (i.e., downlisting it) under the ESA. This action is based on our evaluation of the best available scientific and commercial information, which indicates that the species' status has improved such that it is not currently in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range, but that it is still likely to become so in the foreseeable future. They also finalize protective regulations under the authority of section 4(d) of the Act that are necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of the red-cockaded woodpecker. In addition, they correct the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife to reflect that Picoides is not the current scientifically accepted generic name for this species. This rule is effective 25 November 2024. POC is Nicole Rankin, Manager Division of Conservation and Classification, USFWS, Southeast Regional Office, 1875 Century Boulevard, Atlanta, GA 30345; tele 404-679-7089. (Federal Registrar 25 October 2024 [Rule] Pages 85294-85338)

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, correct and amend a final rule that revised the regulations for the issuance of permits for eagle incidental take and eagle nest take. A provision of the regulations in the final rule specifies eligibility criteria for general permits for wind energy projects based on eagle relative abundance and proximity to eagle nests. We have become aware of confusion on the part of some general permit applicants regarding this provision in the regulations. Accordingly, this document revises the regulatory text of the final rule to ensure clarity. In addition, the final rule inadvertently resulted in errors regarding footnotes to a table. This document corrects those errors. For the convenience of the public, we also provide information to access the Service's online mapping tool for general permit eligibility. This rule is effective 17 October 2024. POC is Jerome Ford, Assistant Director--Migratory Birds Program, USFWS, tele: (703) 358-2606, email: jerome_ford@fws.gov. (Federal Register 17 October 2024 [Final] Pages 83629-83631)

EPA is finalizing amendments to the NSPS for Volatile Organic Liquid Storage Vessels (Including Petroleum Liquid Storage Vessels) pursuant to the review required by the Clean Air Act (CAA). The EPA is finalizing revisions to the NSPS that are applicable to volatile organic liquid (VOL) storage vessels that commence construction, reconstruction, or modification after October 4, 2023, under a new NSPS subpart, as well as amendments to an existing subpart. In the new NSPS subpart Kc, the EPA is finalizing requirements to reduce the vapor pressure applicability thresholds and revise the volatile organic compound (VOC) standards to reflect the best system of emission reduction (BSER) for affected storage vessels. In addition, the EPA is finalizing degassing emission controls; clarification of startup, shutdown, and malfunction (SSM) requirements; additional monitoring requirements; and other technical improvements. This final rule is effective on 15 October 2024. POC is Mr. Michael Cantoni III, Sector Policies and Programs Division (E143-01), Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 109 T.W. Alexander Drive, P.O. Box 12055, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711; telephone number: (919) 541-5593; and email address: cantoni.michael@epa.gov. (Federal Register 15 October 2024 [Rule] Pages 83296-83336)

EPA is issuing regulations to implement certain provisions of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020. This rulemaking establishes an emissions reduction and reclamation program for the management of hydrofluorocarbons that includes requirements for leak repair and installation and use of automatic leak detection systems for certain equipment using refrigerants containing hydrofluorocarbons and certain substitutes; the servicing and/or repair of certain refrigerant-containing equipment to be done with reclaimed hydrofluorocarbons; the initial installation and servicing and/or repair of fire suppression equipment to be done with recycled hydrofluorocarbons, technician training, and recycling of hydrofluorocarbons prior to the disposal of fire suppression equipment containing hydrofluorocarbons. In addition, EPA is establishing alternative Resource Conservation and Recovery Act standards for certain ignitable spent refrigerants being recycled for reuse. This rule is effective 10 December 2024. POC is Christian Wisniewski, Stratospheric Protection Division, Office of Atmospheric Protection (Mail Code 6205A), EPA, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460; tele: 202-564-0417; email: wisniewski.christian@epa.gov. (Federal Register 11 October 2024 [Rule] Pages 82682-82872)

OSHA is correcting several inadvertent errors in its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) which were published in the Federal Register on 20 May 2024. The agency has identified several errors in the regulatory text and appendices to the HCS which pertain to the classification of hazardous chemicals and information presented on labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDSs). The agency believes these errors, although minor and primarily typographical in nature, should be addressed expeditiously to avoid confusion or unnecessary costs in the regulated community due to incorporation of errors on labels and SDSs. OSHA is continuing its review of the regulatory text and will issue another correction document to address additional minor errors at a later date. The effective date of this rule is 9 October 2024. POC is Mr. Frank Meilinger, Director, OSHA Office of Communications, U.S. Department of Labor; telephone: (202) 693-1999; email: meilinger.francis2@dol.gov. (Federal Register 9 October 2024 [Rule] Pages 81829-81836)

This action establishes recordkeeping and reporting requirements for uses of ozone-depleting substances as process agents and updates related definitions. Codified recordkeeping and reporting requirements will provide clear notice of information the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency collects, aggregates, and reports each year on behalf of the United States as a party to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer; effectively monitor these narrow uses in a more routine and consistent manner under the Clean Air Act; and enhance understanding of emissions of substances harmful to the stratospheric ozone layer. This final rule is effective on 12 November 2024. POC is John Feather, Stratospheric Protection Division, Office of Atmospheric Protection (Mail Code 6205A), EPA, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460; tele: 202-564-1230; or email:feather.john@epa.gov. (Federal Register 10 October 2024 [Final] Pages 82414-82451)

EPA is promulgating a regulation under the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act that establishes Federal standards of performance for marine pollution control devices for discharges incidental to the normal operation of primarily non-Armed Forces and non-recreational vessels 79 feet in length and above into the waters of the United States or the waters of the contiguous zone. The final standards, once made final, effective, and enforceable through corresponding USCG regulations addressing implementation, compliance, and enforcement, will control the discharge of pollutants from vessels described above and repeal certain existing Federal, State, and local vessel discharge requirements, thus streamlining regulation of such vessel incidental discharges. EPA is also promulgating procedures states must follow if they choose to petition EPA to require the use of an emergency best management practice to address aquatic nuisance species (ANS) or water quality concerns ("emergency order"), to review any standard of performance, regulation, or policy. The effective date of this rule is 8 November 2024. POC is Jack Faulk, Oceans, Wetlands, and Communities Division, Office of Water (4504T), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460; tele: (202) 564-0768; email: faulk.jack@epa.gov. (Federal Register 9 October 2024 [Rule] Pages 82074-82158)

USFWS are removing the Apache trout (Oncorhynchus apache), a fish native to Arizona, from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. Their review indicates that the threats to the Apache trout have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species no longer meets the definition of an endangered or threatened species under the ESA. Accordingly, the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act, particularly through section 4 and 7, will no longer apply to the Apache trout. This rule is effective 7 October 2024. POC is Heather Whitlaw, Field Supervisor, Arizona Ecological Services Office, USFWS, 9828 North 31st Ave #C3, Phoenix AZ 85051-2517; tele: 602-242-0210. (Federal Register 6 September 2024 [Rule] Pages 72739-72757).

The EPA is taking direct final action to amend the TSCA regulation with reporting and recordkeeping requirements for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). As promulgated in October 2023, the regulation requires manufacturers (including importers) of PFAS in any year between 2011-2022 to report certain data to EPA related to exposure and environmental and health effects. EPA is making a one-time modification to change the beginning of the data submission period from 12 November 2024, to 11 July 2025, with a corresponding change to the end of the submission period. EPA is also making a technical correction to address an error in the regulatory text. There are no other changes to the reporting and recordkeeping requirements in the existing rule under TSCA. This rule is effective 4 November 2024 without further notice. (Federal Register 5 September 2024 [Rule] 72336-72340)

EPA is issuing an Emergency Order directing the suspension of all registrations issued under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) for pesticide products containing the active ingredient dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA), also marketed under the trade name Dacthal. EPA has determined that continued sale, distribution, or use of DCPA products during the time required to cancel such products would pose an imminent hazard and that an emergency exists that does not permit EPA to hold a hearing before suspending such products. These determinations are based primarily on a risk of thyroid hormone perturbations in the fetuses of female bystanders and workers who apply DCPA or who enter treated fields after application. This Emergency Order is issued and effective immediately upon signature. POC is Jean Overstreet, Pesticide Re-Evaluation Division (7508P), Office of Pesticide Programs; tele: 202-566-2425; email: overstreet.anne@epa.gov. (Federal Register 7 August 2024 [Notice] Pages 64445-64458)

EPA is amending requirements that apply to the petroleum and natural gas systems source category of the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Rule to ensure that reporting is based on empirical data, accurately reflects total methane emissions and waste emissions from applicable facilities, and allows owners and operators of applicable facilities to submit empirical emissions data that appropriately demonstrate the extent to which a charge is owed under the Waste Emissions Charge. The EPA is also amending certain requirements that apply to the general provisions, general stationary fuel combustion, and petroleum and natural gas systems source categories of the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Rule to improve calculation, monitoring, and reporting of greenhouse gas data for petroleum and natural gas systems facilities. This action also establishes and amends confidentiality determinations for the reporting of certain data elements to be added or substantially revised in these amendments. This rule is effective 1 January 2025. POC is Jennifer Bohman, Climate Change Division, Office of Atmospheric Programs (MC-6207A), Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460; telephone number: (202) 343-9548; email address: GHGReporting@epa.gov. (Federal Register 14 May 2024 [Rule] Pages 42062-42327)

The EPA is amending specific provisions in the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Rule to improve data quality and consistency. This action updates the General Provisions to reflect revised global warming potentials; expands reporting to additional sectors; improves the calculation, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements by updating existing methodologies; improves data verifications; and provides for collection of additional data to better inform and be relevant to a wide variety of Clean Air Act provisions that the EPA carries out. This action adds greenhouse gas monitoring and reporting for five source categories. These revisions also include changes that will improve implementation of the rule such as updates to applicability estimation methodologies, simplifying calculation and monitoring methodologies, streamlining recordkeeping and reporting, and other minor technical corrections or clarifications. This rule is effective 1 January 2025. POC is Jennifer Bohman, Climate Change Division, Office of Atmospheric Programs (MC-6207A), EPA, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20460; tele: (202) 343-9548; email: GHGReporting@epa.gov. (Federal Register 25 April 2024 [Rule] Pages 31802-31959)