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USDA/AMS RIN: 0581-AD09 Publication ID: Fall 2013 
Title: National Organic Program, Streamlining Enforcement Related Actions 
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend sections of the National Organic Program (NOP) regulations which pertain to the adverse action appeals process. It would require the Agency to initiate formal administrative proceedings for proposed suspensions or revocations of accreditation or certification issued by the NOP. Under the current NOP regulations, a formal administrative proceeding is initiated following the decision of the Administrator to deny an appeal. This rulemaking would omit the step of appealing to the Administrator when NOP has initiated the adverse action. This action also would amend the NOP regulations to require appellants who want to further contest a decision of the Administrator to deny an appeal to request a hearing. Under the current regulations, the formal administrative proceeding is initiated by default upon issuance of the Administrator's denial. Also, this rulemaking would add clarifying language concerning mediation and stipulations entered into by the NOP, as well as correct the address to which appeals are submitted. 
Agency: Department of Agriculture(USDA)  Priority: Other Significant 
RIN Status: Previously published in the Unified Agenda Agenda Stage of Rulemaking: Proposed Rule Stage 
Major: No  Unfunded Mandates: No 
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205   
Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501   
Legal Deadline:  None
Timetable:
Action Date FR Cite
NPRM  07/00/2014 
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No  Government Levels Affected: None 
Federalism: No 
Included in the Regulatory Plan: No 
RIN Data Printed in the FR: No 
Agency Contact:
Melissa Bailey
Associate Deputy Administrator, Specialty Crops Program
Department of Agriculture
Agricultural Marketing Service
14th & Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250
Phone:202 720-6394
Email: melissa.bailey@usda.gov