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DOC/NOAA

RIN: 0648-BB20

Publication ID: Fall 2013

Title: Removal of the Sunset Provision of the Final Rule Implementing Vessel Speed Restrictions to Reduce the Threat of Ship Collisions With North Atlantic Right Whales
Abstract: In 2008 NMFS promulgated a regulation designed to reduce the likelihood of deaths and serious injuries to endangered North Atlantic right whales that result from collisions with ships. The rule implemented speed restrictions of no more than 10 knots applying to all vessels 65 ft long or greater in certain locations and times of the year along the east coast of the United States. In view of uncertainties regarding the manner in which ships and whales interact and the burdens imposed on vessel operators, the rule included a sunset clause under which the rule would expire on December 9, 2013. NMFS has proposed removing the sunset provision with the current provisions remaining in place, and has sought comment on eliminating or reinstating the sunset provision, studies and metrics that might be used to evaluate the existing rule, and future modifications that should be considered. Based on an evaluation of recent information, NMFS estimated economic impacts to be considerably less than was originally thought.
Agency: Department of Commerce(DOC)	Priority: Economically Significant
RIN Status: Previously published in the Unified Agenda	Agenda Stage of Rulemaking: Final Rule Stage
Major: Yes	Unfunded Mandates: No
CFR Citation: 50 CFR 224
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq 16 USC 1531 et seq

Legal Deadline: None

Timetable:

Action	Date	FR Cite
NPRM	06/06/2013	78 FR 34024
Final Action	11/00/2013

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes	Government Levels Affected: Federal
Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations	Federalism: No
Included in the Regulatory Plan: No
International Impacts: This regulatory action will be likely to have international trade and investment effects, or otherwise be of international interest.
RIN Data Printed in the FR: Yes
Agency Contact: Donna Wieting Director, Office of Protected Resources Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910 Phone:301 427-8400