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This rule would modify the following regulations pertaining to the duration of validity of Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) section 104 special exception permits and Letters of Confirmation (LOC) under the General Authorization, respectively:  50 CFR 216.35(b) and 50 CFR 216.45(d)(3). Currently, MMPA regulations state that the maximum duration of an issued MMPA special exception permit, major amendment, or LOC is five years.  This regulatory change would remove the 5-year duration restriction, consistent with Endangered Species Act (ESA) permitting regulations, to allow the agency discretion in determining the appropriate maximum duration of an MMPA permit.  This action would benefit permit holders including career scientists who conduct longitudinal scientific studies on marine mammals and others. This action would also increase efficiencies and create consistency in the duration of validity across permits issued under both the MMPA and ESA. This action would not create a serious inconsistency or otherwise interfere with an action taken or planned by another agency; or materially alter the budgetary impact of entitlements, grants, user fees, or loan programs or the rights and obligations of recipients thereof; or raise novel or policy issues.