Rule published on Dec. 21 by Commerce Department

The US Commerce Department published a three page rule on Dec. 21, according to the U.S. Government Publishing Office.

The rule is focused on Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Extension of the Interim Groundfish Observer Program through December 31, 2002.

The Department includes the Census Bureau, which is used to determine many factors about American life. Downsizing the Federal Government, a project aimed at lowering taxes and boosting federal efficiency, said the Department is involved in misguided foreign trade policies and is home to many unneeded programs.

Notices are required documents detailing rules and regulations being proposed by each federal department. This allows the public to see what issues legislators and federal departments are focusing on.

Any person or organization can comment on the proposed rules. Departments and agencies must then address “significant issues raised in comments and discuss any changes made,” the Federal Register says.

Notices published by the Commerce Department on Dec. 21

Title
Service Annual Survey
Fisheries Off West Coast States and in the Western Pacific; Coastal Pelagic Species Fishery; Amendment 9
Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fisheries; Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Incidental Catch
Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Extension of the Interim Groundfish Observer Program through December 31, 2002
Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations; Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan Regulations
Endangered Species; Permits
Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request
Marine Mammals; File No. 995-1608
New England Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings
National Sea Grant Review Panel; Meeting
North Pacific Management Council; Public Meetings
Public Telecommunications Facilities Program: Closing Date