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Code · REGISTER · 2006-06-01 · SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION · Notices

Notices. Notice of request for public comment and submission to OMB of proposed collection of information in connection with rulemaking

14,925 words·~68 min read·/register/2006/06/01/06-4989·

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BILLING CODE 8010-01-M SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION [Release No. 34-53860; File No. SR-NSX-2006-07] Self-Regulatory Organizations; National Stock Exchange; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change and Amendment No. 1 Thereto To Amend the Exchange's Tape B Market Data Revenue Sharing Program and To Establish a Tape C Market Data Revenue Sharing Program May 24, 2006. Pursuant to section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Act”) 1 and Rule 19b-4 thereunder, 2 notice is hereby given that on April 26, 2006, National Stock Exchange (“NSX” or “Exchange”) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“Commission”) the proposed rule change as described in Items I, II and III below, which Items have been prepared by NSX.
On May 23, 2006, NSX filed Amendment No. 1. NSX filed the proposed rule change pursuant to section 19(b)(3)(A) of the Act and Rule 19b-4(f)(6) thereunder, 4 which renders it effective upon filing with the Commission. 5 The Commission is publishing this notice to solicit comments on the proposed rule change, as amended, from interested persons. 1 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1). 2 17 CFR 240.19b-4. 4 17 CFR 240.19b-(4)(f)(6). 5 NSX provided the Commission with written notice of its intent to file the proposed rule change on April 20, 2006.
For purposes of calculating the 60-day abrogation period, the Commission considers the period to have commenced on May 23, 2006, the date NSX filed Amendment No. 1. *See* section 19(b)(3)(A) of the Act, and Rule 19b-4(f)(6)(iii) thereunder. 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1), 17 CFR 240.19b-(f)(6)(iii). I. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Terms of Substance of the Proposed Rule Change NSX proposes to amend NSX Rules 11.10(A)(k) and
(l)to amend its Tape B market data revenue sharing program, and to establish a Tape C market data revenue sharing program. The text of the proposed rule change is available at the Commission, at NSX, and on the NSX Web site at *http://www.nsx.com/RulesFilings2.asp.* II. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change In its filing with the Commission, NSX included statements concerning the purpose of, and basis for, the proposed rule change and discussed any comments it received on the proposed rule change. The text of these statements may be examined at the places specified in Item IV below. NSX has prepared summaries, set forth in Sections A, B, and C below, of the most significant aspects of such statements. A. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change 1. Purpose NSX Rule 11.10(A)(k) currently provides for a Tape B rebate program, consisting of a 50% transaction credit on revenues generated by transactions in Tape B securities. The credit is allocable to members on a pro rata basis based upon Tape B revenue generated by a member's transactions on the Exchange. Under the current Tape B rebate program, the transaction credit is based on net revenue in those fiscal quarters where the overall revenue retained by the Exchange does not offset actual expenses and working capital needs. The Exchange is proposing to amend the Tape B program to remove this aspect, so that the Tape B rebate program will be based only on gross Tape B revenue. The Exchange believes this change will not impair its ability to carry out its regulatory responsibilities under the Act, as the change is likely to lead to greater transactional volume in Tape B securities on the Exchange and therefore greater revenues that may be applied to the Exchange's regulatory programs. The Exchange is cognizant of its surveillance and compliance responsibilities as a self-regulatory organization. As such, the Exchange represents that its responsibilities as a self-regulatory organization will be in no way compromised by the implementation of the changes proposed herein. The Exchange notes that the calculation of rebates based on gross revenues is consistent with market data revenue rebate programs of other national securities exchanges. 6 6 The Exchange's definition of “gross revenue” is the revenue received by the Exchange from the tape associations after the tape associations take into account the “allocated support cost” and “unincorporated business costs.” Some markets, such as the Chicago Stock Exchange (“CHX”), provide for rebates based upon monthly tape revenue from the Consolidated Tape Association (less all direct CTA costs) generated by a particular Tape A or Tape B security. *See* CHX Fee Schedule, Section M. Other markets, like the Nasdaq Stock Market, allow members to earn credits from one or two pools, with each pool representing 50% of the tape revenue paid by the Consolidated Tape Association for each of the Tape A or Tape B transactions after deducting the amount that the market pays to the Consolidated Tape Association for capacity usage. *See* NASD Rule 7010(c)(2). While NYSE Arca LLC has some limitations on who is eligible to receive rebates, the amount of the pool for calculation purposes is based on 50% of the gross revenues derived from market data fees. *See* NYSE Arca “Market Data Revenue Sharing Credits” under Exchange Fees. The Exchange also proposes to establish an equivalent market data revenue sharing program for Tape C securities. The proposed Tape C program will also provide a 50% transaction credit on revenues generated by transactions in Tape C securities, and will be allocable to members on a pro rata basis based upon the Tape C revenue generated by such member. The Exchange believes that there is no regulatory reason to distinguish Tape C transactions from Tape B transactions, and is therefore proposing an equivalent market data revenue sharing program. As with the current Tape B program, to the extent that market data revenue from Tape C transactions is subject to any adjustment, credits provided under the Tape C program may be adjusted accordingly. In connection with these changes, the Exchange is proposing to move its current Tape B rebate program from NSX Rule 11.10(A)(k) to NSX Rule 11.10(A)(l), so that both the Tape B and Tape C programs will be contained in the same paragraph of NSX Rule 11.10(A). The Exchange believes the proposed rule change is consistent with the protection of investors and the public interest because it will lower the cost of trading and market data to broker-dealers and the investing public, and because it may enhance competition in the trading of Tape B and Tape C securities. 2. Statutory Basis NSX believes that the proposed rule change is consistent with the provisions of section 6(b) of the Act, 7 in general, and with section 6(b)(4) of the Act, 8 in particular, in that it is designed to provide for the equitable allocation of reasonable dues, fees and other charges by crediting members on a pro rata basis. 7 15 U.S.C. 78f(b). 8 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(4). B. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement on Burden on Competition NSX does not believe that the proposed rule change will impose any inappropriate burden on competition. C. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement on Comments on the Proposed Rule Change Received From Members, Participants or Others The Exchange has neither solicited nor received written comments on the proposed rule change. III. Date of Effectiveness of the Proposed Rule Change and Timing for Commission Action Because the foregoing proposed rule change does not:
(i)Significantly affect the protection of investors or the public interest;
(ii)Impose any significant burden on competition; and
(iii)Become operative for 30 days from the date on which it was filed, or such shorter time as the Commission may designate, it has become effective pursuant to section 19(b)(3)(A) of the Act 9 and Rule 19b-4(f)(6) thereunder. 10 At any time within 60 days of the filing of the proposed rule change, the Commission may summarily abrogate such rule change if it appears to the Commission that such action is necessary or appropriate in the public interest, for the protection of investors, or otherwise in furtherance of the purposes of the Act. 9 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(3)(A). 10 17CFR 240.19b-4(f)(6). IV. Solicitation of Comments Interested persons are invited to submit written data, views, and arguments concerning the foregoing, including whether the proposed rule change is consistent with the Act. Comments may be submitted by any of the following methods: Electronic Comments • Use the Commission's Internet comment form ( *http://www.sec.gov/rules/sro.shtml* ); or • Send an e-mail to *rule-comments@sec.gov.* Please include File Number SR-NSX-2006-07 on the subject line. Paper Comments • Send paper comments in triplicate to Nancy M. Morris, Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street, NE., Washington, DC 20549-1090. All submissions should refer to File Number SR-NSX-2006-07. This file number should be included on the subject line if e-mail is used. To help the Commission process and review your comments more efficiently, please use only one method. The Commission will post all comments on the Commission's Internet Web site ( *http://www.sec.gov/rules/sro.shtml* ). Copies of the submission, all subsequent amendments, all written statements with respect to the proposed rule change that are filed with the Commission, and all written communications relating to the proposed rule change between the Commission and any person, other than those that may be withheld from the public in accordance with the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552, will be available for inspection and copying in the Commission's Public Reference Room. Copies of such filing also will be available for inspection and copying at the principal office of NSX. All comments received will be posted without change; the Commission does not edit personal identifying information from submissions. You should submit only information that you wish to make available publicly. All submissions should refer to File Number SR-NSX-2006-07 and should be submitted on or before June 22, 2006. For the Commission, by the Division of Market Regulation, pursuant to delegated authority. 11 11 17 CFR 200.30-3(a)(12). J. Lynn Taylor, Assistant Secretary. [FR Doc. E6-8441 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8010-01-P SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION [Release No. 34-53870; File No. SR-Phlx-2006-27] Self-Regulatory Organizations; Philadelphia Stock Exchange, Inc.; Notice of Filing and Order Granting Accelerated Approval of a Proposed Rule Change Relating to the Extension of the Exchange's Directed Order Flow Pilot Program May 25, 2006. Pursuant to section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Act”), 1 and Rule 19b-4 thereunder, 2 notice is hereby given that on April 26, 2006, the Philadelphia Stock Exchange, Inc. (“Phlx” or “Exchange”) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“Commission”) the proposed rule change as described in Items I and II below, which Items have been prepared by the Exchange. The Commission is publishing this notice to solicit comments on the proposed rule change from interested persons and is approving the proposal on an accelerated basis, for a pilot period through May 27, 2007. 1 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1). 2 17 CFR 240.19b-4. I. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Terms of Substance of the Proposed Rule Change The Phlx proposes to extend, for an additional one year period, a pilot program concerning Exchange Rule 1080, Phlx Automated Options Market (AUTOM) 3 and Automatic Execution System (AUTO-X), and Exchange Rule 1014, Obligations And Restrictions Applicable To Specialists And Registered Options Traders. Specifically the pilot program covers:
(1)Exchange Rule 1080(l), Directed Orders, under which Exchange specialists, Streaming Quote Traders (“SQTs”) 4 and Remote Streaming Quote Traders (“RSQTs”) 5 trading on the Exchange's electronic options trading platform, Phlx XL, 6 receive Directed Orders (as defined below); and
(2)Exchange Rule 1014(g)(viii), which sets forth the trade allocation algorithm for electronically executed and allocated trades involving Directed Orders. This proposal is in connection with a pilot program that is currently scheduled to expire on May 27, 2006. 7 3 AUTOM is the Exchange's electronic order delivery, routing, execution and reporting system, which provides for the automatic entry and routing of equity option and index option orders to the Exchange trading floor. Orders delivered through AUTOM may be executed manually, or certain orders are eligible for AUTOM's automatic execution features, AUTO-X, Book Sweep and Book Match. Equity option and index option specialists are required by the Exchange to participate in AUTOM and its features and enhancements. Option orders entered by Exchange members into AUTOM are routed to the appropriate specialist unit on the Exchange trading floor. AUTOM is today more commonly referred to as Phlx XL. *See* Exchange Rule 1080. 4 An SQT is an Exchange Registered Options Trader (“ROT”) who has received permission from the Exchange to generate and submit option quotations electronically through an electronic interface with AUTOM via an Exchange approved proprietary electronic quoting device in eligible options to which such SQT is assigned. *See* Exchange Rule 1014(b)(ii)(A). 5 An RSQT is a participant in the Exchange's electronic trading system, Phlx XL who has received permission from the Exchange to trade in options for his own account, and to generate and submit option quotations electronically from off the floor of the Exchange through AUTOM in eligible options to which such RSQT has been assigned. 6 *See* Securities Exchange Act Release No. 50100 (July 27, 2004), 69 FR 46612 (August 3, 2004) (SR-Phlx-2003-59). 7 *See* Securities Exchange Act Release No. 51759 (May 27, 2005), 70 FR 32860 (June 6, 2005) (SR-Phlx-2004-91) (“Pilot Program Approval Order”). The text of the proposed rule change is set forth below. Brackets indicate deletions; italics indicates new text Philadelphia Stock Exchange Automated Options Market (AUTOM) and Automatic Execution System (AUTO-X) Rule 1080. (a)-(k) No change.
(l)Directed Orders. For a one-year pilot period, beginning on May 28, 2006 [the date of approval of this Rule by the Securities and Exchange Commission], respecting Streaming Quote Options traded on Phlx XL, specialists, RSQTs and SQTs may receive Directed Orders (as defined in this Rule) in accordance with the provisions of this Rule 1080(l). Obligations And Restrictions Applicable To Specialists And Registered Options Traders Rule 1014. (a)-(f) No change. (g)(i)-(vii) No change.
(viii)For a one year pilot period, beginning on May 28, 2006 [the date of approval of this Rule by the Securities and Exchange Commission], Directed Orders (as defined in Rule 1080(l)(i)(A)) that are executed electronically shall be automatically allocated as follows: II. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change In its filing with the Commission, the Exchange included statements concerning the purpose of and basis for the proposed rule change and discussed any comments it received on the proposed rule change. The text of these statements may be examined at the places specified in Item III below. The Exchange has prepared summaries, set forth in Sections A, B, and C below, of the most significant aspects of such statements. A. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change 1. Purpose The Exchange proposes to extend, for an additional one-year period, a pilot program that allows specialists, SQTs, and RSQTs assigned in options that trade on Phlx XL to receive directed orders (“Directed Orders”) 8 from a member or member organization (“Order Flow Provider” or “OFP”) 9 that submits, as agent, the customer order to the Exchange through AUTOM, and establishes a trade allocation algorithm for Directed Orders that are electronically executed and allocated to reward such Directed Specialists, SQTs and RSQTs with a participation guarantee for attracting such order flow to the Exchange. 10 The proposed rule is subject to a pilot program scheduled to expire on May 27, 2006. The Exchange proposes that the extended pilot expire on May 27, 2007. 8 *See* Exchange Rule 1080(l)(i)(A). 9 *See* Exchange Rule 1080(l)(i)(B). 10 *See* Exchange Rule 1080(1). The word “Directed” modifies all three; that is, it is referring to a Directed Specialist, Directed SQT and Directed RSQT. Pursuant to Rule 1080(l), OFPs must transmit Directed Orders to a particular specialist, SQT or RSQT through AUTOM. If the Exchange's disseminated best bid or offer is at the National Best Bid or Offer when the Directed Order is received, the Directed Order is automatically executed on Phlx XL and allocated to the orders and quotes represented in the Exchange's quotation. A Directed Specialist, SQT or RSQT will receive a participation allocation pursuant to Rule 1014(g)(viii) if the Directed Specialist, SQT or RSQT was quoting at the NBBO at the time that the Directed Order was received. 11 Otherwise, the automatic execution will be allocated to those quotations and orders at the NBBO pursuant to Rule 1014(g)(vii). 12 When the Exchange is not quoting at the NBBO, the Directed Order will be manually handled by the specialist in accordance with the Exchange's rules. 11 *See* Exchange Rule 1080(l)(ii). 12 *See* Exchange Rule 1080(l)(iii). The Exchange believes that the pilot program rewards specialists, SQTs and RSQTs for actively engaging in marketing activities and establishing relationships with OFPs that generate Directed Orders sent to the Exchange by such OFPs. The Exchange believes that the pilot program will result in additional order flow to the Exchange, thus adding depth and liquidity to the Exchange's markets, and enabling the Exchange to continue to compete effectively with other options exchanges for order flow. 2. Statutory Basis The Exchange believes that the proposed rule change is consistent with section 6(b) of the Act 13 in general, and furthers the objectives of section 6(b)(5) of the Act 14 in particular, in that it is designed to promote just and equitable principles of trade, to remove impediments to and perfect the mechanism of a free and open market and a national market system, and, in general, to protect investors and the public interest, by permitting specialists, SQTs, and RSQTs trading options on Phlx XL to receive Directed Orders, and by encouraging the capture of order flow on the Exchange by rewarding Directed Order recipients with a participation guarantee in trades involving Directed Orders. 13 15 U.S.C. 78f(b). 14 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(5). B. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement on Burden on Competition The Exchange believes that the proposed rule change does not impose any burden on competition that is not necessary or appropriate in furtherance of the purposes of the Act. C. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement on Comments on the Proposed Rule Change Received from Members, Participants or Others The Exchange has not solicited, and does not intend to solicit comments on the proposed rule change. III. Solicitation of Comments Interested persons are invited to submit written data, views, and arguments concerning the foregoing, including whether the proposed rule change is consistent with the Act and whether the pilot time frame is appropriate. Comments may be submitted by any of the following methods: Electronic Comments • Use the Commission's Internet comment form ( *http://www.sec.gov/rules/sro.shtml* ); or • Send an e-mail to *rule-comments@sec.gov.* Please include File Number SR-Phlx-2006-27 on the subject line. Paper Comments • Send paper comments in triplicate to Nancy M. Morris, Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street, NE., Washington, DC 20549-1090. All submissions should refer to File Number SR-Phlx-2006-27. This file number should be included on the subject line if e-mail is used. To help the Commission process and review your comments more efficiently, please use only one method. The Commission will post all comments on the Commission's Internet Web site ( *http://www.sec.gov/rules/sro.shtml* ). Copies of the submission, all subsequent amendments, all written statements with respect to the proposed rule change that are filed with the Commission, and all written communications relating to the proposed rule change between the Commission and any person, other than those that may be withheld from the public in accordance with the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552, will be available for inspection and copying in the Commission's Public Reference Room. Copies of such filing also will be available for inspection and copying at the principal office of the Exchange. All comments received will be posted without change; the Commission does not edit personal identifying information from submissions. You should submit only information that you wish to make available publicly. All submissions should refer to File Number SR-Phlx-2006-27 and should be submitted on or before June 22, 2006. IV. Commission's Findings and Order Granting Accelerated Approval of the Proposed Rule Change The Exchange has asked the Commission to approve the proposed rule change on an accelerated basis for an additional year so that the pilot program may continue uninterrupted. After careful consideration, the Commission finds that the proposed rule change is consistent with the requirements of section 6 of the Act 15 and the rules and regulations thereunder applicable to a national securities exchange 16 , and, in particular, the requirements of section 6(b)(5) of the Act. 17 Section 6(b)(5) requires, among other things, that the rules of a national securities exchange be designed to prevent fraudulent and manipulative acts and practices, to promote just and equitable principles of trade, to remove impediments to and perfect the mechanism of a free and open market and a national market system, and, in general, to protect investors and the public interest. The Commission notes that the current pilot was approved on a one-year basis to give the Commission an opportunity to evaluate the impact of the pilot program on the options markets to determine whether it would be beneficial to customers and to the options markets as a whole before approving any request for permanent approval of the pilot program. The Commission believes that a one-year extension of the pilot period would provide the Commission with additional time to continue evaluate the Exchange's Directed Order program. 15 15 U.S.C. 78f. 16 In approving this proposal, the Commission has considered the proposed rule's impact on efficiency, competition, and capital formation. 15 U.S.C. 78c(f). 17 15.U.S.C. 78f(b)(5). The Exchange has requested that the Commission find good cause for approving the proposed rule change prior to the thirtieth day after publication of notice thereof in the **Federal Register** . The Commission believes that granting accelerated approval of the proposed rule change would allow the pilot program to continue without disruption while the Commission and the Exchange continue to review the pilot program's impact on the options market. Accordingly, the Commission finds good cause, consistent with section 19(b)(2) of the Act, 18 for approving the proposed rule change prior to the thirtieth day after publication of notice thereof in the **Federal Register** . 18 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(2). V. Conclusion *It is therefore ordered,* pursuant to section 19(b)(2) of the Act, 19 that the proposed rule change (SR-Phlx-2006-27), which institutes the pilot program through May 27, 2007, is hereby approved on an accelerated basis. 19 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(2). For the Commission, by the Division of Market Regulation, pursuant to delegated authority. 20 20 17 CFR 200.30-3(a)(12). Jill M. Peterson, Assistant Secretary. [FR Doc. E6-8484 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8010-01-P DEPARTMENT OF STATE [Public Notice 5429] Exchange Visitor Program—Training and Internship: Supplemental—Notice of Proposed Information Collection: DS-7002, Training/Internship Placement Plan, OMB Control Number 1405-XXXX. ACTION: Notice of request for public comment and submission to OMB of proposed collection of information in connection with rulemaking. SUMMARY: In a notice of proposed rulemaking published in the **Federal Register** on April 7, 2006 (71 FR 17778) regarding proposed revisions to its training/internship programs administered by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the Department of State stated that the proposed rule contained a collection of information requirement for Purposes of the Paperwork Reduction Act. The Department further stated that it would be submitted to OMB for review and be the subject of a separate **Federal Register** notice and request for public comment. Accordingly, the Department has submitted the following information collection request to the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)for approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. • *Title of Information Collection:* Training/Internship Placement Plan. • *OMB Control Number:* 1405-XXXX. • *Type of Request:* New Collection. • *Originating Office:* Office of Exchange Coordination and Designation, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, Department of State. • *Form Number:* DS-7002. • *Respondents:* Exchange Visitor Program designated sponsors for foreign nationals who wish to participate in structured training or internship programs offered by U.S. businesses. • *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 160 per year. • *Estimated Number of Responses:* 30,000 per year. • *Average Hours per Response:* 60 minutes. • *Total Estimated Burden:* 30,000 hours. • *Frequency:* On occasion. • *Obligation to Respond:* Required to obtain or retain a benefit. DATES: Submit comments to the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)for up to 30 days from June 1, 2006. This does not affect the deadline for the public to comment to the Department on the proposed regulations. ADDRESSES: Direct comments and questions to Katherine Astrich, the Department of State Desk Officer in the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), who may be reached at
(202)395-4718. You may submit comments by any of the following methods: • E-mail: *kastrich@omb.eop.gov* . You must include the DS form number, information collection title, and OMB control number in the subject line of your message. • Mail (paper, disk, or CD-ROM submissions): Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget, 725 17th Street, NW., Washington, DC 20503. • Fax: 202-395-6974. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Direct requests for additional information regarding the collection listed in this notice, including requests for copies of the proposed information collection and supporting documents, to Karen Hawkins, Office of Exchange Coordination and Designation, U.S. Department of State, SA-44, 301 4th Street, SW., Room 734, Washington, DC 20547 who may be reached on 202-203-5096 or at *jexchanges@state.gov* . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: We are soliciting public comments to permit the Department to: • Evaluate whether the proposed information collection is necessary to properly perform our functions. • Evaluate the accuracy of our estimate of the burden of the proposed collection, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used. • Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected. • Minimize the reporting burden on those who are to respond, including the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of technology. Abstract of Proposed Collection The information collected will be used by foreign nationals entering the United States to participate in a structured training or internship program by U.S. businesses that are providing the training or internship opportunity, and by entities, designated by the Department of State to facilitate such program activities. The information on the form sets forth the terms and conditions of the training or internship program, and serve to document the obligations of the three parties that are involved in the transaction. Methodology A PDF version of the DS-7002 will be available on the Department's Freedom of Information Act Web site and Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs Web site. Sponsors will fill out the information collection instruments, which must be signed by the trainees or interns, and submit them to the Department by mail or fax as requested. Upon request, trainees or interns must present fully executed Trainee/Internship Placement Plans (Form DS-7002) to any Consular Official interviewing them in connection with the issuance of J-1 visas. Dated: May 15, 2006. Stanley S. Colvin, Director, Office of Exchange Coordination and Designation, Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs, Department of State. [FR Doc. E6-8515 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4710-05-P DEPARTMENT OF STATE [Public Notice 5430] 60-Day Notice of Proposed Information Collection: DS-3052, Nonimmigrant V Visa Application, OMB Control Number 1405-0128 ACTION: Notice of request for public comment. SUMMARY: The Department of State is seeking Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)approval for the information collection described below. The purpose of this notice is to allow 60 days for public comment in the **Federal Register** preceding submission to OMB. We are conducting this process in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. • *Title of Information Collection:* Nonimmigrant V Visa Application. • *OMB Control Number:* 1405-0128. • *Type of Request:* Extension of Currently Approved Collection. • *Originating Office:* Consular Affairs, Office of Visa Services (CA/VO/L/R). • *Form Number:* DS-3052. • *Respondents:* Applicants for V nonimmigrant visa. • *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 1,500. • *Estimated Number of Responses:* 1,500. • *Average Hours Per Response:* 1 hour. • *Total Estimated Burden:* 1,500 hours. • *Frequency:* Once per respondent. • *Obligation to Respond:* Required to Obtain or Retain Benefit. DATES: The Department will accept comments from the public up to 60 days from June 1, 2006. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by any of the following methods: • E-mail: *VisaReg@state.gov* . (The subject line must be DS-3052 Reauthorization) • Mail (paper, disk, or CD-ROM submission): Chief, Legislation and Regulation Division, Visa Services—DS-3052 Reauthorization, Department of State, Washington, DC 20520-0106. • Fax:
(202)663-3898. (The subject line must be DS-3052 Reauthorization.) FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Direct requests for additional information regarding the collection listed in this notice, including requests for copies of proposed information collection and supporting documents, to Andrea Lage, Office of Visa Services, U.S. Department of State, 2401 E St., NW., L-603, Washington, DC 20520, who may be reached at
(202)663-1399 or *lageab@state.gov* . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: We are soliciting public comments to permit the Department to: • Evaluate whether the proposed information collection is necessary for the proper performance of our functions. • Evaluate the accuracy of our estimate of the burden of the proposed collection, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used. • Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected. • Minimize the reporting burden on those who are to respond, including the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of technology. *Abstract of Proposed Collection:* The V Visa application (Form DS-3052) is used to collect information on second preference spouses and children of permanent residents for whom petitions were filed on or before December 12, 2000, and who have been waiting for three or more years for petition approval, adjustment of status or an immigrant visa, who are applying for a nonimmigrant visa to enter the United States. The form requests biographical information on the applicant and information on the immigration petition that was filed on the applicant's behalf. Consular officers use the information on this form to determine eligibility for V Visa status. *Methodology:* DS-3052 is submitted to U.S. embassies and consulates overseas and is available online at *http://www.state.gov* . The form can be filled out online and then printed. At some later date the Department of State may incorporate electronic filing of this form, but that service is not available at this time. Dated: May 10, 2006. Stephen A. Edson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Visa Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Department of State. [FR Doc. E6-8520 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4710-06-P DEPARTMENT OF STATE [Public Notice 5431] Culturally Significant Objects Imported for Exhibition Determinations: “Bridget Riley's Blaze I” SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given of the following determinations: Pursuant to the authority vested in me by the Act of October 19, 1965 (79 Stat. 985; 22 U.S.C. 2459), Executive Order 12047 of March 27, 1978, the Foreign Affairs Reform and Restructuring Act of 1998 (112 Stat. 2681, *et seq.* ; 22 U.S.C. 6501 note, *et seq.* ), Delegation of Authority No. 234 of October 1, 1999, Delegation of Authority No. 236 of October 19, 1999, as amended, and Delegation of Authority No. 257 of April 15, 2003 [68 FR 19875], I hereby determine that the art object to be included in the exhibition “Bridget Riley's Blaze I”, imported from abroad for temporary exhibition within the United States, is of cultural significance. The object is imported pursuant to a loan agreement with the foreign owner or custodian. I also determine that the exhibition or display of the exhibit object at The Metropolitan Museum's Modern and Contemporary Art Gallery, from on or about June 14, 2006, until on or about April 10, 2008, and at possible additional venues yet to be determined, is in the national interest. Public Notice of these Determinations is ordered to be published in the **Federal Register** . FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information, including a list of the exhibit objects, contact Paul Manning, Attorney-Adviser, Office of the Legal Adviser, U.S. Department of State (telephone: 202/453-8050). The address is U.S. Department of State, SA-44, 301 4th Street, SW., Room 700, Washington, DC 20547-0001. Dated: May 24, 2006. C. Miller Crouch, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Educational and Cultural Affairs, Department of State. [FR Doc. E6-8519 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4710-05-P DEPARTMENT OF STATE [Public Notice 5432] Culturally Significant Objects Imported for Exhibition Determinations: “Cosmophilia: Islamic Art from the David Collection, Copenhagen” SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given of the following determinations: Pursuant to the authority vested in me by the Act of October 19, 1965 (79 Stat. 985; 22 U.S.C. 2459), Executive Order 12047 of March 27, 1978, the Foreign Affairs Reform and Restructuring Act of 1998 (112 Stat. 2681, *et seq.* ; 22 U.S.C. 6501 note, *et seq.* ), Delegation of Authority No. 234 of October 1, 1999, Delegation of Authority No. 236 of October 19, 1999, as amended, and Delegation of Authority No. 257 of April 15, 2003 [68 FR 19875], I hereby determine that the objects to be included in the exhibition “Cosmophilia: Islamic Art from the David Collection, Copenhagen,” imported from abroad for temporary exhibition within the United States, are of cultural significance. The objects are imported pursuant to loan agreements with the foreign owners or custodians. I also determine that the exhibition or display of the exhibit objects at the McMullen Museum of Art, Boston College, from on or about August 31, 2006, until on or about December 31, 2006, and at the David and Alfred Smart Museum, University of Chicago, from on or about February 1, 2007, until on or about May 20, 2007, and at possible additional venues yet to be determined, is in the national interest. Public Notice of these Determinations is ordered to be published in the **Federal Register** . FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information, including a list of the exhibit objects, contact Richard Lahne, Attorney-Adviser, Office of the Legal Adviser, U.S. Department of State (telephone: 202/453-8058). The address is U.S. Department of State, SA-44, 301 4th Street, SW., Room 700, Washington, DC 20547-0001. Dated: May 15, 2006. C. Miller Crouch, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Educational and Cultural Affairs, Department of State. [FR Doc. E6-8518 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4710-05-P DEPARTMENT OF STATE [Public Notice 5405] Overseas Schools Advisory Council Notice of Meeting The Overseas Schools Advisory Council, Department of State, will hold its Annual Meeting on Wednesday, June 21, 2006, at 9:30 a.m. in Conference Room 1205, Department of State Building, 2201 C Street, NW., Washington, DC. The meeting is open to the public. The Overseas Schools Advisory Council works closely with the U.S. business community in improving those American-sponsored schools overseas, which are assisted by the Department of State and which are attended by dependents of U.S. Government families and children of employees of U.S. corporations and foundations abroad. This meeting will deal with issues related to the work and the support provided by the Overseas Schools Advisory Council to the American-sponsored overseas schools. The agenda includes a review of the recent activities of American-sponsored overseas schools and the overseas schools regional associations, a review of projects selected for the 2004, 2005, and 2006 Educational Assistance Programs, which are under development, and presentations on the Department of State's Allowances System, admissions requirements to universities in foreign countries, and acceptance of the Advanced Placement Program by universities in foreign countries. Members of the general public may attend the meeting and join in the discussion, subject to the instructions of the Chair. Admittance of public members will be limited to the seating available. Access to the State Department is controlled, and individual building passes are required for all attendees. Persons who plan to attend should so advise the office of Dr. Keith D. Miller, Department of State, Office of Overseas Schools, Room H328, SA-1, Washington, DC 20522-0132, telephone 202-261-8200, prior to June 11, 2006. Each visitor will be asked to provide his/her date of birth and Social Security number at the time of registration and attendance and must carry a valid photo ID to the meeting. All attendees must use the C Street entrance to the building. Dated: May 22, 2006. Keith D. Miller, Executive Secretary, Overseas Schools Advisory Council, Department of State. [FR Doc. E6-8516 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4710-24-P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration [Summary Notice No. PE-2006-17] Petitions for Exemption; Summary of Petitions Received AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of petitions for exemption received. SUMMARY: Pursuant to FAA's rulemaking provisions governing the application, processing, and disposition of petitions for exemption part 11 of Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR), this notice contains a summary of certain petitions seeking relief from specified requirements of 14 CFR. The purpose of this notice is to improve the public's awareness of, and participation in, this aspect of FAA's regulatory activities. Neither publication of this notice nor the inclusion or omission of information in the summary is intended to affect the legal status of any petition or its final disposition. DATES: Comments on petitions received must identify the petition docket number involved and must be received on or before June 21, 2006. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments [identified by DOT DMS Docket Number FAA-2006-24863] by any of the following methods: • Web site: *http://dms.dot.gov* . Follow the instructions for submitting comments on the DOT electronic docket site. • Fax: 1-202-493-2251. • Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401, Washington, DC 20590-001. • Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. *Docket:* For access to the docket to read background documents or comments received, go to *http://dms.dot.gov* at any time or to Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kenna Sinclair (425-227-1556), Transport Airplane Directorate (ANM-113), Federal Aviation Administration, 1601 Lind Ave., SW., Renton, WA 98055-4056; or John Linsenmeyer (202-267-5174), Office of Rulemaking (ARM-1), Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591. This notice is published pursuant to 14 CFR 11.85 and 11.91. Issued in Washington, DC, on May 23, 2006. Anthony F. Fazio, Director, Office of Rulemaking. Petitions for Exemption *Docket No.:* FAA-2006-24863. *Petitioner:* American Airlines. *Section of 14 CFR Affected:* 14 CFR 121.312. *Description of Relief Sought:* Permission to operate one Boeing Model 767 airplane until the insulation material is replaced with material that is compliant with the flame propagation requirements of § 25.856. [FR Doc. E6-8422 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee Meeting on Transport Airplane and Engine Issues AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of public meeting. SUMMARY: This notice announces a public meeting of the FAA's Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee
(ARAC)to discuss transport airplane and engine
(TAE)issues. DATES: The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 27, 2006, starting at 11 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time. Arrange for oral presentations by June 19, 2006. ADDRESSES: Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Ave., SW., Room 810, Washington, DC 20591. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Linsenmeyer, Office of Rulemaking, ARM-207, FAA, 800 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591, Telephone
(202)267-5174, FAX
(202)267-5075, or e-mail at *john.linsenmeyer@faa.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Pursuant to section 10(a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (Pub. L. 92-463; 5 U.S.C. app. III), notice is given of an ad hoc ARAC meeting to be held June 27, 2006 at the Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Ave., Room 810, Washington, DC. The meeting/teleconference is being held to consider the report on recommended guidance for the Aging Airplane Safety Rule from the Airworthiness Assurance Working Group (AAWG). This ad hoc TAE meeting is necessary because the report from the AAWG is a critical part of FAA's effort to develop new guidance to support the Aging Airplane Safety Rule, issued January 25, 2005. The agenda will include: • Opening Remarks. • AAWG Report. Attendance is open to the public, but will be limited to the availability of meeting room space. Please confirm your attendance with the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section no later than June 19, 2006. Please provide the following information: Full legal name, country of citizenship, and name of your industry association, or applicable affiliation. If you are attending as a public citizen, please indicate so. For persons participating domestically by telephone, the call-in number is
(202)366-3920; the Passcode is “1888.” To insure that sufficient telephone lines are available, please notify the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section of your intent to participate by telephone by June 19. Anyone calling from outside the Washington, DC metropolitan area will be responsible for paying long-distance charges. The public must make arrangements by June 19, 2006, to present oral statements at the meeting. Written statements may be presented to the committee at any time by providing 25 copies to the Assistant Executive Director for Transport Airplane and Engine Issues or by providing copies at the meeting. Copies of the document to be presented to ARAC for decision by the FAA may be made available by contacting the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section. If you need assistance or require a reasonable accommodation for the meeting or meeting documents, please contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section. Sign and oral interpretation, as well as a listening device, can be made available if requested 10 calendar days before the meeting. Issued in Washington, DC on May 17, 2006. Tony F. Fazio, Director, Office of Rulemaking. [FR Doc. E6-8427 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration Notice of Meeting of the National Parks Overflights Advisory Group Aviation Rulemaking Committee ACTION: Notice of meeting. SUMMARY: The Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA)and the National Park Service, in accordance with the National Parks Air Tour Management Act of 2000, announce the next meeting of the National Parks Overflights Advisory Group Aviation Rulemaking Committee (NPOAG-ARC). This notice informs the public of the date, location, and agenda for the meeting. DATES AND ADDRESSES: The NPOAG ARC will meet June 27-29, 2006, at the Radisson Hotel Fisherman's Wharf, 250 Beach Street, San Francisco, CA 94133. The meeting will begin at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, June 27, 2006. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Barry Brayer, Manager, Executive Resource Staff, Western Pacific Region, Federal Aviation Administration, 15000 Aviation Blvd., Hawthorne, CA 90250, telephone:
(310)725-3800, or *Barry.Brayer@faa.gov* , or Karen Trevino, National Park Service, Natural Sounds Program, 1201 Oakridge Dr., Suite 350, Ft. Collins, CO 80525, telephone
(970)225-3563, or *Karen_Trevino@nps.gov* . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background The National Parks Air Tour Management Act of 2000, enacted on April 5, 2000, as Public Law 106-181 (Pub. L. 106-181), required the establishment of a National Parks Overflights Advisory Group (NPOAG) within 1 year after its enactment. The NPOAG was to be a balanced group representative of general aviation, commercial air tour operations, environmental concerns, and Indian tribes. The duties of the NPOAG included providing advice, information, and recommendations to the Director, NPS, and to the Administrator, FAA, on the implementation of Public Law 106-181, on quiet aircraft technology, on other measures that might accommodate interests to visitors to national parks, and, at the request of the Director and Administrator, on safety, environmental, and other issues related to commercial air tour operations over national parks or tribal lands. On March 12, 2001, the FAA and NPS announced the establishment of the NPOAG (48 FR 14429). On October 10, 2003, the Administrator signed Order No. 1110-138 establishing the NPOAG as an aviation rulemaking committee. On January 20, 2006, the Administrator cancelled Order No. 1110.138 and signed Order No. 1110.138A. The advisory group has held eight meetings. The current members of the NPOAG ARC are Heidi Williams (general aviation), Richard Larew, Elling Halvorson, and Alan Stephen (commercial air tour operations), Don Barger, Chip Dennerlein, Charles Maynard and Mark Peterson (environmental interests), and Rory Majenty and Richard Deertrack (Native American tribes). Agenda for the June 27-29, 2006 Meeting The agenda for the meeting will include, but is not limited to, the following: Review and approval of previous meeting minutes; distribution of Government Accountability Office
(GAO)reports on implementation of the Act and air tour fees; discussion of Interim Operating Authority
(IOA)issues; update on ongoing ATMP projects; update on expedited/consensus ATMP project; staff presentation of a proposed programmatic ATMP process; discussion on the ATMP Program Implementation Plan; identification and treatment of quiet technology in ATMPs; NPOAG Subgroup assignments and reports; and, discussion of Mt. Rushmore Draft Environmental Assessment (EA). Attendance at the Meeting Although this is not a public meeting, interested persons may attend. Because seating is limited, if you plan to attend, please contact one of the persons listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT so that meeting space may accommodate your attendance. Record of the Meeting If you cannot attend the meeting, a summary record of the meeting will be made available through the Executive Resource Staff, Western Pacific Region, Federal Aviation Administration, 15000 Aviation Blvd., Hawthorne, CA 90250, telephone:
(310)725-3800 Issued on May 23, 2006. Barry Brayer, Manager, Executive Resource Staff, Western Pacific Region. [FR Doc. E6-8410 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Highway Administration Notice of Final Federal Agency Actions on Proposed Highway in Wisconsin AGENCY: Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of limitation on claims for judicial review of actions by FHWA and other Federal agencies. SUMMARY: This notice announces actions taken by the FHWA and other Federal agencies that are final within the meaning of 23 U.S.C. 139(l)(1). The actions relate to a proposed highway project, STH 83, in Waukesha County in the State of Wisconsin. Those actions grant licenses, permits, and approvals for the project. DATES: By this notice, the FHWA is advising the public of final agency actions subject to 23 U.S.C. 139(l)(1). A claim seeking judicial review of the Federal agency actions on the highway project will be barred unless the claim is filed on or before November 28, 2006. If the Federal law that authorizes judicial review of a claim provides a time period of less than 180 days for filing such claim, then that shorter time period still applies. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Bruce Matzke, Division Administrator, Federal Highway Administration, 567 D'Onofrio Drive, Suite 100, Madison, Wisconsin 53719-2844; telephone:
(608)829-7501; e-mail: *Bruce.Matzke@fhwa.dot.gov.* The FHWA Wisconsin Division Office's normal business hours are 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. (central time). You may also contact Mr. Eugene Johnson, Bureau of Equity and Environmental Services, Wisconsin Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 7965, Madison, Wisconsin 53707; telephone:
(608)267-9527. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Notice is hereby given that the FHWA and other Federal agencies have taken final agency actions by issuing licenses, permits, and approvals for the following highway project in the State of Wisconsin: STH 83 in Waukesha County. The 17-mile (27-km) WIS 83 project corridor extends from County NN at Mukwonago to WIS 16 at Hartland in Waukesha County. Improvements are proposed to address present and emerging traffic flow and safety concerns, future traffic demand, and to guide local land use planning and development including preserving land needed for future transportation improvements. The actions by the Federal agencies, and the laws under which such actions were taken, are described in the Final Environmental Impact Statement
(FEIS)for the project, approved on February 22, 2006, in the FHWA Record of Decision
(ROD)issued on May 24, 2006 and in other documents in the FHWA administrative record. The FEIS, ROD, and other documents in the FHWA administrative record file are available by contacting the FHWA or the Wisconsin Department of Transportation at the addresses provided above. The FHWA FEIS and ROD can be viewed and downloaded from the project Web site at *http://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/projects/d2/wis83/index.htm* or viewed at public libraries in the project area. This notice applies to all Federal agency decisions as of the issuance date of this notice and all laws under which such actions were taken, including but not limited to: 1. *General:* National Environmental Policy Act
(NEPA)[42 U.S.C. 4321-4351]; Federal-Aid Highway Act [23 U.S.C. 109]. 2. *Air:* Clean Air Act, 42 U.S.C. 7401-7671(q). 3. *Land:* Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act of 1966 [49 U.S.C. 303]; Landscaping and Scenic Enhancement (Wildflowers), 23 U.S.C. 319. 4. *Wildlife:* Endangered Species Act [16 U.S.C. 1531-1544 and section 1536], Marine Mammal Protection Act [16 U.S.C. 1361], Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act [16 U.S.C. 661-667(d)], Migratory Bird Treaty Act [16 U.S.C. 703-712]. 5. *Historic and Cultural Resources:* Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended [16 U.S.C. 470(f) *et seq.* ]; Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1977 [16 U.S.C. 470(aa)-11]; Archeological and Historic Preservation Act [16 U.S.C. 469-469(c)]; Native American Grave Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) [25 U.S.C. 3001-3013]. 6. *Social and Economic:* Civil Rights Act of 1964 [42 U.S.C. 2000(d)-2000(d)(1)]; American Indian Religious Freedom Act [42 U.S.C. 1996]; Farmland Protection Policy Act
(FPPA)[7 U.S.C. 4201-4209]. 7. *Wetlands and Water Resources:* Clean Water Act, 33 U.S.C. 1251-1377 (section 404, section 401, section 319); Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), 16 U.S.C. 4601-4604; Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), 42 U.S.C. 300(f)-300(j)(6); Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899, 33 U.S.C. 401-406; Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, 16 U.S.C. 1271-1287; Emergency Wetlands Resources Act, 16 U.S.C. 3921, 3931; TEA-21 Wetlands Mitigation, 23 U.S.C. 103(b)(6)(m), 133(b)(11); Flood Disaster Protection Act, 42 U.S.C. 4001-4128. 8. *Executive Orders:* E.O. 11990 Protection of Wetlands; E.O. 11988 Floodplain Management; E.O. 12898, Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low Income Populations; E.O. 11593 Protection and Enhancement of Cultural Resources; E.O. 13007 Indian Sacred Sites; E.O. 13287 Preserve America; E.O. 13175 Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments; E.O. 11514 Protection and Enhancement of Environmental Quality; E.O. 13112 Invasive Species. (Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Program Number 20.205, Highway Planning and Construction. The regulations implementing Executive Order 12372 regarding intergovernmental consultation on Federal programs and activities apply to this program) Authority: 23 U.S.C. 139(l)(1). Issued on: May 25, 2006. Bruce E. Matzke, Division Administrator, Madison, Wisconsin. [FR Doc. E6-8483 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-22-P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Maritime Administration [USCG-2006-24644] TORP Terminal LP, Bienville Offshore Energy Terminal Liquefied Natural Gas Deepwater Port License Application; Preparation of Environmental Impact Statement AGENCY: Maritime Administration, DOT. ACTION: Notice of intent; notice of public meeting; request for comments. SUMMARY: The Coast Guard and the Maritime Administration (MARAD) announce that the Coast Guard intends to prepare an environmental impact statement
(EIS)as part of the environmental review of this license application. The application describes a project that would be located in the Gulf of Mexico, in Main Pass block MP 258, approximately 63 miles south of Mobile Point, Alabama. Publication of this notice begins a scoping process that will help identify and determine the scope of environmental issues to be addressed in the EIS. This notice requests public participation in the scoping process and provides information on how to participate. This notice announces public meetings and a public comment period to facilitate public participation. DATES: The public meeting in Mobile, Alabama will be held on June 14, 2006. The public meeting will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and will be preceded by an open house from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The public meeting may end earlier or later than the stated time, depending on the number of persons wishing to speak. Material submitted in response to the request for comments must reach the Docket Management Facility by June 30, 2006. ADDRESSES: The open house and public meeting will be held at: Mobile Convention Center, One South Water Street, Room 203, Mobile, Alabama 36602; 251-208-2100. Address docket submissions for USCG-2006-24644 to: Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation,400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590-0001. The Docket Management Facility accepts hand-delivered submissions and makes docket contents available for public inspection and copying at this address, in room PL-401, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Facility's telephone number is 202-366-9329; the fax number is 202-493-2251; and its website for electronic submissions or for electronic access to docket contents is *http://dms.dot.gov.* FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mary K. Jager, U.S. Coast Guard, telephone: 202-372-1454, e-mail: *MJager@comdt.uscg.mil.* If you have questions on viewing the docket, call Renee V. Wright, Program Manager, Docket Operations, telephone: 202-493-0402. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Public Meeting and Open House We invite you to learn about the proposed deepwater port at an informational open house and to comment at a public meeting on environmental issues related to the proposed deepwater port. Your comments will help us identify and refine the scope of the environmental issues to be addressed in the EIS. In order to allow everyone a chance to speak at the public meeting, we may limit speaker time or extend the meeting hours or both. You must identify yourself and any organization you represent by name. Your remarks will be recorded or transcribed for inclusion in the public docket. You may submit written material at the public meeting, either in place of or in addition to speaking. Written material must include your name and address and will be included in the public docket. Public docket materials will be made available to the public on the Docket Management Facility's Docket Management System (DMS). See “Request for Comments” for information about DMS and your rights under the Privacy Act. All our public meeting locations are wheelchair-accessible. If you plan to attend the open house or public meeting and need special assistance such as sign language interpretation or other reasonable accommodation, please notify the Coast Guard (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT ) at least 3 business days in advance. Include your contact information as well as information about your specific needs. Request for Comments We request public comments or other relevant information on environmental issues related to the proposed deepwater port. The public meeting is not the only opportunity you have to comment. In addition to or in place of attending a meeting, you can submit comments to the Docket Management Facility during the public comment period (see DATES ). We will consider all comments and material received during the comment period. Submissions should include: • Docket number USCG-2006-24644. • Your name and address. • Your reasons for making each comment or for bringing information to our attention. Submit comments or material using only one of the following methods: • Electronic submission to DMS at *http://dms.dot.gov.* • Fax, mail, or hand delivery to the Docket Management Facility (see ADDRESSES ). Faxed or hand-delivered submissions must be unbound, no larger than 8 1/2 by 11 inches, and suitable for copying and electronic scanning. If you mail your submission and want to know when it reaches the Facility, include a stamped, self-addressed postcard or envelope. Regardless of the method used for submitting comments or material, all submissions will be posted, without change, to the DMS Web site ( *http://dms.dot.gov* ) and will include any personal information you provide. Therefore, submitting this information makes it public. You may wish to read the Privacy Act notice that is available on the DMS website or the Department of Transportation Privacy Act Statement that appeared in the **Federal Register** on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477). You may view docket submissions at the Docket Management Facility (see ADDRESSES ) or electronically on the DMS Web site. Background Information about deepwater ports, the statutes and regulations governing their licensing, and the receipt of the current application for the proposed Bienville Offshore Energy Terminal deepwater port appeared in the **Federal Register** on May 5, 2006 (71 FR 26605). The “Summary of the Application” from that publication is reprinted below for your convenience. Consideration of a deepwater port license application includes review of the proposed deepwater port's natural and human environmental impacts. The Coast Guard is the lead agency for determining the scope of this review, and in this case the Coast Guard has determined that review must include preparation of an EIS. This notice of intent is required by 40 CFR 1508.22 and briefly describes the proposed action and possible alternatives and our proposed scoping process. You can address any questions about the proposed action, the scoping process, or the EIS to the Coast Guard contact person identified in FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT . Proposed Action and Alternatives The proposed action requiring environmental review is the Federal licensing of the proposed deepwater port described in “Summary of the Application” below. The alternatives to licensing the proposed port are:
(1)Licensing with conditions (including conditions designed to mitigate environmental impact) and
(2)denying the application, which for purposes of environmental review is the “no-action” alternative. Scoping Process Public scoping is an early and open process for identifying and determining the scope of issues to be addressed in the EIS. Scoping begins with this notice, continues through the public comment period (see DATES ), and ends when the Coast Guard has completed the following actions: • Invites the participation of Federal, State, and local agencies, any affected Indian tribe, the applicant, and other interested persons; • Determines the actions, alternatives, and impacts described in 40 CFR 1508.25; • Identifies and eliminates from detailed study those issues that are not significant or that have been covered elsewhere; • Allocates responsibility for preparing EIS components; • Indicates any related environmental assessments or environmental impact statements that are not part of the EIS; • Identifies other relevant environmental review and consultation requirements; • Indicates the relationship between timing of the environmental review and other aspects of the application process; and • At its discretion, exercises the options provided in 40 CFR 1501.7 (b). Once the scoping process is complete, the Coast Guard will prepare a draft EIS and we will publish a **Federal Register** notice announcing its public availability. (If you want that notice to be sent to you, please contact the Coast Guard project manager identified in FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT .) You will have an opportunity to review and comment on the draft EIS. The Coast Guard will consider those comments and then prepare the final EIS. As with the draft EIS, we will announce the availability of the final EIS and once again give you an opportunity for review and comment. Summary of the Application TORP Terminal LP, proposes to own, construct, and operate a deepwater port, named Bienville Offshore Energy Terminal (BOET), in the Federal waters of the Outer Continental Shelf on Main Pass block MP 258, approximately 63 miles south of Mobile Point, Alabama, in a water depth of approximately 425 feet. The BOET Deepwater Port would be capable of mooring two LNG carriers of up to approximately 250,000 cubic meter capacity by means of two Single Anchor Leg Moorings (SALMs). The LNG carriers would be off loaded one at a time to HiLoad floating re-gasification facilities, which use four submerged shell-and-tube heat exchangers to vaporize the LNG before sending it via 14-inch diameter flexible risers to a Pipeline End Manifold
(PLEM)on the seafloor, then through 30-inch diameter pipeline to the support platform, where the gas will be metered and further sent out via interconnecting pipelines to four existing pipelines (Dauphin Island Gathering System Feedline, Transco Feedline, Destin Feedline, and Viosca Knoll Gathering System Feedline). The major fixed components of the proposed deepwater port would be the Support Platform, two PLEMs with ancillary risers and terminal pipelines, HiLoad parking line pilings, and approximately 25 miles of new pipeline. BOET will have an average throughput capacity of 1.2 billion standard cubic feet per day (Bscfd). No onshore pipelines or LNG storage facilities are associated with the proposed deepwater port application. A shore based facility will be used to facilitate movement of personnel, equipment, supplies, and disposable materials between the Terminal and shore. Construction of the deepwater port would be expected to take 30 months; with startup of commercial operations in the latter half of 2009, should a license be issued. The deepwater port would be designed, constructed and operated in accordance with applicable codes and standards and would have an expected operating life of approximately 25 years. Privacy Act Anyone is able to search the electronic form of all comments received into any of our dockets by the name of the individual submitting the comment (or signing the comment, if submitted on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the **Federal Register** published on April 11, 2000 (Volume 65, Number 70, pages 19477-78) or you may visit *http://dms.dot.gov.* (Authority 49 CFR 1.66) By Order of the Maritime Administrator. Dated: May 26, 2006. Joel C. Richard, Secretary, Maritime Administration. [FR Doc. E6-8497 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-81-P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Surface Transportation Board [STB Finance Docket No. 34855] Iowa Interstate Railroad, Ltd.—Acquisition Exemption—Great Western Railway Company of Iowa, L.L.C. AGENCY: Surface Transportation Board. ACTION: Notice of exemption. SUMMARY: The Board grants an exemption, under 49 U.S.C. 10502, from the prior approval requirements of 49 U.S.C. 10902 for Iowa Interstate Railroad, Ltd. (IAIS), a Class II rail carrier, to acquire by purchase a rail yard owned by Great Western Railway Company of Iowa, L.L.C., subject to employee protective conditions. The rail yard consists of approximately 55 acres and 15 tracks, and extends from milepost 0 at 18th Street to milepost 1.6, at Council Bluffs, IA. DATES: The exemption will be effective on July 1, 2006. Petitions to stay must be filed by June 16, 2006. Petitions to reopen must be filed by June 26, 2006. ADDRESSES: An original and 10 copies of all pleadings, referring to STB Finance Docket No. 34855, must be filed with the Surface Transportation Board, 1925 K Street, NW., Washington, DC 20423-0001. In addition, one copy of all pleadings must be served on IAIS's representative, Edward J. Krug, Krug Law Firm, P.L.C., 401 First Street, SE., Suite 330, P.O. Box 186, Cedar Rapids, IA 52406-0186. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Melissa Ziembicki,
(202)565-1604. [Assistance for the hearing impaired is available through the Federal Information Relay Service
(FIRS)at 1-800-877-8339.] SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Additional information is contained in the Board's decision. To purchase a copy of the full decision, write to, e-mail, or call: ASAP Document Solutions, 9332 Annapolis Rd., Suite 103, Lanham, MD 20706; e-mail: *asapdc@verizon.net* ; telephone:
(202)306-4004. [Assistance for the hearing impaired is available through FIRS at 1-800-877-8339.] Board decisions and notices are available on our Web site at *http://www.stb.dot.gov* . Decided: May 25, 2006. By the Board, Chairman Buttrey and Vice Chairman Mulvey. Vernon A. Williams, Secretary. [FR Doc. E6-8508 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4915-01-P DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Internal Revenue Service Tax Counseling for the Elderly
(TCE)Program Availability of Application Packages AGENCY: Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Treasury. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: This document provides notice of the availability of Application Packages for the 2007 Tax Counseling for the Elderly
(TCE)Program. DATES: Application Packages are available from the IRS at this time. The deadline for submitting an application package to the IRS for the 2007 Tax Counseling for the Elderly
(TCE)Program is August 1, 2006. ADDRESSES: Application Packages may be requested by contacting: Internal Revenue Service, 5000 Ellin Road, Lanham, MD 20706, Attention: Program Manager, Tax Counseling for the Elderly Program, SE:W:CAR:SPEC:FO:OA, Building C-4, Room 168. Applications can also be submitted electronically through the IRS E-grants System by logging on to *http://www.egrants.irs.gov* . FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mrs. Lynn Tyler, SE:W:CAR:SPEC:FO:OA, Building C-4, Room 168, Internal Revenue Service, 5000 Ellin Road, Lanham, MD 20706. The non-toll-free telephone number is
(202)283-0189. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Authority for the Tax Counseling for the Elderly
(TCE)Program is contained in section 163 of the Revenue Act of 1978, Public Law 95-600, (92 Stat. 12810), November 6, 1978. Regulations were published in the **Federal Register** at 44 FR 72113 on December 13, 1979. Section 163 gives the IRS authority to enter into cooperative agreements with private or public non-profit agencies or organizations to establish a network of trained volunteers to provide free tax information and return preparation assistance to elderly individuals. Elderly individuals are defined as individuals age 60 and over at the close of their taxable year. Cooperative agreements will be entered into based upon competition among eligible agencies and organizations. Because applications are being solicited before the FY 2007 budget has been approved, cooperative agreements will be entered into subject to the appropriation of funds. Once funded, sponsoring agencies and organizations will receive a grant from the IRS for administrative expenses and to reimburse volunteers for expenses incurred in training and in providing tax return assistance. The Tax Counseling for the Elderly
(TCE)Program is referenced in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance in Section 21.006. Dated: May 19, 2006. Elizabeth Blair, Chief, Oversight & Analysis. [FR Doc. E6-8436 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4830-01-P DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Internal Revenue Service Open Meeting of the Area 6 Taxpayer Advocacy Panel (Including the States of Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming) AGENCY: Internal Revenue Service
(IRS)Treasury. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: An open meeting of the Area 6 committee of the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel will be conducted (via teleconference). The Taxpayer Advocacy Panel
(TAP)is soliciting public comments, ideas, and suggestions on improving customer service at the Internal Revenue Service. The TAP will use citizen input to make recommendations to the Internal Revenue Service. DATES: The meeting will be held Thursday, June 22, 2006. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dave Coffman at 1-888-912-1227, or 206-220-6096. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Notice is hereby given pursuant to section 10(a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. App.
(1988)that an open meeting of the Area 6 Taxpayer Advocacy Panel will be held Thursday, June 22, 2006 from 10 a.m. Pacific Time to 11:30 a.m. Pacific Time via a telephone conference call. The public is invited to make oral comments. Individual comments will be limited to 5 minutes. If you would like to have the TAP consider a written statement, please call 1-888-912-1227 or 206-220-6096, or write to Dave Coffman, TAP Office, 915 2nd Avenue, MS W-406, Seattle, WA 98174 or you can contact us at *http://www.improveirs.org* . Due to limited conference lines, notification of intent to participate in the telephone conference call meeting must be made with Dave Coffman. Mr. Coffman can be reached at 1-888-912-1227 or 206-220-6096. The agenda will include the following: Various IRS issues. Dated: May 23, 2006. Venita H. Gardner, Acting Director, Taxpayer Advocacy Panel. [FR Doc. E6-8429 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4830-01-P DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Internal Revenue Service Open Meeting of the Wage & Investment Reducing Taxpayer Burden (Notices) Issue Committee of the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel AGENCY: Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Treasury. ACTION: Cancellation notice. SUMMARY: An open meeting of the Wage & Investment Reducing Taxpayer Burden (Notices) Issue Committee of the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel, has been cancelled (via teleconference). The Taxpayer Advocacy Panel is soliciting public comments, ideas and suggestions on improving customer service at the Internal Revenue Service. DATES: The meeting that was scheduled Thursday, June 1, 2006 from 11 a.m. ET has been cancelled. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sallie Chavez at 1-888-912-1227, or 954-423-7979. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Notice is hereby given pursuant to section 10(a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. App.
(1988)that an open meeting of the Wage & Investment Reducing Taxpayer Burden (Notices) Issue Committee of the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel was cancelled for Thursday, June 1, 2006, from 11 a.m. ET via a telephone conference call was published in the **Federal Register** on May 4, 2006. If you would like to have the TAP consider a written statement, please call 1-888-912-1227 or 954-423-7979, or write Sallie Chavez, TAP Office, 1000 South Pine Island Road, Suite 340, Plantation, FL 33324. Due to limited conference lines, notification of intent to participate in the telephone conference call meeting must be made with Sallie Chavez. Ms. Chavez can be reached at 1-888-912-1227 or 954-423-7979, or post comments to the Web site: *http://www.improveirs.org.* The agenda will include: Various IRS issues. Dated: May 25, 2006. Venita H. Gardner, Director, Taxpayer Advocacy Panel. [FR Doc. E6-8431 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4830-01-P DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Internal Revenue Service Open Meeting of the Area 7 Taxpayer Advocacy Panel (Including the States of Alaska, California, Hawaii, and Nevada) AGENCY: Internal Revenue Service
(IRS)Treasury. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: An open meeting of the Area 7 committee of the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel will be conducted (via teleconference). The Taxpayer Advocacy Panel
(TAP)is soliciting public comments, ideas, and suggestions on improving customer service at the Internal Revenue Service. The TAP will use citizen input to make recommendations to the Internal Revenue Service. DATES: The meeting will be held Wednesday, June 21, 2006. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dave Coffman at 1-888-912-1227, or 206-220-6096. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Notice is hereby given pursuant to section 10(a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. App.
(1988)that an open meeting of the Area 7 Taxpayer Advocacy Panel will be held Wednesday, June 21, 2006 from 2 p.m. Pacific Time to 3 p.m. Pacific Time via a telephone conference call. The public is invited to make oral comments. Individual comments will be limited to 5 minutes. If you would like to have the TAP consider a written statement, please call 1-888-912-1227 or 206-220-6096, or write to Dave Coffman, TAP Office, 915 2nd Avenue, MS W-406, Seattle, WA 98174 or you can contact us at *http://www.improveirs.org* . Due to limited conference lines, notification of intent to participate in the telephone conference call meeting must be made with Dave Coffman. Mr. Coffman can be reached at 1-888-912-1227 or 206-220-6096. The agenda will include the following: Various IRS issues. Dated: May 23, 2006. Venita H. Gardner, Acting Director, Taxpayer Advocacy Panel. [FR Doc. E6-8432 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4830-01-P DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0648] Proposed Information Collection Activity: Proposed Collection; Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The Veterans Health Administration
(VHA)is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act
(PRA)of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the **Federal Register** concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed revision of a currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on information needed to reimburse healthcare providers for medical services provided to veterans with service-connected disabilities living or traveling overseas. DATES: Written comments and recommendations on the proposed collection of information should be received on or before July 31, 2006. ADDRESSES: Submit written comments on the collection of information to Ann Bickoff, Veterans Health Administration (193B1), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20420 or e-mail *ann.bickoff@mail.va.gov.* Please refer to “OMB Control No. 2900-0648” in any correspondence. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ann Bickoff at
(202)273-8310. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Under the PRA of 1995 (Public Law 104-13; 44 U.S.C. 3501-3521), Federal agencies must obtain approval from the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)for each collection of information they conduct or sponsor. This request for comment is being made pursuant to Section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the PRA. With respect to the following collection of information, VHA invites comments on:
(1)Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of VHA's functions, including whether the information will have practical utility;
(2)the accuracy of VHA's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information;
(3)ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and
(4)ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on respondents, including through the use of automated collection techniques or the use of other forms of information technology. *Title and Form Number:* Foreign Medical Program, VA Form 10-7959f-1 and 10-7959f-2. *OMB Control Number:* 2900-0648. *Type of Review:* Revision of a currently approved collection. *Abstract:* a. Veterans with service connected disabilities living or traveling overseas complete VA Form 10-7959f-1 to enroll in the Foreign Medical Program. b. Healthcare providers complete VA Form 10-7959f-2 to submit claims for payments or reimbursement of expenses relating to veterans living or traveling overseas (except for Canada and the Philippines) with service-connected disability. VA accepts provider generated billing statement, Uniform Billing-Forms
(UB)92, and Medicare Health Insurance Claims Form, HCFA 1500 for payments or reimbursements. *Affected Public:* Individuals or households, Business or other for profit, and Not for profit institutions. *Estimated Total Annual Burden:* 3,763 hours. a. Foreign Medical Program, VA Form 10-7959f-1—111 hours. b. Claim Cover Sheet, VA Form 10-7959-2—3,652 hours. *Estimated Average Burden Per Respondent:* a. Foreign Medical Program, VA Form 10-7959f-1—4 minutes. b. Claim Cover Sheet, VA Form 10-7959-2—11 minutes. *Frequency of Response:* On occasion. *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 3320. a. Foreign Medical Program, VA Form 10-7959f-1—1,660. b. Claim Cover Sheet, VA Form 10-7959f-2—1,660. *Estimated Total Annual Responses:* 21,580. a. Foreign Medical Program, VA Form 10-7959-1—1,660. b. Claim Cover Sheet, VA Form 10-7959-2—19,920. Dated: May 17, 2006. By direction of the Secretary. Denise McLamb, Program Analyst, Records Management Service. [FR Doc. E6-8413 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8320-01-P DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0073] Proposed Information Collection Activity: Proposed Collection; Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act
(PRA)of 1995, Federal agencies are required to publish notice in the **Federal Register** concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed revision of a currently approved collection, and allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments for information needed to determine the amount of educational benefits payable to claimants pursuing approved programs of education. DATES: Written comments and recommendations on the proposed collection of information should be received on or before July 31, 2006. ADDRESSES: Submit written comments on the collection of information to Nancy J. Kessinger, Veterans Benefits Administration (20M35), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20420 or e-mail: *irmnkess@vba.va.gov.* Please refer to “OMB Control No. 2900-0073” in any correspondence. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Nancy J. Kessinger at
(202)273-7079 or FAX
(202)275-5947. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Under the PRA of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13; 44 U.S.C. 3501-3521), Federal agencies must obtain approval from the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)for each collection of information they conduct or sponsor. This request for comment is being made pursuant to Section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the PRA. With respect to the following collection of information, VBA invites comments on:
(1)Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of VBA's functions, including whether the information will have practical utility;
(2)the accuracy of VBA's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information;
(3)ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and
(4)ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on respondents, including through the use of automated collection techniques or the use of other forms of information technology. *Title:* VA Enrollment Certification, VA Form 22-1999. *OMB Control Number:* 2900-0073. *Type of Review:* Revision of a currently approved collection. *Abstract:* School officials and employers complete VA Form 22-1999 to report and certify a claimant's enrollment in an educational program. The data is used to determine the amount of benefits payable and whether the claimant requested an advanced or accelerated payment. *Affected Public:* Business or other for-profit, Not-for-profit institutions, Federal Government, and State, Local or Tribal Government. *Estimated Annual Burden:* 158,975 hours. *Estimated Average Burden Per Respondent:* 10 minutes. *Frequency of Response:* On occasion. *Estimated Annual Response:* 1,109,129. a. electronically—776,390. b. paper copy—332,739. *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 7,485. Dated: May 18, 2006. By direction of the Secretary. Denise McLamb, Program Analyst, Records Management Service. [FR Doc. E6-8414 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8320-01-P DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0165] Agency Information Collection Activities Under OMB Review AGENCY: Office of Management, Department of Veterans Affairs. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act
(PRA)of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3521), this notice announces that the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs, has submitted the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information collection and its expected cost and burden; it includes the actual data collection instrument. DATES: Comments must be submitted on or before July 3, 2006. For Further Information or a Copy of the Submission Contact: Denise McLamb, Records Management Service (005G2), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20420,
(202)565-8374 or FAX
(202)565-6950 or e-mail *denise.mclamb@va.gov* . Please refer to “OMB Control No. 2900-0165.” Send comments and recommendations concerning any aspect of the information collection to VA's OMB Desk Officer, OMB Human Resources and Housing Branch,New Executive Office Building, Room 10235, Washington, DC 20503
(202)395-7316. Please refer to “OMB Control No. 2900-0165” in any correspondence. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: *Title:* Financial Status Report, VA Form 5655. *OMB Control Number:* 2900-0165. *Type of Review:* Extension of a currently approved collection. *Abstract:* Claimants complete VA Form 5655 to report their financial status. VA uses the data collected to determine the claimant's eligibility for a waiver of collection, setup a payment plan or for the acceptance of a compromise offer on their VA benefit debt. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The **Federal Register** Notice with a 60-day comment period soliciting comments on this collection of information was published on February 2, 2006 at page 5736. *Affected Public:* Individuals or households. *Estimated Annual Burden:* 45,553 hours. *Estimated Average Burden per Respondent:* 1 hour. *Frequency of Response:* On occasion. *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 45,553. By direction of the Secretary. Denise McLamb, Program Analyst, Records Management Service. [FR Doc. E6-8415 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8320-01-P DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900—New (VA Form 10-21081)] Agency Information Collection Activities Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act
(PRA)of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-21), this notice announces that the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Department of Veterans Affairs, has submitted the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information collection and its expected cost and burden and includes the actual data collection instrument. DATES: Comments must be submitted on or before July 3, 2006. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR A COPY OF THE SUBMISSION CONTACT: Denise McLamb, Records Management Service (005G2), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20420,
(202)565-8374, FAX
(202)565-6950 or e-mail: *denise.mclamb@mail.va.gov.* Please refer to 2900—New (VA Form 10-21081).” Send comments and recommendations concerning any aspect of the information collection to VA's OMB Desk Officer, OMB Human Resources and Housing Branch, New Executive Office Building, Room 10235, Washington, DC 20503
(202)395-7316. Please refer to “2900—New (VA Form 10-21081).” SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: *Title:* After Death Bereaved Family Member Satisfaction Survey, VA Form 10-21081(NR). *OMB Control Number:* 2900—New (VA Form 10-21081). *Type of Review:* New collection. *Abstract:* The data collected on VA Form 10-21081
(NR)will be used to survey family members of deceased veterans on their satisfaction with the quality of care provided to their loved one prior to his or her death at a VA facility. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The **Federal Register** Notice with a 60-day comment period soliciting comments on this collection of information was published on March 29, 2006 at page 15800. *Affected Public:* Individuals or households. *Estimated Annual Burden:* 588 hours. *Estimated Average Burden Per Respondent:* 15 minutes. *Frequency of Response:* One-time. *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 2,351. Dated: May 18, 2006. By direction of the Secretary. Denise McLamb, Program Analyst, Records Management Service. [FR Doc. E6-8416 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8320-01-P DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0074] Agency Information Collection Activities Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act
(PRA)of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-21), this notice announces that the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs, has submitted the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information collection and its expected cost and burden; it includes the actual data collection instrument. DATES: Comments must be submitted on or before July 3, 2006. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Denise McLamb, Records Management Service (005E3), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20420,
(202)565-8374, FAX
(202)565-6950 or e-mail *denise.mclamb@mail.va.gov.* Please refer to “OMB Control No. 2900-0074.” Send comments and recommendations concerning any aspect of the information collection to VA's OMB Desk Officer, OMB Human Resources and Housing Branch, New Executive Office Building, Room 10235, Washington, DC 20503
(202)395-7316. Please refer to “OMB Control No. 2900-0074” in any correspondence. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: *Title:* Request for Change of Program or Place of Training for Veterans, (Under Chapters 30 and 32, Title 10, U.S.C.; Chapters 1606 and 1607, Title 10, U.S.C. and Section 903 of Public Law 96-342), VA Form 22-1995. *OMB Control Number:* 2900-0074. *Type of Review:* Revision of a currently approved collection. *Abstract:* Claimants receiving educational benefits complete VA Form 22-1995 to request a change in program or training establishment. VA uses the data collected to determine the claimant's eligibility for continued educational benefits. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The **Federal Register** Notice with a 60-day comment period soliciting comments on this collection of information was published on February 14, 2006 at pages 7827. *Affected Public:* Individuals or households. *Estimated Annual Burden:* 31,563 hours. a. Electronically—6,313 hours. b. Paper Copy—25,250 hours. *Estimated Average Burden per Respondent:* a. Electronically—15 minutes. b. Paper Copy—20 minutes. *Frequency of Response:* On occasion. *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 101,000. a. Electronically—25,250. b. Paper Copy—75,750. Dated: May 22, 2006. By direction of the Secretary. Denise McLamb, Program Analyst, Records Management Service. [FR Doc. E6-8418 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8320-01-P DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0564] Agency Information Collection Activities Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act
(PRA)of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-21), this notice announces that the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs, has submitted the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information collection and its expected cost and burden; it includes the actual data collection instrument. DATES: Comments must be submitted on or before July 3, 2006. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Denise McLamb, Records Management Service (005G2), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20420,
(202)565-8374, FAX
(202)565-6950 or e-mail *denise.mclamb@mail.va.gov.* Please refer to “OMB Control No. 2900-0564.” Send comments and recommendations concerning any aspect of the information collection to VA's OMB Desk Officer, OMB Human Resources and Housing Branch, New Executive Office Building, Room 10235, Washington, DC 20503,
(202)395-7316. Please refer to “OMB Control No. 2900-0564” in any correspondence. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: *Title:* a. Direct Deposit Enrollment, VA Form 24-0296. b. Direct Deposit Enrollment (Australia), VA Form 24-0296a. c. Direct Deposit Enrollment (Canada), VA Form 24-0596b. d. Direct Deposit Enrollment (Germany), VA Form 24-2096c. e. Direct Deposit Enrollment (Ireland), VA Form 24-0296d. f. Direct Deposit Enrollment (United Kingdom), VA Form 24-0296e. *OMB Control Number:* 2900-0564. *Type of Review:* Extension of a currently approved collection. *Abstract:* Claimants complete the Direct Deposit Enrollment forms to authorize VA to electronically deposit their benefit payments into their financial institution account. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The **Federal Register** Notice with a 60-day comment period soliciting comments on this collection of information was published on April 20, 2006 at page 20438. *Affected Public:* Individuals or households. *Estimated Annual Burden:* a. VA Form 24-0296—750 hours. b. VA Form 24-0296a (Australia)—100 hours. c. VA Form 24-2096b (Canada)—100 hours. d. VA Form 24-2096c (Germany)—100 hours. e. VA Form 24-2096d (Ireland)—100 hours. f. VA Form 24-2096e (United Kingdom)—100 hours. *Estimated Average Burden per Respondent:* 15 minutes. *Frequency of Response:* On occasion. *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 5,000. a. VA Form 24-0296—3,000. b. VA Form 24-0296a (Australia)—400. c. VA Form 24-2096b (Canada)—400. d. VA Form 24-2096c (Germany)—400. e. VA Form 24-0296d (Ireland)—400. f. VA Form 24-0296e (United Kingdom)—400. Dated: May 22, 2006. By direction of the Secretary. Denise McLamb, Program Analyst, Records Management Service. [FR Doc. E6-8419 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8320-01-P DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900—New (10-21082)] Agency Information Collection: Emergency Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request AGENCY: Office of Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act
(PRA)of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3521), this notice announces that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), has submitted to the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)the following emergency proposal for the collection of information under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3507(j)(1)). VA is requesting an emergency clearance on Survey of Satisfaction of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom Amputees. DATES: Comments must be submitted on or before July 3, 2006. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR A COPY OF THE SUBMISSION CONTACT: Denise McLamb, Records Management Service (005G2), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20420,
(202)565-8374, FAX
(202)565-6950 or e-mail: *denise.mclamb@mail.va.gov* . Please refer to “OMB Control No. 2900—New (10-21082). Send comments and recommendations concerning any aspect of the information collection to VA's OMB Desk Officer, OMB Human Resources and Housing Branch, New Executive Office Building, Room 10235, Washington, DC 20503
(202)395-7316 or FAX
(202)395-6974. Please refer to “2900—New (10-21082). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: *Title:* Survey of Satisfaction of Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom (OIF/OEF) Amputees. *OMB Control Number:* 2900—New (10-21082). *Type of Review:* New Collection. *Abstract* : VA will use the data collected to determine whether the health care needs of amputee and severely injured veterans returning from Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom are being met and to identify areas where improvement is needed. *Affected Public:* Individuals or households. *Estimated Total Annual Burden:* 60 hours. *Estimated Average Burden per Respondent:* 18 minutes. *Frequency of Response:* One time. *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 200. Dated: May 22, 2006. By direction of the Secretary. Denise McLamb, Program Analyst, Records Management Service. [FR Doc. E6-8421 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8320-01-P DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Veteran's Advisory Committee on Environmental Hazards; Notice of Meeting The Department of Veterans Affairs
(VA)gives notice under Public Law 92-463 (Federal Advisory Committee Act) that a meeting of the Veterans' Advisory Committee on Environmental Hazards will be held on June 26-27, 2006, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The meeting will be held in room 630 at the Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC. The meeting is open to the public. The purpose of the Committee is to provide advice to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on adverse health effects that may be associated with exposure to ionizing radiation and to make recommendations on proposed standards and guidelines regarding VA benefit claims based upon exposure to ionizing radiation. The major items on the agenda for both days will be discussions on medical and scientific papers concerning the health effects of exposure to ionizing radiation. On the basis of the discussion, the Committee may make recommendations to the Secretary concerning the relationship of certain diseases to exposure to ionizing radiation. On June 26, there will be a presentation by VA's Public Health and Environmental Hazards Office. Members of the public wishing to attend should contact Ms. Bernice Green at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Compensation and Pension Service, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20420, by phone at
(202)273-7211, or by fax at
(202)275-1728. Individuals may submit written questions or prepared statements for the Committee's review to Ms. Green at least 5 days prior to the meeting. Those who submit material may be asked for clarification prior to its consideration by the Committee. An open forum for verbal statements from the public will be available for 30 minutes in the afternoon each day. People wishing to make verbal statements before the Committee will be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis and will be provided 3 minutes per statement. Dated: May 23, 2006. By Direction of the Secretary. E. Philip Riggin, Committee Management Officer. [FR Doc. 06-4989 Filed 5-31-06; 8:45am]
Connectionstraces to 25
28 references not yet in our index
  • 17 CFR 240.19
  • 79 Stat. 985
  • Pub. L. 92-463
  • Pub. L. 106-181
  • 42 USC 4321-4351
  • 42 USC 7401-7671(q)
  • 16 USC 1531-1544
  • 16 USC 661-667(d)
  • 16 USC 703-712
  • 16 USC 469-469(c)
  • 25 USC 3001-3013
  • 42 USC 2000(d)
  • 7 USC 4201-4209
  • 33 USC 1251-1377
  • 16 USC 4601-4604
  • 33 USC 401-406
  • 16 USC 1271-1287
  • 42 USC 4001-4128
  • 40 CFR 1508.22
  • 40 CFR 1508.25
  • 40 CFR 1501.7
  • 49 CFR 1.66
  • Pub. L. 95-600
  • 92 Stat. 12810
  • Pub. L. 104-13
  • 44 USC 3501-3521
  • 44 USC 3501-21
  • Pub. L. 96-342
Citation graph
cites case law
Notices
Notice of request for public comment and submission to OMB of proposed collection of information in connection with rulemaking
Cite17 CFR 240.19
Stat.79 Stat. 985
Pub. L.Pub. L. 92-463
Cites 53 · showing 12Cited by 0 across 0 sources
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