Notices. Notice

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BILLING CODE 3710-AR-M ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [ER-FRL-6680-6] Environmental Impact Statements and Regulations; Availability of EPA Comments Availability of EPA comments prepared pursuant to the Environmental Review Process (ERP), under section 309 of the Clean Air Act and Section 102(2)(c) of the National Environmental Policy Act as amended. Requests for copies of EPA comments can be directed to the Office of Federal Activities at 202-564-7167. An explanation of the ratings assigned to draft environmental impact statements

(EISs)was published in FR dated April 7, 2006 (71 FR 17845). Draft EISs *EIS No. 20060305, ERP No. D-GSA-B81011-VT* , New U.S. Border Station and Commercial Port of Entry Route I-91 Derby Line, Design and Construction, Vermont. *Summary:* EPA does not object to the project as proposed, but encourages GSA to consider additional measures to reduce air pollution emissions. Rating LO. *EIS No. 20060316, ERP No. D-GSA-B40096-ME* , Madawaska Border Station Project, Replacement of Existing Border Station in Madawaska, International Border between United States and Canada, Aroostook County, ME. *Summary:* EPA does not object to the project as proposed, but encourages GSA to adopt measures to reduce air emissions. Rating LO. *EIS No. 20060328, ERP No. D-NRS-B36026-MA* , Cape Cod Water Resources Restoration Project, Restore Degraded Salt Marshes, Restore Anadromous Fish Passages, and Improve Water Quality for Shellfishing Area, Cape Cod, Barnstable County, MA. *Summary:* EPA does not object to the project as proposed. Rating LO. *EIS No. 20060349, ERP No. D-DOE-E01016-FL* , Orlando Gasification Project (DOE/EIS-0383), To Provide Cost-Shared Funding for Construction and Operation of Facilities at Orlando Utilities Commission's Station Energy Center near Orlando, FL. *Summary:* EPA expressed environmental concerns about the proposed power plant's potential impacts on air quality, wetlands, hazardous waste, and cumulative impacts. Evaluation of these impacts may require various forms of modeling and risk assessments. Impacts to wetlands and mitigation measures need to be discussed further in the FEIS. Rating EC1. Final EISs *EIS No. 20060326, ERP No. F-BOP-B81010-NH* , Berlin, Coos County, Proposed Federal Correctional Institution, Construction and Operation, City of Berlin, Coos County, NH. *Summary:* EPA does not object to the project as proposed, but continues to encourage the BOP to investigate whether combined heat and power technologies could reduce energy usage at the facility. *EIS No. 20060120, ERP No. FB-FTA-L40210-WA* , Central Link Light Rail Transit Project (Sound Transit) Construction and Operation of the North Link Light Rail Extension, from Downtown Seattle and Northgate, Updated Information on Refined Design Concepts, Funding, Right-of-Way and U.S. Army COE Section 404 Permits, King County, WA. *Summary:* No formal comment letter was sent to the lead agency. *EIS No. 20060370, ERP No. FS-AFS-F65039-WI* , McCaslin Project, Vegetation Management Activities that are Consistent with Direction in the Nicolet Forest Plan, New Information to Address Inadequate Disclosure of the Cumulative Effect Analysis for Six Animal and Eight Plant Species, Lakewood/Lasna District, Chequamegaon-Nicolet National Forest, Oconto and Forest Counties, WI. *Summary:* EPA's concerns about the cumulative impact analysis have been resolved; therefore, EPA does not object to the proposed project. Dated: October 24, 2006. Robert W. Hargrove, Director, NEPA Compliance Division, Office of Federal Activities. [FR Doc. E6-18019 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560-50-P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [ER-FRL-6680-5] Environmental Impacts Statements; Notice of Availability *Responsible Agency:* Office of Federal Activities, General Information

(202)564-7167 or *http://www.epa.gov/compliance/nepa/* . Weekly receipt of Environmental Impact Statements Filed 10/16/2006 Through 10/20/2006 Pursuant to 40 CFR 1506.9. *EIS No. 20060435, Final EIS, COE, AZ* , Rio Salado Oeste Project, Ecosystem Restoration along the Salt River, City of Phoenix, Maricopa County, AZ, *Wait Period Ends:* 11/27/2006, *Contact:* Scott K. Estergard 602-640-2003. *EIS No. 20060436, Draft Supplement, FHW, IN* , US-31 Kokomo Corridor Project, Updated Information on Alternative J, Transportation Improvement between IN-26 and U.S. 35 Northern Junction, City of Kokomo and Center Township, Howard and Tipton Counties, IN, *Comment Period Ends:* 12/11/2006, *Contact:* Larry Heil 317-226-7480. *EIS No. 20060437, Draft EIS, NRS, WV* , Dunloup Creek Watershed Plan, Voluntary Floodplain Buyout, Implementation, West Virginia Third Congressional District, Fayette and Raleigh Counties, WV, *Comment Period Ends:* 12/11/2006, *Contact:* Ronald Hilliard 304-284-7540. *EIS No. 20060438, Draft EIS, VAD/DON, CA* , Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery Annex, Construction and Operation, Located at Marine Corps Air Station

(MCAS)Miramar, Point Loma, San Diego County, CA, *Comment Period Ends:* 12/11/2006, *Contact:* Hiphil Clemente 619-532-3781. *EIS No. 20060439, Final Supplement, AFS, CA* , Rock Creek Recreational Trails Project, Updated Information on Habitat Status and Population Trend for the Pacific Deer Herd, Implementation, Eldorado National Forest, Eldorado County, CA, *Wait Period Ends:* 11/27/2006, *Contact:* Laura Hierholzer 530-642-5187. *EIS No. 20060440, Draft EIS, GSA, VA* , Federal Bureau of Investigation

(FBI)Central Records Complex, Site Selection and Construction, Winchester, Frederick County, VA, *Comment Period Ends:* 12/11/2006, *Contact:* Katrina Scarpato 215-446-4651. *EIS No. 20060441, Final EIS, CGD, MA* , Northeast Gateway Deepwater Port License Application to Import Liquefied Natural Gas

(LNG)(USCG-2005-22219), Massachusetts Bay, City of Gloucester, MA, *Wait Period Ends:* 11/27/2006, *Contact:* Roddy Bachman 202-372-1451. *EIS No. 20060442, Final EIS, BLM, ID* , Coeur d'Alene Resource Management Plan, Implementation, Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Kootenai and Shoshone Counties, ID, *Wait Period Ends:* 11/27/2006, *Contact:* Scott Pavey 208-769-5059. Amended Notices *EIS No. 20060348, Draft EIS, NPS, MN* , Disposition of Bureau of Mines Property, Twin Cities Research Center Main Campus, Implementation, Hennepin County, MN, *Comment Period Ends:* 11/24/2006, *Contact:* Kim M. Berns 651-290-3030-x244. Revision of FR Notice Published 08/18/2006: Extend Comment Period from 10/16/2006 to 11/24/2006. *EIS No. 20060360, Draft EIS, AFS, WA* , Gifford-Pinchot National Forest and Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area (Washington Portion) Site-Specific Invasive Plant Treatment Project, Implementation, Skamania, Cowlitz, Lewis, Clark, Klickitat Counties, WA, *Comment Period Ends:* 11/22/2006, *Contact:* Carol A. Chandler 541-360-5100. Revision of FR Notice Published 09/01/2006: Extending Comment Period from 10/16/2006 to 11/22/2006. *EIS No. 20060376, Draft EIS, FHW, AK* , Knik Arm Crossing Project, To Provide Improved Access between the Municipality of Anchorage and Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK, *Comment Period Ends:* 11/17/2006, *Contact:* Ms. Edrie Vinson 907-586-7464. Revision of FR Notice Published 09/15/2006: Extend Comment from 10/30/2006 to 11/17/2006. Dated: October 24, 2006. Robert W. Hargrove, Director, NEPA Compliance Division, Office of Federal Activities. [FR Doc. E6-18018 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560-50-P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [EPA-HQ-OPP-2006-0856; FRL-8099-8] FIFRA Scientific Advisory Panel; Notice of Public Meeting AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: There will be a 4-day meeting of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act Scientific Advisory Panel FIFRA SAP to consider and review Worker Exposure Assessment Methods. DATES: The meeting will be held on January 9-12, 2007, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m, eastern time. *Comments* : Written comments and requests to make oral comments are accepted until the date of the meeting. However, the Agency encourages the submission of written comments by December 26, 2006, and requests to present oral comments by January 2, 2007. For additional instructions, see Unit I.C. of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION . *Nominations* : Nominations of candidates to serve as ad hoc members of the FIFRA SAP for this meeting should be provided on or before November 8, 2006. *Special Accommodations* : For information on access or services for individuals with disabilities, and to request accommodation of a disability, please contact the Designated Federal Official

(DFO)listed under For Further Information Contact at least 10 days prior to the meeting to give EPA as much time as possible to process your request. ADDRESSES: The meeting will be held at the Environmental Protection Agency, Conference Center - Lobby Level, One Potomac Yard (South Bldg.), 2777 S. Crystal Dr., Arlington, VA 22202. *Comments* : Submit your comments, identified by docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2006-0856, by one of the following methods: • *Federal eRulemaking Portal* : *http://www.regulations.gov* . Follow the on-line instructions for submitting comments. Your use of the Federal eRulemaking Portal to submit comments to EPA electronically is EPA's preferred method for receiving comments. • *Mail* : Office of Pesticide Programs

(OPP)Regulatory Public Docket (7502P), Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001. • *Delivery* : OPP Regulatory Public Docket (7502P), Environmental Protection Agency, Rm. S-4400, One Potomac Yard (South Bldg.), 2777 S. Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA. Deliveries are only accepted during the Docket's normal hours of operation 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays). Special arrangements should be made for deliveries of boxed information. The Docket telephone number is

(703)305-5805. *Instructions* : Direct your comments to docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2006-0856. If your comments contain any information that you consider to be CBI or otherwise protected, please contact the DFO listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT to obtain special instruction before submitting your comments. EPA's policy is that all comments received will be included in the docket without change and may be made available on-line at *http://www.regulations.gov* , including any personal information provided, unless the comment includes information claimed to be Confidential Business Information

(CBI)or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Do not submit information that you consider to be CBI or otherwise protected through regulations.gov or e-mail. The regulations.gov website is an “anonymous access” system, which means EPA will not know your identity or contact information unless you provide it in the body of your comment. If you send an e-mail comment directly to EPA without going through regulations.gov, your e-mail address will be automatically captured and included as part of the comment that is placed in the docket and made available on the Internet. If you submit an electronic comment, EPA recommends that you include your name and other contact information in the body of your comment and with any disk or CD ROM you submit. If EPA cannot read your comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for clarification, EPA may not be able to consider your comment. Electronic files should avoid the use of special characters, any form of encryption, and be free of any defects or viruses. *Docket* : All documents in the docket are listed in a docket index that is available at *http://www.regulations.gov* . Although listed in a docket index, some information is not publicly available, e.g., CBI or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Certain other material, such as copyrighted material, is not placed on the Internet and will be publicly available only in hard copy form. Publicly available docket materials are available in the electronic docket at *http://www.regulations.gov* , or, if only available in hard copy, at the OPP Regulatory Public Docket in Rm. S-4400, One Potomac Yard (South Bldg.), 2777 S. Crystal Dr., Arlington, VA. The hours of operation of this Docket Facility are from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. The Docket telephone number is

(703)305-5805. *Nominations, requests to present oral comments, and requests for special accommodations* : Submit nominations to serve as an ad hoc member of the FIFRA SAP, requests for special seating accommodations, or requests to present oral comments to the DFO listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT . FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Myrta R. Christian, DFO, Office of Science Coordination and Policy (7201M), Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460; telephone number:

(202)564-8498; fax number:

(202)564-8382; e-mail address: *christian.myrta@epa.gov* . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. General Information A. Does this Action Apply to Me? This action is directed to the public in general. This action may, however, be of interest to persons who are or may be required to conduct testing of chemical substances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), FIFRA, and the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996 (FQPA). Since other entities may also be interested, the Agency has not attempted to describe all the specific entities that may be affected by this action. If you have any questions regarding the applicability of this action to a particular entity, consult the DFO listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT . B. What Should I Consider as I Prepare My Comments for EPA? 1. *Tips for preparing your comments* . When submitting comments, remember to: i. Identify the document by docket ID number and other identifying information subject heading, **Federal Register** date and page number. ii. Follow directions. The Agency may ask you to respond to specific questions or organize comments by referencing a Code of Federal Regulations

(CFR)part or section number. iii. Explain why you agree or disagree; suggest alternatives and substitute language for your requested changes. iv. Describe any assumptions and provide any technical information and/or data that you used. v. If you estimate potential costs or burdens, explain how you arrived at your estimate in sufficient detail to allow for it to be reproduced. vi. Provide specific examples to illustrate your concerns and suggest alternatives. vii. Explain your views as clearly as possible, avoiding the use of profanity or personal threats. viii. Make sure to submit your comments by the comment period deadline identified. C. How May I Participate in this Meeting? You may participate in this meeting by following the instructions in this unit. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, it is imperative that you identify docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2006-0856 in the subject line on the first page of your request. 1. *Written comments.* Although, submission of written comments are accepted until the date of the meeting, unless otherwise stated, the Agency encourages that written comments be submitted, using the instructions in ADDRESSES , by December 26, 2006, to provide FIFRA SAP the time necessary to consider and review the written comments. There is no limit on the extent of written comments for consideration by FIFRA SAP. Persons wishing to submit written comments at the meeting should contact the DFO listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT and submit 30 copies. 2. *Oral comments* . Although, requests to present oral comments are accepted until the date of the meeting, unless otherwise stated, to the extent that time permits, the Chair of the FIFRA SAP may permit the presentation of oral comments at the meeting by interested persons who have not previously requested time. However, each individual or group wishing to make brief oral comments to FIFRA SAP is encouraged to submit their request to the DFO listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT by January 2, 2007, in order to be included on the meeting agenda. The request should identify the name of the individual making the presentation, the organization (if any) the individual will represent, and any requirements for audiovisual equipment e.g., overhead projector, 35 mm projector, chalkboard. Oral comments before FIFRA SAP are limited to approximately 5 minutes unless prior arrangements have been made. In addition, each speaker should bring 30 copies of his or her comments and presentation slides for distribution to FIFRA SAP at the meeting. 3. *Seating at the meeting* . Seating at the meeting will be on a first-come basis. 4. *Request for nominations to serve as ad hoc members of the FIFRA SAP for this meeting* . As part of a broader process for developing a pool of candidates for each meeting, the FIFRA SAP staff routinely solicits the stakeholder community for nominations of prospective candidates for service as ad hoc members of the FIFRA SAP. Any interested person or organization may nominate qualified individuals to be considered as prospective candidates for a specific meeting. Individuals nominated for this meeting should have expertise in one or more of the following areas: Exposure assessment, statistics, biological monitoring, pharmacokinetics, and agricultural engineering. Nominees should be scientists who have sufficient professional qualifications, including training and experience, to be capable of providing expert comments on the scientific issues for this meeting. Nominees should be identified by name, occupation, position, address, and telephone number. Nominations should be provided to the DFO listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT on or before November 8, 2006. The Agency will consider all nominations of prospective candidates for this meeting that are received on or before this date. However, final selection of ad hoc members for this meeting is a discretionary function of the Agency. The selection of scientists to serve on the FIFRA SAP is based on the function of the panel and the expertise needed to address the Agency's charge to the panel. No interested scientists shall be ineligible to serve by reason of their membership on any other advisory committee to a Federal department or agency or their employment by a Federal department or agency except the EPA. Other factors considered during the selection process include availability of the potential panel member to fully participate in the panel's reviews, absence of any conflicts of interest or appearance of lack of impartiality, independence with respect to the matters under review, and lack of bias. Though financial conflicts of interest, the appearance of lack of impartiality, lack of independence, and bias may result in disqualification, the absence of such concerns does not assure that a candidate will be selected to serve on the FIFRA SAP. Numerous qualified candidates are identified for each panel. Therefore, selection decisions involve carefully weighing a number of factors including the candidates' areas of expertise and professional qualifications and achieving an overall balance of different scientific perspectives on the panel. In order to have the collective breadth of experience needed to address the Agency's charge for this meeting, the Agency anticipates selecting approximately 12 ad hoc scientists. If a prospective candidate for service on the FIFRA SAP is considered for participation in a particular session, the candidate is subject to the provisions of 5 CFR part 2634, Executive Branch Financial Disclosure, as supplemented by the EPA in 5 CFR part 6401. As such, the FIFRA SAP candidate is required to submit a Confidential Financial Disclosure Form for Special Government Employees Serving on Federal Advisory Committees at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA Form 3110-48 [5-02]) which shall fully disclose, among other financial interests, the candidate's employment, stocks, and bonds, and where applicable, sources of research support. The EPA will evaluate the candidates financial disclosure form to assess that there are no financial conflicts of interest, no appearance of lack of impartiality and no prior involvement with the development of the documents under consideration (including previous scientific peer review) before the candidate is considered further for service on the FIFRA SAP. Those who are selected from the pool of prospective candidates will be asked to attend the public meetings and to participate in the discussion of key issues and assumptions at these meetings. In addition, they will be asked to review and to help finalize the meeting minutes. The list of FIFRA SAP members participating at this meeting will be posted on the FIFRA SAP web site at *http://epa.gov/scipoly/sap* or may be obtained from the OPP Regulatory Public Docket at *http://www.regulations.gov.* II. Background A. Purpose of the FIFRA SAP The FIFRA SAP serves as the primary scientific peer review mechanism of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances and is structured to provide scientific advice, information and recommendations to the EPA Administrator on pesticides and pesticide-related issues as to the impact of regulatory actions on health and the environment. The FIFRA SAP is a Federal advisory committee established in 1975 under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act and operates in accordance with requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. The SAP is composed of a permanent panel consisting of seven members, appointed by the EPA Administrator from nominees provided by the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. FIFRA, as amended by the 1996 Food Quality Protection Act, established a Science Review Board consisting of at least 60 scientists who are available to the SAP on an ad hoc basis to assist in reviews conducted by the Panel. As a peer review mechanism, the FIFRA SAP provides comments, evaluations and recommendations to improve the effectiveness and quality of scientific analyses made by Agency scientists. Members of the FIFRA SAP are scientists who have sufficient professional qualifications, including training and experience, to provide expert advice and recommendation to the Agency. B. Public Meeting The Agency issued its first occupational exposure testing guidelines in the early 1980s. These guidelines were intended to standardize the methodology used to conduct the studies necessary to allow the Agency to determine the potential exposures, and consequently risks, associated with the activities surrounding the use of pesticides. These activities included handling pesticides (i.e., mixing, loading and applying) as well as working in treated sites following pesticide applications (e.g., harvesting, thinning, weeding, servicing cooling towers). In the early 1990s, two databases--the Pesticide Handlers Exposure Database

(PHED)and the Chemical Manufacturers Association

(CMA)data--were constructed in order to estimate exposures resulting from mixing/loading/applying pesticides. The data assembled for use in these databases were taken from published literature as well as from industry studies submitted to the Agency. These databases have been used as the main sources for estimating occupational exposures to workers handling pesticides for both registration and reregistration actions. Since the early 1980s, the Agency has been using a scenario-based approach in its assessments for estimating exposures for occupational pesticide handlers (e.g., mixers, loaders, and applicators). This approach is consistent with the Agency's guidelines for exposure assessment which can be found on the EPA website at *http://cfpub.epa.gov/ncea/cfm/recordisplay.cfm?deid=15263* . Over the years since the issuance of the exposure guidelines, there have been scientific issues raised about the accuracy of exposure estimates based on data developed using these methods. In addition, recent protocols for the generation of new agricultural pesticide handler exposure data are being generated by a pesticide industry task force and were reviewed by the Agency's Human Subjects Review Board

(HSRB)(see *http://www.epa.gov/osa/hsrb/files/june2006finaldraftreport82806.pdf* for further information). The board raised questions concerning the scientific merits of the proposed protocols. Given the scientific issues that have been raised regarding occupational pesticide exposure estimates and study protocols, including the recent comments from the HSRB, at this time EPA is asking the FIFRA Scientific Advisory Panel

(SAP)to evaluate, in detail, issues associated with certain methodologies used to generate exposure studies and the procedures used to develop exposure estimates. As part of the background for the SAP meeting, the Agency is developing a case study that details the procedures and data the Agency uses to evaluate 6 exposure scenarios that are common in agriculture. These data can be found in the existing Pesticide Handlers Exposure Database. The following four issues are expected to be the focus of this SAP review: Sample collection methods (e.g., whole-body dosimetry, handwashing, facial/neck wipes, and biological monitoring); data needs (e.g., availability of data in the Pesticide Handlers Exposure Database); unit exposure (e.g., relating the amount of exposure to the amount of chemical active ingredient handled); and sample size issues (e.g., inter-/intra-worker variability and representativeness). C. FIFRA SAP Documents and Meeting Minutes EPA's position paper, charge/questions to the FIFRA SAP, FIFRA SAP composition i.e., members and ad hoc members for this meeting, and the meeting agenda will be available by mid December 2006. In addition, the Agency may provide additional background documents as the materials become available. You may obtain electronic copies of these documents, and certain other related documents that might be available electronically, at *http://www.regulations.gov* and the FIFRA SAP homepage at *http://www.epa.gov/scipoly/sap* . The FIFRA SAP will prepare meeting minutes summarizing its recommendations to the Agency approximately 90 days after the meeting. The meeting minutes will be posted on the FIFRA SAP web site or may be obtained from the OPP Regulatory Public Docket at *http://www.regulations.gov* . List of Subjects Environmental protection, Pesticides and pests. Dated: October 19, 2006. Clifford Gabriel, Director, Office of Science Coordination and Policy. [FR Doc. E6-18036 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560-50-S ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [EPA-HQ-OPP-2006-0201; FRL-8101-4] Organic Arsenical Herbicides (MSMA, DSMA, CAMA, and Cacodylic Acid), Reregistration Eligibility Decision; Extension of Comment Period AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Notice; extension of comment period. SUMMARY: EPA issued a notice in the **Federal Register** of August 9, 2006, concerning the availability of the reregistration eligibility decision

(RED)for the organic arsenical herbicides MSMA, DSMA, DAMA, and cacodylic acid. EPA also issued a notice in the **Federal Register** of October 4, 2006, announcing the extension of the original comment period by 30 days. This document is extending the comment period until December 13, 2006. DATES: Comments, identified by docket identification

(ID)number EPA-HQ-OPP-2006-0201 must be received on or before December 13, 2006. ADDRESSES: Follow the detailed instructions as provided under ADDRESSES in the **Federal Register** document of August 9, 2006. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lance Wormell, Special Review and Reregistration Division (7508P), Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001; telephone number:

(703)603-0523; e-mail address: *wormell.lance@epa.gov* . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. General Information A. Does this Action Apply to Me? The Agency included in the notice a list of those who may be potentially affected by this action. If you have questions regarding the applicability of this action to a particular entity, consult the person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT . B. What Should I Consider as I Prepare My Comments for EPA? 1. *Submitting CBI* . Do not submit this information to EPA through regulations.gov or e-mail. Clearly mark the part or all of the information that you claim to be CBI. For CBI information in a disk or CD ROM that you mail to EPA, mark the outside of the disk or CD ROM as CBI and then identify electronically within the disk or CD ROM the specific information that is claimed as CBI. In addition to one complete version of the comment that includes information claimed as CBI, a copy of the comment that does not contain the information claimed as CBI must be submitted for inclusion in the public docket. Information so marked will not be disclosed except in accordance with procedures set forth in 40 CFR part 2. 2. *Tips for preparing your comments* . When submitting comments, remember to: i. Identify the document by docket ID number and other identifying information (subject heading, **Federal Register** date and page number). ii. Follow directions. The Agency may ask you to respond to specific questions or organize comments by referencing a Code of Federal Regulations

(MAA)Research Task Force, the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) and several growers have requested additional time to develop comments. List of Subjects Environmental protection, Pesticides and pests. Dated: October 19, 2006. Debra Edwards, Director, Special Review and Reregistration, Division, Office of Pesticide Programs [FR Doc. E6-18035 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560-50-S ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [EPA-HQ-OPP-2006-0857; FRL-8100-2] Notice of Filing of Pesticide Petitions for Establishment or Amendment to Regulations for Residues of Pesticide Chemicals in or on Various Commodities AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: This notice announces the initial filing of pesticide petitions proposing the establishment or amendment of regulations for residues of pesticide chemicals in or on various commodities. DATES: Comments must be received on or before November 27, 2006. ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by docket identification

(ID)number EPA-HQ-OPP-2006-0857 and pesticide petition number

(PP)6E7058, by one of the following methods: • *Federal eRulemaking Portal* : *http://www.regulations.gov* . Follow the on-line instructions for submitting comments. • *Mail.* Office of Pesticide Programs

(OPP)Regulatory Public Docket (7502P), Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001. • *Delivery.* OPP Regulatory Public Docket (7502P), Environmental Protection Agency, Rm. S-4400, One Potomac Yard (South Bldg.), 2777 S. Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA. Deliveries are only accepted during the Docket's normal hours of operation 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays). Special arrangements should be made for deliveries of boxed information. The Docket telephone number is

(703)305-5805. *Instructions.* Direct your comments to docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2006-0857. EPA's policy is that all comments received will be included in the docket without change and may be made available on-line at *http://www.regulations.gov* , including any personal information provided, unless the comment includes information claimed to be Confidential Business Information

(CBI)or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Do not submit information that you consider to be CBI or otherwise protected through regulations.gov or e-mail. The Federal regulations.gov website is an “anonymous access” system, which means EPA will not know your identity or contact information unless you provide it in the body of your comment. If you send an e-mail comment directly to EPA without going through regulations.gov, your e-mail address will be automatically captured and included as part of the comment that is placed in the docket and made available on the Internet. If you submit an electronic comment, EPA recommends that you include your name and other contact information in the body of your comment and with any disk or CD-ROM you submit. If EPA cannot read your comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for clarification, EPA may not be able to consider your comment. Electronic files should avoid the use of special characters, any form of encryption, and be free of any defects or viruses. *Docket.* All documents in the docket are listed in the docket index. Although listed in the index, some information is not publicly available, e.g., CBI or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Certain other material, such as copyrighted material, is not placed on the Internet and will be publicly available only in hard copy form. Publicly available docket materials are available either in the electronic docket at *http://www.regulations.gov* , or, if only available in hard copy, at the OPP Regulatory Public Docket in Rm. S-4400, One Potomac Yard (South Bldg.), 2777 S. Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA. The hours of operation of this Docket Facility are from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. The Docket telephone number is

(703)305-5805. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sidney Jackson, Registration Division (7505P), Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001; telephone number:

(703)305-7610; e-mail address: *jackson.sidney@epa.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. General Information A. Does this Action Apply to Me? You may be potentially affected by this action if you are an agricultural producer, food manufacturer, or pesticide manufacturer. Potentially affected entities may include, but are not limited to: • Crop production (NAICS code 111). • Animal production (NAICS code 112). • Food manufacturing (NAICS code 311). • Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS code 32532). This listing is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather provides a guide for readers regarding entities likely to be affected by this action. Other types of entities not listed in this unit could also be affected. The North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) codes have been provided to assist you and others in determining whether this action might apply to certain entities. If you have any questions regarding the applicability of this action to a particular entity, consult the person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT. B. What Should I Consider as I Prepare My Comments for EPA? 1. *Submitting CBI:* Do not submit this information to EPA through regulations.gov or e-mail. Clearly mark the part or all of the information that you claim to be CBI. For CBI information in a disk or CD ROM that you mail to EPA, mark the outside of the disk or CD ROM as CBI and then identify electronically within the disk or CD ROM the specific information that is claimed as CBI. In addition to one complete version of the comment that includes information claimed as CBI, a copy of the comment that does not contain the information claimed as CBI must be submitted for inclusion in the public docket. Information so marked will not be disclosed except in accordance with procedures set forth in 40 CFR part 2. 2. *Tips for preparing your comments:* When submitting comments, remember to: i. Identify the document by docket ID number and other identifying information (subject heading, **Federal Register** date and page number). ii. Follow directions. The Agency may ask you to respond to specific questions or organize comments by referencing a Code of Federal Regulations

(ppm)and grass, hay at 40 ppm. Adequate analytical methodology using Gas Chromatography/Electron Capture (GC/EC) detection is used to measure and evaluate the chemical residue(s). List of Subjects Environmental protection, Agricultural commodities, Feed additives, Food additives, Pesticides and pests, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements. Dated: October 20, 2006. Meridith F. Laws, Acting Director, Registration Division, Office of Pesticide Programs. [FR Doc. E6-18033 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560-50-S ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [FRL-8235-2] Notice of Proposed Administrative Settlement Agreement Pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency. ACTION: Notice; request for public comment. SUMMARY: In accordance with subsections 122 (h)(1) and

(i)of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, as amended (“CERCLA”), 42 U.S.C. 9622(h)(1) and (i), notice is hereby given of a proposed administrative settlement agreement concerning the Terrero Mine Superfund Site, Terrero, San Miguel County, New Mexico (the site), between the Cyprus Amax Minerals Company (Cyprus) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The settlement agreement requires the settling party Cyprus to pay $212,000.00 to the Hazardous Substances Superfund for reimbursement of CERCLA response costs incurred by the EPA in connection with the site and with two other Superfund Site Identification Codes. The settlement includes a covenant not to sue by the EPA pursuant to section 107 of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9607, and follows the model settlement agreement promulgated by the EPA Office of Site Remediation Enforcement in February 2003. For thirty

(30)days following the date of publication of this notice, the Agency will receive written comments relating to this notice and to the settlement. The Agency will consider all comments received and may modify or withdraw its consent to the settlement if comments received disclose facts or considerations which indicate that the settlement is inappropriate, improper, or inadequate. The Agency's response to any comments received will be available for public inspection at 1445 Ross Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75202-2733, or through the contacts indicated below. DATES: Comments must be submitted on or before November 27, 2006. ADDRESSES: The proposed settlement and additional background information relating to the settlement are available for public inspection at 1445 Ross Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75202-2733. A copy of the proposed settlement may be obtained from Barbara Aldridge, 6SF-AC, 1445 Ross Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75202-2733, or by calling

(214)665-2712. Comments should reference the Terrero Mine Superfund Site, Terrero, New Mexico, and EPA Docket Number 6-11-06 and should be addressed to Barbara Aldridge at the address listed above. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: James L. Turner, Office of Regional Counsel (6RC-S), U.S. EPA Region 6, 1445 Ross Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75202-2733 or call

(214)665-3159. Dated: October 19, 2006. Richard E. Greene, Regional Administrator, Region 6. [FR Doc. E6-18020 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560-50-P FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM Change in Bank Control Notices; Acquisition of Shares of Bank or Bank Holding Companies The notificants listed below have applied under the Change in Bank Control Act (12 U.S.C. 1817(j)) and § 225.41 of the Board’s Regulation Y (12 CFR 225.41) to acquire a bank or bank holding company. The factors that are considered in acting on the notices are set forth in paragraph 7 of the Act (12 U.S.C. 1817(j)(7)). The notices are available for immediate inspection at the Federal Reserve Bank indicated. The notices also will be available for inspection at the office of the Board of Governors. Interested persons may express their views in writing to the Reserve Bank indicated for that notice or to the offices of the Board of Governors. Comments must be received not later than November 13, 2006. **A. Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis** (Jacqueline G. King, Community Affairs Officer) 90 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55480-0291: *1. Edward Kent Christian* ; to acquire voting shares of Kiester Investments, Inc., and thereby indirectly acquire voting shares of First State Bank of Kiester, all of Kiester, Minnesota *2. Jeffrey F. Burzinski* , Chaska, Minnesota, as an individual, and as part of a group acting in concert with Jeffrey J. Burzinski, Chaska, Minnesota; Kathryn J. Burzinski, Chanhassen, Minnesota; Elizabeth Burzinski, Chaska, Minnesota; and Margene Burzinski, Chaska, Minnesota; to acquire voting shares of Peregrine Corporation, Chaska, Minnesota, and thereby indirectly acquire voting shares of Community Bank Corporation, Chaska, Minnesota. Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, October 24, 2006. Jennifer J. Johnson, Secretary of the Board. [FR Doc. E6-18016 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6210-01-S FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM Formations of, Acquisitions by, and Mergers of Bank Holding Companies The companies listed in this notice have applied to the Board for approval, pursuant to the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 (12 U.S.C. 1841 *et seq.* ) (BHC Act), Regulation Y (12 CFR part 225), and all other applicable statutes and regulations to become a bank holding company and/or to acquire the assets or the ownership of, control of, or the power to vote shares of a bank or bank holding company and all of the banks and nonbanking companies owned by the bank holding company, including the companies listed below. The applications listed below, as well as other related filings required by the Board, are available for immediate inspection at the Federal Reserve Bank indicated. The application also will be available for inspection at the offices of the Board of Governors. Interested persons may express their views in writing on the standards enumerated in the BHC Act (12 U.S.C. 1842(c)). If the proposal also involves the acquisition of a nonbanking company, the review also includes whether the acquisition of the nonbanking company complies with the standards in section 4 of the BHC Act (12 U.S.C. 1843). Unless otherwise noted, nonbanking activities will be conducted throughout the United States. Additional information on all bank holding companies may be obtained from the National Information Center Web site at *http://www.ffiec.gov/nic/* . Unless otherwise noted, comments regarding each of these applications must be received at the Reserve Bank indicated or the offices of the Board of Governors not later than November 24, 2006. **A. Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta** (Andre Anderson, Vice President) 1000 Peachtree Street, NE., Atlanta, Georgia 30309: *1. First NBC Bank Holding Company* ; to become a bank holding company by acquiring 100 percent of the voting shares of First NBC Bank, both of New Orleans, Louisiana. Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, October 24, 2006. Jennifer J. Johnson, Secretary of the Board. [FR Doc. E6-18015 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6210-01-S DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [60Day-07-06BS] Proposed Data Collections Submitted for Public Comment and Recommendations In compliance with the requirement of section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 for opportunity for public comment on proposed data collection projects, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(CDC)will publish periodic summaries of proposed projects. To request more information on the proposed projects or to obtain a copy of the data collection plans and instruments, call 404-639-5960 and send comments to Seleda Perryman, CDC Assistant Reports Clearance Officer, 1600 Clifton Road, MS-D74, Atlanta, GA 30333 or send an e-mail to *omb@cdc.gov* . Comments are invited on:

(a)Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility;

(b)the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information;

(c)ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(d)ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on respondents, including through the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology. Written comments should be received within 60 days of this notice. Proposed Project OWCD Professional Training Program Online Application System—New—The Office of Workforce and Career Development (OWCD), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Background and Brief Description The mission of the Career Development Division (CDD), Office of Workforce and Career Development (OWCD), is to prepare an applied public health workforce through training and service. Professionals in public health, epidemiology, medicine, economics, information science, veterinary medicine, nursing, public policy and other related professions seek opportunities to broaden their knowledge and skills to improve the science and practice of public health. Each year CDC's professional training programs accept applications from potential candidates for review and selection. The purpose of this project is to efficiently and effectively recruit and select qualified individuals to participate in the CDD professional training programs by collecting information through an online application management system. This online application provides the CDD with the information necessary to recruit qualified professionals to participate in public health professions training programs to build critical public health workforce capacity in epidemiology, preventive medicine, prevention effectiveness/health economics, public health informatics, and public health management and leadership. Further benefit from this online application is the reduction of duplicate candidate records as well as agency resources to administer and process paper records. The application process includes the following: Submission of the responses to the questions in the online application; submission of academic transcripts, professional credentials, and letters of recommendation; a review by selected programmatic staff and expert panel members; selection of qualified candidates for interview; interview of candidates; and selection of trainees for programs. The online application questions ask for demographic data, academic history, professional experience, references and description of professional goals. The application questions and data collected are necessary to the application process to determine programmatic eligibility and to ensure that the most highly qualified candidates are chosen for the training programs. With the exception of their time, the cost to the candidates is minor. One expense depends on their academic institutions since they must obtain and submit all their academic transcripts. Another expense depends on the cost to obtain and submit other professional credentials including professional licenses and certifications. The final expense is the cost to submit letters of recommendation. Estimated Annualized Burden Hours Respondents Number of respondents Responses per respondent Average burden per response Total burden (in hours) Fellowship and Training Candidates 600 1 1 600 Dated: October 23, 2006. Joan F. Karr, Acting Reports Clearance Officer, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [FR Doc. E6-18011 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4163-18-P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [60Day-07-05DA] Proposed Data Collections Submitted for Public Comment and Recommendations In compliance with the requirement of section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 for opportunity for public comment on proposed data collection projects, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(a)Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility;

(b)the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information;

(c)ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(OMB)to interview 1,000 randomly selected HIV-infected persons in the United States who are not receiving care to determine:

(1)Their reasons for not being in care;

(2)information about any barriers to receiving care; and

(3)their clinical status ( *i.e.* , CD4, HIV viral load levels and drug resistance). There are approximately 1 million HIV-infected persons in the United States. Of these, an estimated 75 percent know they are infected, but approximately half of those who know they are infected do not have evidence of having received any medical care for their HIV infection. For this proposed data collection, areas participating in CDC's Morbidity Monitoring Project

(MMP)will identify HIV-infected people using their state's HIV/AIDS surveillance and supplemental laboratory databases. Once HIV-infected people who are not in care are identified, a structured interview will be conducted. The target number of structured interviews is 500. Qualitative interviews will be conducted with the first 75 persons who agree to a second interview. The information to be collected includes demographic data, HIV testing history, high-risk drug use and sexual behaviors, and reasons for not using health care and treatment. Results from this study will be used in conjunction with data from the MMP to determine the extent of medical services and resources needed for persons who are infected with HIV, but who have not received medical care and treatment. Additionally, new data related to those not receiving care will be used to design effective interventions for linking persons to care. Participation in the data collection is voluntary and there is no cost to respondents to participate in the survey other than their time. Estimated Annualized Burden Hours Types of data collection Number of respondents Number of responses per respondent Average burden per response (in hours) Total burden hours Structured Interview 500 1 30/60 250 Qualitative Interview 75 1 1 75 Total 325 Dated: October 23, 2006. Joan F. Karr, Acting Reports Clearance Officer, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [FR Doc. E6-18012 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4163-18-P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [60Day-07-06BP] Proposed Data Collections Submitted for Public Comment and Recommendations In compliance with the requirement of Section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 for opportunity for public comment on proposed data collection projects, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(a)Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility;

(b)the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information;

(c)ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(CDC)proposes a survey data collection to assess the CDC National Prevention Information Network's

(NPIN)Web site, products and services. The CDC NPIN serves as the U.S. reference, referral, and distribution service for information on HIV/AIDS, STDs, TB and viral Hepatitis. Products and services offered by the CDC NPIN Web site is the primary channel used by the CDC to provide information concerning prevention, treatment, and care of HIV, STD, TB, and viral Hepatitis to its prevention partners, stakeholders, and other constituents. The CDC NPIN Web site includes several searchable databases that can be used to locate information about testing centers, funding opportunities, upcoming conferences, educational materials, and news. The Web site is a widely used service by the public, with more than 24 million hits and 2 million visits recorded annually. Following enhancements to the Web site completed in February 2006, 5,214,286 hits have already been recorded from February to May 2006. In addition to the Web site, consumers can access information and order materials and resources by phone using the NPIN toll-free reference and referral line or electronic mail system. As of June 29, 2006, 82,599 organizations have ordered materials and resources using this system. Cumulatively, over 49,209 requests for materials have been logged and 3,846,890 materials have been ordered by the public. The primary purposes of the proposed data collection are to assess CDC NPIN users' satisfaction and perceived quality with the Web site, products, and services; determine the extent to which the users' needs are being met; and identify how the Web site, products, and services can be enhanced to meet the needs of the user. Specifically, the evaluation will examine

(1)perceived quality,

(2)user expectations, satisfaction, and trust,

(3)frequency of use, and

(4)other sources of information used related to the treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS, STDs, TB, and viral Hepatitis. The evaluation will be accomplished by survey data collection from users of the CDC NPIN Web site and users of CDC NPIN products and services. The first survey will be conducted annually with a random sample of CDC NPIN Web site users. Users that visit the CDC NPIN Web site for 2 or more minutes will be prompted to complete and submit the survey online. The second survey will be conducted online bi-annually with a random sample of users of CDC NPIN products and services, stratified by type of organization. Organizations that do not have access to the Internet will have the option to complete the survey via electronic mail or will be administered the survey by phone. Respondents include representatives from government agencies, community-based organizations, advocacy organizations, and various other organizations involved in the prevention and/or treatment of HIV/AIDS, STDs, TB, and/or viral Hepatitis. An OMB Clearance determination was conducted prior to preparing this package. The estimated annualized burden is provided in the following table. To assess the average burden per response for the data collection, a pilot test was conducted with no more than 9 participants for each survey. As indicated in the table, the average burden per response for the NPIN Web site User survey is 13 minutes and for the NPIN Products and Services User survey, 15 minutes. This differential is due to the difference in survey lengths. The NPIN Web site User survey is comprised of 25 questions and the NPIN Products and Services User survey is comprised of 28 questions. The “Other” category of respondents is comprised of organizations that identified themselves as “Other” or “Unknown” when requesting products or services from NPIN. There is no cost to the respondents other than their time. Estimated Annualized Burden Hours Form Respondents Number of respondents Number of responses per respondent Average burden per response (in hours) Total burden hours NPIN Web site User Survey All organizations 1,437 1 13/60 311 Subotal 1,437 311 NPIN Products and Services User Survey Social service organization 224 2 15/60 112 Health services organization/hospital/clinic 680 2 15/60 340 Community-based organization 291 2 15/60 146 Association/foundation 52 2 15/60 26 Libraries/clearinghouse/resource center 40 2 15/60 20 Faith-based organization 133 2 15/60 67 Government agency 352 2 15/60 176 Educational organization/institution 671 2 15/60 336 International agency 85 2 15/60 43 Correctional facilities/agency 85 2 15/60 43 News/media 32 2 15/60 16 Businesses/corporation 101 2 15/60 51 General public 394 2 15/60 197 Other 1,437 2 15/60 719 Subtotal 4,577 2,292 Total 6,014 2,603 Dated: October 23, 2006. Joan F. Karr, Acting Reports Clearance Officer, Centers for Disease Control Prevention. [FR Doc. E6-18013 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4163-18-P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [60Day-07-05CG] Proposed Data Collections Submitted for Public Comment and Recommendations In compliance with the requirement of Section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 for opportunity for public comment on proposed data collection projects, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(a)Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility;

(b)the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information;

(c)ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(SHAS)project (0920-0262) and the Adult/Adolescent Spectrum of HIV Disease (ASD). Both projects stopped data collection in 2004. Although CDC receives surveillance data from all U.S. States, these supplemental surveillance data are needed to make estimates of key indicators, such as quality of HIV-related ambulatory care and the severity of need for HIV-related care and services. A large number of cities and States are heavily impacted by the HIV/AIDS epidemic, resulting in the need for population-based national estimates of HIV-related behaviors, clinical outcomes, and quality of HIV care. This project will collect data on behaviors and clinical outcomes from a probability sample of HIV-infected adults receiving care in the U.S. Collection of data from interviews with HIV-infected patients will provide information on patient demographics, and the current levels of behaviors that may facilitate HIV transmission: Sexual and drug use behaviors; patients' access to, use of and barriers to HIV-related secondary prevention services; utilization of HIV-related medical services; and adherence to drug regimens. Collection of data from patient medical records will provide information on: Demographics and insurance status; the prevalence and incidence of AIDS-defining opportunistic illnesses and co-morbidities related to HIV disease; the receipt of prophylactic and antiretroviral medications; and whether patients are receiving screening and treatment according to Public Health Service guidelines. No other Federal agency collects national population-based behavioral and clinical information from HIV-infected adults in care. The data will have significant implications for policy, program development, and resource allocation at the State/local and national levels. CDC is requesting approval for a 3-year clearance for data collection. Data will be collected by 26 Reporting Areas (19 States, Puerto Rico and 6 separately funded cities). CDC estimates an average of 400 respondents per site with an 80% response rate, resulting in 8,320 respondents for the interview portion. A Short interview will be used for patients who are too ill to complete the Standard interview or when the interview must be translated, and a Proxy interview will be available if the patient consents to having a family member or other person answer the questions in the case of severe illness or in the event the selected participant died prior to being interviewed. The proxy and the short interview, each which will be used on approximately 2% of patients, will take approximately 20 minutes. Participation of respondents is voluntary and there is no cost to the respondents other than their time. Estimated Annualized Burden Hours Types of data collection Number of respondents Number of responses per respondent Average burden per response (in hours) Total burden hours Standard interview 7,988 1 45/60 5,991 Short interview 166 1 20/60 55 Proxy interview 166 1 20/60 55 Total 6,101 Dated: October 23, 2006. Joan F. Karr, Acting Reports Clearance Officer, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [FR Doc. E6-18014 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4163-18-P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Disease, Disability, and Injury Prevention and Control Special Emphasis Panel: Portfolio Review on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities In accordance with Section 10(a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (Pub. L. 92-463), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(CDC)announces the following meeting: *Name:* Disease, Disability, and Injury Prevention and Control Special Emphasis Panel: Portfolio Review on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities. *Times and Dates:* 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., January 8, 2007 (Closed). 8 a.m.-5 p.m., January 9, 2007 (Closed). *Place:* CDC Harkin Global Communications Center, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30333. *Status:* The meeting will be closed to the public in accordance with provisions set forth in Section 552b(c)(4) and (6), Title 5 U.S.C., and the Determination of the Director, Management Analysis and Services Office, CDC, pursuant to Public Law 92-463. *Matters To Be Discussed:* The meeting will include the review of the Division of Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities' programs, strategies, and activities. *Contact Person for More Information:* Esther Sumartojo, Associate Director for Science, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, CDC, 1600 Clifton Road, NE., Mailstop E-87, Atlanta, GA 30333, Telephone Number 404.498.3072. The Director, Management Analysis and Services Office, has been delegated the authority to sign **Federal Register** notices pertaining to announcements of meetings and other committee management activities, for both CDC and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Dated: October 20, 2006. Alvin Hall, Director, Management Analysis and Services Office, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [FR Doc. E6-18005 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4163-18-P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Center for Environmental Health/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry The Program Peer Review Subcommittee of the Board of Scientific Counselors (BSC), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Center for Environmental Health/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (NCEH/ATSDR): Teleconference. In accordance with section 10(a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (Pub. L. 92-463), CDC, NCEH/ATSDR announces the following subcommittee meeting: *Name:* Program Peer Review Subcommittee (PPRS). *Time and Date:* 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time, November 22, 2006. *Place:* The teleconference will originate at NCEH/ATSDR in Atlanta, Georgia. To participate, dial 877/315-6535 and enter conference code 383520. *Purpose:* Under the charge of the BSC, NCEH/ATSDR, the PPRS will provide the BSC, NCEH/ATSDR with advice and recommendations on NCEH/ATSDR program peer review. They will serve the function of organizing, facilitating, and providing a long-term perspective to the conduct of NCEH/ATSDR program peer review. *Matters To Be Discussed:* A review of the previous meeting; an update on the planning of the Site Specific Activities Peer Review; a discussion of the revised Peer Review Conflict-of-Interest form; a discussion of Terrorism Preparedness and Emergency Response Peer Review in February 2007: Divisions included in the review, areas of expertise required for the review, and nominations for a PPRS panel member, chairperson and peer reviewers. Agenda items are subject to change as priorities dictate. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This meeting is scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. To participate, please dial 877/315-6535 and enter conference code 383520. Public comment period is scheduled for 9:40-9:50 a.m. *Contact Person for More Information:* Sandra Malcom, Committee Management Specialist, Office of Science, NCEH/ATSDR, M/S E-28, 1600 Clifton Road, NE., Atlanta, Georgia 30333, telephone 404/498-0622. The Director, Management Analysis and Services Office, has been delegated the authority to sign **Federal Register** notices pertaining to announcements of meetings and other committee management activities for both CDC and NCEH/ATSDR. Dated: October 20, 2006. Alvin Hall, Director, Management Analysis and Services Office, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [FR Doc. E6-18006 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4163-18-P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services [Document Identifier: CMS-10198 and CMS-10203] Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request AGENCY: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, HHS. In compliance with the requirement of section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Department of Health and Human Services, is publishing the following summary of proposed collections for public comment. Interested persons are invited to send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including any of the following subjects:

(1)The necessity and utility of the proposed information collection for the proper performance of the Agency's function;

(2)the accuracy of the estimated burden;

(3)ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(4)the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology to minimize the information collection burden. 1. *Type of Information Collection Request:* New Collection; *Title of Information Collection:* Creditable Coverage Disclosure To CMS Instructions contained in 42 CFR 423.56; *Use:* Section 1860D-13 of the Medicare Modernization Act requires certain entities that provide prescription drug coverage to Medicare Part D eligible individuals to disclose to CMS whether such coverage meets the actuarial requirements specified in the guidelines provided by CMS. The actuarial determination measures whether the expected amount of paid claims under the entity's prescription drug coverage is at least as much as the expected amount of paid claims under the standard Medicare prescription drug benefit. This information will be used for research, program evaluation and to verify whether or not beneficiaries are subject to a late enrollment penalty; *Form Number:* CMS-10198 (OMB#: 0938—New); *Frequency:* Recordkeeping, third party disclosure and reporting—On occasion and Annually; *Affected Public:* Business or other for-profit, not-for-profit institutions and Federal, State, local or tribal government; *Number of Respondents:* 446,160; *Total Annual Responses:* 450,660; *Total Annual Hours:* 37,555. 2. *Type of Information Collection Request:* New collection; *Title of Information Collection:* Medicare Health Outcome Survey

(HOS)and supporting regulations at 42 CFR 422.152; *Use:* The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 mandates the collection, analysis and reporting of health outcomes information. The collection of Medicare health outcomes information is necessary to hold Medicare managed care contractors accountable for the quality of care they are delivering. This reporting requirement allows CMS to obtain the information necessary for the proper oversight of the program. *Form Number:* CMS-10203 (OMB#: 0938—New); *Frequency:* Recordkeeping, reporting: Annually; *Affected Public:* Individuals or households, business or other for-profit and not-for-profit institutions; *Number of Respondents:* 320,040; *Total Annual Responses:* 320,040; *Total Annual Hours:* 105,613. To obtain copies of the supporting statement and any related forms for the proposed paperwork collections referenced above, access CMS Web site address at *http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PaperworkReductionActof1995* , or e-mail your request, including your address, phone number, OMB number, and CMS document identifier, to *Paperwork@cms.hhs.gov* , or call the Reports Clearance Office on

(410)786-1326. Written comments and recommendations for the proposed information collections must be mailed or faxed within 30 days of this notice directly to the OMB desk officer: OMB Human Resources and Housing Branch, Attention: Carolyn Lovett, New Executive Office Building, Room 10235, Washington, DC 20503. Fax Number:

(202)395-6974. Dated: October 19, 2006. Michelle Shortt, Director, Regulations Development Group, Office of Strategic Operations and Regulatory Affairs. [FR Doc. E6-17909 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4120-01-P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services [Document Identifier: CMS-R-204, CMS-10208, and CMS-301] Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request AGENCY: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, HHS. In compliance with the requirement of section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

(CMS)is publishing the following summary of proposed collections for public comment. Interested persons are invited to send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including any of the following subjects:

(1)The necessity and utility of the proposed information collection for the proper performance of the agency's functions;

(2)the accuracy of the estimated burden;

(3)ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(4)the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology to minimize the information collection burden. 1. *Type of Information Collection Request:* Extension of a currently approved collection; *Title of Information Collection:* Data Collection for the Second Generation Social Health Maintenance Organization Demonstration; *Use:* The purpose of the Second Generation Social Health Maintenance Organization Demonstration (S/HMO-II) is to refine the targeting and financing methodologies, and benefit design of the Social Health Maintenance Organization Demonstration model. Four primary components of the S/HMO-II demonstration are:

(1)A geriatric care approach that will be applied across the entire spectrum of S/HMO-II enrollees;

(2)expanded community care coordination through links between chronic care case-management and acute care providers;

(3)provision of long-term-benefits; and

(4)an adjusted average per capita costs based risk-adjusted payment methodology. *Form Number:* CMS-R-204 (OMB#: 0938-0709); *Frequency:* Reporting—yearly; *Affected Public:* Individuals or households; *Number of Respondents:* 17,624; *Total Annual Responses:* 17,624; *Total Annual Hours:* 3,425. 2. *Type of Information Collection Request:* New collection; *Title of Information Collection:* Assessing Degrees of Health Care Involvement Survey; *Use:* It is not sufficient to merely mail information about the Medicare program to each beneficiary. CMS needs to know that the beneficiaries received the information, understood the information and found the information useful in making choices about their Medicare participation. To this end, CMS must have measure(s) over time of what beneficiaries know and understand about the Medicare program now to be able to quantify and attribute any changes to their understanding or behavior to information/education initiatives. Measuring beneficiary information needs and knowledge over time will help CMS to evaluate the impact of information/education and other initiatives, as well as to understand how the population is changing separate from such initiatives. *Form Number:* CMS-10208 (OMB#: 0938—NEW); *Frequency:* Reporting—weekly; *Affected Public:* Individuals or households; *Number of Respondents:* 4,000; *Total Annual Responses:* 3,500; *Total Annual Hours:* 1,200. 3. *Type of Information Collection Request:* Extension of a currently approved collection; *Title of Information Collection:* Certification of Medicaid Eligibility Control

(MEQC)Payment Error Rates and Supporting Regulations at 42 CFR 431.800-431.865; *Use:* Medicaid Eligibility Quality Control

(MEQC)is operated by Title XIX agencies to monitor and improve the administration of its Medicaid program. The traditional MEQC program is based on State reviews of Medicaid beneficiaries identified through a statistically reliable statewide sample of cases selected from the eligibility files. These reviews are conducted to determine whether the sampled cases meet applicable Title XIX eligibility requirements. State agencies are required to submit the Payment Error Rate form to their respective CMS Regional Office. Regional Office staff will review these forms for completeness and will forward these forms to central office for compilation of error rate charts for projected quarterly withholdings and/or fiscal disallowances. *Form Number:* CMS-301 (OMB#: 0938-0246); *Frequency:* Recordkeeping and reporting—semi-annually; *Affected Public:* State, local or tribal governments; *Number of Respondents:* 51; *Total Annual Responses:* 102; *Total Annual Hours:* 22,515. To obtain copies of the supporting statement and any related forms for the proposed paperwork collections referenced above, access CMS' Web site address at *http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PaperworkReductionActof1995* , or e-mail your request, including your address, phone number, OMB number, and CMS document identifier, to *Paperwork@cms.hhs.gov* , or call the Reports Clearance Office on

(410)786-1326. To be assured consideration, comments and recommendations for the proposed information collections must be received at the address below, no later than 5 p.m. on December 26, 2006. CMS, Office of Strategic Operations and Regulatory Affairs, Division of Regulations Development—C, Attention: Bonnie L Harkless, Room C4-26-05, 7500 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21244-1850. Dated October 19, 2006. Michelle Shortt, Director, Regulations Development Group, Office of Strategic Operations and Regulatory Affairs. [FR Doc. E6-17910 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4120-01-P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services [CMS-4126-PN] Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Reapproval of Deeming Authority of the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc. for Medicare Advantage Health Maintenance Organizations and Local Preferred Provider Organizations AGENCY: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), HHS. ACTION: Proposed notice. SUMMARY: This notice announces our proposal to reapprove Medicare Advantage Deeming Authority of the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc. for health maintenance organizations and local preferred provider organizations for a term of 6 years. This new term of approval begins July 12, 2006, and ends July 11, 2012. This notice also announces a 30-day period for public comments on renewal of the application. DATES: To be assured consideration, comments must be received at one of the addresses provided below, no later than 5 p.m. on November 27, 2006. ADDRESSES: In commenting, please refer to file code CMS-4126-PN. Because of staff and resource limitations, we cannot accept comments by facsimile

(FAX)transmission. You may submit comments in one of three ways (no duplicates, please): 1. *Electronically* . You may submit electronic comments on specific issues in this regulation to *http://www.cms.hhs.gov/regulations/ecomments* . (Attachments should be in Microsoft Word, WordPerfect, or Excel; however, we prefer Microsoft Word.) 2. *By mail.* You may mail written comments (one original and two copies) to the following address ONLY: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Department of Health and Human Services, Attention: CMS-4126-PN, P.O. Box 8017, Baltimore, MD 21244-8017. Please allow sufficient time for mailed comments to be received before the close of the comment period. 3. *By hand or courier.* If you prefer, you may deliver (by hand or courier) your written comments (one original and two copies) before the close of the comment period to one of the following addresses. If you intend to deliver your comments to the Baltimore address, please call telephone number

(410)786-9994 in advance to schedule your arrival with one of our staff members. Room 445-G, Hubert H. Humphrey Building, 200 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20201; or 7500 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21244-1850. (Because access to the interior of the HHH Building is not readily available to persons without Federal Government identification, commenters are encouraged to leave their comments in the CMS drop slots located in the main lobby of the building. A stamp-in clock is available for persons wishing to retain a proof of filing by stamping in and retaining an extra copy of the comments being filed.) Comments mailed to the addresses indicated as appropriate for hand or courier delivery may be delayed and received after the comment period. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Shaheen Halim,

(410)786-0641. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Background Under the Medicare program, eligible beneficiaries may receive covered services through a managed care organization

(MCO)that has a Medicare Advantage

(MA)(formerly, Medicare+Choice) contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The regulations specifying the Medicare requirements that must be met in order for an MCO to enter into an MA contract with CMS are located at 42 CFR part 422. These regulations implement Part C of Title XVIII of the Social Security Act (the Act), which specifies the services that an MCO must provide and the requirements that the organization must meet to be an MA contractor. Other relevant sections of the Act are Parts A and B of Title XVIII and Part A of Title XI pertaining to the provision of services by Medicare certified providers and suppliers. Generally, for an MCO to be an MA organization, the MCO must be licensed by the State as a risk bearing organization as set forth in part 422 of our regulations. Additionally, the MCO must file an application demonstrating that it meets other Medicare requirements in part 422 of our regulations. Following approval of the MA contract, we engage in routine monitoring and oversight audits of the MA organization to ensure continuing compliance. The monitoring and oversight audit process is comprehensive and uses a written protocol that itemizes the Medicare requirements the MA organization must meet. As an alternative for meeting some Medicare requirements, an MA organization may be exempt from CMS monitoring of certain requirements in subsets listed in section 1852(e)(4)(B) of the Social Security Act (the Act) as a result of an MA organization's accreditation by a CMS-approved accrediting organization (AO). In essence, the Secretary “deems” that the Medicare requirements are met based on a determination that the AO's standards are at least as stringent as Medicare requirements. Therefore, MA organizations that are licensed as health maintenance organizations

(HMOs)or preferred provider organizations

(PPOs)and are accredited by an approved accrediting organization may receive, at their request, deemed status for the MA requirements in the following six areas: Quality Improvement, Information on Advance Directives, Antidiscrimination, Confidentiality and Accuracy of Enrollee Records, Access to Services, and Provider Participation Rules. At this time, Deeming does not include the Part D areas of review listed in § 422.156(b). Organizations that apply for MA deeming authority are generally recognized by the industry as entities that accredit MCOs that are licensed as an HMO or a PPO. As we specify at § 422.157(b)(2) of our regulations, the term for which an AO may be approved by CMS may not exceed 6 years. For continuing approval, the AO must re-apply to CMS. Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc. (AAAHC) was approved as an authorized AO for Medicare Advantage deeming on June 15, 2002. AAAHC was granted a term of approval of 4 years beginning June 15, 2002, and ending on June 14, 2006. On June 13, 2006, we issued a letter to AAAHC with instructions regarding application for a renewal of term. On June 14, 2006, AAAHC submitted a letter of intent to renew its MA deeming authority, and subsequently submitted all materials requested by CMS for a complete renewal application. The materials requested by CMS included updates and/or changes to items listed in Federal regulations at 42 CFR 422.158(a) that are prerequisites for receiving deeming program approval by CMS, and which were furnished to CMS by AAAHC as part of its initial application for deeming authority in 2002. II. Deeming Applications Approval Process Section 1852(e)(4)(C) of the Act provides a statutory timetable to ensure that our review of deeming applications is conducted in a timely manner. The Act provides us with 210 calendar days after the date of receipt of an application to complete our survey activities and application review process. At the end of the 210-day period, we must publish an approval or denial of the application in the **Federal Register** . III. Deeming Approval Review and Evaluation As set forth in section 1852(e)(4) of the Act and our regulations at § 422.158, the review and evaluation of the AAAHC's accreditation program (including its standards and monitoring protocol) were compared to the requirements set forth in part 422 for the MA program. A. Components of the Review Process The review of AAAHC's application for approval of MA deeming authority included the following components: 1. Desk-Top Review We conducted a desk-top review of updated materials regarding AAAHC's managed care accreditation program, including— • A description of AAAHC's survey process for managed care plans, including the frequency of surveys performed, whether the surveys are announced or unannounced, surveyor instructions, the review and accreditation status decision-making process, procedures used to notify accredited MA organizations of deficiencies and monitoring of the correction of deficiencies, and the procedures used to enforce compliance with accreditation requirements; • Information about the individuals who perform network accreditation reviews, including the size and composition of the survey team, the methods of compensation, the education and experience requirements, the content and frequency of the in-service training, the evaluation system used to monitor performance, and conflict of interest requirements governing AAAHC staff and surveyors; • A description of the data management and analysis system, the types (full, partial, or denial) and categories (provisional, conditional, temporary) of accreditation offered by AAAHC, the duration of each category of accreditation, and a statement identifying the types and categories that would serve as a basis for accreditation, if we grant AAAHC organization deeming authority; • The procedures used to respond to and investigate complaints or identify other problems with accredited organizations, including coordination of these activities with licensing bodies and ombudsmen programs; • A description of how AAAHC provides accreditation information to the general public; • The policies and procedures for

(1)withholding, denying and removing accreditation status, and the other actions AAAHC may take in response to noncompliance with their standards and requirements, and

(2)how AAAHC treats accreditation of organizations that are acquired by another organization, have merged with another organization, or that undergo a change of ownership or management; • Lists of all AAAHC-accredited MA organizations, managed care plans surveyed by AAAHC in the past 3 years, and managed care plans that were scheduled to be surveyed by AAAHC within 3 months of submitting their application. 2. Assessment of AAAHC's Standards and Methods of Evaluation As part of the application for renewal of term, AAAHC submitted a crosswalk that compared its standards and methods of evaluations with corresponding MA audit requirements in six areas: Quality Improvement, Access to Services, Antidiscrimination, Information on Advance Directives, Provider Participation Rules, and Confidentiality and Accuracy of Enrollee Records. 3. Past Performance and Results of Deeming Validation Review (Look-behind Audit) We also considered AAAHC's past performance in the deeming program and results of recent deeming validation reviews, or look-behind audits conducted as part of continuing Federal oversight of the deeming program under § 422.157(d). B. Results of the Review Process Using the information listed in section III.A. of this notice, we determined that AAAHC's current accreditation program for managed care plans continues to be at least as stringent as the MA requirements contained in the six categories set forth in section 1852(e)(4)(C) of the Act and our methods of evaluation for those areas. IV. Term of Approval Based on the review and observations described in section III of this proposed notice, we have determined that AAAHC's requirements for HMOs and local PPOs continue to meet or exceed our requirements. Therefore, we are proposing to recognize AAAHC as a national accreditation organization for HMOs and PPOs that request participation in the Medicare program. As a result, we are proposing to approve AAAHC's deeming program effective July 12, 2006 through July 11, 2012. V. Regulatory Impact Statement We have examined the impact of this notice as required by Executive Order 12866 (September 1993, Regulatory Planning and Review) and the Regulatory Flexibility Act

(RFA)September 19, 1980 (Pub. L. 96-354). Executive Order 12866 directs agencies to assess all costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, when regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, public health and safety effects; distributive impacts; and equity). A regulatory impact analysis

(RIA)must be prepared for major rules with economically significant effects ($100 million or more in any 1 year). This notice would not reach the economic threshold and thus is not considered a major rule. The RFA requires agencies to analyze options for regulatory relief of small businesses. For purposes of the RFA, small entities include small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and small governmental jurisdictions. Most hospitals and most other providers and suppliers are small entities, either by nonprofit status or by having revenues of $6 million to $29 million in any 1 year. Individuals and States are not included in the definition of a small entity. We are not preparing an analysis for the RFA because we have determined that this notice would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. In addition, section 1102(b) of the Act requires us to prepare a regulatory impact analysis if a rule may have a significant impact on the operations of a substantial number of small rural hospitals. This analysis must conform to the provisions of section 603 of the RFA. For purposes of section 1102(b) of the Act, we define a small rural hospital as a hospital that is located outside of a Metropolitan Statistical Area and has fewer than 100 beds. We are not preparing an analysis for section 1102(b) of the Act because we have determined that this notice would not have a significant impact on the operations of a substantial number of small rural hospitals. This notice merely recognizes AAAHC as a national accreditation organization that has approval for deeming authority for HMOs or PPOs that are participating in the MA program. Section 202 of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 also requires that agencies assess anticipated costs and benefits before issuing any rule whose mandates require spending in any 1 year of $100 million in 1995 dollars, updated annually for inflation. That threshold level is currently approximately $120 million. This notice would have no consequential effect on State, local, or tribal governments or on the private sector. Executive Order 13132 establishes certain requirements that an agency must meet when it promulgates a proposed rule (and subsequent final rule) that imposes substantial direct requirement costs on State and local governments, preempts State law, or otherwise has Federalism implications. Since this notice would not impose any costs on State or local governments, the requirements of E.O. 13132 are not applicable. In accordance with the provisions of Executive Order 12866, this notice was not reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget. Authority: Secs. 1851 and 1855 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w-21 and 42 U.S.C. 1395w-25). (Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Program No. 93.773, Medicare—Hospital Insurance; and Program No. 93.774, Medicare—Supplementary Medical Insurance Program) Dated: October 20, 2006. Leslie V. Norwalk, Acting Administrator, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. [FR Doc. E6-18044 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4120-01-P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services [CMS-3174-N] Medicare Program; Meeting of the Medicare Coverage Advisory Committee—December 13, 2006 AGENCY: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), HHS. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: This notice announces a public meeting of the Medicare Coverage Advisory Committee (“MCAC” or “the Committee”). MCAC provides guidance and advice to CMS on specific clinical topics under review for Medicare coverage. This meeting concerns reconsideration of the Medicare clinical trial policy. Notice of this meeting is given under the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App. 2, section 10(a)). DATES: *Meeting Date:* The public meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 13, 2006 from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., e.s.t. *Registration Deadline:* For security reasons, registration must be made no later than 5 p.m. on November 29, 2006. Requests for special accommodations must be received by 5 p.m. on November 29, 2006. *Presentation and Written Comments Deadline:* Written comments and presentations must be received by November 13, 2006, e.s.t. Presentations once submitted are final. No further changes to the presentation can be accepted after submission. ADDRESSES: *Meeting Location:* The meeting will be held in the main auditorium of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 7500 Security Blvd., Baltimore, MD 21244. *Registration:* Individuals who intend to register may register by contacting Maria Ellis at

(410)786-0309; e-mail to *Maria.Ellis@cms.hhs.gov;* or by regular mail to Maria Ellis, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, OCSQ-Coverage and Analysis Group, C1-09-06, 7500 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21244. *Presentation and Comment Submission:* Interested persons may present data, information, or views orally or in writing on issues pending before the Committee. Presentation and written comments can be submitted by e-mail or by regular mail to Kimberly Long or Janet Brock, Executive Secretary for MCAC, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Office of Clinical Standards and Quality, Coverage and Analysis Group, C1-09-06, 7500 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21244. *Web Site Address for Additional Information:* You may access up-to-date information on this meeting at *http://www.cms.hhs.gov/FACA/02_MCAC.asp#TopOfPage.* FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kimberly Long or Janet Brock, Executive Secretaries for MCAC; Kimberly Long at 410-786-5702 or e-mail at *Kimberly.Long@cms.hhs.gov* or Janet Brock at 410-786-2700 or e-mail at *Janet.Brock@cms.hhs.gov;* or contact by regular mail to Kimberly Long or Janet Brock, Executive Secretary for MCAC, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, OCSQ-Coverage and Analysis Group, C1-09-06, 7500 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21244. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Meeting Topic In the December 14, 1998 **Federal Register** (63 FR 68780), we published a notice to describe the Medicare and Coverage Advisory Committee (“MCAC” or “the Committee”), which provides guidance and advice to CMS on specific clinical topics under review for Medicare coverage. This notice announces the December 13, 2006 public meeting of the Committee. During this meeting, the Committee will discuss evidence and hear presentations and public comments concerning the clinical trial policy National Coverage Determination

(NCD)reconsideration. On July 10, 2006, CMS posted on its Web site for a 30-day public comment period, information to initiate the NCD reconsideration and we received numerous comments. The MCAC will discuss three important proposed changes to the Medicare clinical trial policy:

(1)Review the set of standards for qualified studies;

(2)recommend processes through which a trial is determined to meet those standards; and

(3)advise on the items and services provided to Medicare beneficiaries in qualified studies. In addition to evaluating the available data, the Committee will provide recommendations on the content and implementation of the clinical trial policy National Coverage Determination

(NCD)reconsideration. Background information about this topic, including panel materials, are available at *http://www.cms.hhs.gov/coverage.* II. Meeting Procedures This meeting is open to the public. The Committee will hear oral presentations from the public for approximately 45 minutes. The Committee may limit the number and duration of oral presentations to the time available. If you wish to make formal presentations, you must notify one of the Executive Secretaries for MCAC and submit the following to the address listed in the ADDRESSES section of this notice by the date listed in the DATES section of this notice:

(1)A brief statement of the general nature of the evidence or arguments you wish to present;

(2)the names and addresses of proposed participants; and

(3)a written copy of your presentation. Your presentation should consider the questions we have posed to the Committee and focus on the issues specific to the topic. The questions will be available on the following Web site: *http://www.cms.hhs.gov/FACA/02_MCAC.asp#TopOfPage.* We require that you declare at the meeting information pertinent to your relationship with the topic, such as, for example, financial involvement or institutional support. The Committee will also allow a 15 minute unscheduled open public session for any attendee to address issues specific to the topic. After the public and CMS presentations, the Committee will deliberate openly on the topic. Interested persons may observe the deliberations, but the Committee will not hear further comments during this time except at the request of the chairperson. At the conclusion of the day, the members will vote and the Committee will make its recommendation. III. Registration Instructions and Requests for Special Accomodations The Coverage and Analysis Group is coordinating meeting registration. While there is no registration fee, individuals must register to attend. All persons interested in attending must register by contacting Maria Ellis at the address specified in the ADDRESSES section of this notice by November 29, 2006. Please provide your name, address, organization, telephone number(s), fax number(s), and e-mail address. You will receive a registration confirmation with instructions for your arrival at the CMS complex. You will be notified if the seating capacity has been reached. Persons attending the meeting who are hearing or visually impaired, or have a condition that requires special assistance or accommodations, must submit their request with their registration information to one of the Executive Secretaries listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section of this notice. IV. Security, Building, and Parking Guidelines This meeting will be held in a Federal Government building; therefore, Federal security measures are applicable. In planning your arrival time, we recommend that you arrive reasonably early to allow additional time to clear security. In order to gain access to the building and grounds, individuals must present photographic identification to the Federal Protective Service or Guard Service personnel before being allowed entrance. Security measures also include a full inspection of vehicles, inside and exterior areas, at the entrance to the grounds. In addition, all individuals entering the building must pass through a metal detector. All items brought to CMS, whether personal or for the purpose of or support of a demonstration, are subject to inspection. We cannot assume responsibility for coordinating the receipt, transfer, transport, storage, set-up, safety, or timely arrival of any personal belongings or items used for demonstration or to support a demonstration. Parking permits and instructions will be issued upon arrival. Note: *Individuals who are not registered in advance will not be permitted to enter the building and will be unable to attend the meeting.* The public may not enter the building earlier than 30 to 45 minutes prior to the convening of the meeting. Visitors must be escorted in all areas except for the lower and first floor levels of the Central Building. Authority: 5 U.S.C. App. 2, section 10(a). (Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Program No. 93.774, Medicare—Supplementary Medical Insurance Program) Dated: October 17, 2006. Barry M. Straube, Chief Medical Officer and Director, Office of Clinical Standards and Quality, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. [FR Doc. E6-18058 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4120-01-P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services [CMS-1381-N] Medicare Program; Meeting of the Practicing Physicians Advisory Council, December 4, 2006 AGENCY: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), HHS. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: This notice announces a quarterly meeting of the Practicing Physicians Advisory Council (the Council). The Council will meet to discuss certain proposed changes in regulations and manual instructions related to physicians' services, as identified by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary). This meeting is open to the public. DATES: *Meeting Date:* Monday, December 4, 2006, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. e.s.t. *Deadline for Registration without Oral Presentation:* Friday, December 1, 2006, 12 noon, e.s.t. *Deadline for Registration of Oral Presentations:* Friday, November 17, 2006, 12 noon, e.s.t. *Deadline for Submission of Oral Remarks and Written Comments:* Wednesday, November 22, 2006, 12 noon, e.s.t. *Deadline for Requesting Special Accommodations:* Monday, November 27, 2006, 12 noon, e.s.t. ADDRESSES: *Meeting Location:* The meeting will be held in the Multi-purpose Room, 1st floor, at the CMS Central Office, 7500 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland, 21244. *Submission of Presentations:* Presentations should be mailed to Kelly Buchanan, DFO, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, 7500 Security Boulevard, Mail stop C4-13-07, Baltimore, MD 21244-1850, or contact the DFO via e-mail at *PPAC@cms.hhs.gov.* FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kelly Buchanan, the Designated Federal Official (DFO),

(410)786-6132, or e-mail *PPAC@cms.hhs.gov.* News media representatives must contact the CMS Press Office,

(202)690-6145. Please refer to the CMS Advisory Committees' Information Line (1-877-449-5659 toll free),

(410)786-9379 local) or the Internet at *http://www.cms.hhs.gov/home/regsguidance.asp* for additional information and updates on committee activities. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Background In accordance with section 10(a) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, this notice announces the quarterly meeting of the Practicing Physicians Advisory Council (the Council). The Secretary is mandated by section 1868(a)(1) of the Social Security Act (the Act) to appoint a Practicing Physicians Advisory Council based on nominations submitted by medical organizations representing physicians. The Council meets quarterly to discuss certain proposed changes in regulations and manual instructions related to physicians' services, as identified by the Secretary. To the extent feasible and consistent with statutory deadlines, the Council's consultation must occur before **Federal Register** publication of the proposed changes. The Council submits an annual report on its recommendations to the Secretary and the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

(CMS)not later than December 31 of each year. The Council consists of 15 physicians, including the Chair. Members of the Council include both participating and nonparticipating physicians, and physicians practicing in rural and underserved urban areas. At least 11 members of the Council must be physicians as described in section 1861(r)(1) of the Act; that is, State-licensed doctors of medicine or osteopathy. The remaining 4 members may include dentists, podiatrists, optometrists and chiropractors. Members serve for overlapping 4-year terms; terms of more than 2 years are contingent upon the renewal of the Council by appropriate action before its termination. Section 1868(a)(2) of the Act provides that the Council meet quarterly to discuss certain proposed changes in regulations and manual issuances that relate to physicians' services, identified by the Secretary. Section 1868(a)(3) of the Act provides for payment of expenses and per diem for Council members in the same manner as members of other advisory committees appointed by the Secretary. In addition to making these payments, the Department of Health and Human Services and CMS provide management and support services to the Council. The Secretary will appoint new members to the Council from among those candidates determined to have the expertise required to meet specific agency needs in a manner to ensure appropriate balance of the Council's membership. The Council held its first meeting on May 11, 1992. The current members are: Anthony Senagore, M.D., Chairperson; Jose Azocar, M.D.; M. Leroy Sprang, M.D.; Karen S. Williams, M.D.; Peter Grimm, D.O.; Carlos R. Hamilton, M.D.; Dennis K. Iglar, M.D.; Joe Johnson, D.C.; Vincent J. Bufalino, M.D.; Tye J. Ouzounian, M.D.; Geraldine O'Shea, D.O.; Laura B. Powers, M.D.; Gregory J. Przybylski, M.D.; Jeffrey A. Ross, DPM, M.D.; and Robert L. Urata, M.D. II. Meeting Format and Agenda The meeting will commence with the Council's Executive Director providing a status report, and the CMS responses to the recommendations made by the Council at the August 28, 2006 meeting, as well as prior meeting recommendations. Additionally, an update will be provided on the Physician Regulatory Issues Team. In accordance with the Council charter, we are requesting assistance with the following agenda topics: • Durable Medical Equipment

(DME)Update; • Physician Fee Schedule: Final Rule with Comment; • Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS)/ Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC): Final Rule; • Medicare Contractor Provider Satisfaction Survey (MCPSS) Update-2006 Results; • Pay for Voluntary Reporting Update; and • Transparency Initiative. For additional information and clarification on these topics, contact the DFO as provided in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section of this notice. Individual physicians or medical organizations that represent physicians wishing to make a 5-minute oral presentation on agenda issues must register with the DFO by the date listed in the DATES section of this notice. Testimony is limited to agenda topics only. The number of oral presentations may be limited by the time available. A written copy of the presenter's oral remarks must be submitted to the DFO for distribution to Council members for review before the meeting by the date listed in the DATES section of this notice. Physicians and medical organizations not scheduled to speak may also submit written comments to the DFO for distribution by the date listed in the DATES section of this notice. III. Meeting Registration and Security Information The meeting is open to the public, but attendance is limited to the space available. Persons wishing to attend this meeting must register by contacting DFO at the address listed in the ADDRESSES section of this notice or by telephone at (410)786-6132 by the date specified in the DATES section of this notice. Since this meeting will be held in a Federal Government Building, CMS Central Office, Federal security measures are applicable. As noted above, in planning your arrival time, we recommend allowing additional time to clear security. In order to gain access to the building, participants will be required to show a government-issued photo identification (for example, driver's license, or passport), and must be listed on an approved security list before persons are permitted entrance. Persons not registered in advance will not be permitted into the CMS Central Office and will not be permitted to attend the Council meeting. All persons entering the building must pass through a metal detector. In addition, all items brought to the CMS Central Office, whether personal or for the purpose of presentation, are subject to inspection. We cannot assume responsibility for coordinating the receipt, transfer, transport, storage, set-up, safety, or timely arrival of any personal belongings or items used for the purpose of presentation. Individuals requiring sign language interpretation or other special accommodation must contact the DFO via the contact information specified in the FOR FUTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section of this notice by the date listed in the DATES section of this notice. Authority: (Section 1868 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395ee) and section 10(a) of Pub. L. 92-463 (5 U.S.C. App. 2, section 10(a)).) Dated: October 5, 2006. Mark B. McClellan, Administrator, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. [FR Doc. E6-17386 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4120-01-P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Administration for Children and Families Proposed Information Collection Activity; Comment Request Proposed Projects *Title:* 45 CFR 1304 Head Start Program Performance Standards. *OMB No.:* 0970-0148. *Description:* Head Start Program Performance Standards require Head Start and Early Head Start Programs and Delegate Agencies to maintain program records. The Administration for Children and Families, Office of Head Start, is proposing to renew, without changes, the authority to require certain recordkeeping in all programs as provided for in 45 CFR 1304 Head Start Program Performance Standards. These standards prescribe the services that Head Start and Early Head Start programs provide to enrolled children and their families. *Respondents:* Head Start and Early Head Start grantees and delegate agencies. Annual Burden Estimates Instrument Number of respondents Number of responses per respondent Average burden hours per response Total burden hours 2,590 16 41.8 1,732,192 *Estimated Total Annual Burden Hours:* 1,732,192. In compliance with the requirements of section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, the Administration for Children and Families is soliciting public comment on the specific aspects of the information collection described above. Copies of the proposed collection of information can be obtained and comments may be forwarded by writing to the Administration for Children and Families, Office of Information Services, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447, Attn: ACF Reports Clearance Officer. E-mail: *infocollection@acf.hhs.gov.* All requests should be identified by the title of the information collection. The Department specifically requests comments on:

(a)Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility;

(b)the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information;

(c)the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(d)ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on respondents, including through the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology. Consideration will be given to comments and suggestions submitted within 60 days of this publication. Dated: October 23, 2006. Robert Sargis, Reports Clearance Officer. [FR Doc. 06-8941 Filed 10-26-06; 8:45 am]

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