Notices. Notice and request for proposals and applications

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BILLING CODE 7555-01-M DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Economic Development Administration [Docket No.: 070309052-7053-01] Solicitation of Proposals and Applications for Economic Development Assistance Programs AGENCY: Economic Development Administration (EDA), Department of Commerce. ACTION: Notice and request for proposals and applications. SUMMARY: The Economic Development Administration

(EDA)is soliciting proposals or applications (as appropriate) for the following programs authorized by the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3121 *et seq.* ) (PWEDA):

(1)Public Works and Economic Development Investments Program,

(2)Planning Program,

(3)Local Technical Assistance Program, and

(4)Economic Adjustment Assistance Program. EDA's mission is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness, preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. In implementing this mission pursuant to its authorizing statute, PWEDA, EDA advances economic growth by assisting communities and regions experiencing chronic high unemployment and low per capita income to create an environment that fosters innovation, promotes entrepreneurship, and attracts increased private capital investment. Under the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2341-2391) (Trade Act), EDA also provides technical assistance to firms adversely affected by increased import competition. DATES: Proposals are accepted on a continuing basis and applications are invited and processed as received. Generally, two months are required for EDA to reach a final decision after receipt of a complete application that meets all requirements. Proposals or applications (as appropriate) received after the date of this notice will be processed in accordance with the requirements set forth herein and in the related Federal funding opportunity

(FFO)announcement, until the next annual FFO is posted on *http://www.Grants.gov* and related notice and request for proposals and applications is published in the **Federal Register** . Pre-Application and Application Submission Requirements Proponents are advised to carefully read the instructions contained in the complete FFO announcement for this request for proposals and applications, and in the *Pre-Application for Investment Assistance* (Form ED-900P) and *Application for Investment Assistance* (Form ED-900A). The requirements of the pre-application are different than the requirements of the application. The content of the pre-application or the application (as appropriate) is the same for paper submissions as it is for electronic submissions. EDA will not accept facsimile transmissions of pre-applications and applications. Proposals under EDA's Public Works Program (CFDA No. 11.300) or Economic Adjustment Assistance Program (CFDA No. 11.307) must be submitted on Form ED-900P, which may be submitted in two formats:

(i)In paper (hardcopy) format at the applicable regional office address provided below; or

(ii)electronically in accordance with the procedures provided on *http://www.Grants.gov.* For projects under EDA's Planning Program (CFDA No. 11.302) or Technical Assistance Program (CFDA No. 11.303), please contact the appropriate EDA regional office listed below for instructions as to whether you should complete a pre-application or an application. In the case of a continuation grant, no pre-application is required. The following forms may be accessed and downloaded as follows:

(i)Forms ED-900P and ED-900A at *http://www.eda.gov/InvestmentsGrants/Application.xml;*

(ii)Standard Forms

(SF)at either *http://www.Grants.gov* or at *http://www.eda.gov/InvestmentsGrants/Application.xml;* and

(iii)Department of Commerce

(CD)forms at *http://www.doc.gov/forms.* *Addresses and Telephone Numbers for EDA's Regional Offices:* Applicants in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee, may submit paper submissions to: Economic Development Administration, Atlanta Regional Office, 401 West Peachtree Street, NW., Suite 1820, Atlanta, Georgia 30308, Telephone:

(404)730-3002, Fax:

(404)730-3025. Applicants in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas, may submit paper submissions to: Economic Development Administration, Austin Regional Office, 504 Lavaca, Suite 1100, Austin, Texas 78701-2858, Telephone:

(512)381-8144, Fax:

(512)381-8177. Applicants in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin, may submit paper submissions to: Economic Development Administration, Chicago Regional Office, 111 North Canal Street, Suite 855, Chicago, Illinois 60606, Telephone:

(312)353-7706, Fax:

(312)353-8575. Applicants in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah and Wyoming, may submit paper submissions to: Economic Development Administration, Denver Regional Office, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Room 670, Denver, Colorado 80204, Telephone:

(303)844-4715, Fax:

(303)844-3968. Applicants in Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Vermont, U.S. Virgin Islands, Virginia and West Virginia, may submit paper submissions to: Economic Development Administration, Philadelphia Regional Office, Curtis Center, 601 Walnut Street, Suite 140 South, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106, Telephone:

(215)597-4603, Fax:

(215)597-1063. Applicants in Alaska, American Samoa, Arizona, California, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nevada, Northern Mariana Islands, Oregon, Republic of Palau and Washington, may submit paper submissions to: Economic Development Administration, Seattle Regional Office, Jackson Federal Building, Room 1890, 915 Second Avenue, Seattle, Washington 98174, Telephone:

(206)220-7660, Fax:

(206)220-7669. *Paper Submissions:* To apply for Public Works or Economic Adjustment Assistance under this notice, you may submit a proposal on a completed pre-application (ED-900P) to the applicable EDA regional office listed above. Proponents choosing this option should download and print copies of Form ED-900P and the *Application for Federal Assistance* (Form SF-424) at *http://www.eda.gov/InvestmentsGrants/Application.xml,* complete Parts I, II and III of Form ED-900P and Form SF-424, and attach the project narrative statement requested in section IV.B.1. of the FFO announcement for this request for proposals and applications. To apply for Planning or Technical Assistance under this notice, the EDA regional office may instruct you to submit an application in lieu of the pre-application. After consultation with the regional office, you may submit a completed pre-application or an application, as instructed, to the applicable EDA regional office. A proponent must submit one

(1)original and two

(2)copies of a completed pre-application or application (as appropriate) via postal mail, shipped overnight or hand-delivered to the applicable regional office, unless otherwise directed by EDA staff. Proponents are advised that Department of Commerce mail security measures may delay receipt of United States Postal Service mail for up to two weeks. Proponents may wish to use guaranteed overnight delivery services. *Electronic Submissions:* Proponents applying under the Public Works Program or the Economic Adjustment Assistance Program may submit pre-applications electronically in accordance with the instructions provided at *http://www.Grants.gov.* You may access the pre-application package by following the instructions provided on *http://www.grants.gov/applicants/apply_for_grants.jsp* . The preferred file format for electronic attachments ( *e.g.* , the project narrative statement and exhibits to Form ED-900P) is portable document format (PDF); however, EDA will accept electronic files in Microsoft Word, WordPerfect, Lotus or Excel formats. Applicants for assistance under the Planning Program or the Technical Assistance Program may not need to submit a pre-application. If the regional office instructs you to submit an application (Form ED-900A) instead of a pre-application (Form ED-900P) for projects under these two programs, you may submit the application in paper (hardcopy) format or you may submit the application electronically via *http://www.Grants.gov.* If the regional office instructs you to submit a pre-application, you also may submit the pre-application in paper (hardcopy) format or electronically via *http://www.Grants.gov.* Applicants should access the following link for assistance in navigating * http://www.Grants.gov* and for a list of useful resources: *http://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant_help.jsp* . If you do not find an answer to your question under *Frequently Asked Questions* , try consulting the Applicant's User Guide. If you still cannot find an answer to your question, contact *http://www.Grants.gov* via email at s *upport@grants.gov* or telephone at 1.800.518.4726. The hours of operation for *http://www.Grants.gov* are Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

(EST)(except for Federal holidays). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For additional information or for a paper copy of the FFO announcement, contact the appropriate EDA regional office listed above. EDA's Internet Web site at *http://www.eda.gov* also contains additional information on EDA and its programs. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: *Program Information:* EDA encourages the submission of only those proposals or applications, as appropriate, which will significantly benefit regions with distressed economies. Distress may exist in a variety of forms, including high levels of unemployment, low income levels, large concentrations of low-income families, significant declines in per capita income, large numbers (or high rates) of business failures, sudden major layoffs or plant closures, trade impacts, military base closures, natural or other major disasters, depletion of natural resources, reduced tax bases, or substantial loss of population because of the lack of employment opportunities. EDA believes that regional economic development to alleviate these conditions is effected primarily through investments and decisions made by the private sector. EDA will give preference to proposals or applications (as appropriate) that include cash contributions (over in-kind contributions) as the matching share. EDA will evaluate and select proposals or applications (as appropriate) according to the investment policy guidelines and funding priorities set forth below under “Evaluation Criteria” and “Funding Priorities” and in section V. of the FFO announcement. *Electronic Access:* The FFO announcement for the FY 2007 Economic Development Assistance Programs competition is available at *http://www.Grants.gov.* Additional information is available through EDA's Internet Web site at *http://www.eda.gov.* *Funding Availability:* EDA is operating with appropriations made available under the Revised Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2007, Public Law 110-5 (February 15, 2007). This Act makes $250.741 million available in FY 2007 for the economic development assistance programs authorized by PWEDA and for the Trade Adjustment Assistance for Firms Program (TAA Program) authorized under the Trade Act. This notice will remain in effect until it is terminated or supplanted by a future **Federal Register** notice. The funding periods and funding amount(s) referenced in this notice and in the FFO announcement are subject to the availability of funds at the time of award, as well as to Department of Commerce and EDA priorities at the time of award. The Department of Commerce and EDA will not be held responsible for proposal or application preparation costs. Publication of this notice and the FFO announcement does not obligate the Department of Commerce or EDA to award any specific grant or cooperative agreement or to obligate all or any part of available funds. This request for proposals and applications covers the following programs under PWEDA:

(1)Public Works and Economic Development Investments Program;

(2)Planning Program;

(3)Technical Assistance Program; and

(4)Economic Adjustment Assistance Program. Under the Technical Assistance Program, this request for proposals and applications covers Local Technical Assistance only. A separate FFO announcement will be posted on *http://www.Grants.gov* that will set forth the specific funding priorities, application and selection processes, time frames, and evaluation criteria for certain National Technical Assistance projects to be funded with FY 2007 appropriations. Similarly, a separate FFO announcement has been posted at *http://www.Grants.gov* that sets forth the specific funding priorities, application and selection processes, time frames, and evaluation criteria for University Center projects to be funded with FY 2007 appropriated program funds. With respect to the TAA Program under the Trade Act, continuation grants will not be competed and no new Trade Adjustment Assistance Center

(TAAC)grants will be awarded this year. *See* 19 U.S.C. 2341-2391 and 13 CFR part 315. *Statutory Authority:* The authority for the

(1)Public Works and Economic Development Investments Program,

(2)Planning Program,

(3)Technical Assistance Program, and

(4)Economic Adjustment Assistance Program is PWEDA. The authorities for the TAA Program are Chapters 3 and 5 of Title II of the Trade Act. EDA published final regulations (codified at 13 CFR Chapter III) in the **Federal Register** on September 27, 2006 (71 FR 56658). The final regulations became effective upon publication and reflect changes made to PWEDA by the Economic Development Administration Reauthorization Act of 2004 (Pub. L. 108-373, 118 Stat. 1756). The final regulations and PWEDA are accessible on EDA's Internet Web site at *http://www.eda.gov/InvestmentsGrants/Lawsreg.xml.* *Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance

(CFDA)Numbers:* 11.300, Grants for Public Works and Economic Development Facilities; 11.302, Economic Development—Support for Planning Organizations; 11.303, Economic Development—Technical Assistance; 11.307, Economic Adjustment Assistance; 11.313, Economic Development—Trade Adjustment Assistance. *Applicant Eligibility:* Pursuant to PWEDA, eligible applicants for and eligible recipients of EDA investment assistance include a(n):

(i)District Organization;

(ii)Indian Tribe or a consortium of Indian Tribes;

(iii)State, a city or other political subdivision of a State, including a special purpose unit of a State or local government engaged in economic or infrastructure development activities, or a consortium of political subdivisions;

(iv)institution of higher education or a consortium of institutions of higher education; or

(v)public or private non-profit organization or association acting in cooperation with officials of a political subdivision of a State. *See* section 3 of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3122) and 13 CFR 300.3. Projects eligible for Public Works or Economic Adjustment investment assistance include those projects located in regions meeting “Special Need” criteria (as defined in 13 CFR 300.3), as set forth in section VIII.B. of the FFO announcement. For-profit, private-sector entities do not qualify for investment assistance under PWEDA, with one minor exception: EDA may award a grant under section 207 (42 U.S.C. 3147) of PWEDA under its Local Technical Assistance Program or National Technical Assistance Program to a for-profit organization for the specific purposes set forth in 13 CFR 306.1. EDA is not authorized to provide grants directly to individuals or to for-profit entities seeking to start or expand a private business. Such requests may be referred to State or local agencies, or to non-profit economic development organizations serving the region in which the project will be located. Any community affected by the 1988, 1991, 1993, 1995 or 2005 base realignment and closure

(BRAC)actions, which qualifies under EDA's Public Works Program or Economic Adjustment Assistance Program, may apply for assistance under one or both of these programs. EDA anticipates that proponents with construction proposals will seek funding from the Public Works Program, and strategic planning, credit enhancement or other innovative financing proposals will compete under the Economic Adjustment Assistance Program. *Cost Sharing Requirements:* Generally, the amount of the EDA grant may not exceed fifty

(50)percent of the total cost of the project. Projects may receive an additional amount that shall not exceed thirty

(30)percent, based on the relative needs of the region in which the project will be located, as determined by EDA. *See* section 204(a) of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3144) and 13 CFR 301.4(b)(1). For Planning Assistance, the minimum EDA investment rate for projects under 13 CFR part 303 is fifty

(50)percent, and the maximum allowable EDA investment rate may not exceed eighty

(80)percent. *See* 13 CFR 301.4(b)(3). For projects of a national scope under 13 CFR part 306 (Training, Research and Technical Assistance), and for all other projects under 13 CFR part 306, the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development has the discretion to establish a maximum EDA investment rate of up to one-hundred

(100)percent where the project

(i)merits and is not otherwise feasible without an increase to the EDA investment rate; or

(ii)will be of no or only incidental benefit to the recipient. *See* section 204(c)(3) of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3144) and 13 CFR 301.4(b)(4). In the case of EDA investment assistance to a(n)

(i)Indian Tribe,

(ii)State (or political subdivision of a State) that the Assistant Secretary determines has exhausted its effective taxing and borrowing capacity, or

(iii)non-profit organization that the Assistant Secretary determines has exhausted its effective borrowing capacity, the Assistant Secretary has the discretion to establish a maximum EDA investment rate of up to one hundred

(100)percent of the total project cost. *See* sections 204(c)(1) and

(2)of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3144) and 13 CFR 301.4(b)(5). Potential applicants should contact the appropriate EDA regional office to make these determinations. In the proposal (or application) review process, EDA will consider the nature of the contribution (cash or in-kind) and the amount of the matching share funds. While cash contributions are preferred, in-kind contributions, fairly evaluated by EDA, may provide the required non-federal share of the total project cost. *See* section 204(b) of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3144) and section I.B. of the FFO announcement for this request for proposals and applications. In-kind contributions, which may include assumptions of debt and contributions of space, equipment and services, are eligible to be included as part of the non-federal share of eligible project costs if they meet applicable Federal cost principles and uniform administrative requirements. Funds from other federal financial assistance awards are considered matching share funds only if authorized by statute, which may be determined by EDA's reasonable interpretation of the statute. *See* 13 CFR 300.3. The applicant must show that the matching share is committed to the project, available as needed and not conditioned or encumbered in any way that precludes its use consistent with the requirements of EDA investment assistance. *See* 13 CFR 301.5. *Intergovernmental Review:* Proposals or applications for assistance under EDA's programs are subject to the State review requirements imposed by Executive Order 12372, “ *Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.* ” *Evaluation and Selection Procedures:* Each pre-application or application (as appropriate) is circulated by a project officer within the applicable EDA regional office for review and comments. When the necessary input and information are obtained, the pre-application or application (as appropriate) is considered by the regional office's Investment Review Committee (IRC), which is comprised of regional office staff. The IRC discusses the pre-application or application (as appropriate) and evaluates it on two levels to

(a)determine if the pre-application or application (as appropriate) meets the program-specific award and application requirements provided in 13 CFR 305.2 for Public Works investments, 13 CFR 303.3 for Planning investments, 13 CFR 306.2 for Local and National Technical Assistance, and 13 CFR 307.2 and 307.4 for Economic Adjustment Assistance; and

(b)evaluate each pre-application or application (as appropriate) using the general evaluation criteria set forth in 13 CFR 301.8. These general evaluation criteria also are provided below under “Evaluation Criteria.” In the case of a pre-application, after completing its evaluation, the IRC recommends to the Regional Director whether an application should be invited, documenting its recommendation in the meeting minutes or in the Investment Summary and the Project Proposal Summary and Evaluation Form. For quality control assurance, EDA Headquarters reviews the IRC's analysis of the project's fulfillment of the investment policy guidelines set forth below under “Evaluation Criteria” and in 13 CFR 301.8. After receiving quality control clearance, the Selecting Official, who is the Regional Director, considers the evaluations provided by the IRC and the degree to which one or more of the funding priorities provided below are included, in making his/her decision as to which proponents should be invited to submit formal applications for investment assistance. The Selecting Official then formally invites successful proponents to submit full applications (on Form ED-900A). If the Selecting Official declines to invite a full application, he/she provides written notice to the proponent. If a proponent is selected to submit a formal application, the appropriate regional office will provide application materials and guidance in completing them. The proponent will generally have thirty

(30)days to submit the completed application materials to the regional office. EDA staff will work with the proponent to resolve application deficiencies. EDA will notify the applicant if EDA accepts a completed application, and it is forwarded for final review and processing in accordance with EDA and Department of Commerce procedures. *Evaluation Criteria:* EDA will select investment proposals or applications (as appropriate) competitively based on the investment policy guidelines and funding priority considerations identified in this notice. EDA will evaluate the extent to which a project embodies the maximum number of investment policy guidelines and funding priorities possible and strongly exemplifies at least one of each. All investment proposals or applications (as appropriate) will be competitively evaluated primarily on their ability to satisfy one

(1)or more of the following investment policy guidelines, each of equivalent weight and which also are set forth in 13 CFR § 301.8. 1. *Be market-based and results driven.* An EDA investment will capitalize on a region's competitive strengths and will positively move a regional economic indicator measured on EDA's Balanced Scorecard, such as: An increased number of higher-skill, higher-wage jobs; increased tax revenue; or increased private sector investment. 2. *Have strong organizational leadership.* An EDA investment will have strong leadership, relevant project management experience, and a significant commitment of human resources talent to ensure a project's successful execution. 3. *Advance productivity, innovation and entrepreneurship.* An EDA investment will embrace the principles of entrepreneurship, enhance regional industry clusters, and leverage and link technology innovators and local universities to the private sector to create the conditions for greater productivity, innovation, and job creation. 4. *Look beyond the immediate economic horizon, anticipate economic changes, and diversify the local and regional economy.* An EDA investment will be part of an overarching, long-term comprehensive economic development strategy that enhances a region's success in achieving a rising standard of living by supporting existing industry clusters, developing emerging new clusters, or attracting new regional economic drivers. 5. *Demonstrate a high degree of local commitment by exhibiting:* • High levels of local government or non-profit matching funds and private sector leverage; • Clear and unified leadership and support by local elected officials; and • Strong cooperation between the business sector, relevant regional partners and local, State and Federal governments. In addition to using the investment policy guidelines set forth above, EDA also will evaluate all Planning proposals or applications (as appropriate) based on the

(i)quality of the proposed scope of work for the development, implementation, revision or replacement of a comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS); and

(ii)qualifications of the proponent to implement the goals and objectives resulting from the CEDS. *See* 13 CFR 303.3(a)(1) and (2). To ensure that the proposal fully meets these requirements, proponents should pay particular attention to 13 CFR 303.7(b), which sets forth specific technical requirements for the CEDS. *Funding Priorities:* Successful proposals or applications (as appropriate) for EDA's investment programs will be regionally-driven initiatives in areas of the Nation that are underperforming and eligible for EDA assistance, and that meet one or more of the following core criteria (investment proposals or applications that meet more than one core criterion will be given more favorable consideration): 1. *Investments in support of long-term, coordinated and collaborative regional economic development approaches:* • Establish comprehensive regional economic development strategies that identify promising opportunities for long-term economic growth. • Exhibit demonstrable, committed multi-jurisdictional support from leaders across all sectors: i. Public (e.g., mayors, city councils, county executives, senior state leadership); ii. Institutional (e.g., institutions of higher learning); iii. Non-profit (e.g., chambers of commerce, development organizations); and iv. Private (e.g., leading regional businesses, significant regional industry associations). • Generate quantifiable positive economic outcomes. 2. *Investments that support innovation and competitiveness:* • Develop and enhance the functioning and competitiveness of leading and emerging industry clusters in an economic region. • Advance technology transfer from research institutions to the commercial marketplace. • Bolster critical infrastructure (e.g., transportation, communications, specialized training) to prepare economic regions to compete in the world-wide marketplace. 3. *Investments that encourage entrepreneurship:* • Cultivate a favorable entrepreneurial environment consistent with regional strategies. • Enable economic regions to identify innovative opportunities among growth-oriented small and medium-size enterprises. • Promote community and faith-based entrepreneurship programs aimed at improving economic performance in an economic region. Additional consideration will be given to investment proposals or applications (as appropriate) which also: • Respond to sudden and severe economic dislocations (e.g., major layoffs and/or plant closures, disasters). • Enable BRAC-impacted communities to transition from a military to civilian economy. • Advance the goals of linking historic preservation and economic development as outlined by Executive Order 13287, “Preserve America.” • Support the economic revitalization of brownfields. * The Department of Commerce Pre-Award Notification Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements: * The administrative and national policy requirements for all Department of Commerce awards, contained in the *Department of Commerce Pre-Award Notification Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements,* published in the **Federal Register** on December 30, 2004 (69 FR 78389), are applicable to this competitive solicitation. *Paperwork Reduction Act:* This document contains collection-of-information requirements subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA). The use of Forms ED-900P ( *Pre-Application for Investment Assistance* ) and ED-900A ( *Application for Investment Assistance* ) has been approved by the Office of Management and Budget

(OMB)under the control number 0610-0094. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person is required to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with, a collection of information subject to the requirements of the PRA unless that collection of information displays a currently valid OMB control number. *Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory Planning and Review):* This notice has been determined to be not significant for purposes of Executive Order 12866. *Executive Order 13132 (Federalism):* It has been determined that this notice does not contain policies with Federalism implications as that term is defined in Executive Order 13132. *Administrative Procedure Act/Regulatory Flexibility Act:* Prior notice and an opportunity for public comments are not required by the Administrative Procedure Act or any other law for rules concerning grants, benefits, and contracts (5 U.S.C. 553(a)(2)). Because notice and opportunity for comment are not required pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 or any other law, the analytical requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 *et seq.* ) are inapplicable. Therefore, a regulatory flexibility analysis has not been prepared. Dated: March 16, 2007. Sandy K. Baruah, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development. [FR Doc. E7-5223 Filed 3-21-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-24-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration (A-588-838) Clad Steel Plate from Japan: Continuation of Antidumping Duty Order AGENCY: Import Administration, International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce. SUMMARY: As a result of the determinations by the Department of Commerce (the Department) and the International Trade Commission

(ITC)that revocation of the antidumping duty order on clad steel plate from Japan would likely lead to continuation or recurrence of dumping and material injury to an industry in the United States, the Department is publishing notice of continuation of this antidumping duty order. EFFECTIVE DATE: March 22, 2007. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Nichole Zink or Brandon Farlander, AD/CVD Operations, Import Administration, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, 14th Street & Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230; telephone:

(202)482-0049 and

(202)482-0182, respectively. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background On October 2, 2006, the Department initiated and the ITC instituted a sunset review of the antidumping duty order on clad steel plate from Japan pursuant to section 751(c) of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (the Act). 1 1 *See Initiation of Five-Year (“Sunset”) Reviews* , 71 FR 57921 (Oct. 2, 2006); and *Clad Steel Plate From Japan* , Investigation No. 731-TA-739 (Second Review), 71 FR 57996 (Oct. 2, 2006). As a result of its review, the Department found that revocation of the antidumping duty order would likely lead to continuation or recurrence of dumping and notified the ITC of the magnitude of the margins likely to prevail were the order to be revoked. 2 On March 5, 2007, the ITC determined, pursuant to section 751(c) of the Act, that revocation of the antidumping duty orders on clad steel plate from Japan would likely lead to continuation or recurrence of material injury to an industry in the United States within a reasonably foreseeable time. 3 2 *See Clad Steel Plate from Japan; Final Results of the Expedited Sunset Review (Second Review) of the Antidumping Duty Order* , 72 FR 4482 (Jan. 31, 2007). 3 *See Clad Steel Plate from Japan* , Investigation No. 731-TA-739 (Second Review), 72 FR 10556 (Mar. 8, 2007). Scope of the Order The scope of this order is all clad 4 steel plate of a width of 600 millimeters

(mm)or more and a composite thickness of 4.5 mm or more. Clad steel plate is a rectangular finished steel mill product consisting of a layer of cladding material (usually stainless steel or nickel) which is metallurgically bonded to a base or backing of ferrous metal (usually carbon or low alloy steel) where the latter predominates by weight. 4 Cladding is the association of layers of metals of different colors or natures by molecular interpenetration of the surfaces in contact. This limited diffusion is characteristic of clad products and differentiates them from products metalized in other manners ( *e.g.* , by normal electroplating). The various cladding processes include pouring molten cladding metal onto the basic metal followed by rolling; simple hot-rolling of the cladding metal to ensure efficient welding to the basic metal; any other method of deposition of superimposing of the cladding metal followed by any mechanical or thermal process to ensure welding ( *e.g.* , electrocladding), in which the cladding metal (nickel, chromium, etc.) is applied to the basic metal by electroplating, molecular interpenetration of the surfaces in contact then being obtained by heat treatment at the appropriate temperature with subsequent cold rolling. *See* Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System Explanatory Notes, Chapter 72, General Note

(2)(e). Stainless clad steel plate is manufactured to American Society for Testing and Materials

(ASTM)specifications A263 (400 series stainless types) and A264 (300 series stainless types). Nickel and nickel-base alloy clad steel plate is manufactured to ASTM specification A265. These specifications are illustrative but not necessarily all-inclusive. Clad steel plate within the scope of this order is classifiable under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) 7210.90.10.00. Although the HTSUS subheading is provided for convenience and customs purposes, our written description of the scope of this order is dispositive. Determination As a result of the determinations by the Department and the ITC that revocation of this antidumping duty order would likely lead to continuation or recurrence of dumping and material injury to an industry in the United States, pursuant to section 751(d)(2) of the Act, the Department hereby orders the continuation of the antidumping duty order on clad steel plate from Japan. U.S. Customs and Border Protection will continue to collect antidumping duty cash deposits at the rates in effect at the time of entry for all imports of subject merchandise. The effective date of continuation of this order will be the date of publication in the ** Federal Register ** of this Notice of Continuation. Pursuant to section 751(c)(2) and 751(c)(6)(A) of the Act, the Department intends to initiate the next five-year review of this order not later than February 2012. This five-year (sunset) review and this notice are in accordance with section 751(c) of the Act and published pursuant to section 777(i) of the Act. Dated: March 15, 2006. David M. Spooner, Assistant Secretary for Import Administration. [FR Doc. E7-5269 Filed 3-21-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-DS-S DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration (C-489-502) Final Results of Countervailing Duty Administrative Review: Certain Welded Carbon Steel Standard Pipe from Turkey AGENCY: Import Administration, International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce. SUMMARY: On November 27, 2006, the Department of Commerce (“the Department”) published in the **Federal Register** its preliminary results of administrative review of the countervailing duty (“CVD”) order on certain welded carbon steel standard pipe from Turkey for the period January 1, 2005, through December 31, 2005. *See Preliminary Results of Countervailing Duty Administrative Review: Certain Welded Carbon Steel Standard Pipe from Turkey* , 71 FR 68550 (November 27, 2006) (“ *Pipe Preliminary Results* ”). The Department preliminarily found that the Borusan Group (“Borusan”), the producer/exporter of subject merchandise covered by this review, received countervailable subsidies during the period of review (“POR”). We did not receive any comments on our preliminary results and have made no revisions to those results. EFFECTIVE DATE: March 22, 2007. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kristen Johnson, AD/CVD Operations, Office 3, Import Administration, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, 14 th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230; telephone:

(202)482-4793. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background On March 7, 1986, the Department published in the **Federal Register** the CVD order on certain welded carbon steel pipe and tube products from Turkey. *See Countervailing Duty Order: Certain Welded Carbon Steel Pipe and Tube Products from Turkey* , 51 FR 7984 (March 7, 1986). On November 27, 2006, the Department published in the **Federal Register** the preliminary results for this review. *See Pipe Preliminary Results* , 71 FR 68850. In accordance with 19 CFR 351.213(b), this review covers Borusan, the only producer/exporter of the subject merchandise for which a review was specifically requested. 1 In the *Pipe Preliminary Results* , we invited interested parties to submit case briefs commenting on the preliminary results or to request a hearing. We did not hold hearing in this review, as one was not requested, and did not receive any case briefs. 1 During the POR, Borusan was comprised of Borusan Mannesmann Boru Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S. and Borusan Istikbal Ticaret T.A.S. Scope of the Order The products covered by this order are certain welded carbon steel pipe and tube with an outside diameter of 0.375 inch or more, but not over 16 inches, of any wall thickness (pipe and tube) from Turkey. These products are currently provided for under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (“HTSUS”) as item numbers 7306.30.10, 7306.30.50, and 7306.90.10. Although the HTSUS subheadings are provided for convenience and customs purposes, the written description of the merchandise is dispositive. Final Results of Review As noted above, the Department received no comments concerning the preliminary results. Therefore, consistent with the *Pipe Preliminary Results* , we continue to find that Borusan received countervailable subsidies during the POR. In accordance with section 751(a)(1)(A) of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (“the Act”), we calculated a total net subsidy rate of 0.23 percent *ad valorem* , which is *de minimis* , pursuant to 19 CFR 351.106(c). As there have been no changes to or comments on the preliminary results, we are not attaching a decision memorandum to this **Federal Register** notice. For further details of the programs included in this proceeding, see the *Pipe Preliminary Results* . Assessment Rates/Cash Deposits The Department intends to issue assessment instructions to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (“CBP”) 15 days after the date of publication of these final results of this review, to liquidate shipments of subject merchandise by Borusan entered, or withdrawn from warehouse, for consumption on or after January 1, 2005, through December 31, 2005, without regard to countervailing duties because a *de minimis* subsidy rate was calculated. We will also instruct CBP not to collect cash deposits of estimated countervailing duties on shipments of the subject merchandise by Borusan entered, or withdrawn from warehouse, for consumption on or after the date of publication of the final results of this review. For all non-reviewed companies, we will instruct CBP to continue to collect cash deposits at the most recent company-specific or country-wide rate applicable to the company. Accordingly, the cash deposit rates that will be applied to companies covered by this order, but not examined in this review, are those established in the most recently completed administrative proceeding for each company. These rates shall apply to all non-reviewed companies until a review of a company assigned these rates is requested. Return of Destruction of Proprietary Information This notice also serves as a reminder to parties subject to administrative protective order (“APO”) of their responsibility concerning the disposition of proprietary information disclosed under APO in accordance with 19 CFR 351.305(a)(3). Timely written notification of the return/destruction of APO materials or conversion to judicial protective order is hereby requested. Failure to comply with the regulations and the terms of an APO is a sanctionable violation. We are issuing and publishing these results in accordance with sections 751(a)(1) and 777(i)(1) of the Act. Dated: March 16, 2007. David M. Spooner, Assistant Secretary for Import Administration. [FR Doc. E7-5270 Filed 3-21-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-DS-S DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration [I.D. 031507C] Receipt of an Application for Incidental Take Permit

(1603)AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Commerce ACTION: Notice of availability. SUMMARY: NMFS has received an application for an incidental take permit (Permit) from the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries (NCDMF) pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA). As required by the ESA, NCDMF's application includes a conservation plan designed to minimize and mitigate any such take of endangered or threatened species. The Permit application is for the incidental take of ESA-listed adult and juvenile sea turtles associated with commercial shrimp trawling without the use of a turtle excluder device

(TED)off the coast of North Carolina from Browns Inlet to Rich Inlet due to high concentrations of algae which clog shrimp trawls and TEDs. The duration of the proposed Permit is for 5 years. NMFS is furnishing this notice in order to allow other agencies and the public an opportunity to review and comment on this document. All comments received will become part of the public record and will be available for review. DATES: Written comments from interested parties on the Permit application and Plan must be received at the appropriate address or fax number (see ADDRESSES ) no later than 5 p.m. Eastern daylight time on April 23, 2007. ADDRESSES: Written comments on this action should be addressed to David Cottingham, Chief, Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Conservation Division, NMFS Office of Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD, 20910; or by fax

(301)427-2522, or by e-mail at: *nmfs.itp.1603@noaa.gov* . The application is available for download and review at *http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/esa_review.htm* . FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Barbara Schroeder (ph. 301-713-2322, fax 301-427-2522, e-mail *Barbara.Schroeder@noaa.gov* ; Dennis Klemm (ph. 727-824-5312, fax 727-824-5309, e-mail *Dennis.Klemm@noaa.gov* ). Comments received will also be available for public inspection, by appointment, during normal business hours by calling 301-713-2322. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Section 9 of the ESA and Federal regulations prohibit the “taking” of a species listed as endangered or threatened. The term “take” is defined under the ESA to mean harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct. NMFS may issue permits, under limited circumstances, to take listed species incidental to, and not the purpose of, otherwise lawful activities. Section 10(a)(1)(B) of the ESA provides for authorizing incidental take of listed species. NMFS regulations governing permits for threatened and endangered species are promulgated at 50 CFR 222.307. Species Covered in This Notice The following species are included in the conservation plan and Permit application: Loggerhead ( *Caretta caretta* ), green ( *Chelonia mydas* ), leatherback ( *Dermochelys coriacea* ), hawksbill ( *Eretmochelys imbricata* ), and Kemp's ridley ( *Lepidochelys kempii* ) sea turtles. Background NMFS issued Permit 1325 to NCDMF (66 FR 51023, October 5, 2001) and Permit 1008 (61 FR 39442, July 29, 1996). Permit 1325 expired December 31, 2006 and had been issued for the years 2001-2006, replacing the previous permit

(1008)which had been issued for the years 1996-2000. Permit 1008 replaced NMFS emergency rules which were issued from 1992 through 1995. The two previously issued permits and the emergency rules allowed limited tow times in lieu of the use of TEDs in an area off the North Carolina coast from Browns Inlet to Rich Inlet (approximately 30 nautical miles long (55.6km) and extending 1 nautical mile (1.9km) offshore) because of high concentrations of algae which clog shrimp trawl nets and TEDs. On December 18, 2006 NCDMF submitteD an application to NMFS for a Permit

(1603)to authorize the continued use of limited tow times in lieu of TEDs in the same area (Browns Inlet to Rich Inlet) when high concentrations of algae clog shrimp trawl nets and TEDs. Conservation Plan The conservation plan prepared by the NCDMF describes measures designed to monitor, minimize, and mitigate the incidental take of ESA-listed sea turtles annually from April 1 through November 30. The conservation plan includes two primary management measures, the issuance of proclamations by the NCDMF requiring vessels to obtain a tow time permit if they wish to trawl without TEDs in the restricted area and the implementation of seasonally-based tow time requirements in lieu of TEDs within the restricted area for authorized vessels. NCDMF proposes to monitor compliance and effectiveness of the management measures via monitoring of sea turtle strandings. NCDMF proposes to terminate or modify tow time permits if strandings exceed specified thresholds in the restricted area. This is a change in monitoring from the previous conservation plan and permit, which included on-board observer coverage. The conservation plan also includes enforcement of tow times in the restricted area by Marine Patrol officers. This notice is provided pursuant to section 10(c) of the ESA and the National Environmental Policy Act

(NEPA)regulations (40 CFR 1506.6). NMFS will evaluate the application, associated documents, and comments submitted thereon to determine whether the application meets the requirements of the NEPA regulations and section 10(a) of the ESA. If it is determined that the requirements are met, a permit will be issued for incidental takes of ESA-listed sea turtles under the jurisdiction of NMFS. The final NEPA and permit determinations will not be completed until after the end of the 30-day comment period and will fully consider all public comments received during the comment period. NMFS will publish a record of its final action in the **Federal Register** . Dated: March 16, 2007. Thomas C. Eagle, Acting Chief, Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Conservation Division, Office of Protected Resources, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. E7-5272 Filed 3-21-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-22-S DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Technology Administration National Medal of Technology Nomination Evaluation Committee Meeting AGENCY: Technology Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce. ACTION: Notice of closed meeting. SUMMARY: The National Medal of Technology Nomination Evaluation Committee will meet in closed session on Tuesday, April 3, 2007. The primary purpose of the meeting is the discussion of relative merits of persons and companies nominated for the Medal. DATES: The meeting will convene Tuesday, April 3, 2007 at 10 a.m. and adjourn at 4 p.m. ADDRESSES: The meeting will be held at the Department of Commerce, Technology Administration, 1401 Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC, Room 4824. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Connie Chang, Research Director, Office of the Under Secretary, U.S. Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue, NW., Herbert C. Hoover Building, Room 4824, Washington, DC 20230, telephone: 202-482-1575. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Pursuant to the Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. app. 2, notice is hereby given that the National Medal of Technology Nomination Evaluation Committee (NMTNEC), Technology Administration, will meet at the U.S. Department of Commerce in the District of Columbia. The committee, consisting of twelve members, was established in accordance with the provisions of the Committee's charter and the Federal Advisory Committee Act. The NMTNEC meeting will be closed to the public in accordance with Section 552b(c)(9)(B) of Title 5, U.S.C. because it will involve discussion of relative merits of persons and companies nominated for the Medal. Public disclosure of this information would likely frustrate implementation of the National Medal of Technology program because premature publicity about candidates under consideration for the Medal, who may or may not ultimately receive the award, would be likely to discourage nominations for the Medal. The Secretary of Commerce is responsible for recommending to the President prospective recipients of the National Medal of Technology. The committee makes its recommendations for Medal candidates to the Secretary of Commerce, who in turn makes recommendations to the President for final selection. Committee members are drawn from both the public and private sectors and are appointed by the Secretary for three-year terms, with eligibility for one reappointment. The committee members are composed of distinguished experts in the fields of science, technology, business and patent law. The Assistant Secretary for Administration, with the concurrence of the General Counsel, formally determined on March 14, 2007 pursuant to Section 10(d) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, that the meeting may be closed because they are concerned with matters that are within the purview of 5 U.S.C. 552(c)(4),

(6)and (9)(B). Due to closure of the meeting, copies of the minutes of the meeting will not be available. A copy of the determination is available for public inspection in Technology Administration, Room 4824, U.S. Department of Commerce. Dated: March 19, 2007. Robert C. Cresanti, Under Secretary for Technology. [FR Doc. 07-1436 Filed 3-21-07; 8:45 am]

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