2018 SIP

Submittal, has not conducted an analysis to establish one for the EPA
to evaluate, and this is grounds for disapproval.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \136\ The EPA notes that it has proposed a cost-effectiveness
threshold of $11,000 per ton for EGUs in determining good neighbor
obligations for the 2015 ozone NAAQS after assessing the full range
of NOX mitigation strategies that could be applied to
fossil-fuel fired EGUs. ``Federal Implementation Plan Addressing
Regional Ozone Transport for the 2015 Ozone National Ambient Air
Quality Standard'' 87 FR 20036, 20091-93 (April 6, 2022). While this
does not represent a final promulgated cost-effectiveness benchmark
for EGUs that California is expected to have applied, the EPA's Step
3 analysis in the proposed FIP indicates the relative paucity of
analysis in California's SIP submittal regarding emissions control
opportunities at Step 3. Nonetheless, the EPA has not proposed to
apply the EGU control strategy in its proposed FIP action to
California. See id. at 20088. The EPA continues to find in this
proposal that California's EGUs are sufficiently controlled for
ozone-precursor emissions for purposes of good neighbor obligations
under the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    More fundamentally, relying on the CSAPR Update's (or any other CAA
program's) determination of cost-effectiveness without further Step 3
analysis is insufficient. Cost-effectiveness must be assessed in the
context of the specific CAA program; assessing cost-effectiveness in
the context of interstate ozone transport should reflect a more
comprehensive evaluation of the nature of the interstate transport
problem, the total emissions reductions available at several cost
thresholds, and the air quality impacts of the reductions at downwind
receptors. While the EPA has not finalized a benchmark cost-
effectiveness value for the 2015 ozone NAAQS interstate transport
obligations, because the 2015 ozone NAAQS is a more stringent and more
protective air quality standard, it is reasonable to expect control
measures or strategies to address interstate transport of ozone to
reflect higher marginal control costs. As such, the marginal cost
threshold of $1,400 per ton for the CSAPR Update (which addresses the
2008 ozone NAAQS and is in 2011$) is not an appropriate cost threshold
and cannot be approved as a benchmark to use for interstate transport
SIP submissions for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
    Although the EPA acknowledges states are not necessarily bound to
follow the EPA's own analytical framework at Step 3, CARB did not
attempt to determine or justify an appropriate uniform cost-
effectiveness threshold. This would have been similar to the approach
to defining significant contribution that the EPA has applied in prior
rulemakings such as CSAPR and the CSAPR Update, even if conducting
precisely this type of analysis is not technically mandatory. For
example, CARB did not conduct its own updated EGU analysis of all large
NOX emitting EGUs. Nonetheless, the EPA finds based on its
own analysis that additional emissions reductions are not required from
EGUs to address California's good neighbor obligations for the 2015
ozone NAAQS.\137\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \137\ The EPA reached this proposed conclusion for EGUs in
California in the context of a recent proposed federal
implementation plan and proposes the same conclusions for these
sources in this action. See ``Federal Implementation Plan Addressing
Regional Ozone Transport for the 2015 Ozone National Ambient Air
Quality Standard,'' 87 FR 20036, 20088 (April 6, 2022).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As stated in the SIP submittal, the Greenleaf One unit emits at
higher rates with a low utilization, resulting in only 2 tons of
NOX in the 2021 ozone season. Therefore, the EPA agrees it
is unlikely that any significant cost-effective emission reduction
opportunities exist at this facility. In addition, California has
highlighted the retirements of the Redondo Beach units and the ACE
Cogeneration facility. The EPA has confirmed the retirements of these
and other units in California in the IPM version 6--Summer 2021
Reference Case database.\138\ The EPA IPM version 6--Summer 2021
Reference Case uses the National Electric Energy Data System (NEEDS) v6
database as its source for data on all existing and planned-committed
units. Units are removed from the NEEDS inventory only if a high degree
of certainty could be assigned to future implementation of the
announced future closure or retirement. The available retirement-
related information was reviewed for each unit, and the following rules
are applied to remove:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \138\ The ``Capacity Dropped'' and the ``Retired Through 2023''
worksheets in NEEDS list all units that are removed from the NEEDS
v6 inventory--NEEDS v6 Summer 2021 Reference Case. This data can be
found on the EPA's website at: https://www.epa.gov/airmarkets/national-electric-energy-data-system-needs-v6.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (i) Units that are listed as retired in the December 2020 EIA Form
860M;
    (ii) Units that have a planned retirement year prior to June 30,
2023 in the December 2020 EIA Form 860M;
    (iii) Units that have been cleared by a regional transmission
operator (RTO) or independent system operator (ISO) to retire before
2023, or whose RTO/ISO clearance to retire is contingent on actions
that can be completed before 2023;
    (iv) Units that have committed specifically to retire before 2023
under federal or state enforcement actions or regulatory requirements;
    (v) And finally, units for which a retirement announcement can be
corroborated by other available information. Units required to retire
pursuant to enforcement actions or state rules on July 1, 2023 or later
are retained in NEEDS v6.
    The majority of the EGUs in California have emissions controls and
are sufficiently regulated, resulting in the lowest fossil fuel
emission rate and highest share of renewable generation among the 26
states examined at the EPA's Step 3 analysis for the proposed Federal
Implementation Plan Addressing Regional Ozone Transport for the 2015
Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standard. 87 FR 20036, 20088. The
EPA evaluated the EGU sources within the state of California and found
there were no covered coal steam sources greater than 100 MW that would
have emissions reduction potential according to the EPA's assumed EGU
SCR retrofit mitigation technologies. The NOX emission level
for California was unchanged at 1,216 tons of NOX across the
various emission control scenarios. The EPA's Step 3 analysis,
including analysis of the emissions reduction factors from EGU sources
in the state, therefore resulted in no additional emission reductions
required to eliminate significant contribution from any EGU sources in
California.
    The EPA proposes that California's Step 3 analysis was likewise
insufficient for non-EGU stationary sources. But whereas EPA is able to
conclude, based on the foregoing analysis, that additional emissions
reductions are not required from EGU sources in California, we can
reach no such conclusion with respect to other industrial sources of
emissions in the State. For non-EGUs, CARB did not complete an
evaluation of cost effective control opportunities, and instead simply
provided a cursory analysis that provided a few examples of regulations
to conclude that ``further emission controls would be unlikely to
reduce any potential impact on downwind states' air quality[.]'' \139\
CARB did not investigate additional potential emissions control
opportunities, or their costs or impacts, or attempt to analyze
whether, if applied more broadly across linked states, the emissions
reductions would constitute the elimination of significant contribution
on a regional scale.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \139\ Id. at A4-55.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The EPA acknowledges that it has previously approved California's
2008 ozone NAAQS transport SIP at Step 3 based on a relatively cursory
review of California's existing emissions control programs. See 83 FR
65093, 65094-95 (Dec. 19, 2018). That approval pre-dates the D.C.
Circuit's decision in Wisconsin v. EPA, 938 F.3d 903 (D.C. Cir. 2019),
in which the court found the EPA had not properly justified failing to
analyze emissions reduction opportunities from industrial sources
outside the power

sector. Id. at 918-20. At that time, the CSAPR Update had only
addressed reductions from the power sector and applied a cost threshold
of $1400 per ton. The EPA's analysis of California focused on the fact
that California's EGU fleet was very well controlled and that all
receptors for the 2008 ozone NAAQS were projected to be clean by 2023.
83 FR 65093, 65095. The EPA engaged in an extremely limited review of
other emissions control opportunities in California at non-EGU
industrial sources, despite acknowledging that these sources emitted
6.7 times as much NOX as EGUs, and 19 large stationary
sources each individually emitted over 500 tons per year. Id.
    The EPA finds that good reasons exist for no longer considering
such a cursory analysis of emissions reduction opportunities beyond the
power sector to be adequate for purposes of CAA section
110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I). First, the EPA and the states are implementing the
more stringent 2015 ozone NAAQS of 70 ppb. Under that more stringent
NAAQS, our analysis at Steps 1 and 2 indicates a continuing linkage
between California's emissions and persistent air quality problems (at
least through 2026) in other states in the EPA's modeling. Further,
while California may be relatively ``well controlled'' as a state
overall on a per capita basis, the same could be said of other states
throughout the country that continue to contribute above 1 percent of
the NAAQS to at least one out of state receptor despite relatively
stringent ozone-precursor emissions control programs. In the CSAPR
Update and the Revised CSAPR Update, the EPA has found that states such
as New York and New Jersey may nonetheless be found to have additional
emissions control obligations in order to address their significant
contribution under Section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I).\140\ Further, the
relevance of a per capita emissions rate, which CARB cites as
relatively low for California, is not readily apparent. California is a
large and very populous state, and by CARB's own admission, total
NOX emissions from the State are second highest in the
country, behind only Texas. Finally, the EPA recognizes the critical
importance of consistency in application of good neighbor requirements
across all states, especially with respect to regional-scale pollutants
such as ozone. The EPA's regional analysis in the proposed FIP
(discussed below) indicates emissions control opportunities at non-EGUs
in California at the same stringency as EPA's Step 3 assessment of 22
other states. Therefore, for all of these reasons, the EPA does not
view the degree of analysis at Step 3 that supported approval in the
prior California transport action to be sufficient to justify approval
in this case.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \140\ See, e.g., ``Disapproval of Interstate Transport
Requirements for the 2008 Ozone National Ambient Air Quality
Standards; New York and New Jersey'', 86 FR 60602 (November 3,
2021).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The EPA notes that in the proposed FIP for California for the 2015
ozone NAAQS, we identified several potential cost-effective
NOX controls for non-EGUs in California.\141\ The EPA's non-
EGU analysis in the proposed FIP focused on several industrial sectors
and found impactful emissions reduction opportunities up to $7,500 per
ton, which the EPA proposed are needed to address 23 upwind state's
(including California's) good neighbor obligations for the 2015 ozone
NAAQS. See 87 FR 20036, 20089-90. In particular for California, the EPA
found 1,666 tons of ozone season NOX emissions reduction
available from a 2019 baseline of 14,579 tons of ozone season emissions
from the non-EGU sectors analyzed. Id. at 20090. The EPA proposed to
require these reductions in part because, in conjunction with the other
emission control strategies proposed in the FIP across the entire
region of linked upwind states, the EPA found ozone levels would
improve on average by 0.64 ppb across all impacted receptors, including
those receptors affected by California's emissions. Id. at 20096. The
EPA proposed to determine that these controls would eliminate
significant contribution and interference with maintenance for the 2015
ozone NAAQS.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \141\ 87 FR 20036 (April 6, 2022).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The EPA acknowledges that California need not have conducted a Step
3 analysis in precisely the manner as the proposed FIP, and we further
acknowledge that our FIP for California and other states is only a
proposal at this stage and is currently undergoing public comment.
Nonetheless, the proposed FIP presents an example of how a potentially
approvable Step 3 analysis could have been conducted by CARB and
highlights that cost-effective emissions reduction opportunities likely
exist in California that could address interstate transport
obligations, which CARB failed to analyze in the 2018 SIP Submittal.
    CARB also attempted to support its conclusion that California does
not significantly contribute to nonattainment or maintenance in other
states in part because it suggested that emissions originating from
outside California, such as local emissions in Arizona and Colorado, as
well as international emissions, and wildfires, were the primary driver
of higher modeled design values at monitoring sites in those states
using the EPA modeling released with the January 2017 NODA and the
October 2017 memorandum.\142\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \142\ See California's 2018 Submittal at A4-33-A4-34, A4-44.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    With respect to local, international, and non-anthropogenic
emissions contributions, CARB's reasoning is inapplicable to the
requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I). The good neighbor
provision requires states and the EPA to address interstate transport
of air pollution that contributes to downwind states' ability to attain
and maintain the NAAQS. Whether emissions from other states or other
countries also contribute to the same downwind air quality issue is
irrelevant in assessing whether a downwind state has an air quality
problem, or whether an upwind state is significantly contributing to
that problem. States are not obligated under CAA section
110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I) to reduce emissions sufficient on their own to
resolve downwind receptors' nonattainment or maintenance problems.
Rather, states are obligated to eliminate their own ``significant
contribution'' or ``interference'' with the ability of other states to
attain or maintain the NAAQS.
    Indeed, the D.C. Circuit in Wisconsin specifically rejected
petitioner arguments suggesting that upwind states should be excused
from good neighbor obligations on the basis that some other source of
emissions (whether international or another upwind state) could be
considered the ``but-for'' cause of downwind air quality problem. 938
F.3d 303 at 323-324. The court viewed petitioners' arguments as
essentially an argument ``that an upwind State `contributes
significantly' to downwind nonattainment only when its emissions are
the sole cause of downwind nonattainment.'' 938 F.3d 303 at 324. The
court explained that ``an upwind State can `contribute' to downwind
nonattainment even if its emissions are not the but-for cause.'' Id. at
324-325. See also Catawba County v. EPA, 571 F.3d 20, 39 (D.C. Cir.
2009) (rejecting the argument ``that `significantly contribute'
unambiguously means `strictly cause' '' because there is ``no reason
why the statute precludes EPA from determining that [an] addition of
[pollutant] into the atmosphere is significant even though a nearby
county's nonattainment problem would still persist in its absence'');
Miss. Comm'n on Envtl. Quality v. EPA, 790 F.3d 138, 163 n.12 (D.C.
Cir. 2015)

(observing that the argument that ``there likely would have been no
violation at all . . . if it were not for the emissions resulting from
[another source]'' is ``merely a rephrasing of the but-for causation
rule that we rejected in Catawba County.''). Therefore, a state is not
excused from eliminating its significant contribution on the basis that
international emissions also contribute some amount of pollution to the
same receptors to which the state is linked.
    In conclusion, at Step 3, we propose that California was required
to analyze emissions from the sources and other emissions activity from
within the state to determine whether its contributions to
nonattainment were significant or interfered with maintenance of the
NAAQS in downwind states, and we propose to disapprove the 2018 SIP
Submittal on the separate, additional basis that it did not assess
additional emission control opportunities.

E. Evaluation of Information Provided Regarding Step 4

    Step 4 of the 4-step interstate transport framework calls for
development of permanent and federally enforceable control strategies
to achieve the emissions reductions determined to be necessary at Step
3 to eliminate significant contribution to nonattainment or
interference with maintenance of the NAAQS. As mentioned previously,
California's 2018 SIP Submittal did not contain an evaluation of
additional emission control opportunities (or establish that no
additional controls are required), thus, no information was provided at
Step 4. Instead, CARB concluded that the state already has ``measures
of sufficient stringency to ensure that this State does not contribute
significantly to downwind ozone problems, whether they be nonattainment
or maintenance, in other states.'' \143\ As a result, the EPA proposes
to disapprove California's submittal on the separate, additional basis
that the State has not developed permanent and enforceable emissions
reductions necessary to meet the obligations of CAA section
110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I) for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \143\ Id. at A4-58
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

F. Tribal Consultation

    On February 15, 2022, the EPA sent letters to the Morongo and
Pechanga tribes inviting consultation on this proposed action.\144\ On
March 2, 2022, the EPA held an informational meeting with the Morongo
Tribe. The Morongo and Pechanga tribes did not request consultation on
this Regional action. On April 7, 2022, the EPA opened a 30-day window
for federally recognized tribes to request consultation on the national
FIP proposal.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \144\ Letter dated February 14, 2022, from Elizabeth J. Adams,
Director, Air and Radiation Division, EPA Region IX to Mark Macarro,
Chairperson, Pechanga Band of Luise[ntilde]o Indians of the Pechanga
Reservation, Re: Invitation to Consult on California's Interstate
Transport State Implementation Plan for the 2015 Ozone National
Ambient Air Quality Standards; and letter dated February 14, 2022,
from Elizabeth J. Adams, Director, Air and Radiation Division, EPA
Region IX to Charles Martin, Chairperson, Morongo Band of Mission
Indians, Re: Invitation to Consult on California's Interstate
Transport State Implementation Plan for the 2015 Ozone National
Ambient Air Quality Standards.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

G. Conclusion

    Based on the EPA's evaluation of California's SIP submission, the
EPA is proposing to find that the portion of California's October 1,
2018 SIP Submittal addressing CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I) does not
meet the State's interstate transport obligations, because it fails to
contain the necessary provisions to eliminate emissions that will
contribute significantly to nonattainment or interfere with maintenance
of the 2015 8-hour ozone NAAQS in any other state.

IV. Proposed Action

    We are proposing to disapprove Enclosure 4 of California's 2018 SIP
Submittal pertaining to interstate transport of air pollution which
will significantly contribute to nonattainment or interfere with
maintenance of the 2015 8-hour ozone NAAQS in other states. Under CAA
section 110(c)(1), disapproval would establish a 2-year deadline for
the EPA to promulgate a FIP for California to address the CAA section
110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I) interstate transport requirements pertaining to
significant contribution to nonattainment, and interference with
maintenance, of the 2015 8-hour ozone NAAQS in other states, unless the
EPA approves a SIP submittal that meets these requirements. Disapproval
does not start a mandatory sanctions clock for California. The
remaining elements of the State's October 1, 2018 SIP Submittal are not
addressed in this action and have been acted on in a separate
rulemaking.\145\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \145\ 86 FR 16533 (March 30, 2021).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

V. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews

A. Executive Order 12866: Regulatory Planning and Review and Executive
Order 13563: Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review

    This action is not a significant regulatory action and was
therefore not submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
for review.

B. Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)

    This action does not impose an information collection burden under
the PRA, because this proposed SIP disapproval, if finalized, will not
in-and-of itself create any new information collection burdens, but
will simply disapprove certain State requirements for inclusion in the
SIP.

C. Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)

    I certify that this action will not have a significant economic
impact on a substantial number of small entities under the RFA. This
action will not impose any requirements on small entities. This
proposed SIP disapproval, if finalized, will not in-and-of itself
create any new requirements but will simply disapprove certain State
requirements for inclusion in the SIP.

D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA)

    This action does not contain any unfunded mandate as described in
UMRA, 2 U.S.C. 1531-1538, and does not significantly or uniquely affect
small governments. This action proposes to disapprove pre-existing
requirements under State or local law, and imposes no new requirements.
Accordingly, no additional costs to State, local, or tribal
governments, or to the private sector, result from this action.

E. Executive Order 13132: Federalism

    This action does not have federalism implications. It will not have
substantial direct effects on the states, on the relationship between
the national government and the states, or on the distribution of power
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.

F. Executive Order 13175: Coordination With Indian Tribal Governments

    This action does not have tribal implications, as specified in
Executive Order 13175, because the SIP revision that the EPA is
proposing to disapprove would not apply on any Indian reservation land
or in any other area where the EPA or an Indian tribe has demonstrated
that a tribe has jurisdiction and will not impose substantial direct
costs on tribal governments or preempt tribal law. Thus, Executive
Order 13175 does not apply to this action.

G. Executive Order 13045: Protection of Children From Environmental
Health Risks and Safety Risks

    The EPA interprets Executive Order 13045 as applying only to those
regulatory actions that concern environmental health or safety risks
that the EPA has reason to believe may disproportionately affect
children, per the definition of ``covered regulatory action'' in
section 2-202 of the Executive Order. This action is not subject to
Executive Order 13045 because this proposed SIP disapproval, if
finalized, will not in-and-of itself create any new regulations, but
will simply disapprove certain State requirements for inclusion in the
SIP.

H. Executive Order 13211: Actions That Significantly Affect Energy
Supply, Distribution, or Use

    This action is not subject to Executive Order 13211, because it is
not a significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866.

I. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA)

    Section 12(d) of the NTTAA directs the EPA to use voluntary
consensus standards in its regulatory activities unless to do so would
be inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical. The EPA
believes that this action is not subject to the requirements of section
12(d) of the NTTAA because application of those requirements would be
inconsistent with the CAA.

J. Executive Order 12898: Federal Actions To Address Environmental
Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Population

    The EPA believes the human health or environmental risk addressed
by this action will not have potential disproportionately high and
adverse human health or environmental effects on minority, low-income
or indigenous populations. This action merely proposes to disapprove a
SIP submission as not meeting the CAA.

K. CAA Section 307(b)(1)

    Section 307(b)(1) of the CAA governs judicial review of final
actions by the EPA. This section provides, in part, that petitions for
review must be filed in the D.C. Circuit: (i) When the agency action
consists of ``nationally applicable regulations promulgated, or final
actions taken, by the Administrator,'' or (ii) when such action is
locally or regionally applicable, if ``such action is based on a
determination of nationwide scope or effect and if in taking such
action the Administrator finds and publishes that such action is based
on such a determination.'' For locally or regionally applicable final
actions, the CAA reserves to the EPA complete discretion whether to
invoke the exception in (ii).\146\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \146\ In deciding whether to invoke the exception by making and
publishing a finding that an action is based on a determination of
nationwide scope or effect, the Administrator takes into account a
number of policy considerations, including his judgment balancing
the benefit of obtaining the D.C. Circuit's authoritative
centralized review versus allowing development of the issue in other
contexts and the best use of agency resources.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    If the EPA takes final action on this proposed rulemaking, the
Administrator intends to exercise the complete discretion afforded to
him under the CAA to make and publish a finding that the final action
(to the extent a court finds the action to be locally or regionally
applicable) is based on a determination of ``nationwide scope or
effect'' within the meaning of CAA section 307(b)(1). Through this
rulemaking action (in conjunction with a series of related actions on
other SIP submissions for the same CAA obligations), the EPA interprets
and applies section 110(a)(2)(d)(i)(I) of the CAA for the 2015 ozone
NAAQS based on a common core of nationwide policy judgments and
technical analysis concerning the interstate transport of pollutants
throughout the continental U.S. In particular, the EPA is applying here
(and in other proposed actions related to the same obligations) the
same, nationally consistent 4-step framework for assessing good
neighbor obligations for the 2015 ozone NAAQS. The EPA relies on a
single set of updated, 2016-base year photochemical grid modeling
results of the year 2023 as the primary basis for its assessment of air
quality conditions and contributions at steps 1 and 2 of that
framework. Further, the EPA proposes to determine and apply a set of
nationally consistent policy judgments to apply the 4-step framework.
The EPA has selected a nationally uniform analytic year (2023) for this
analysis and is applying a nationally uniform approach to nonattainment
and maintenance receptors and a nationally uniform approach to
contribution threshold analysis.\147\ For these reasons, the
Administrator intends, if this proposed action is finalized, to
exercise the complete discretion afforded to him under the CAA to make
and publish a finding that this action is based on one or more
determinations of nationwide scope or effect for purposes of CAA
section 307(b)(1).\148\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \147\ A finding of nationwide scope or effect is also
appropriate for actions that cover states in multiple judicial
circuits. In the report on the 1977 Amendments that revised section
307(b)(1) of the CAA, Congress noted that the Administrator's
determination that the ``nationwide scope or effect'' exception
applies would be appropriate for any action that has a scope or
effect beyond a single judicial circuit. See H.R. Rep. No. 95-294 at
323, 324, reprinted in 1977 U.S.C.C.A.N. 1402-03.
    \148\ The EPA may take a consolidated, single final action on
all of the proposed SIP disapproval actions with respect to
obligations under CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I) for the 2015 ozone
NAAQS. Should the EPA take a single final action on all such
disapprovals, this action would be nationally applicable, and the
EPA would also anticipate, in the alternative, making and publishing
a finding that such final action is based on a determination of
nationwide scope or effect.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 52

    Environmental protection, Air pollution control, Incorporation by
reference, Ozone.

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

    Dated: May 15, 2022.
Martha Guzman Aceves,
Regional Administrator, Region IX.
[FR Doc. 2022-11150 Filed 5-23-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P


[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 17 (Thursday, January 28, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 7337-7344]
[FR Doc No: 2021-01832]

========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.

The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents.

========================================================================

Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 17 / Thursday, January 28, 2021 /
Rules and Regulations

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 95

[Docket No. 31354; Amdt. No. 557]

IFR Altitudes; Miscellaneous Amendments

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This amendment adopts miscellaneous amendments to the required
IFR (instrument flight rules) altitudes and changeover points for
certain Federal airways, jet routes, or direct routes for which a
minimum or maximum en route authorized IFR altitude is prescribed. This
regulatory action is needed because of changes occurring in the
National Airspace System. These changes are designed to provide for the
safe and efficient use of the navigable airspace under instrument
conditions in the affected areas.

DATES: Effective 0901 UTC, February 25, 2021.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Thomas J. Nichols, Flight Procedures
and Airspace Group, Flight Technologies and Procedures Division, Flight
Standards Service, Federal Aviation Administration. Mailing Address:
FAA Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, Flight Procedures and Airspace
Group, 6500 South MacArthur Blvd., Registry Bldg. 29, Room 104,
Oklahoma City, OK 73125. Telephone:<PHONE_NUMBER>.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This amendment to part 95 of the Federal
Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 95) amends, suspends, or revokes IFR
altitudes governing the operation of all aircraft in flight over a
specified route or any portion of that route, as well as the changeover
points (COPs) for Federal airways, jet routes, or direct routes as
prescribed in part 95.

The Rule

    The specified IFR altitudes, when used in conjunction with the
prescribed changeover points for those routes, ensure navigation aid
coverage that is adequate for safe flight operations and free of
frequency interference. The reasons and circumstances that create the
need for this amendment involve matters of flight safety and
operational efficiency in the National Airspace System, are related to
published aeronautical charts that are essential to the user, and
provide for the safe and efficient use of the navigable airspace. In
addition, those various reasons or circumstances require making this
amendment effective before the next scheduled charting and publication
date of the flight information to assure its timely availability to the
user. The effective date of this amendment reflects those
considerations. In view of the close and immediate relationship between
these regulatory changes and safety in air commerce, I find that notice
and public procedure before adopting this amendment are impracticable
and contrary to the public interest and that good cause exists for
making the amendment effective in less than 30 days.

Conclusion

    The FAA has determined that this regulation only involves an
established body of technical regulations for which frequent and
routine amendments are necessary to keep them operationally current.
It, therefore--(1) is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under
Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT
Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034; February 26, 1979);
and (3) does not warrant preparation of a regulatory evaluation as the
anticipated impact is so minimal. For the same reason, the FAA
certifies that this amendment will not have a significant economic
impact on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of
the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 95

    Airspace, Navigation (air).

    Issued in Washington, DC, on January 22, 2021.
Wade Terrell,
Aviation Safety, Manager, Flight Procedures & Airspace Group, Flight
Technologies and Procedures Division.

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, part 95 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part
95) is amended as follows effective at 0901 UTC, June 03, 2010.

0
1. The authority citation for part 95 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40103, 40106, 40113, 40114, 40120,
44502, 44514, 44719, 44721.

0
2. Part 95 is amended to read as follows:

                                 Revisions to IFR Altitudes & Changeover Points
                                [Amendment 557 effective date February 25, 2021]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     FROM                                         TO                        MEA          MAA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                     Sec.   95.3000 Low Altitude RNAV Routes
                               Sec.   95.3215 RNAV Route T215 is Amended by Adding
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HOLSTON MOUNTAIN, TN VORTAC...................  HILTO, VA FIX.........................         6700        17500
HILTO, VA FIX.................................  FLENR, VA WP..........................         6500        17500
FLENR, VA WP..................................  RISTE, KY WP..........................         6000        17500
    * 4800--MCA RISTE, KY WP, SE BND
RISTE, KY WP..................................  HAZARD, KY DME........................         3800        17500
HAZARD, KY DME................................  HUGEN, KY WP..........................         3200        17500

HUGEN, KY WP..................................  LEXINGTON, KY VOR/DME.................         3200        17500
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                               Sec.   95.3323 RNAV Route T323 is Amended by Adding
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HIGGI, NC WP..................................  KIDBE, TN WP..........................         7700        17500
    * 5900--MCA KIDBE, TN WP, S BND
KIDBE, TN WP..................................  ZADOT, TN WP..........................         4100        17500
    * 5000--MCA ZADOT, TN WP, N BND
ZADOT, TN WP..................................  WELLA, KY WP..........................         5100        17500
* WELLA, KY WP................................  HAZARD, KY DME........................         3700        17500
    * 3800--MCA WELLA, KY WP, S BND
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Sec.   95.3338 RNAV Route T338 is Added to Read
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DSIRE, NV WP..................................  LNDIN, NV WP..........................         7200        17500
LNDIN, NV WP..................................  WYLND, NV WP..........................         6600        17500
WYLND, NV WP..................................  BOEGY, AZ WP..........................         7700        17500
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                               Sec.   95.3354 RNAV Route T354 is Amended by Adding
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BYZIN, MN WP..................................  PARK RAPIDS, MN DME...................         3600        17500
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Sec.   95.3357 RNAV Route T357 is Added to Read
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
KONNG, NV WP..................................  DICSA, NV FIX.........................         7600        17500
DICSA, NV FIX.................................  WANDR, NV WP..........................         7600        17500
WANDR, NV WP..................................  DSIRE, NV WP..........................         6900        17500
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Sec.   95.3359 RNAV Route T359 is Added to Read
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DANBY, CA FIX.................................  WOPMA, CA FIX.........................        10500        17500
WOPMA, CA FIX.................................  DICSA, NV FIX.........................         8300        17500
DICSA, NV FIX.................................  RAATT, NV WP..........................         7600        17500
RAATT, NV WP..................................  DSIRE, NV WP..........................         6300        17500
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Sec.   95.3361 RNAV Route T361 is Added to Read
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BOEGY, AZ WP..................................  PUTTT, AZ WP..........................         7000        17500
PUTTT, AZ WP..................................  DICSA, NV FIX.........................         7600        17500
DICSA, NV FIX.................................  WANDR, NV WP..........................         7600        17500
WANDR, NV WP..................................  LNDIN, NV WP..........................         6300        17500
LNDIN, NV WP..................................  SHIEK, NV WP..........................         7700        17500
SHIEK, NV WP..................................  MORMON MESA, NV VORTAC................         7600        17500
    * 5900--MOCA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Sec.   95.3363 RNAV Route T363 is Added to Read
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DICSA, NV FIX.................................  PUTTT, AZ WP..........................         7600        17500
PUTTT, AZ WP..................................  SHIEK, NV WP..........................         7600        17500
SHIEK, NV WP..................................  MORMON MESA, NV VORTAC................         7600        17500
    * 5900--MOCA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                    Sec.   95.4000 High Altitude RNAV Routes
                               Sec.   95.4013 RNAV Route Q13 is Amended by Adding
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EL PASO, TX VORTAC............................  VERNO, AZ FIX.........................     #* 24000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
VERNO, AZ FIX.................................  NABOB, AZ FIX.........................      #*24000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
NABOB, AZ FIX.................................  DRAKE, AZ VORTAC......................     #* 24000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
DRAKE, AZ VORTAC..............................  WOTRO, AZ FIX.........................     #* 24000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
WOTRO, AZ FIX PRFUM, AZ FIX #* 24000 45000....
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
PRFUM, AZ FIX.................................  HOUZZ, NV WP..........................     #* 24000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA

    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
HOUZZ, NV WP..................................  FUULL, NV WP..........................     #* 25000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
FUULL, NV WP..................................  SKANN, NV WP..........................     #* 25000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
SKANN, NV WP..................................  LOMIA, NV WP..........................     #* 25000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
LOMIA, NV WP..................................  RUFUS, CA WP..........................     #* 25000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
RUFUS, CA WP..................................  PAWLI, OR WP..........................     #* 25000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              Is Amended to Delete
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PRFUM, AZ FIX.................................  PAWLI, OR WP..........................      * 18000        45000
    * GNSS REQUIRED
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                               Sec.   95.4015 RNAV Route Q15 is Amended by Adding
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOVEE, NV.....................................  FIX SOTOO, NV WP......................     #* 24000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
SOTOO, NV WP..................................  HOUZZ, NV WP..........................     #* 24000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
HOUZZ, NV WP..................................  FUULL, NV WP..........................     #* 25000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
FUULL, NV WP..................................  SKANN, NV WP..........................     #* 25000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
SKANN, NV WP..................................  LOMIA, NV WP..........................     #* 25000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              Is Amended to Delete
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOVEE, NV WP..................................  BIKKR, NV WP..........................      * 18000        45000
    * GNSS REQUIRED
BIKKR, CA WP..................................  KENNO, NV WP..........................      * 18000        45000
    * GNSS REQUIRED
KENNO, NV WP..................................  RUSME, NV WP..........................      * 18000        45000
    * GNSS REQUIRED
RUSME, NV WP..................................  LOMIA, NV WP..........................      * 18000        45000
    * GNSS REQUIRED
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           Is Amended to Read in Part
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHILY, AZ FIX.................................  DOVEE, NV FIX.........................     #* 24000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            Sec.   95.4162 RNAV Route Q162 is Amended to Read in Part
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NTELL, CA WP..................................  CABAB, CA WP..........................     #* 24000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            Sec.   95.4164 RNAV Route Q164 is Amended to Read in Part
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NTELL, CA WP..................................  CABAB, CA WP..........................     #* 24000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Sec.   95.4174 RNAV Route Q174 is Added to Read
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NTELL, CA WP..................................  CABAB, CA WP..........................     #* 24000        45000

    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
CABAB, CA WP..................................  TTMSN, CA WP..........................     #* 24000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
TTMSN, CA WP..................................  SKANN, NV WP..........................     #* 24000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
SKANN, NV WP..................................  FLCHR, NV WP..........................     #* 24000        45000
    * 18000--GNSS MEA
    * DME/DME/IRU MEA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

               FROM                           TO                 MEA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Sec.   95.6001 Victor Routes--U.S.
     Sec.   95.6003 VOR Federal Airway V3 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
OWENS, SC FIX....................  * VANCE, SC VORTAC......         2000
    * 13000--MCA VANCE, SC
     VORTAC, NE BND
VANCE, SC VORTAC.................  * FLORENCE, SC VORTAC...    #** 13000
    * 12000--MCA FLORENCE, SC
     VORTAC, SW BND
    ** 2000--GNSS MEA
    * #VANCE R-047 UNUSABLE, USE
     FLORENCE R-224
------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Sec.   95.6006 VOR Federal Airway V6 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLARION, PA VOR/DME..............  PHILIPSBURG, PA VORTAC..         4000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Sec.   95.6010 VOR Federal Airway V10 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
TALLS, PA FIX....................  * REVLOC, PA VOR/DME....
                                   SE BND..................         4200
                                   NW BND..................         5000
    * 5000--MCA REVLOC, PA VOR/
     DME, SE BND.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6015 VOR Federal Airway V15 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
SIOUX CITY, IA VORTAC............  SIOUX FALLS, SD VORTAC..         3400
SIOUX FALLS, SD VORTAC...........  HURON, SD VOR/DME.......         3700
HURON, SD VOR/DME................  ABERDEEN, SD VOR/DME....         3000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Sec.   95.6021 VOR Federal Airway V21 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
BULGY, CA FIX....................  * HECTOR, CA VORTAC.....      ** 9000
    * 8200--MCA HECTOR, CA
     VORTAC, NE BND
    ** 7000--MOCA
HECTOR, CA VORTAC................  * WHIGG, CA FIX.........        10500
    * 12000--MRA
WHIGG, CA FIX....................  BOULDER CITY, NV VORTAC.        10500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6026 VOR Federal Airway V26 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
PIERRE, SD VORTAC................  HURON, SD VOR/DME.......         4000
HURON, SD VOR/DME................  OBITT, SD FIX...........       * 5000
    * 4000--GNSS MEA
OBITT, SD FIX....................  GHENT, MN WP............       * 6000
    * 3400--MOCA
    * 4000--GNSS MEA
GHENT, MN WP.....................  REDWOOD FALLS, MN VOR/         * 5000
                                    DME.
    * 4000--GNSS MEA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6030 VOR Federal Airway V30 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLARION, PA VOR/DME..............  PHILIPSBURG, PA VORTAC..         4000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Sec.   95.6047 VOR Federal Airway V47 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CINCINNATI, KY VORTAC............  ROSEWOOD, OH VORTAC.....         3100
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6053 VOR Federal Airway V53 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
HOLSTON MOUNTAIN, TN VORTAC......  HAZARD, KY VOR/DME......         6400

HAZARD, KY VOR/DME...............  * IRVIN, KY FIX.........         4000
    * 6000--MRA
IRVIN, KY FIX....................  LEXINGTON, KY VOR/DME...         4000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6055 VOR Federal Airway V55 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
PARK RAPIDS, MN VOR/DME..........  BETRA, MN FIX...........       * 4500
    * 3200--MOCA
    * 3600--GNSS MEA
BETRA, MN FIX....................  GRAND FORKS, ND VOR/DME.       * 3300
    * 2400--MOCA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6058 VOR Federal Airway V58 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
GRACE, PA FIX....................  * EARED, PA FIX.........         3400
    * 4000--MRA
EARED, PA FIX....................  PHILIPSBURG, PA VORTAC..       * 6000
    * 4100--MOCA
    * 5000--GNSS MEA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Sec.   95.6077 VOR Federal Airway V77 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
FLECH, OK FIX....................  * NEADS, OK FIX.........      ** 3800
    * 3800--MCA NEADS, OK FIX, S
     BND
    * 5400--MRA
    ** 3000--MOCA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6078 VOR Federal Airway V78 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
HURON, SD VOR/DME................  WATERTOWN, SD VORTAC....       * 3700
    * 3100--MOCA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6100 VOR Federal Airway V100 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
O'NEILL, NE VORTAC...............  SIOUX CITY, IA VORTAC...         3700
SIOUX CITY, IA VORTAC............  FORT DODGE, IA VORTAC...         3000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6115 VOR Federal Airway V115 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
VOLUNTEER, TN VORTAC.............  MALIN, TN FIX...........         4500
MALIN, TN FIX....................  ROSAR, KY FIX...........         5000
ROSAR, KY FIX....................  HAZARD, KY VOR/DME......         5200
HAZARD, KY VOR/DME...............  * CHARLESTON, WV VOR/DME      ** 6000
    * 4800--MCA CHARLESTON, WV
     VOR/DME, SW BND
    ** 4000--GNSS MEA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       Is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
VULCAN, AL VORTAC................  CHOO CHOO, TN VORTAC....         4000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6119 VOR Federal Airway V119 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
INDIAN HEAD, PA VORTAC...........  QUARY, PA FIX...........       * 5000
    * 4500--MOCA
QUARY, PA FIX....................  TALLS, PA FIX...........         4000
TALLS, PA FIX....................  CLARION, PA VOR/DME.....       * 3700
    * 3200--MOCA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Sec.   95.6138 VOR Federal Airway V138 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
OMAHA, IA VORTAC.................  FORT DODGE, IA VORTAC...       * 4500
    * 3000--MOCA
    * 3000--GNSS MEA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6140 VOR Federal Airway V140 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
LONDON, KY VOR/DME...............  HAZARD, KY VOR/DME......         4000
HAZARD, KY VOR/DME...............  STACY, VA FIX...........       * 5000
    * 4200--MOCA
    * 4200--GNSS MEA
STACY, VA FIX....................  KENYA, WV FIX...........
                                   W BND 5000..............
                                   E BND 5400..............
KENYA, WV FIX....................  * BLUEFIELD, WV VOR/DME.         5400
    * 7000--MCA BLUEFIELD, WV VOR/
     DME, E BND
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Sec.   95.6141 VOR Federal Airway V141 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
MANCHESTER, NH VOR/DME...........  CONCORD, NH VOR/DME.....       * 2900
    * 2100--MOCA
CONCORD, NH VOR/DME..............  KELLI, NH FIX...........         5000
KELLI, NH FIX....................  LEBANON, NH VOR/DME.....       * 4000
    * 3600--MOCA
LEBANON, NH VOR/DME..............  RUCKY, VT FIX...........       * 6000
    * 4000--MOCA
RUCKY, VT FIX....................  * BURLINGTON, VT VOR/DME         6300
    * 4000--MCA BURLINGTON, VT
     VOR/DME, SE BND
BURLINGTON, VT VOR/DME...........  BUGSY, NY FIX...........       * 9000
    * 5100--MOCA
    * 5500--GNSS MEA
BUGSY, NY FIX....................  MASSENA, NY VORTAC......       * 9000
    * 4000--MOCA
    * 4000--GNSS MEA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6151 VOR Federal Airway V151 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
GAILS, MA FIX....................  PROVIDENCE, RI VOR/DME..       * 3000
    * 2000--GNSS MEA
PROVIDENCE, RI VOR/DME...........  PUTNAM, CT VOR/DME......       * 3000
    * 2100--MOCA
PUTNAM, CT VOR/DME...............  GARDNER, MA VOR/DME.....         3000
GARDNER, MA VOR/DME..............  KEENE, NH VORTAC........         3600
KEENE, NH VORTAC.................  STRUM, NH FIX...........         3600
STRUM, NH FIX....................  UNKER, NH WP............         6000
UNKER, NH WP.....................  MCADM, NH WP............         4500
MCADM, NH WP.....................  LEBANON, NH VOR/DME.....       * 4000
    * 3500--MOCA
LEBANON, NH VOR/DME..............  ZIECH, VT WP............       * 4000
    * 3600--MOCA
ZIECH, VT WP.....................  MONTPELIER, VT VOR/DME..       * 4400
    * 3900--MOCA
MONTPELIER, VT VOR/DME...........  * BURLINGTON, VT VOR/DME         6300
    * 5000--MCA BURLINGTON, VT
     VOR/DME, SE BND
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Sec.   95.6157 VOR Federal Airway V157 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ALLENDALE, SC VOR................  * VANCE, SC VORTAC......      ** 6000
    * 13000--MCA VANCE, SC
     VORTAC, NE BND
    ** 2000--GNSS MEA
VANCE, SC VORTAC.................  * FLORENCE, SC VORTAC...    #** 13000
    * 12000--MCA FLORENCE, SC
     VORTAC, SW BND
    ** 2000--GNSS MEA
    #VANCE R-047 UNUSABLE, USE
     FLORENCE R-224
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6159 VOR Federal Airway V15 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
OMAHA, IA VORTAC.................  SIOUX CITY, IA VORTAC...         3000
SIOUX CITY, IA VORTAC............  OBERT, NE WP............       * 4500
    * 2700--MOCA
OBERT, NE WP.....................  YANKTON, SD VOR/DME.....         3400
YANKTON, SD VOR/DME..............  MITCHELL, SD VOR/DME....         3300
MITCHELL, SD VOR/DME.............  HURON, SD VOR/DME.......         3000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6175 VOR Federal Airway V175 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
DES MOINES, IA VORTAC............  * LINDE, IA FIX.........         3500
    * 5500--MRA
LINDE, IA FIX....................  MADUP, IA FIX...........       * 5500
    * 3000--MOCA
MADUP, IA FIX....................  * WELTE, IA FIX.........         5500
    * 3900--MRA
WELTE, IA FIX....................  SIOUX CITY, IA VORTAC...
                                   W BND...................         3000
                                   E BND...................         5500
SIOUX CITY, IA VORTAC............  OYENS, IA WP............         4400
OYENS, IA WP.....................  WORTHINGTON, MN VOR/DME.       * 6000
    * 3600--GNSS MEA
ALEXANDRIA, MN VOR/DME...........  PARK RAPIDS, MN VOR/DME.         3300
PARK RAPIDS, MN VOR/DME..........  BLUOX, MN FIX...........
                                   S BND...................         3500
                                   NW BND..................         7000

BLUOX, MN FIX....................  ROSEAU, MN VOR/DME......       * 7000
    * 2800--MOCA
    * 3300--GNSS MEA
ROSEAU, MN VOR/DME...............  U.S. CANADIAN BORDER....       * 3600
    * 2600--MOCA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Sec.   95.6178 VOR Federal Airway V178 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
LEXINGTON, KY VOR/DME............  TRENT, KY FIX...........
                                   W BND...................         3400
                                   E BND...................         8000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6187 VOR Federal Airway V187 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
THICK, WA FIX....................  MOUNT, WA FIX...........        10000
MOUNT, WA FIX....................  ORTIN, WA WP............
                                   W BND...................         8000
                                   E BND...................        10000
ORTIN, WA WP.....................  MCCHORD, WA TACAN.......         6000
MCCHORD, WA TACAN................  OLYMPIA, WA VORTAC......         6000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6219 VOR Federal Airway V219 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NORFOLK, NE VOR/DME..............  SIOUX CITY, IA VORTAC...         3600
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6226 VOR Federal Airway V226 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
GRACE, PA FIX....................  CLARION, PA VOR/DME.....         3400
CLARION, PA VOR/DME..............  KEATING, PA VORTAC......         4000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Sec.   95.6229 VOR Federal Airway V229 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
KEENE, NH VORTAC.................  JAMMA, VT FIX...........         4500
JAMMA, VT FIX....................  MUDDI, VT FIX...........         6400
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Sec.   95.6283 VOR Federal Airway V283 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
BULGY, CA FIX....................  * HECTOR, CA VORTAC.....      ** 9000
    * 8200--MCA HECTOR, CA
     VORTAC, NE BND
    ** 7000--MOCA
HECTOR, CA VORTAC................  * WHIGG, CA FIX.........        10500
    * 12000--MRA
WHIGG, CA FIX....................  BOULDER CITY, NV VORTAC.        10500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6307 VOR Federal Airway V307 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
OMAHA, IA VORTAC.................  SIOUX CITY, IA VORTAC...         3000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Sec.   95.6310 VOR Federal Airway V310 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
LONDON, KY VOR/DME...............  ROSAR, KY FIX...........
                                   SE BND..................       * 6900
                                   NW BND..................       * 5500
    * 4100--MOCA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Sec.   95.6321 VOR Federal Airway V321 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
GADSDEN, AL VOR/DME..............  ALBER, AL FIX...........         3100
ALBER, AL FIX....................  ROCKET, AL VORTAC.......         3700
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6339 VOR Federal Airway V339 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
HAZARD, KY VOR/DME...............  TRENT, KY FIX...........         4000
TRENT, KY FIX....................  FALMOUTH, KY VOR/DME....         3500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6496 VOR Federal Airway V496 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
LEBANON, NH VOR/DME..............  GRUMP, NH FIX...........         5000
GRUMP, NH FIX....................  NEETS, NH FIX...........         4000
NEETS, NH FIX....................  KENNEBUNK, ME VOR/DME...         3600
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sec.   95.6542 VOR Federal Airway V542 is Amended to Delete
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ROCKDALE, NY VOR/DME.............  ALBANY, NY VORTAC.......         4000
ALBANY, NY VORTAC................  CAMBRIDGE, NY VOR/DME...      #* 4000
    * 3000--MOCA

    #ALB R-067 UNUSABLE
CAMBRIDGE, NY VOR/DME............  * JAMMA, VT FIX.........         6200
    * 5000--MCA JAMMA, VT FIX, W
     BND
JAMMA, VT FIX....................  LEBANON, NH VOR/DME.....         5000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Sec.   95.6587 VOR Federal Airway V587 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
DAGGETT, CA VORTAC...............  * WHIGG, CA FIX.........        10500
    * 12000--MRA
WHIGG, CA FIX....................  BOULDER CITY, NV VORTAC.        10500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sec.   95.6481 Alaska VOR Federal Airway V481 is Amended to Read in Part
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* JOHNSTONE POINT, AK VOR/DME....  FIDAL, AK FIX...........        14000
* 14000--MCA JOHNSTONE POINT, AK
 VOR/DME, N BND.
FIDAL, AK FIX....................  ROBES, AK FIX...........        14000
ROBES, AK FIX....................  * KLUNG, AK FIX.........        14000
    * 11200--MCA KLUNG, AK FIX, S
     BND
KLUNG, AK FIX....................  GULKANA, AK VOR/DME.....
                                   S BND...................        10000
                                   N BND...................         7000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                     FROM                                         TO                        MEA          MAA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Sec.   95.7001 Jet Routes
                             Sec.   95.7089 Jet Route J89 is Amended to Read in Part
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BADGER, WI VOR/DME............................  DULUTH, MN VORTAC.....................       #18000        45000
    #BADGER R-322 UNUSABLE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                            AIRWAY SEGMENT                                          CHANGEOVER POINTS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                 FROM                                 TO                  DISTANCE               FROM
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Sec.   95.8003 VOR Federal Airway Changeover Point V3 is Amended to Delete Changeover Point
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VANCE, SC VORTAC......................  FLORENCE, SC VORTAC...........           21  VANCE.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                    V55 is Amended to Delete Changeover Point
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PARK RAPIDS, MN VOR/DME...............  GRAND FORKS, ND VOR/DME.......           64  PARK RAPIDS.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   V115 is Amended to Delete Changeover Point
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HAZARD, KY VORTAC.....................  CHARLESTON, SC VOR/DME........           40  HAZARD.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[FR Doc. 2021-01832 Filed 1-27-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 34 (Thursday, February 20, 2020)]
[Notices]
[Pages 9930-9931]
[FR Doc No: 2020-03348]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

[FMCSA Docket No. FMCSA-2019-0206]

Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and
Seizure Disorders

AGENCY: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of final disposition.

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SUMMARY: FMCSA announces its decision to exempt eight individuals from
the requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
(FMCSRs) that interstate commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers have
``no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or
any other condition which is likely to cause loss of consciousness or
any loss of ability to control a CMV.'' The exemptions enable these
individuals who have had one or more seizures and are taking anti-
seizure medication to operate CMVs in interstate commerce.

DATES: The exemptions were applicable on February 3, 2020. The
exemptions expire on February 3, 2022.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Christine A. Hydock, Chief,
Medical Programs Division,<PHONE_NUMBER><EMAIL_ADDRESS>FMCSA,
Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Room W64-224,
Washington, DC 20590-0001. Office hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.,
ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. If you have
questions regarding viewing or submitting material to the docket,
contact Docket Operations,<PHONE_NUMBER>.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Public Participation

A. Viewing Documents and Comments

    To view comments, as well as any documents mentioned in this notice
as being available in the docket, go to http://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=FMCSA-2019-0206 and choose the document to review. If you do
not have access to the internet, you may view the docket online by
visiting the Docket Operations in Room W12-140 on the ground floor of
the DOT West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590,
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays.

B. Privacy Act

    In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits comments from the
public to better inform its rulemaking process. DOT posts these
comments, without edit, including any personal information the
commenter provides, to www.regulations.gov, as described in the system
of records notice (DOT/ALL-14 FDMS), which can be reviewed at
www.transportation.gov/privacy.

II. Background

    On December 10, 2019, FMCSA published a notice announcing receipt
of applications from eight individuals requesting an exemption from the
epilepsy and seizure disorders prohibition in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(8) and
requested comments from the public (84 FR 69817). The public comment
period ended on January 21, 2020, and no comments were received.
    FMCSA has evaluated the eligibility of these applicants and
determined that granting exemptions to these individuals would achieve
a level of safety equivalent to, or greater than, the level that would
be achieved by complying with Sec.  391.41(b)(8).
    The physical qualification standard for drivers regarding epilepsy
found in Sec.  391.41(b)(8) states that a person is physically
qualified to drive a CMV if that person has no established medical
history or clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or any other condition which
is likely to cause the loss of consciousness or any loss of ability to
control a CMV.
    In addition to the regulations, FMCSA has published advisory
criteria \1\ to assist medical examiners (MEs) in determining whether
drivers with certain medical conditions are qualified to operate a CMV
in interstate commerce.
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    \1\ These criteria may be found in APPENDIX A TO PART 391--
MEDICAL ADVISORY CRITERIA, section H. Epilepsy: Sec.  391.41(b)(8),
paragraphs 3, 4, and 5, which is available on the internet at
https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2015-title49-vol5/pdf/CFR-2015-title49-vol5-part391-appA.pdf.
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III. Discussion of Comments

    FMCSA received no comments in this proceeding.

IV. Basis for Exemption Determination

    Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), FMCSA may grant an exemption
from the FMCSRs for no longer than a 5-year period if it finds such
exemption would likely achieve a level of safety that is equivalent to,
or greater than, the level that would be achieved absent such
exemption. The statute also allows the Agency to renew exemptions at
the end of the 5-year period. FMCSA grants medical exemptions from the
FMCSRs for a 2-year period to align with the maximum duration of a
driver's medical certification.
    The Agency's decision regarding these exemption applications is
based on the 2007 recommendations of the Agency's Medical Expert Panel
(MEP). The Agency conducted an individualized assessment of each
applicant's medical information, including the root cause of the
respective seizure(s) and medical information about the applicant's
seizure history, the length of time that has elapsed since the
individual's last seizure, the stability of each individual's treatment
regimen and the duration of time on or off of anti-seizure medication.
In addition, the Agency reviewed the treating clinician's medical
opinion related to the ability of the driver to safely operate a CMV
with a history of seizure and each applicant's driving record found in
the Commercial Driver's License Information System for commercial
driver's license (CDL) holders, and interstate and intrastate
inspections recorded in the Motor

Carrier Management Information System. For non-CDL holders, the Agency
reviewed the driving records from the State Driver's Licensing Agency
(SDLA). A summary of each applicant's seizure history was discussed in
the December 19, 2019, Federal Register notice (84 FR 69817) and will
not be repeated in this notice.
    These eight applicants have been seizure-free over a range of eight
years while taking anti-seizure medication and maintained a stable
medication treatment regimen for the last two years. In each case, the
applicant's treating physician verified his or her seizure history and
supports the ability to drive commercially.
    The Agency acknowledges the potential consequences of a driver
experiencing a seizure while operating a CMV. However, the Agency
believes the drivers granted this exemption have demonstrated that they
are unlikely to have a seizure and their medical condition does not
pose a risk to public safety.
    Consequently, FMCSA finds that in each case exempting these
applicants from the epilepsy and seizure disorder prohibition in Sec.
391.41(b)(8) is likely to achieve a level of safety equal to that
existing without the exemption.

V. Conditions and Requirements

    The terms and conditions of the exemption are provided to the
applicants in the exemption document and includes the following: (1)
Each driver must remain seizure-free and maintain a stable treatment
during the 2-year exemption period; (2) each driver must submit annual
reports from their treating physicians attesting to the stability of
treatment and that the driver has remained seizure-free; (3) each
driver must undergo an annual medical examination by a certified ME, as
defined by Sec.  390.5; and (4) each driver must provide a copy of the
annual medical certification to the employer for retention in the
driver's qualification file, or keep a copy of his/her driver's
qualification file if he/she is self-employed. The driver must also
have a copy of the exemption when driving, for presentation to a duly
authorized Federal, State, or local enforcement official.

VI. Preemption

    During the period the exemption is in effect, no State shall
enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with this exemption with
respect to a person operating under the exemption.

VII. Conclusion

    Based upon its evaluation of the eight exemption applications,
FMCSA exempts the following drivers from the epilepsy and seizure
disorder prohibition, Sec.  391.41(b)(8), subject to the requirements
cited above:

Daniel Bretz Jr. (PA)
Frank Corino (NJ)
Darlene Michael (MO)
Sonja Morgan (NC)
Pagagrong Newsome (CA)
Matthew Scarlata (NY)
Jeffrey Totten (KS)
Michael Vitch (MS)

    In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31315(b), each exemption will be valid
for 2 years from the effective date unless revoked earlier by FMCSA.
The exemption will be revoked if the following occurs: (1) The person
fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the exemption; (2) the
exemption has resulted in a lower level of safety than was maintained
prior to being granted; or (3) continuation of the exemption would not
be consistent with the goals and objectives of 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and
31315(b).

    Issued on: February 11, 2020.
Larry W. Minor,
Associate Administrator for Policy.
[FR Doc. 2020-03348 Filed 2-19-20; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-EX-P