Proposed Rule on Inspection and Certification for Processed Fruits, Vegetables and Processed Products
A projected fee increase ranging from 19 to 26 percent is proposed.
USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) issued a proposed rule which would revise the regulations governing inspection and certification for processed fruits, vegetables and processed products. A projected fee increase ranging from 19 to 26 percent is proposed. AMS also proposed that an applicant entering into a year round inspection contract with AMS will incur costs for the plant survey and sanitation inspection. Finally, AMS proposed that an applicant entering into a year round inspection contract, less than year round (four or more consecutive 40 hour weeks) contract, or lot inspection will incur costs for Sunday differential when an employee works on Sunday. AMS said these revisions are necessary in order to recover the costs of performing inspection services under the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 and to ensure the program’s financial stability.
Also affected are the fees charged to persons required to have inspections on imported commodities in accordance with the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1937. There are also various editorial changes being proposed to enhance clarity.
Comments must be submitted on or before August 10. To view the proposed rule, click on the link below or contact AFI. More information may be obtained by contacting Mr. Terry B. Bane at (202) 720-4693, or e-mail Terry.Bane@usda.gov.
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