In This Issue

Minerals Management Service Seeks Comments

The Minerals Management Service (MMS) published an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) in the Federal Register on May 22, 2006. MMS is responsible for implementing policies intended to maintain safety and environmental protection for industry operating in the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). Regulations require submission of various site-specific plans and permit requests for MMS approval before operations can begin. The implementing regulations have both prescriptive and performance elements. MMS is seeking to improve the current voluntary approach to Safety and Environmental management Systems (SEMS) in order to minimize injuries, fatalities, accidents, fires, explosions, collisions, pollution incidents, or damage to the marine environment on the OCS and is requesting comments. All comments received by August 21, 2006 will be considered.

To submit comments follow the instructions at the Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov

For further information contact:
David Nedoronstek – Safety and Enforcement Branch (703) 787-1029
William Hauser – Chief, Regulations and Standards Branch (703) 787-1613.