NMFS Considers Changes to MMPA Permitting Rules
On September 13, 2007, the National Marine Fisheries Service notified the public that NMFS is considering changes to its permitting regulations under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. NMFS explained its intent in this advance notice of proposed rulemaking as follows:

"NMFS intends to streamline and clarify general permitting requirements and requirements for scientific research and enhancement permits, simplify procedures for transferring marine mammal parts, possibly apply the General Authorization (GA) to research activities involving Level A harassment of non-ESA listed marine mammals, and implement a 'permit application cycle' for application submission and processing of all marine mammal permits. NMFS intends to write regulations for photography permits and is considering whether this activity should be covered by the GA. Any other recommendations received in response to this ANPR regarding regulations at 50 CFR part 216 will be considered prior to proposed rulemaking."