Christmas Tree Promotion, Research, and Information Order; Late Payment and Interest Charges on Past Due Assessments

Docket Number: AMS-SC-15-0072

Effective Date: June 16, 2016

 

This rule prescribes late payment and interest charges on past due assessments under the Christmas Tree Promotion, Research, and Information Order (Order). The Order is administered by the Christmas Tree Promotion Board (Board) with oversight by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Under the Order, assessments are collected from domestic producers and importers and used for research and promotion projects designed to maintain and expand the market for fresh cut Christmas trees. This rule implements authority contained in the Order that allows the Board to collect late payment and interest charges on past due assessments. Late payment and interest charges will begin to accrue on unpaid assessments beginning 30 days after the effective date of this rule. This action contributes to effective administration of the program. This rule also provides authority for the crop year and fiscal period to be changed through administrative action. These changes were unanimously recommended by the Board.

 

Patricia A. Petrella, Promotion and Economics Division

Specialty Crops Program, AMS, USDA

1400 Independence Avenue SW., Room 1406-S, Stop 0244

Washington, DC 20250-0244

Telephone: (202) 720-9915

Fax: (202) 205-2800

Email:Patricia.Petrella@ams.usda.gov