Specialty Crops; Import RegulationsExemption of Brine Dried Prunes From Import Requirements

This rule exempts brine dried prunes from import requirements by specifying that brine dried prunes do not fall within the definition of prunes in the import regulation. This rule is implemented in accordance with section 8e of the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937. Section 8e requires imports of prunes to meet the same or comparable requirements as those implemented under the Federal Marketing Order No. 993, regulating the handling of dried prunes produced in California. The Department has determined that brine dried prunes are different than those normally handled by California prune handlers and that such prunes shall not be subject to section 8e import requirements.