THE PURPOSE OF THE OCEAN FREIGHT RATE
STUDY IS THREE FOLD: 1) ECONOMIC ANALYSIS WILL ASSIST USDA IN
DETERMINING ITS POSITION ON THE SHIPPING ACT OF 1984. 2) EFFECTS OF
SHIPPING ACT ON AGRICULTURAL EXPORTERS HAS NEVER BEFORE BEEN
QUANITIFIED. 3) ECONOMIC ANALYSIS WILL BE PRESENTED IN
CONGRESSIONAL HEARINGS ON BEHALF OF AGRICULTURAL
EXPORTERS.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that
the collection of information encompassed by this request complies
with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR
1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding
the proposed collection of information, that the certification
covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a
benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control
number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of
these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked
and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.