This survey collects data on plant
capacity from a sample of manufacturing and publishing
establishments in the United States. The data are used by the
Federal Reserve Board and the Defense Logistics Agency. Data are
used to measure inflationary pressure, change in capital and
capacity growth. Data are also used to assess the ability to meet
demands under national emergency situations.
The Survey of Plant Capacity
was conducted on both a quarterly (Form MQ-C2) and annual (Form
MQ-C1) basis for calendar year 2006. The annual survey was
co-funded by the Federal Reserve Board (FRB) and the Defense
Logistic Agency (DLA). The quarterly survey was solely funded by
the FRB. Due to budget limitations, the DLA has decided to cease
funding of the annual survey. Since the FRB cannot fund both
surveys, the annual survey will be discontinued beginning with
calendar year 2007. As a result of losing the annual survey, the
sample for the quarterly survey will need to be increased from
6,000 to 7,500 respondents to account for the loss in industry
detail. We will also be adding a number of check boxes to the form.
These check boxes appeared on the annual form and help clarify
reporting patterns. The check boxes add no significant burden,
however, we did add an additional .25 hours for these boxes. These
changes will not take effect until 1st quarter 2008 which will be
mailed in March 2008.
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.