EPA is taking direct final action to provide an exemption for laboratory and analytical essential uses for calendar year 2001. EPA has determined that an allowance for laboratory and analytical essential uses, which allows for the production and import of class I stratospheric ozone depleting substances (ODSs) beyond the phase-out of these substances, is allowable under the Clean Air Act as a de minimis exemption. Based on specific findings, EPA is amending the regulations on import and production of ODSs to reflect this determination and allocating a general global exemption for class I ODSs for laboratory and analytical essential uses for the year 2001. This action allows for the continued import and production of class I ODSs for essential laboratory uses necessary for protecting public health and the environment. EPA is issuing a companion proposal to this direct final rule elsewhere in this issue of the Federal Register.