NMFS issues a final rule to amend regulations governing the North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program (observer program). This action is necessary to refine requirements for the facilitation of observer data transmission and improve support for observers. The final rule is necessary to improve the timely transmission of high quality observer data for a sector of catcher vessels in these fisheries. It is intended to support the management objectives of the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Area and the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska (groundfish FMPs).