NMFS issues this final rule to implement measures contained in Framework Adjustment 21 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (FMP). These regulations allow vessels with general category scallop permits or limited access permits, if not fishing under a days-at-sea (DAS) limitation, to fish for scallops with small dredges (combined width not to exceed (10.5 ft (3.2 m)) within the Gulf of Maine Small Mesh Northern Shrimp Fishery Exemption Area. The intent of this action is to allow small scallop dredge vessels to harvest scallops in a manner that is consistent with the bycatch reduction objectives of the FMP.