NMFS is reducing the directed fishery quota for the second semiannual swordfish season (December 1, 1996, to May 31, 1997), due to updated estimates of dead discards in 1995 and 1996. The directed fishery quota is reduced from 1,064.4 metric tons (mt) dressed weight to 749.7 mt. Based upon landings to date in the second semiannual season and historical landings, NMFS estimates that this adjusted fishery landings quota will be reached on or before April 12, 1997. Therefore, NMFS closes the directed fishery effective at 12 noon on April 12, 1997.