NMFS issues a final rule to implement a regulatory amendment to extend the current groundfish observer coverage requirements and implementing regulations for the North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program (Observer Program) that expire December 31, 1998. This action is necessary to assure uninterrupted observer coverage requirements through 2000. This action is intended to accomplish the objectives of the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska and of the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Area (FMPs).