Raisins Produced From Grapes Grown in California; Temporary Suspension of a Provision, and Extension of Certain Deadlines Under the Raisin Diversion Program

The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is adopting, as a final rule, without change, an interim final rule regarding the raisin diversion program (RDP) as specified under the Federal marketing order for California raisins (order). The order regulates the handling of raisins produced from grapes grown in California and is administered locally by the Raisin Administrative Committee (RAC). The interim final rule temporarily suspended a November 30 deadline for announcing a 2003 RDP, and extended certain deadlines within the 2002-03 crop year concerning the RDP specified in the order's regulations. Changes beginning with a 2003 RDP were recommended by the RAC. This action was needed to provide flexibility in implementing the existing as well as any new provisions of a 2003 RDP. This action also allowed for necessary review and evaluation of proposed provisions for such a program. The December 15 deadline for redemption of diversion certificates for the 2002 RDP was also extended, given the lack of sales of those certificates.