Papaya, Carambola, and Litchi From Hawaii

We are increasing the irradiation treatment dose required for papayas intended for interstate movement from Hawaii and allowing carambolas to be moved interstate from Hawaii with irradiation treatment. We are also allowing litchis to be moved interstate from Hawaii if they are inspected and found free of the litchi fruit moth and other plant pests and undergo irradiation or hot water treatment for fruit flies. We are allowing papayas, carambolas, and litchis from Hawaii to undergo irradiation treatment either in Hawaii or in non- fruit fly supporting areas of the mainland United States. In addition, we are making several amendments to the requirements for irradiation procedures and facilities and the handling of treated and untreated fruits and vegetables. Finally, we are amending the definition for inspector to include State plant regulatory officials designated by the Administrator of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture. These actions will facilitate the interstate movement of papayas, carambolas, and litchis from Hawaii while continuing to provide protection against the spread of injurious plant pests from Hawaii to other parts of the United States.