DDTC Seeks Comments on Prior Approval & Annual Report Info Collections for Brokers
The State Department’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls is seeking comments by June 4, 2012, on extensions of two currently approved information collections regarding prior approval licensing and annual reporting for the brokering of exports of defense articles, services, and related technical data.
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(DDTC is seeking Office of Management and Budget approval of extensions of these current information collections, without reference to the changes in the December 19, 2011, proposed rule revising part 129 of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) regarding the registration and licensing of brokers, brokering activities, and related provisions. The proposed revised collections will be submitted for OMB review and approval in conjunction with the brokering final rule. See ITT’s Online Archives 11121910 for summary of DDTC’s proposed rule.)
Prior Approval Required Before Brokering Defense Exports
Persons desiring to engage in brokering activities related to the export of defense articles, services, and related technical data must submit an application or written request to conduct the transaction to DDTC to obtain a decision whether it is in the interests of U.S. foreign policy and national security to approve the transaction. The DDTC estimates that, with regard to this Brokering Prior Approval (License), 1,515 respondents submit 150 responses, and take an average of 2 hours to complete each response, for a total estimated burden of 300 hours. This information is collected on occasion, and is required to obtain benefits.
DDTC Requires Annual Reports from All Brokers
Registered brokers must submit annual reports to the DDTC regarding all brokering activity that was transacted. The DDTC estimates that, with regard to this Annual Brokering Report, 1,515 respondents submit 1,515 responses, and take an average of 2 hours to complete each response, for a total estimated burden of 3,030 hours. This information is collected annually, and responses are mandatory.
Comments Requested on Ways to Minimize Burden, Etc.
DDTC is asking for public comments to permit them to: (a) evaluate whether the collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency (b) evaluate the accuracy of the agency’s estimate of the burden of the collection of information including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used; (c) enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; (d) minimize the reporting burden on those who respond, including the use of automated collection techniques or the use of other forms of technology.
DDTC Contact -- Nicholas Memos (202) 663-2829 email memosni@state.gov