Farm Credit Administration Board Policy Statements, 71142-71160 [05-23237]

Download as PDF 71142 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices Register on May 14, 2004, (69 FR 26819)(FRL–7357–9) explains that in conducting these programs, EPA is tailoring its public participation process to be commensurate with the level of risk, extent of use, complexity of issues, and degree of public concern associated with each pesticide. Due to its uses, risks, and other factors, sethoxydim was reviewed through the modified 4–phase process. Through this process, EPA worked extensively with stakeholders and the public to reach the regulatory decisions for sethoxydim. The reregistration program is being conducted under Congressionally mandated time frames, and EPA recognizes the need both to make timely decisions and to involve the public. The Agency is issuing the sethoxydim RED for public comment. This comment period is intended to provide an additional opportunity for public input and a mechanism for initiating any necessary amendments to the RED. All comments should be submitted using the methods in Unit I. of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION, and must be received by EPA on or before the closing date. These comments will become part of the Agency Docket for sethoxydim. Comments received after the close of the comment period will be marked ’’late.’’ EPA is not required to consider these late comments. The Agency will carefully consider all comments received by the closing date and will provide a Response to Comments Memorandum in the Docket and electronic EDOCKET. If any comment significantly affects the document, EPA will also publish an amendment to the RED in the Federal Register. In the absence of substantive comments requiring changes, the sethoxydim RED will be implemented as it is now presented. B. What is the Agency’s Authority for Taking this Action? Section 4(g)(2) of FIFRA as amended directs that, after submission of all data concerning a pesticide active ingredient, ‘‘the Administrator shall determine whether pesticides containing such active ingredient are eligible for reregistration,’’ before calling in product-specific data on individual enduse products and either reregistering products or taking other ‘‘appropriate regulatory action.‘‘ Section 408(q) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), 21 U.S.C. 346a(q), requires EPA to review tolerances and exemptions for pesticide residues in effect as of August 2, 1996, to determine whether the tolerance or exemption meets the requirements of section 408(b)(2) or (c)(2) of FFDCA. VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 This review is to be completed by August 3, 2006. List of Subjects Environmental protection, Pesticides and pests. Dated: November 14, 2005. Peter Caulkins, Acting Director, Special Review and Reregistration Division, Office of Pesticide Programs. [FR Doc. 05–22994 Filed 11–23–05; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560–50–S Dated: November 4, 2005. Rosalind H. Brown, Chief, Superfund Enforcement & Information Management Branch, Waste Management Division. [FR Doc. 05–23274 Filed 11–23–05; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560–50–P FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION Farm Credit Administration Board Policy Statements AGENCY: ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [FRL–8002–1] Northeast Chemical Superfund Site; Notice of Proposed Settlement AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency. Notice of Cost Recovery Settlement. ACTION: SUMMARY: Under Section 122(h) (1) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), the Environmental Protection Agency has entered into a Cost Recovery Settlement with Solitron Devices, Inc. to settle liability at the following Superfund Sites: Solitron Devices Superfund Site located in Riviera Beach, Florida; Solitron Microwave Superfund Site located in Port Salerno, Florida; Petroleum Products Corporation Superfund Site located in Pembroke Park, Florida; City Industries, Inc. Superfund Site located in Orlando, Florida; and Casmalia Resources Superfund Site located in Santa Barbara County, California. EPA will consider public comments on the settlement until December 27, 2005. EPA may withdraw from or modify the proposed settlement should such comments disclose facts or considerations which indicate the proposed settlement is inappropriate, improper or inadequate. Copies of the proposed settlement are available from: Ms. Paula V. Batchelor, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4, Superfund Enforcement & Information Management Branch, Waste Division, 61 Forsyth Street, SW., Atlanta, Georgia 30303, 404/562–8887, Batchelor.Paula@epa.gov. Written or e-mail comments may be submitted to Ms. Batchelor at the above address within the 30 days specified above. PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 ACTION: Farm Credit Administration. Notice. SUMMARY: The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board recently undertook a review of all FCA policy statements, resulting in their repeal, amendment or readoption. All 15 current policy statements are included in this notice. The effective date is indicated on each individual policy statement set forth below. DATES: FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wendy Laguarda, Senior Counsel, Office of General Counsel, Farm Credit Administration, 1501 Farm Credit Drive, McLean Virginia 22102–5090, (703) 883–4020, TTY (703) 883–4020. A list of all current FCA Board policy statements and the text of each are set forth below in their entirety: SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: FCA Board Policy Statements FCA–PS–34 Disclosure of the Issuance and Termination of Enforcement Documents FCA–PS–37 Communications During Rulemaking FCA–PS–41 Alternative Means of Dispute Resolution FCA–PS–44 Travel FCA–PS–53 Examination Philosophy FCA–PS–59 Regulatory Philosophy FCA–PS–62 Equal Employment Opportunity Programs and Diversity FCA–PS–64 Rules for the Transaction of Business of the Farm Credit Administration Board FCA–PS–65 Release of Consolidated Reporting System Information FCA–PS–67 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Agency Programs and Activities FCA–PS–68 FCS Building Association Management Operations Policies and Practices FCA–PS–71 Disaster Relief Efforts by Farm Credit Institutions FCA–PS–72 Financial Institution Rating System (FIRS) FCA–PS–77 Borrower Privacy FCA–PS–78 Official Names of Farm Credit Institutions E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices Disclosure of the Issuance and Termination of Enforcement Documents FCA–PS–34 Effective Date: 27–JAN–05. Effect on Previous Actions: BM–13– JAN–94–03 (FCA–PS–57). Source of Authority: None. The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board finds that it is in the best interest of the Farm Credit System (FCS), the FCA, and the public that certain information concerning the issuance and any subsequent termination of final enforcement orders, formal agreements and conditions imposed in writing (Enforcement Documents) be disclosed to the FCS and the public. Specifically, the basis for disclosing this information is to communicate to the FCS and the public that the FCA is effectively using its enforcement powers through the issuance of Enforcement Documents and the subsequent termination of such Enforcement Documents, when appropriate. The FCA Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement Upon issuance or termination of any Enforcement Document, the Office of Examination shall notify the Director of the Office of Communications and Public Affairs (OCPA) of such event. OCPA shall prepare, for release to the FCS and the public, a disclosure, subject to the concurrence of the Office of General Counsel (OGC). If the OGC determines that a disclosure adversely affects a civil or criminal investigation, the disclosure will not be made. The disclosure shall include the information described below: 1. The type and date of action taken; 2. The type of institution to which the action pertains, or if the action pertains to an individual or entity, the relationship between the individual or entity and the institution; and 3. A description of the essential facts pertaining to the action, excluding information that would identify the institution and/or persons involved. Dated this 27th day of January, 2005. By Order of the Board. Jeanette C. Brinkley, Secretary to the Board. Communications During Rulemaking FCA–PS–37 Effective Date: 27–JAN–05. Effect on Previous Actions: Replaces previous Farm Credit Administration (FCA or Agency) Board policy on public communications during a rulemaking, adopted March 25th, 1992. See 57 FR 11083, April 1, 1992. VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 Source of Authority: None. The FCA Board finds that it is in the public interest and consistent with the requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act to revise its policy on communications with the public during the rulemaking process. The FCA Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement In keeping with the need to ensure an open, freely accessible, and wellinformed rulemaking process while balancing the need for impartiality and fairness, the FCA adopts the following guidelines governing substantive oral communications between the public and Board members and staff during the course of a related rulemaking. Before a Rulemaking Begins Unrestricted communication with the public before rulemaking begins supports and promotes the Agency’s efforts to design creative and effective regulatory policy. No specific guidelines apply to that communication. From Publication of Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to the End of the Comment Period After a particular rulemaking has begun with publication of a notice of proposed rulemaking (including publication of an advance notice of proposed rulemaking), FCA encourages members of the public to provide written comments during the public comment period. All written comments are placed in a public file, where they are available for examination and copying during normal business hours. The comments receive careful consideration and become part of the public record of the rulemaking. Where appropriate, FCA may also conduct public hearings or open meetings to take testimony or hold discussions on a rulemaking. Such opportunities for comment from the public will be announced in advance and the comments received will be placed in the public rulemaking file. Substantive oral communications during the comment period between FCA personnel, including Board members and staff, and members of the public regarding the subject of an ongoing rulemaking will be summarized in writing and placed in the public rulemaking file. While FCA personnel are always available to explain or clarify proposed rules, if an individual wants to engage FCA personnel in substantive discussion concerning a published proposed rule, he or she should first file a written comment covering the matter to be discussed, particularly if he or she has not already filed a written comment. PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 71143 If new substantive comments are discussed, FCA staff will reduce the substance of such comments to writing, promptly place it in the public rulemaking file, and urge the individual to submit a written comment. From the Close of the Comment Period to the Adoption of the Final Rule From the close of the comment period until adoption of the final rule, substantive discussions between members of the public and FCA personnel relating to the proposed rule should be curtailed. In the interest of fairness, if new facts or arguments must be brought to the attention of the FCA, the communication must be in writing so that it can promptly be placed in the public rulemaking file. FCA believes these guidelines will help ensure a complete rulemaking record for future agency consideration of the rule or in the event of court review. Further, FCA strongly believes that the rulemaking process must be open and evenhanded in order to avoid even the appearance of impropriety or undue influence that might arise from private communication during certain periods. Finally, if a substantive comment on a proposed rule were transmitted to FCA in a private communication that did not become part of the public record, other members of the public would not have an opportunity to respond to any new arguments or facts contained in that communication. Because FCA believes that its rulemaking process benefits from give and take among commenters who are able to consider each others’ comments, this policy statement requires all comments to be placed in the public rulemaking file. This policy statement does not apply to public communications regarding any rulemaking issue unless and until the matter becomes the subject of a notice of proposed rulemaking. Nothing in the policy statement is meant to affect the ability of FCA to use negotiated rulemakings, open meetings or other types of public forums to augment its rulemaking under section 553 of the Administrative Procedure Act. Dated this 27th day of January, 2005. By Order of the Board. Jeanette C. Brinkley, Secretary to the Board. Alternative Means of Dispute Resolution FCA–PS–41 Effective Date: 27–JAN–05. Effect on Previous Action: Originally adopted 16–JUL–92 (see 57 FR 33198, E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 71144 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices July 27, 1992); amended 30–MAY–96; amended 10–FEB–97. Source of Authority: Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996, Public Law 104–320, 110 Stat. 3870 (1996), and codified at 5 U.S.C. 571 et seq. The Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996 (Act), addresses the concern that traditional methods of dispute resolution, such as litigation and administrative adjudication, have become increasingly time-consuming and expensive. The Act authorizes and encourages greater use of alternative means of dispute resolution (ADR), requiring each Federal agency to adopt a policy addressing the use of ADR. ADR consists of informal, voluntary procedures used by parties who seek to resolve their disputes by consent. Such procedures include, but are not limited to, mediation, conciliation, facilitation, fact-finding, arbitration, and mini-trials, or any combination thereof. By emphasizing the common goals of the parties and fostering an atmosphere of cooperation, ADR can offer a less contentious and more expeditious alternative to traditional methods of dispute resolution such as litigation and administrative adjudication. The use of ADR in appropriate circumstances is consistent with the Farm Credit Administration’s (FCA or Agency) mission as an agency. To promote a safe and sound, competitive Farm Credit System, the FCA always strives to effectively and efficiently manage its resources. By expediting the resolution of certain disputes, ADR can reduce the FCA’s transaction costs, increase the FCA’s productivity, and help the FCA accomplish its goals. The FCA Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement It is the policy of the FCA to resolve disputes in an effective and efficient manner. Many of the disputes encountered by the FCA are resolved most effectively and efficiently through settlement negotiations between the FCA and the other parties to the disputes prior to the initiation, or in the early stages of, more formal litigation or administrative adjudication. The FCA will continue to use settlement negotiations as a method of dispute resolution. In addition, the FCA will consider whether it is appropriate to use ADR when a dispute arises. In assessing the advisability of using ADR procedures, as defined in 5 U.S.C. 571(3), the FCA will consider whether such procedures are likely to reduce the FCA’s transaction costs, increase the FCA’s productivity, and help the FCA accomplish its goals of effective regulations and policies and VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 the enhancement of FCA’s effectiveness and cost efficiency. The FCA will also consider the factors set forth in 5 U.S.C. 572(b) in deciding whether it is appropriate to use such ADR procedures. The FCA’s Dispute Resolution Specialist (ADR Specialist), designated by the Chairman, is responsible for the implementation of this policy statement. The ADR Specialist is available to assist FCA personnel in considering the appropriate application of ADR procedures. Before deciding whether it is appropriate to use an ADR procedure, FCA personnel will consult with, and obtain the concurrence of, the ADR Specialist or his or her designee. The ADR Specialist and those FCA personnel involved in resolving disputes are encouraged to attend educational and training programs relating to the theory and application of ADR on a regular basis, as the FCA budget permits. Based on the voluntary nature of ADR, all parties to a dispute must agree to use an ADR procedure before it can be initiated. Dated this 27th day of January, 2005. By Order of the Board. Jeanette C. Brinkley, Secretary to the Board. Travel FCA–PS–44 Effective Date: 27–JAN–05. Effect on Previous Actions: Originally adopted 13–JUN–91; amended 12– NOV–92. Source of Authority: 5 U.S.C. 7351, 7353; 5 U.S.C. App. (Ethics in Government Act of 1978); E.O. 12674, 54 FR 15159, 3 CFR, 1989 Comp., p. 215, as modified by E.O. 12731, 55 FR 42547, 3 CFR, 1990 Comp., p. 306; 12 U.S.C. 2242 (Section 5.8 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended), 41 CFR Part 301. The FCA Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement Members of the Farm Credit Administration (FCA or Agency) Board (we) are not subject to the same requirements regarding allowances for travel and subsistence that generally apply to officers and employees of the United States (section 5.8 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended). Nevertheless, it is the general policy of the FCA Board (Board) that we will travel on official business in the most economical fashion reasonable under the circumstances. We are subject to Federal laws, rules, and Executive Orders relating to conflicts of interest that may result from PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 accepting gifts, including travel related expenses, from outside sources. Generally, we may not accept anything of value from: • A person seeking official action from, doing business with, or conducting activities regulated by the FCA, or • A person whose interests may be substantially affected by the performance or nonperformance of our official duties. Such persons are prohibited sources. (See Executive Order 12674, as amended; 5 U.S.C. 7353; and 5 CFR Part 2635, the Executive Branch-wide standards of ethical conduct issued by the Office of Government Ethics.) An organization is also a prohibited source if more than half of its members are prohibited sources. The gift rule under the standards of ethical conduct and the Agency’s gift acceptance authority at 31 U.S.C. 1353 outline the limited circumstances in which we may accept gifts and the payment of travel expenses from outside sources. Unless an exception applies, ethics rules prevent us from accepting gifts offered to us because of our official position. Under no circumstances may we accept anything of value in return for being influenced in the performance of an official act. The aim of these rules is to prevent an actual conflict of interest or the appearance of a conflict and to uphold public confidence in the integrity of the Government and the Agency. Except as noted above, third parties may not pay for official Agency expenditures. Because the Agency is responsible for the cost of conducting official business, we will ensure that the Agency is billed directly for travel expenses whenever possible (for example, by using our Government credit card for travel expenses). On those occasions when direct Agency payment is impossible or impractical (for example, a large group business dinner arranged and paid for in advance by the organizer), we will promptly notify the Agency of the obligation and ensure that the payer is promptly reimbursed. We recognize that it is important not to create the impression that a third party, particularly a prohibited source, is paying for our expenses. Travel Transportation We will use less than first-class accommodations for all modes of transportation except in circumstances where: E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices 1. We must use first-class accommodations because no other space accommodations are reasonably available or where other practical considerations exist (such as to accommodate a disability or other special need); 2. Exceptional security circumstances require it; 3. The conduct of Agency business requires it; or 4. We receive first-class travel benefits on an unsolicited basis from a carrier (such as free first-class coupons) and the benefit cannot be used by the Agency either in the present or the future, cannot be redeemed for cash value, and does not require the redemption of official miles. Under these circumstances, we can use the first-class benefit for either official or personal travel. We will use a commercial charter flight at Agency expense only when no commercially scheduled flights are available in time to meet the requirements of the travel or when the charter flight would be more economical than a commercial flight. We will avoid the use of private aircraft whenever possible and use them only where commercial or charter flights are not reasonably available or would impose undue hardships. When reporting travel expenses, we must adequately justify the use of a commercial charter flight, private aircraft, or first-class accommodations. Lodging When available and practical, we will book lodging at the Government rate or another available reduced rate at hotels and motels. When attending a convention, meeting, or other official activity, we ordinarily obtain lodging at the hotel or motel holding the activity even if reduced rates are available elsewhere. We may book more than one room when necessary for the conduct of official business on the premises. The Agency will not ordinarily reimburse us for lodging in the metropolitan Washington, DC, area. When conducting business in and around the official duty station in McLean, Virginia, we ordinarily reside at home. Other Expenses for Official Activities The FCA will reimburse us for the usual and reasonable expenses we incur as a consequence of official activities in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area and in other locations. The Agency will allow the repayment of expenses for: 1. Transportation costs; 2. Meal costs; VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 3. Registration fees or other fees assessed for attendance or participation; 4. The cost of miscellaneous supplies needed to participate in a particular function or activity; and 5. Other costs we incur by participating in official activities. The Agency will not allow reimbursement of expenses for official activity incurred on behalf of other persons, including relatives, except as provided in the Board policy on Official Function (Representation and Reception) Expenses. Form of Payment We will arrange for official travel using the Agency’s travel management system whenever possible. We may use cash to pay for official travel expenses and seek repayment from the Agency afterwards but, whenever possible, we will use the Government-issued credit card for all official travel expenses. Receipts When filing claims for reimbursement of travel expenses, we will provide receipts for expenses as normally required of other FCA employees under the Federal Travel Regulation, which currently requires receipts for all lodging and travel expenses over $75. However, failure to provide a receipt as normally required is not grounds for denial of a claim. If we do not have a receipt, we will provide a statement explaining the nature and amount of the expense and the reason for not having a receipt. Combining Official Business Travel With Personal Activities Although it is permissible to engage in personal activities while on official travel, the purpose of the trip must always be the need to conduct official business. The Agency pays for travel and related expenses incurred in performing official business. However, the Agency may not pay for personal expenses incurred while on official travel. Therefore, it is important to record and allocate expenses carefully to ensure that official expenses are clearly differentiated from personal expenses. Proper handling of Agency expenses is always important, but particularly so when engaging in personal activities while on official Agency business. We are aware that, in certain circumstances, engaging in personal activities while on official travel could create an appearance that personal activities, not official business, prompted the trip. When we take a trip to conduct official business, it is usually clear from the nature of our business PO 00000 Frm 00067 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 71145 that the trip is proper and necessary. If we are concerned that personal activities during the trip might suggest otherwise, we will consult the DAEO to avoid a possible appearance of impropriety. We understand that engaging in official travel that takes us to a given destination (for example, our home state) on a disproportionate basis may raise questions about whether the travel truly is necessary. Again, we will consult with the DAEO about such concerns. Dated this 27th day of January, 2005. By Order of the Board. Jeanette C. Brinkley, Secretary to the Board. Examination Philosophy FCA–PS–53 Effective Date: 08–JUN–05. Effect on Previous Action: Responds to NV 93–04 (15–JAN–93) and Amends FCA Policy Statement 53 dated 15–JUL– 93. Source of Authority: Sections 5.9 and 5.19 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended. The Farm Credit Administration (FCA or Agency) Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement This policy provides a general philosophy and direction for the examination and oversight of the Farm Credit System (System). The FCA Board provides for the examination and supervision of each System institution in accordance with the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended (the ‘‘Act’’). The Board fulfills this responsibility primarily through the Office of Examination (OE) The FCA fulfills its supervision and examination responsibilities for Farmer Mac, a separate government-sponsored enterprise, through its Office of Secondary Market Oversight. OE develops oversight plans, conducts examinations, monitors the System’s condition, current and emerging risks, and develops supervisory strategies to ensure that the System operates in a safe and sound manner and fulfills its public policy purpose. The Act also provides that the Farm Credit System Insurance Corporation (FCSIC) Board of Directors should utilize FCA examiners to conduct examinations of System institutions, to the extent practicable. Oversight and Examination The FCA Board directs the maintenance of a ‘‘risk-based’’ approach to oversight and examination for System institutions, which maximizes OE’s effectiveness and strategically addresses the System’s safety and soundness and E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 71146 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices compliance with laws and regulations. Examination resources will be allocated to matters of highest risk or potential risk to the System at large and specific institutions to proactively address emerging risks. The amount of examination resources devoted to a System institution and the scope of an examination will depend on an institution’s ability to identify and manage its risks. Accordingly, oversight and examination efforts will be heightened and accompanied by appropriate preventive, corrective, or enforcement actions when institutions are unable or unwilling to address material unsafe and unsound practices or comply with law and regulations. This risk-based approach is critical to maintaining shareholder, investor, and public confidence in the financial strength and future viability of the System. Examination Staff and Communications The risk-based approach must promote effective communications with System institutions. Examiners are an essential communication link with System institutions through ongoing institution oversight, on-site examinations, meetings with boards and management, and written reports and correspondence. The examination program shall therefore maintain adequately trained examiners who understand the unique risks and opportunities of agriculture as principally a biological industry, maintain an appropriate level of regulatory and financial industry experience and skills, and communicate and work effectively with System institutions to ensure they remain safe and sound and able to fulfill their public policy purpose. Reporting to the FCA Board Annually, the Chief Examiner will provide the Board an annual oversight and examination plan (plan) for approval. This plan will: • Assess the condition of and risks affecting the System at large and in specific institutions; • Establish priorities and identify staffing, training, and budgetary needs; • Include an examination schedule that ensures statutory requirements are met; and, • Include operational objectives and strategies for meeting the plan. The Chief Examiner will report semiannually to the Board on the status of, and proposed adjustments to, the plan. The Chief Examiner will also report quarterly on the current condition of the Farm Credit System, emerging risks, and any necessary follow-up strategies. VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 Dated this 8th day of June, 2005. By Order of the Board. Jeanette C. Brinkley, Secretary to the Board. Regulatory Philosophy FCA–PS–59 Effective Date: 08–JUN–05. Effect on Previous Action: Originally adopted BM–17–FEB–94–02 (see 59 FR 32189, June 22, 1994); see also 60 FR 26034, May 16, 1995. Sources of Authority: Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended; 12 U.S.C. 2001 et seq. The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement The FCA shall develop regulations consistent with its authorities under the Farm Credit Act of 1971 (Act), as amended, and other relevant statutes. It is the FCA Board’s philosophy to (1) Promulgate regulations that are necessary to implement the law; (2) support achievement of the Farm Credit System’s (System) public mission; and (3) ensure the System’s safety and soundness. The FCA Board will strive to create an environment that promotes the confidence of customers and shareholders, investors, Congress, and the public in the System’s financial strength and future viability. The FCA Board believes that safe and sound operations of System institutions will instill: (a) Investor confidence in System debt securities, which helps ensure that adequate funds are available at reasonable rates; and, (b) shareholder/ member confidence in each cooperatively owned System institution by ensuring that sufficient financial resources are maintained to support an adequate supply of credit and other services to its shareholders/members in both good and bad times. FCA will give high priority to issues that enable the System to more effectively accomplish its mission and to those issues that pose significant risks to the successful operation of the System, with the intent of ensuring an adequate and flexible flow of money into rural areas. As such, the FCA Board intends to provide System institutions with the flexibility consistent with changes in law, agriculture, and rural America so institutions can offer high quality, reasonably priced credit and related services to farmers, ranchers, their cooperatives, rural residents, and other entities upon which farming operations are dependent. The strategies for accomplishing the Board’s regulatory philosophy are as follows: PO 00000 Frm 00068 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 1. We will develop regulations based on a reasoned determination that benefits of any proposed regulation justify its cost. 2. We will focus our regulatory efforts on issues that address identified risks in System institutions or enhance the ability of System institutions to better meet the needs of agriculture and rural America. Preambles to regulations will explain the rationale for the regulatory approach adopted. 3. We will utilize diverse approaches to encourage public participation in the development and review of regulatory proposals in appropriate circumstances. 4. We will emphasize the cooperative principles of a farmer-owned Government-sponsored enterprise by advancing regulatory proposals that encourage farmer- and rancherborrowers to participate in the management, control, and ownership of their institutions. 5. We will work to eliminate unnecessary regulations that impair the ability of the System to accomplish its mission to serve agriculture and rural America and any regulations that are unduly burdensome, costly, or not based on the law. The details of how the FCA will implement these strategies will be described in the Agency’s Five-Year Strategic and Annual Performance Plans and in its Unified Agenda. Semi-annually, the Director of the Office of Policy Analysis (OPA) will provide the Board a proposed Unified Agenda for approval. The Unified Agenda will describe the regulatory projects the Agency plans to work on during the next 12 month period and apply the principles and strategies reflected in this policy. Quarterly, the OPA Director will report to the Board on the status of, and proposed adjustments to, regulatory projects scheduled on the Unified Agenda. Dated this 8th day of June, 2005. By Order of the Board. Jeannette C. Brinkley, Secretary to the Board. Equal Employment Opportunity Programs and Diversity FCA–PS–62 Effective Date: 12–SEP–02. Effect on Previous Action: Updates FCA–PS–62 [NV–94–44] 8–3–94. Source of Authority: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended (42 U.S.C. 2000e et seq.); Age Discrimination in Employment Act (29 U.S.C. 621 et seq.); Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (29 U.S.C. 721 et seq.); Equal Pay Act of 1974 (29 U.S.C. 206(d)); Civil Service Reform Act of E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices 1978 (5 U.S.C. 3112); Executive Order 11478, as amended on May 2, 2000; Executive Order 13145, February 8, 2000; 29 CFR Part 1614; Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Management Directives. Purpose The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board affirms its commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity (EEOD) and provides guidance to Agency management and staff for deciding and taking action in these critical areas. Importance Unquestionably, the employees who comprise the FCA are its most important resource. The Board fully recognizes the Agency draws its strength from the dedication, experience, and diversity of its employees. The Board is firmly committed to taking whatever steps are needed to protect the rights of its staff and to carrying out programs that foster the development of each employee’s potential. We believe an investment in efforts that strongly promote EEOD will prevent the conflict and the high costs of correction for taking no, or inadequate, action in these areas. The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board Adopts the Following Policy Statement It is the policy of the FCA to prohibit discrimination in Agency policies, program practices, and operations. Employees, applicants for employment, and members of the public who seek to take part in FCA programs, activities, and services will be treated fairly. FCA, under the appropriate laws and regulations, will: • Ensure equal employment opportunity based on merit and qualification, without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, status as a parent, genetic information or participation in discrimination or harassment complaint proceedings; • Provide for the prompt and fair consideration of complaints of discrimination; • Make reasonable accommodations for qualified applicants for employment and employees with physical or mental disabilities under law; • Provide an environment free from harassment to all employees; • Create and maintain an organizational culture that recognizes, values, and supports employee and public diversity; • Implement affirmative programs to carry out this policy; and VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 • Develop objectives within the strategic planning process to meet the goals of EEOD. Affirmative Employment and Diversity The FCA intends to be a model employer. That is, as far as possible, FCA will build and maintain a workforce that reflects the rich diversity of individual differences evident throughout this Nation. The Board views individual differences as complementary and believes these differences can enrich our organization. When individual differences are respected, recognized, and valued, diversity becomes a powerful force that can contribute to achieving superior results. Therefore, we will create, maintain, and continuously improve on an organizational culture that fully recognizes, values, and supports employee diversity. The Board is committed to promoting and supporting an inclusive environment that provides to all employees, individually and collectively, the chance to work to their full potential in the pursuit of the Agency’s mission. We will provide everyone the opportunity to develop to his or her fullest potential. When a barrier to someone achieving this goal exists, we will strive to remove this barrier. The Board expects full cooperation and support from everyone associated with recruitment, selection, development, and promotion to ensure such actions are free of discrimination. Though staff commitment is important, the role of supervisors is paramount to success. Agency supervisors must be coaches and are responsible for helping every employee to develop their talents and to give their best efforts in contributing to the mission of the FCA. Therefore, all supervisors will be evaluated on their EEOD achievements as part of their overall job performance. Workplace Harassment It is the policy of the FCA to provide a work environment free from unlawful discrimination in any form, and to protect all employees, male or female, from any form of harassment, either physical or verbal. The FCA will not tolerate harassment in the workplace for any reason. The FCA also will not tolerate retaliation against any employee for reporting harassment or for aiding in any inquiry about reporting harassment. Disabled Veterans Affirmative Action Program (DVAAP) A disabled veteran is defined as someone who is entitled to compensation under the laws administered by the Veterans PO 00000 Frm 00069 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 71147 Administration or someone who was discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability. The FCA is committed to increasing the representation of disabled veterans within its organization. Our Nation owes a debt to those veterans who served their country, especially those who were disabled because of service. To honor these disabled veterans, the FCA shall place emphasis on making vacancies known to and providing opportunities for employing disabled veterans. Responsibilities The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is ultimately responsible for developing and carrying out all EEOD requirements and initiatives in accordance with laws and regulations to fulfill diversity initiatives in approved program plans. To help in fulfilling these responsibilities the CEO, or designee, will select individuals to fill the following positions: • An EEO Director; • Special Emphasis Program Managers required by law or regulation; and • EEO Counselors in sufficient number to ensure the needs of each Agency office are met. Individuals selected for these positions will: • Perform duties as determined by the CEO, and as formally expressed in position descriptions or individual performance rating elements, as appropriate; • Serve on a collateral-duty basis— the CEO will decide the percent of time devoted to these collateral duties, which may be adjusted over time as circumstances and program requirements dictate; • Attend appropriate training in the areas they have responsibility for; and • Develop, monitor progress, report on, and periodically update program plans in their respective areas of responsibility. The CEO or EEO Director may also establish standing committees to deal with specific issues as they arise. The Head of each Agency office will provide support to the individuals identified above on an as needed basis upon request from the EEO Director. Dated this 12th day of September, 2002. By Order of the Board. Jeanette C. Brinkley, Acting Secretary to the Board. E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 71148 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices Rules for the Transaction of Business of the Farm Credit Administration Board FCA–PS–64 Effective Date: 27–JUN–05. Effect on Previous Action: Originally adopted by NV–94–05 (07–FEB– 94)[FCA–PS–58]; corrected by memo 09–FEB–94; amended by NV–95–03 (13–JAN–95)[FCA–PS–64]; amended by NV–95–18 (20–MAR–95); amended by NV–95–46 (9–AUG–95); amended by BM–24–OCT–95–02; amended by NV– 95–69 (02–JAN–96). See also 58 FR 6633, Feb. 1, 1993 and 59 FR 17537, Apr. 13, 1994; reaffirmed by NV–96–22 (30–MAY–96); amended by NV–96–36 (26–AUG–96); amended by NV–98–16 (8–MAY–98); amended by NV–99–09 (16–MAR–99); amended by NV–99–25 (24–SEP–99). Source of Authority: Sections 5.8, 5.9, 5.10, 5.11 and 5.17 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended. The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement: Rules for the Transaction of Business of the Farm Credit Administration Board Purpose, Scope, and Definitions Section 1. Purpose and Scope. These Rules adopted under section 5.8(c) of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended (Act), concerning the transaction of business of the Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board (Board) supplement the statutes and regulations that govern the procedures and practice of the Board (including, without limitation, the Act, the Sunshine Act, and FCA regulations, 12 CFR 600 et seq.). Unless otherwise provided in these Rules, or relevant statutes or regulations, this Board will transact its business in accordance with Robert’s Rules of Order (Newly Revised) (10th Edition). Section 2. Definitions, Reporting Relationships, and Performance Appraisals. • ‘‘Act’’ means the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended. • ‘‘Board Member’’ means each of the three individuals appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, to serve as Members of the Board, including the Chairman, unless the context requires otherwise. Each Board Member appraises the performance of his or her staff. • ‘‘Chairman’’ means the Board Member designated by the President to serve as Chairman of the Board. The Chairman also serves as the Agency’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and is designated by the Director of the Office VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 of Management and Budget to serve as Head of the Agency. After consultation with the other Board Members, the Chairman appraises the performance of the Secretary, Inspector General, EEO Director, Designated Agency Ethics Official, Senior Agency Official, and all Office Directors reporting directly to him or her. • ‘‘Designated Agency Ethics Official’’ means an employee of the FCA designated by the Head of the Agency to administer the provisions of Title I of the Ethics in Government Act of 1978, to coordinate and manage the Agency’s ethics program, and to provide liaison with the Office of Government Ethics on all aspects of FCA’s ethics program. The DAEO reports directly to the Chairman on the Agency’s ethics program. • ‘‘Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Director’’ means an employee of the FCA designated by the Head of the Agency to administer the provisions of the Agency’s EEO program as set forth in 29 CFR Part 1614. • ‘‘General Counsel’’ means an employee of the FCA who serves as the chief legal officer of the Board. The General Counsel reports to the Chairman concerning administrative matters and to the FCA Board on matters of Agency policy. By the nature of the position the General Counsel, as appropriate and necessary, maintains special advisory relationships in confidence with the individual Board Members. The General Counsel must also keep the FCA Board fully informed of all litigation in which the Agency is involved. • ‘‘Office Director’’ means an employee of the FCA serving as head of an FCA Office, excluding the Inspector General unless specified. • ‘‘Secretary’’ means an employee of the FCA who serves as Secretary to the Board as appointed by the Chairman. The Secretary, or another FCA employee designated by the Chairman, serves as the parliamentarian for the Board. The Secretary keeps permanent and complete records and minutes of the acts and proceedings of the Board. • ‘‘Senior Agency Official’’ means an employee of the FCA in a senior position other than Office Director, such as a Chief of Staff or Chief Operating Officer. The Senior Agency Official appraises the performance of staff that report directly to him or her. The Chairman, in consultation with the other Board Members, reviews the performance appraisals conducted by the Senior Agency Official. • ‘‘Sunshine Act’’ means the Government in the Sunshine Act, 5 U.S.C. 552b. PO 00000 Frm 00070 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 Amendments Section 1. The business of the Board will be transacted in accordance with these Rules, which may be amended from time to time: Provided, however, that upon agreement of at least two Board Members convened in a duly called meeting, the Rules may be waived in any particular instance, except that action may be taken on items at a Special Meeting only in accordance with Part I, Article I, § 3(b) of this policy. Section 2. These Rules may be changed or amended by the concurring vote of at least two Board Members upon notice of the proposed change or amendments having been given at least thirty days before such vote. Section 3. These Rules will be reviewed by the Board at least every five years or as needed. Part I—Rules for the FCA Board Meetings Article I. Board Meetings. Article II. Board Action. Article III. Board and Chairman Delegations. Article I Board Meetings Section 1. Sunshine Act. All FCA Board meetings will be announced and conducted in conformance with the Government in Sunshine Act. Section 2. Presiding Officer. The Chairman will preside at each meeting. In the event the Chairman is unavailable, the other Board Member from the Chairman’s political party will preside. If there is no other Board Member from the Chairman’s political party, then the Board Member serving the longest on the Board will preside. Section 3. Calls and Agenda. (a) Regular Meeting. The Secretary, at the direction of the Chairman, issues a call for items for the agenda to the other Board Members and the Office Directors of FCA. The Secretary provides to the Chairman a list of all the items submitted, including a list of outstanding notational votes and matters voted ‘‘not appropriate for notational vote.’’ The Chairman then establishes the agenda to be published in the Federal Register at least one week before the meeting date. At each meeting, the Board votes to approve or amend the agenda established by the Chairman. The Board may amend the agenda to add items that the Board Members believe need to be considered at that meeting. (b) Special Meeting. Special meetings of the Board may be called: (1) By the Chairman; or (2) By the other two Board Members; or E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices (3) If there is at the time a vacancy on the Board, by a single Board Member. Any call for a Special Meeting will specify the business to be transacted and state the place and time of such meeting. No business will be brought before a Special Meeting that has not been specified in the notice of call of such meeting without the unanimous consent of all Board Members. (c) Notice. The Secretary will give appropriate notice of any and all meetings and make the call for Special meetings. Reasonable efforts to provide such notice to Board Members will be made for all meetings of the Board, but failure of notice will in no case invalidate a meeting or any action taken during that meeting. Section 4. Board Materials. The Secretary will distribute complete Board Briefing Books to each Board Member at least two full business days before any Regular Meeting. Unless agreed to by all Board Members, no vote may be taken on an issue unless the necessary material has been provided to the Board Members not less than twenty-four hours before the meeting to consider such issue. Section 5. Supporting Documentation. The Secretary will maintain one copy of all Board Briefing Book material. All copies of the Board Briefing Book material for Closed Sessions provided to anyone other than the Secretary will be returned to the Secretary for disposal or maintained in a secure location approved by the Secretary. One copy of each Executive Summary provided to a Board Member will be provided to and maintained by the Secretary. Board Briefing Books and Executive Summaries are not part of the minutes of the Board unless expressly incorporated therein. Section 6. Telephone Conference. Any Board Member, including the Chairman, may participate in a meeting of the Board through the use of conference call telephone or similar equipment, provided that all persons participating in the meeting can simultaneously speak to and hear each other. Any Board Member so participating will be deemed present at the meeting for all purposes. Section 7. Public Attendance. (a) Attendance. Members of the public may attend all meetings of the Board except those meetings or portions of meetings that are closed as directed by the Board, consistent with the Sunshine Act. (b) Public Appearances Before the Board. While members of the public are invited and encouraged to attend Board meetings, no member of the public has a right to speak in a Board meeting. However, the Board may, in its sole VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 discretion, permit a member of the public to address the Board if he or she provides a written request and statement covering the intended subject matter at least fifteen days before the meeting. Section 8. Minutes. (a) Format. The format of minutes of the Board meetings, unless otherwise stated in these rules or relevant statutes or regulations, will comply with Robert’s Rules of Order (Newly Revised) (10th Edition) and the Sunshine Act. The minutes will clearly identify the date, time, and place of the meeting, the type of meeting held, whether the meeting was open or closed, the identity of Board Members present and, where applicable, that they participated by telephone, and the identity of the Secretary and the General Counsel in attendance, or, in their absence, the names of the persons who substituted for them. The minutes will contain a separate paragraph for each subject matter, and will note all main motions or motions to bring a main motion before the assembly, except any that were withdrawn. The minutes will not contain any reference to statements made unless a request is specifically made that a statement be made a part of the record, or if required by the Sunshine Act. The minutes of meetings will indicate the substance and disposition of any notational votes completed since the last meeting. Except in the case of a voice vote, the Secretary will record the vote of each Board Member on a question or will note a unanimous consent. The Chairman and the Secretary will sign the minutes of the Board, indicating the date of approval by the Board. (b) Circulation. The Chairman and General Counsel will review draft minutes. The Secretary will circulate draft minutes to all Board Members one week before their consideration at a Board Meeting. The Secretary will place in all Board Briefing Books copies of the minutes of the meetings of the Board (Open Session) to be voted on at a Board Meeting. The Secretary will place only in the Board Briefing Books of the Board Members, the Secretary, and the General Counsel copies of the minutes of the meetings of the Board (Closed Session) to be voted on at a Board Meeting. Article II Board Action Section 1. Affirmative Vote Required. Action on any matter requires the affirmative vote of at least two Board Members, except as provided in Article III, § 1 of this Part. Section 2. Records of Board Action. PO 00000 Frm 00071 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 71149 (a) Meetings. The vote of each Board Member, including the Chairman, on a question voted on at a meeting will be recorded in the minutes. The Chairman may, if there is no objection, call for a voice vote on adjournment or other actions. If a voice vote is taken, its result will be recorded in the minutes. (b) Notational Votes. The Secretary will provide a summary of any action taken by notational vote to the Board Members and Chairman and the action taken will be reflected in the minutes of the next meeting of the Board. Section 3. Notational Voting. (a) Nothing in these Rules precludes the transaction of business by the circulation of written items (notational votes) to the Board Members. (b) The Board may use notational voting procedures to decide any matter that may come before it. Any Board Member may submit a motion to the Secretary for distribution as a notational vote. However, in view of the public policy of openness reflected in the Sunshine Act and the desire to allow any Board Member to present viewpoints to the other Board Members, any Board Member can veto the use of the notational voting procedure for the consideration of any particular matter by voting ‘‘not appropriate for notational vote.’’ (c) Upon submission of an item for notational vote, the Secretary will provide each Board Member a complete package of all relevant information and a notational vote ballot specifying the Board Member making the motion, the motion itself, and the deadline for return of the ballot. Within ten business days of receipt, or earlier if the motion requires, each Board Member will act on the matter by returning the ballot to the Secretary. Each Board Member is to indicate his/her position in writing on the ballot in the following manner: (1) Approve; (2) disapprove; (3) abstain; or (4) not appropriate for notational vote. (d) No partial concurrences or amendments are permitted; however, a Board Member may suggest a revision to the proponent of the motion, subject to compliance with the Sunshine Act, and the proponent may withdraw his motion at any time before receipt by the Secretary of all the ballots of all Board Members or the end of the time period provided for on the ballot. (e) A Board Member who is absent from the office may authorize a staff member to initial the ballot for him/her, provided that the Board Member has a designation memorandum on file with the Secretary. Section 4. Board Records. The Secretary will maintain the records of the Board including, without limitation, E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 71150 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices the minutes of the Board meetings and notational votes. Article III Board and Chairman Delegations Section 1. Two Vacancies/Authority to Act. In the event two Board Members are not available by reason of refusal, resignation, temporary or permanent incapacitation, or death, to perform the duties of their offices, the Board hereby delegates to the remaining Board Member the authority to exercise, in his/her discretion, the authorities of the FCA granted to the Agency or the Board by statute, regulation or otherwise, except those authorities which are nondelegable. This delegation of authority does not include authority to establish general policy and promulgate rules and regulations, or any delegation expressly prohibited by statute. This delegation will include but is not limited to the exercise of the following powers: (a) The approval of actions of the Farm Credit System (System) institutions that are required by statute, regulations or otherwise to be approved by the FCA or its Board; (b) The exercise of all powers of enforcement granted to the FCA by statute, including but not limited to, the authorities contained in 12 U.S.C. 2154, 2154a, 2183, 2202a, and 2261–2274; and (c) Any actions or approvals required in connection with the conduct of a receivership or conservatorship of a System institution. Authorities delegated by this Section may be redelegated, in writing, at the discretion of the remaining Board Member, to other FCA officers or employees. Section 2. National Security Emergencies. Pursuant to Executive Order 12656, as amended, in the event of a national security emergency, if the Chairman is unable to perform his or her duties for any reason, the Chairman, at his or her sole discretion, delegates to the following individuals, in the order mentioned and subject to being available, the authority to exercise and perform all the functions, powers, authority and duties of the Chairman in an acting capacity until such time as either the Chairman can resume his/her position or, if no longer able to serve as Chairman, the President of the United States designates a new Chairman: (a) Member of the Board of the Chairman’s political party; (b) If there is no other Board Member from the Chairman’s political party, then the Board Member serving the longest on the Board; (c) General Counsel. VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 The Chairman or Acting Chairman will ensure that FCA has an alternative location for its headquarters functions in the event a national security emergency renders FCA’s headquarters inoperative. The Chairman or Acting Chairman may establish such branch office or offices of the FCA as are necessary to coordinate its operations with those of other government agencies. Section 3. Individual Assignments. To the extent consistent with law, the Board or the Chairman may offer another Member of the Board a special assignment and define the duties incident thereto, and the Chairman may delegate to another Board Member certain duties and responsibilities of the Chairman. Section 4. Other Delegations. The FCA Board may delegate such authorities as it deems necessary and appropriate. Such delegations are included in Attachments A and B to this policy. Part II—Board and Staff Governance Article I. Board Governance. Article II. Staff Governance. Article I Board Governance Section 1. General. The purpose of this Part is to ensure the efficient operation of the FCA in light of the various authorities and operational responsibilities of Board and the FCA Chairman and CEO. The Board recognizes that for the Agency to run efficiently, the Chairman/ CEO must have sufficient latitude and discretion to direct the implementation of Board policies and run the Agency’s day-to-day affairs. Notwithstanding such latitude, the other Board Members must have access to staff and must be able to request information from staff that they find necessary to fulfill their policy- and rulemaking responsibilities under the Act. The Chairman/CEO is always free to bring to the Board issues that do not require Board action. Conversely, the Board may involve itself in operational matters ordinarily reserved for the Chairman/CEO if it concludes that they rise to the level of policy due to their sensitivity, seriousness, or controversial nature. Section 2. Board Authorities. The Board, acting as a unit, must manage, administer, and establish policies for the FCA. The Board specifically approves the rules and regulations implementing the Act; provides for the examination, enforcement, and regulation of System institutions; PO 00000 Frm 00072 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 provides for the performance of all the powers, functions, and duties vested in the FCA; and requires any reports deemed necessary from System institutions. The Board also adopts the FCA seal. Each Board Member has the authority to appoint and direct regular, full-time staff in his or her immediate office. Section 3. Chairman Authorities. The Chairman, in carrying out his or her responsibilities, is governed by the general policies adopted by the Board and by such regulatory decisions, findings, and policy determinations as the Board may by law be authorized to make. The Chairman, in carrying out policies as directed by the Board, acts as spokesperson for the Board and represents the Board and the FCA in official relations within the Federal Government. Under policies adopted by the Board, the Chairman must consult on a regular basis with the Secretary of the Treasury concerning the exercise of the System’s powers under section 4.2 of the Act; the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System concerning the effect of System lending activities on national monetary policy; and the Secretary of Agriculture concerning the effect of System policies on farmer, ranchers, and the agricultural economy. As to third persons, all acts of the Chairman will be conclusively presumed to be in compliance with general policies and regulatory decisions, findings, and determinations of the Board. The Chairman enforces the rules, regulations, and orders of the Board. The Chairman designates attorneys to represent the Agency in any civil proceeding or civil action brought in connection with the administration of conservatorships and receiverships and in civil proceedings or civil actions when so authorized by the Attorney General under provisions of title 28 of the United States Code. The Chairman, subject to the approval of the Board, may establish one or more advisory committees in accordance with the Federal Advisory Committee Act. The Chairman may not delegate any of the foregoing powers without prior Board approval. The Chairman also exercises those powers conferred on the Head of the Agency, including the power to make certain designations. Section 4. CEO Authorities. The Chairman of the FCA Board is also the Agency’s CEO. The CEO, in carrying out his or her responsibilities, directs the implementation of policies and regulations adopted by the Board and, after consultation with the Board, E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices executes the administrative functions and duties of the FCA. ‘‘Consultation with the Board’’ is achieved when the Chairman/CEO makes a good faith attempt to seek advice, guidance, and input from the Board before taking significant action on matters related to the execution of administrative functions or duties. The Chairman as CEO runs the dayto-day operations of the Agency. This includes the power to implement the policies and regulations adopted by the Board; appoint personnel as necessary to carry out Agency functions; set staff pay and benefits; and direct staff. As provided in section 5.11(b) of the Act, the Chairman/CEO appoints heads of major administrative divisions subject to the approval of the Board. The Chairman as CEO may designate to other FCA officers and employees the authority to exercise and perform those powers necessary for the day-to-day management of the Agency. Article II Staff Governance Section 1. Authority over Staff. The Chairman/CEO has authority to hire the personnel necessary to carry out the mission of the Agency and to direct staff, except that each Board Member is entitled to appoint and direct his or her regular, full-time staff within the constraints of the adopted budget for the Office of the Board. Subject to the approval of the Board, the Chairman/CEO appoints and removes the ‘‘heads of major administrative divisions.’’ The Board defines the ‘‘heads of major administrative divisions’’ as all Office Directors who are career appointees. The Board must approve the conversion of an existing career position to a noncareer (political) position. Section 2. Organization Chart. Consistent with its mandate to approve regulations and appointments outlined above, the Board approves the FCA organizational chart down through the Office level along with relevant functional statements for each Office. Authority to make organizational changes within any division rests with the Chairman/CEO, and may be delegated to the Senior Agency Official or Office Directors. Part III—Board Operations Article I. Committee and Financial Operations, and Other Activities. Article II. Board Member Travel and Related Expenses. VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 Article I Committee and Financial Operations, and Other Activities Section 1. Committee Operations. To assist the Board in exercising its authority for oversight and approval of the Strategic Plan, the formulation of regulations and policy, and the monitoring and assessment of risk, the Board directs the formation of three committees. Each Committee Chair will be designated by the Chairman. Each committee will be comprised of the Board Members’ Executive Assistants and such Agency staff as determined by the Committee Chair. The Committee Chair will designate a Coordinator with expertise in, or significant accountability for, the activities of the committee. Committees will meet as often as determined by the Committee Chair to achieve committee objectives. The Chairman may also approve the use of external consultants to assist the committees on an as-needed basis. (a) Strategic Planning Committee. The objective of this committee is to provide a forum for Board input on (1) the development of, and periodic updates to, the Strategic Plan, and (2) changes in processes and procedures that will improve the quality of this key Agency document. (b) Regulation and Policy Development Committee. The objective of this committee is to provide a forum to (1) Obtain Board input throughout the entire process of developing, modifying, or eliminating individual regulations, (2) discuss changes in processes and procedures that will improve the Agency’s regulation and policy development process, and (3) foster open discussion during the development and periodic update of the Agency’s regulatory agenda. (c) Risk Committee. The objective of this committee is to provide a forum to (1) Facilitate Board awareness of risks to the ongoing mission fulfillment and safety and soundness of the System and Farmer Mac, (2) ensure an integrated and coordinated Agency risk analysis process that effectively uses information from a wide variety of internal and external sources, and (3) foster open discussion about risks to the System and Farmer Mac and the implications of such risks for future Agency operations. Section 2. Financial Operations. (a) Budget Approval. The Chairman, consistent with the provisions of the Act, other law and regulations, and applicable policy, oversees the development of budget proposals and causes the expenditure of funds within approved budgets to meet the Agency’s PO 00000 Frm 00073 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 71151 mission and objectives. The Board approves an object class budget for the Agency as a whole and a budget for each office. Any reallocation of funds in excess of $100,000 requires FCA Board approval. Reallocation of funds of $100,000 or less requires the Chairman’s approval (or that of the Chairman’s designee). The objective of single procurements and the provision of services or materials in excess of $100,000 will be made during the budget approval process. The Chief Financial Officer will report monthly on all budgetary reallocations that occur after the FCA Board approves a fiscal year budget. Section 3. Other Board Operations. (a) Audit Resolution Process. The Chairman is responsible for overseeing the audit resolution process and, through a designee, for audit resolution implementation and follow-up. However, the Chairman must obtain Board approval of audit resolutions where the issue would normally require Board action. The Inspector General and Audit Follow-up Official will report to the Board the status of any unresolved audit recommendations, unimplemented management decisions, and other issues on a semiannual basis following the Inspector General’s SemiAnnual Report to Congress. (b) Litigation. The Chairman has authority to undertake litigation to defend the Agency, consistent with established Board policy. The Board will approve litigation where the Agency is plaintiff, will approve recommendations to the Justice Department to pursue an appeal, and will approve positions advanced in litigation that conflict with existing Board policy or establish a significant new policy. The Chairman’s authority to settle certain claims against the Agency have been delegated to the General Counsel (GC) provided the GC consults with the Chairman. (c) Documents and Communications. (1) Approval, Review, and Consultation. The FCA Board is responsible for determining the Agency’s position on policy. Board Policy Statements should be reviewed at least every five years. The Board must approve all documents published in the Federal Register, including proposed and final FCA regulations, except for notices of effective dates or technical corrections of regulations. Board approval is not necessary prior to Federal Register publication of Privacy Act systems notices or notices of other routine or administrative matters unless they raise policy issues requiring Board approval. Bookletters, informational memoranda, E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 71152 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices and other mass mailings to Farm Credit institutions (except documents listed in Attachment A) must be approved by the Board prior to distribution. Documents may be added to or deleted from Attachment A by Board vote. The issuance of a ‘‘no action’’ letter is a policy matter requiring Board approval. For the purposes of this statement, a ‘‘no action’’ letter is a statement to a Farm Credit institution that, notwithstanding any other provision of law or regulation, the Board will take no action against a System institution solely because it engaged in conduct specified in the letter. Authority to promulgate internal administrative issuances, including FCA Policies and Procedures Manual (PPM) issuances, rests with the Chairman and may be delegated to the Senior Agency Official. The Chairman will provide the Board with final drafts of PPM issuances and other administrative issuances for an appropriate consultative period if those issuances relate to examination and supervision, audits, internal controls, the budget, the strategic planning process, regulation development, or personnel matters relating strictly to promotion or pay. (2) Signature Authority. Authority to sign official Board documents, including, but not limited to, proposed and final regulations, Federal Register notices, no-action letters, minutes, and other Board actions is delegated to the Secretary. After any action by the Board required under paragraph (c)(1) of this section, the Chairman has the authority to sign bookletters, informational memoranda, and other mass mailings to Farm Credit institutions. This signature authority may be delegated to senior staff members. (3) Correspondence. The Chairman approves and signs routine correspondence (that is, correspondence in the ordinary course of business), to members of Congress, correspondence responding to White House referrals, or other correspondence on behalf of the Board or the Agency. The Chairman may delegate approval and signature authority for such correspondence to FCA Office Directors when the subject matter involves congressional or White House case work. When the subject matter involves the presentation of an Agency position or policy relative to regulations, legislation, or any other significant matter, the Chairman may not delegate authority, and the correspondence must be approved by the Board, except that the Board need not approve a previously approved response or a restatement of previously adopted Board policy. Board approval does not apply when the Chairman is VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 speaking only for him-or herself and includes the appropriate disclaimer. Likewise, on similar matters, Board Members should include appropriate disclaimers. The Chairman or the Chairman’s designee has authority to sign acknowledgments or interim responses without Board approval, provided such responses contain no policy statements or only previously approved statements. (4) Authentication and Certification of Records and Documents. The Chairman designates the person authorized and empowered to execute, issue and certify under the seal of the FCA: • Statements authenticating copies of, or excerpts from official records and files of the FCA; • Effective periods of regulations, orders, instructions, and regulatory announcements on the basis of the records of the FCA; • Appointment, qualification, and continuance in office of any officer or employee of the FCA, or any conservator or receiver acting in accordance with the FCA receivership regulations at 12 C.F.R. Part 627 on the basis of the records of the FCA. The Chairman may further empower the designated official(s) to sign official documents and to affix the seal of the FCA thereon for the purpose of attesting the signature of officials of the FCA. Article II Board Member Travel and Related Expenses Section 1. Pre-confirmation Travel. Travel expenses incurred by an FCA Board nominee that are solely for the purpose of attending his or her Senate confirmation hearings will be considered the personal expense of the nominee and will not be reimbursed by FCA. However, consistent with existing Government Accountability Office interpretations, the FCA will pay for a nominee’s travel expenses to the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area (including lodging and subsistence), if payment is approved, in advance whenever practicable, by the Chairman based on a determination that the nominee’s travel is related to official business that will result in a substantial benefit to the FCA. That determination will be made on a case-by-case basis and is within the sole discretion of the Chairman. The same standards and policies that apply to the reimbursement of Board Members’ travel expenses will apply to the reimbursement of nominee’s expenses. As part of the documentation for the approval process, the Chairman must execute a written PO 00000 Frm 00074 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 finding that a nominee’s travel would substantially benefit the FCA. Travel that may result in substantial benefit to the FCA could include meetings, briefings, conferences, or other similar encounters between the nominee and FCA Board Members, office directors, the Senior Agency official, or other senior congressional and executive branch officials, for the purpose of developing substantive knowledge about the FCA, its role, its interaction with other Government entities, or the institutions that it regulates. Meetings or briefings of this nature may enable a nominee to more quickly and effectively assume leadership at the Agency after confirmation by the Senate and could thus substantially benefit the Agency. Section 2. Board Member Relocation. Board Members will be reimbursed by FCA for travel and transportation expenses incurred in connection with relocation to their first official duty station. Expenses for which reimbursement will be allowed generally include, but are not limited to the following: (a) Travel and per diem for the Board Member. (b) Travel, but not per diem, for immediate family of the Board Member. (c) Mileage if privately owned vehicle is used in travel; and (d) Transportation and temporary storage of household goods. Each relocation will be considered separately and all rates and allowances will be determined at the time of authorization, notwithstanding the limitations of 5 U.S.C., Chapter 57 and the Federal Travel Regulations. Reimbursement of additional expenses may be authorized if warranted by specific circumstances. Board Members will be issued a specific prior written authorization by the Chief Administrative Officer detailing the expenses that may be reimbursed. Section 3. Representation and Reception Fund. The Act allows the payment of FCA funds for official representation and reception expenses. Expenses incurred from official functions may be paid for with funds from the Representation and Reception (R&R) Fund only under this policy statement and decisions from the Department of Justice or guidance from the Comptroller General of the United States (Comptroller General). ‘‘Official functions’’ include meetings and other contacts with the public to explain or further the Agency’s mission and typically are activities of the FCA Board, individual Board Members, or other FCA officials acting for the Board. For example, while E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices extending official courtesies to the public on occasions associated with the mission of the Agency, FCA staff may use the R&R Fund to cover catering services, rental of facilities, receptions, coffee, snacks, refreshments, supplies, services and tips. Consistent with opinions of the Comptroller General, the FCA Board has determined, as a matter of policy, that it will not permit the R&R Fund to be used for events or functions in which attendance is restricted to Agency employees. Similarly, the R&R Fund may not be used for activities relating solely to ‘‘personal entertainment’’ (interpreted by the Comptroller General to include attendance at a sporting event or concert, for example) or for personal favors, even if the entertainment is enjoyed with, or is a favor given to, members of the public, such as Farm Credit System representatives. The FCA Board has determined, as a matter of policy, that the R&R Fund shall be a fund of last resort and shall not be used for expenses that can properly be classified as another type of Agency expense. The FCA Board will decide how much to budget for the R&R Fund. The FCA Board will approve any amount available for R&R expenses for the Chairman and each Board Member, and an amount available for general R&R expenses. The amount approved for use by the Chairman and each Board Member will be maintained in their budget code. The amount approved for general R&R will be maintained in a separate budget class code by the Secretary. Amended this 27th day of June, 2005. By Order of the Board. Jeannette C. Brinkley, Secretary to the Board. Attachment A Documents Mailed in Mass to Farm Credit Institutions That Need No Review by the FCA Board Prior to Distribution 1. Farm Credit Administration (FCA) communications that do not communicate Agency policy; Agency legal interpretations; substantive Agency positions on examination, corporate or accounting issues; or noaction positions. (a) Issue or revise: • The FCA Examination Manual, examination criteria, and examination procedures; • The FCA Uniform Call Report instructions; • Examination plans and general guidance provided to examiners, except VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 71153 those relating to Agency positions not previously approved by the Board. (b) Request information on: • Call Reports/LARS; • Young, beginning, and small farmers and ranchers reports; • Other reports as required by statute or determined necessary by the Board (consistent with Board instruction). (c) Provide information on: • Fraudulent activities; • Removals/suspensions/ prohibitions; • Other related activities. (d) Transmit documents issued by other Federal agencies including regulations, official staff commentary on regulations, and forms. 2. PPM mailings. 3. Vacancy Announcements. 4. Office of Inspector General mailings for official audit purposes. 5. Annual Report of Assessments and Expenses under 12 CFR 607.11. 6. FCA Handbook Updates. d. There are no policy or precedentsetting decisions embedded in the request. 3. The FCA Board delegates to the Chairman the authority to approve, execute, and issue under the seal of the FCA, amendments to charters requested by Farm Credit associations, limited to name changes and/or headquarters relocations. The Chairman may redelegate this authority to other FCA officers or employees. Attachment B The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement Delegations 1. The FCA Board delegates to the Chairman the authority to: a. Sign letters notifying Farm Credit System institutions of final approval for any approved corporate application, after all conditions for final approval have been met and in accordance with applicable procedures; b. Execute and issue under the FCA seal the new charter or charter amendment document for such institutions; and c. Sign certificates of charter after new charters and charter amendments are executed. The Chairman may redelegate this authority to other FCA officers or employees. 2. The FCA Board delegates to the Chairman the authority to approve (preliminary and final) corporate applications from associations requesting to merge or consolidate provided the applications are deemed noncomplex, noncontroversial, and low risk. Applications for mergers or consolidations approved under authority of section 7.8 of the Act will be considered noncomplex, noncontroversial, and low risk if they meet all of the following criteria: a. The applicant association(s) has a current FIRS rating of 1, 2, or 3 (with no 3 rated association having a formal enforcement action); b. The continuing or resulting association(s) has a gross loan volume of $500 million or less; c. The application(s) is consistent with the Act and regulations governing its approval, and; PO 00000 Frm 00075 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 Release of Consolidated Reporting System Information FCA–PS–65 Effective Date: 27–JAN–05 Effect on Previous Action: None. See 60 FR 15921, Mar. 28, 1995. Source of Authority: 12 CFR Part 621, Subpart D; Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. 552; 12 CFR Part 602; OMB Circular A–130 (Nov. 28, 2000). Purpose: The FCA Board has adopted a policy to disclose reports of condition and performance (Call Reports) and any subsequent reports containing nonexempt information that are produced from the FCA’s Consolidated Reporting System (CRS) [hereinafter nonexempt CRS reports]. For purposes of this policy, nonexempt CRS reports are defined as reports produced from the CRS containing information that has been routinely disclosed in Farm Credit System (System) institutions’ quarterly and annual financial reports and filed with the FCA. The nonexempt CRS reports include the Uniform Performance Report (UPR), Uniform Peer Performance Report (UPPR), Six-Quarter Trend Report, SixYear Trend Report, and Institution Comparison Report. Under this policy, the Call Reports and subsequent reports for the institution that submitted the information will be available to that institution on the FCA Web site approximately 35 days after the end of a quarter or a fiscal year. Objectives: The FCA facilitates the competitive delivery of financial services to agriculture while protecting the public, the taxpayer, and the investor. Consistent with that mission, the FCA endeavors to provide information to System institutions and to the public. Call Reports and other nonexempt CRS reports contain information of value to the Agency, the System, and the public that enables an evaluation of the financial condition of a System institution in comparison to its peers. This information will provide E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 71154 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices institutions with a succinct assessment of performance, in addition to that provided in the examination process. The FCA believes that implementation of this policy statement will enhance the FCA’s information management activities in an efficient, effective, and economical manner consistent with OMB Circular A–130. Operating Principles: Certain information reported to the Agency in compliance with Call Report instructions and not routinely disclosed by an institution, such as asset and liability repricing schedules or loan specific data, will continue to be exempt from disclosure and the FCA will not make it available under this policy statement. Availability of Reports: All nonexempt CRS reports will be available within 45 days after the end of a quarter or a fiscal year free of charge on the FCA Web site. The FCA often receives special requests for new reports containing nonexempt CRS information not produced from the CRS. Consistent with the Freedom of Information Act, the FCA will grant such special requests when the record is readily reproducible with reasonable efforts. We will assess fees to recover the direct costs of complying with the request, including the cost of collecting, processing, and disseminating the information. The FCA may grant a request for a fee waiver to an educational institution, a researcher, a governmental agency, a newspaper, and others, when the benefit derived from releasing the information exceeds the waived fee. Requests should be directed to the Office of Policy and Analysis. Delegated Authority: The Director, Office of Policy and Analysis, in concurrence with the Director, Office of Examination, and the General Counsel, is responsible for implementing this policy statement, developing operating procedures, and assessing requests for fee waivers. Any of these responsibilities may be redelegated to appropriate staff in their respective offices. Reporting Requirements: The Director, Office of Policy and Analysis, shall report annually to the Chief Executive Officer on the number of special requests for new reports containing nonexempt CRS information and fees received. Dated this 27th day of January, 2005. By Order of the Board. Jeanette C. Brinkley, Secretary to the Board. VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Agency Programs and Activities FCA–PS–67 Effective Date: 27–JAN–05. Effect on Previous Action: Supplements 12 CFR Part 606. See 60 FR 26033, May 16, 1995. Source of Authority: Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (29 U.S.C. 794); Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4151 et seq.); 36 CFR part 1191. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (Section 504) prohibits Executive agencies from discriminating on the basis of disability in the operation of agency programs and activities. Each agency is responsible for enforcing Section 504 as it applies to the agency’s own programs, services, and employment practices. Under the provisions of Executive Order 12250, ‘‘Leadership and Coordination of Nondiscrimination Laws,’’ the Assistant Attorney General for the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division is responsible for coordinating the federal government’s implementation and enforcement of Section 504. The FCA has issued regulations at 12 CFR Part 606 to carry out the nondiscrimination mandate of Section 504. The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (ABA) requires certain buildings housing federal agencies to be accessible to people with disabilities. The U.S. Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board) establishes, and ensures compliance with, minimum accessibility standards in connection with the construction and alteration of facilities. The federal government and private entities follow different accessibility standards. The accessibility standards applying to the federal government (known as the ‘‘Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards’’ or UFAS) were revised to conform more closely to the accessibility standards applying to private entities (known as the ‘‘Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines’’ or ADAAG). The Access Board issued the revised standards on July 23, 2004, providing an effective date of September 21, 2004. The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement The FCA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in the operation of Agency programs and activities. Each FCA program or activity, when viewed in its entirety, shall be readily accessible to and usable by individuals with PO 00000 Frm 00076 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 disabilities. Accessibility may be achieved through a variety of methods, including the redesign of equipment, the assignment of aides to beneficiaries, the reassignment of services to alternate accessible sites, the alteration of existing facilities, and the construction of new facilities. The FCA is not required to alter an existing facility when there is another feasible way of providing access to programs and activities. If a building is constructed or altered by, on behalf of, or for the use of the FCA, the design, construction, or alteration is subject to applicable provisions of the UFAS. A different set of accessibility standards, the ADAAG, applies to the design, construction, and alteration of places of public accommodation and commercial facilities owned, operated, or leased by private entities. The Access Board has issued a consolidated set of guidelines, ‘‘ADA and ABA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities,’’ which merges the provisions of UFAS and ADAAG. Until FCA regulations are amended to incorporate the new accessibility standards, the FCA Board has decided that the construction or alteration of a facility by, on behalf of, or for the use of the FCA shall comply with the Access Board accessibility guidelines. Dated this 27th day of January, 2005. By Order of the Board. Jeanette C. Brinkley, Secretary to the Board. FCS Building Association Management Operations Policies and Practices FCA–PS–68 Effective Date: 26–APR–05. Effect on Previous Action: Amends NV–95–40, FCA–PS–68–7–JUL–95. Source of Authority: Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended (Act), and the FCS Building Association (FCSBA) Articles of Association and Bylaws. The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement The FCSBA was established to provide the facilities and related services for the FCA and its field offices. The FCSBA is owned by the banks of the Farm Credit System (banks) and is funded by assessments, rental income from commercial tenants, and other income. The original ownership interest of each bank was based on the bank’s assets as a percentage of total Farm Credit System (FCS) assets on June 30, 1981. The FCSBA owns and operates the FCA headquarters in McLean, Virginia, and holds the leases and provides certain services and E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices furnishings for FCA field offices. The FCA Board has sole discretionary authority under section 5.16 of the Act to approve the plans and decisions for such building and facilities. In order to carry out this authority and to preserve the FCA’s arms-length relationship with the banks, the Articles of Association and Bylaws of the FCSBA grant the FCA Board the responsibility to oversee the affairs of the FCSBA. The purpose of this policy statement is to outline general parameters and policies for various operational practices of the FCSBA that are supplementary to the FCSBA Bylaws. A. FCA Board Responsibilities Board Responsibilities. As outlined further in this policy statement, the FCA Board is responsible for items including, but not limited to, approval of all budgets and subsequent changes in object class limitations, signature authorities for financial expenditures, and long-term investment decisions. The FCA Board concurs in the development of performance standards, goals and pay scales for the FCSBA President as provided by the FCA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (Chairman). Additionally, all contracts in excess of $150,000 per year, or those that cover the selection of outside auditors, property management services or the commission of special studies with a cost in excess of $5,000 that were not approved during the annual budget process require the approval of the FCA Board. Chairman’s Responsibilities. The Chairman shall be responsible for coordinating the FCA Board’s involvement in, and responsibilities for, the operation of the FCSBA, including: (1) Developing performance standards and pay scales for the President of the FCSBA and appraising the President’s performance with the concurrence of other FCA Board Members, (2) reviewing periodic financial and operating reports, (3) providing procedures as necessary concerning the FCA staff’s relationship with the FCSBA, and (4) reviewing such other matters as the Chairman may deem advisable for the purpose of bringing such matters to the attention of the FCA Board. The Chairman may delegate these responsibilities to one or more FCA staff, as he or she deems advisable, except those responsibilities related to pay and performance. B. FCSBA President General Signature Authority. As required by Article V, Section 2 of the FCSBA Bylaws, in addition to member certificates, the FCA Board authorizes VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 the FCSBA President to sign general correspondence and contracts deemed necessary for the administration of FCSBA activities. The FCSBA President must get Board approval before changing the signatory authority for checks and before changing any banks with which the FCSBA does business. Duties. The FCSBA President reports to the FCA Board and is generally responsible within the context of governing policies for all activities necessary to: (1) Manage FCSBA support to FCA, (2) manage the assets of the FCSBA, and (3) understand and consider the interests of the banks. Specific responsibilities include budget preparation and execution; planning; financial reporting and control; preparation of quarterly cash flow projections; supervision of inventory and supporting schedules for all fixed assets (furniture, fixtures and equipment); maintenance of management objectives schedules; supervision of the telecommunications system; the purchase and contracting for all supplies and services; records management; necessary correspondence; public relations activities in consultation with the FCA Office of Congressional and Public Affairs; personnel supervision and evaluation; the leasing and management of all space in the Farm Credit Building; site selection and lease negotiation for all FCA Field Offices; investment management; preparation and administration of all policies and operating procedures; engineering oversight; construction management; and preparation of all monthly, quarterly and annual reports required by the FCA Board. The FCSBA President shall coordinate these activities with the FCA Liaison as appropriate or required. Standard Operating Procedures. In addition to those duties outlined under Article V, Section 2, of the FCSBA Bylaws and this Policy Statement, the FCSBA President is authorized to issue Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), as he or she deems appropriate, in an effort to carry out the mission of the FCSBA provided that each SOP is reviewed by the FCA Board in advance. The President shall maintain all SOPs in a manner that reflects current policies and practices. SOPs will be filed with the Secretary to the Board, the FCSBA and others as requested. Periodic Reports. The FCSBA President shall submit such periodic reports and proposals to the FCA Board and Liaison as may be necessary to facilitate budgets, assessments, audits, finances, plans, investments, reserve policy and accounting procedures that support the needs of the FCA Board and PO 00000 Frm 00077 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 71155 the banks as owners of the FCSBA. The FCSBA President shall normally report to the FCA Board at least quarterly. At a minimum, the report shall include: 1. A cash statement of operations, an explanation of budget variances, and month-to-date cash reconciliation report. This report will include specific notations of any expected reallocations of funds requiring Board approval. 2. A status of all projects/building improvements that are planned, including current accounting of actual costs of each project. 3. A summary of the status of reserve accounts and investments including documentation as available demonstrating compliance with investment policies. 4. A comprehensive Management Objectives tracking report outlining the status of issues and projects resulting from a combination of one or more sources such as audit and examination recommendations, FCA Board directives, as well as management initiatives. 5. Other matters such as insurance, leasing and contract performance issues that may be timely for the particular reporting period. Annual Report. The FCSBA President shall prepare an annual report on the operations of the FCSBA. The draft of the report shall be provided to the FCA Board for its review within approximately 30 days of receiving the final report from the independent auditors. After FCA Board review, the report shall be provided to the banks and may be provided to others who have an interest in FCSBA affairs. Although other reports to the banks may be warranted from time to time, the Annual Report shall serve as the primary report to the FCS. The report shall include: 1. A discussion of significant issues and accomplishments. 2. Audited financial statements and reportable conditions. 3. A discussion of the previous year’s and current year’s budget. 4. A discussion of basic and supplemental services provided to FCA by the FCSBA including an estimate of market and actual values of those services. 5. A discussion of non-budgeted expenditures, that have been reimbursed by the FCA. C. FCA Liaison Duties. The FCA Chief Executive Officer appoints the Liaison to the FCS Building Association. The FCA Liaison facilitates and coordinates the FCA’s needs with the FCSBA in such areas as office renovations, internal moves, E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 71156 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices telecommunications services, field office support, and matters concerning building security and Emergency Preparedness. The FCA Liaison provides an internal control function through the countersigning of certain categories of checks as designated by the FCA Board. Additionally, the FCA Liaison reviews FCSBA proposals that come before the FCA Board, and provides counsel regarding issues on which the FCA Board must decide or provide direction. The FCA Liaison is also responsible for assuring that FCA operations, as appropriate, comply with FCSBA policies and practices as well as FCA guidance relating to the FCSBA. Finally, the FCA Liaison shall review monthly cash reconciliation reports as provided by the FCSBA President and report irregularities, as appropriate. D. Annual Audit and Management Controls Annual Audit and Management Controls Review. As provided by Article IV, Section 9, of the FCSBA Bylaws, the FCSBA shall produce audited financial statements on an annual basis. A review of material internal control procedures shall be included in the audit process on a periodic basis. E. Financial Management Budget Philosophy. It is FCA Board policy to ensure that every effort is made to minimize operating expenses without jeopardizing the banks’ investment in the assets that are managed. Approved budgets are planned and implemented in consideration of a series of policy objectives as outlined in this statement and always in an effort to balance income and expenses. Budget Development Time Frames. FCSBA budgets are prepared on a calendar year basis. Each November 1, the FCSBA President shall provide the proposed budget for the next calendar year to the FCA Board for its review and comment. With FCA Board concurrence, the proposed budget may be made available to the banks for further comment. Operating Revenues. The FCSBA receives annual operating revenues from (1) Bank assessments, (2) office rental income from private commercial tenants, (3) other income such as fees and vending charges, (4) interest income from operating balances, and (5) reserve account transfers as necessary. Operating Expenses. Operating expenses are budgeted using the appropriate object classifications as follows, which may be modified with FCA Board approval: • FCA Field Office Rent. VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 • Taxes and Contract Services. • Maintenance and Repair. • Utilities. • Salaries and Benefits. • Professional and Consulting Fees. • Property Management Fees. • Other Expenses. As a part of the draft budget proposal to the FCA Board on or before November 1st every year, the FCSBA President shall provide an individual expense breakdown for each item within the object class. This breakdown shall include the actual expense from the previous year, the estimated expense for the current year, and the projected expense for the proposed year. Unanticipated and emergency expenses during the course of the year as well as expenditures beyond amounts approved for object classes may be funded out of the operating reserve subject to FCA Board approval. Capital expenditures funded by transfers from the component reserve account should be shown separately with a breakdown of individual expenditures. Operating Reserves. In consideration of liquidity needs as well as unanticipated expenses, each approved budget shall include the sum equivalent to 15 percent of the annual operating expense as operating reserves. Component Reserve Account. To reserve for capital replacement items and repairs to the McLean facility, the FCSBA shall maintain a component reserve account which is separate from operating funds and reserves. The funding for this account shall be initially based on the Capital Reserve Study of August 1992, which is to be updated by April 30, 2005 and then updated every 5 years by an independent engineering assessment. The policy objective is to ensure adequate funding, on a net present value basis, to cover up to a 10-year capital repair and replacement program to be updated, as necessary, with each approved budget. Assessments. To ensure the maintenance of minimum ‘‘cash on hand,’’ FCSBA assessments are based on bank assets as of June 30, and issued quarterly consistent with the FCSBA Bylaws. After taking interest, rental, and other revenue into consideration, budgeted annual assessments must be sufficient to fund the operations of the FCSBA, including the ability to hold operating reserves equal to 15 percent of expenses as well as component reserves consistent with FCSBA policy. Adjustments to assessments can occur subject to FCA Board approval when total yearend ‘‘cash and cash equivalents’’ exceed or are below PO 00000 Frm 00078 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 operating and component reserve requirements. Adjustments are normally considered for third quarter assessments and are based upon the previous year’s audited financial statements. Earnings, if any, are distributed through this process in lieu of direct payment. Investments. The FCSBA invests its funds in an effort to achieve maximum yield consistent with liquidity needs and investment safety. For short-term accessibility, operating reserves and other operating ‘‘cash on hand’’ may be invested in short-term money market accounts, certificates of deposits of federally insured institutions, and shortterm instruments of the U.S. Government or commercial paper rated P–1 or A–1 by Moody’s and Standard and Poors, respectively. Operating reserves investment decisions are made by the FCSBA President consistent with this policy. With the goal of achieving the best long-term returns while minimizing risk, component reserves are invested solely in instruments backed by the U.S. Government and agencies of the U.S. Government. The maturities and amounts of component reserve investments shall be generally consistent with the anticipated liquidity needs of the FCSBA capital replacement and repair program. Component reserve investment decisions require FCA Board approval. Budgeting for Reimbursable Expenses. The FCA regularly reimburses the FCSBA for telecommunications and other expenditures on a cost recovery basis. Because there is no positive or negative financial impact on the FCSBA, these transactions are handled on a ‘‘net’’ basis and thus not included in the budget. Budget Execution. The FCSBA President shall administer the annual budget as approved by the FCA Board. Expenditures during the course of the year that would exceed the object class budget require prior FCA Board approval. Exceptions to this policy are made in the event of emergency or the funding of accrued employee benefits. Expenditures in these cases will be brought to the FCA Board in the form of an Executive Summary for approval within 10 business days of occurrence. In considering its approval, the FCA Board has the option of either adjusting other object classes, utilizing the operating reserve, or taking other action, as it deems appropriate. F. Contract Management General. In accordance with Article IV of the FCSBA Bylaws, it is the policy of the FCA Board that all contracts issued on or on behalf of the FCSBA be: E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices 1. Competitively bid with a minimum of three bids, when in excess of $15,000. 2. Obtained with a minimum of three price quotes, when less than $15,000, and more than $2,500. 3. Generally awarded to the lowest bidder meeting contract specifications except in those instances where the differences in cost are considered negligible relative to a particular benefit offered by a higher bid. 4. Reviewed and approved by the FCA Board when in excess of the amount of $150,000, or for the purpose of outside auditors, property managers, or special studies that were not approved during the budget process. 5. Retained in file a minimum of 3 years. 6. When possible, bid in conjunction with the budget year. Exceptions. Notwithstanding the above requirements, the FCA Board has the authority to make exceptions, as it deems appropriate to the circumstances. Additionally, competitive bidding is not required if the circumstances warrant immediate resolution or are vendor specific to equipment, in which case the FCSBA President will provide the FCA Board with a detailed report of the surrounding circumstances in 10 business days. Contract Timeframes. Recurring contracts are normally for annual terms; however, when deemed cost effective, the FCSBA may allow terms up to 3 years. Obtaining best and final offers from bidders is encouraged. Approval Authorization. The FCSBA President is authorized to approve contracts consistent with these guidelines and the FCSBA SOP. The FCSBA President may re-delegate up to $50,000 of contracting authority to the building property manager. Contract Performance. The FCSBA President shall insure that adequate systems are in place to measure, administer, and report on the performance of FCSBA contracts. assessments consistent with FCA regulation found in 12 CFR 607.4, ‘‘Assessment of other entities.’’ Liquidation by System Request. Should the Boards of the banks adopt, pursuant to Article IX of the FCSBA Articles of Association, a resolution to dissolve and liquidate the FCSBA, the dissolution and liquidation will be subject to, and conducted in accordance with, the Act and the regulations promulgated thereunder. I. FCSBA Services to the FCA Basic Services. The FCSBA provides space to the FCA headquarters in McLean, Virginia, and leases space on behalf of FCA for its field offices. Basic services provided to the FCA are similar to what is typical of rented office space and include, but are not limited to, such items as utilities, janitorial service, repairs for normal wear and tear, parking and appropriate landscaping as well as amenities which are available to all tenants and have the effect of maintaining property values and/or enhancing rental income. Supplemental Services. In addition to providing basic services, the FCSBA will, on a case-by-case basis, provide certain supplemental support services related to FCA’s housing needs under the following kinds of circumstances: 1. The FCSBA can provide the service on better terms than the FCA. 2. The service, if not provided by the FCSBA, could potentially adversely affect the aesthetic or other value of property, systems, building infrastructure, the health and safety of occupants, or the occupancy level of commercial tenants. 3. The capacity exists for the FCSBA to provide the service within the context of its employee expertise and/or its overall responsibilities to all tenants. 4. By providing the service, an advantage inures to the benefit of the FCS that would not otherwise occur. 5. An FCA Board determination that the service will be of particular benefit G. Asset Management to the FCA, the FCS or the public. As deemed necessary, the FCSBA Personal Property. The FCSBA President shall issue SOPs prescribing President shall insure that adequate methodologies and systems are in place operational or other details of FCSBA services provided to the FCA. to ensure that FCSBA property is Non-Reimbursable and Reimbursable effectively accounted for on a periodic Services. Whether or not the FCA will basis. reimburse the FCSBA for a H. The FCSBA as a System Institution supplemental service will generally be Examination. The FCSBA is examined determined as follows: 1. Reimbursement is not required for as provided by the Act. The scope of support provided by the FCSBA when examination shall be generally consistent with the level of risk deemed resources are available within FCA Board approved budgets for the FCSBA associated with the operating practices and one or more of the criteria for of FCSBA management. supplemental services expenditures Assessments for Examination. The outlined above have been met. FCSBA will be charged annually for VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 PO 00000 Frm 00079 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 71157 2. Unless otherwise determined by an FCA Board action, supplemental support services requiring resources beyond that available within the FCSBA budget will require reimbursement. Reimbursements in excess of $10,000 that occur on an ongoing basis will require a written Memorandum of Understanding between the FCA and the FCSBA outlining the terms and conditions of the services provided and reimbursement. One time or minor recurring reimbursements may be handled by purchase orders. Reimbursable expenses shall be determined on an actual cost basis or a recognized methodology to achieve the goal of fully reimbursing the FCSBA on the transaction. Dated this 26th day of April, 2005. By Order of the Board. Jeanette C. Brinkley, Secretary to the Board. Disaster Relief Efforts by Farm Credit Institutions FCA–PS–71 Effective Date: 13–JUN–96. Effect on Previous Action: Supersedes FCA Bookletter 368–OE, September 14, 1993. See 61 FR 37471, July 18, 1996. Source of Authority: Section 5.17 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended. The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement: The FCA recognizes that in the aftermath of hurricanes, floods, droughts, or other natural or man-made disasters, specific sections of the country or segments of the agricultural community are declared to be disaster areas. Such disaster area declarations may be made by the President of the United States, the Governor of a State, or a specific Federal or State government agency. When a disaster area includes a rural community where a Farm Credit institution is located or does business, the institution can be affected in two ways: directly, such as by physical damage to the institution itself or incapacitation of employees; or indirectly, such as by damage suffered by individuals and businesses with loans from the institution. In the interest of providing the highest quality and most efficient service to agricultural borrowers, the FCA encourages Farm Credit institutions operating in disasteraffected areas to work within their communities to help alleviate pressures on borrowers under stress. When conducted in a reasonable and prudent manner, the efforts of Farm Credit institutions to work in the E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 71158 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices public’s interest with borrowers in the disaster areas will be considered consistent with safe and sound business practices. It is the FCA’s belief that the institutions have considerable flexibility under the existing regulations to provide appropriate disaster relief. Such relief efforts may include, but would not necessarily be limited to, extending the terms of loan repayment or restructuring a borrower’s debt obligations. In addition, a Farm Credit institution may consider easing some loan documentation or credit-extension terms for new loans to certain borrowers or requesting the FCA to grant relief from specific regulatory requirements. It is the FCA’s belief that the principal objectives of any disaster assistance program developed by a Farm Credit institution and approved by its board should be to: 1. Provide necessary and timely relief to disaster-affected customers of the institution; 2. Minimize the adverse effects of the disaster on the profitability, financial condition, operating efficiency, and morale of customers, as well as on the institution; 3. Review applicable statutory and regulatory requirements and determine whether requesting the FCA to provide exceptions from regulatory requirements would be appropriate; and 4. Promote, through such consideration and actions, the Farm Credit System’s mandate to provide American farmers and ranchers with sound, adequate, and constructive credit and closely related services. The FCA further believes that proper risk controls and management oversight should be exercised to ensure that such efforts serve the interests of the lending institution as well as those of the community. Any institution providing disaster relief should document such relief actions as well as any significant departures from otherwise applicable institution policies and procedures. The aforementioned objectives and risk controls are conditions and characteristics on which the FCA will evaluate an institution’s relief activities. These objectives and risk controls should be set forth in any request to the FCA for specific regulatory relief. The FCA also recognizes that conditions related to a disaster may impair an institution’s ability to comply in a timely way with regulatory reporting and publishing requirements. Farm Credit institutions should contact their FCA field office when relief from specific regulatory or reporting requirements is needed. Additionally, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Federal VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 Reserve Board) has, from time to time, granted relief from certain Regulation Z requirements to consumers located in declared disaster areas. It is likely that the Federal Reserve Board will continue to promulgate similar temporary exceptions in disaster-affected areas. When this occurs, the FCA will, as a matter of convenience, continue to notify the Farm Credit institutions affected by Regulation Z exceptions. Dated this 13th day of June, 1996. By Order of the FCA Board. Floyd Fithian, Secretary to the Board. Financial Institution Rating System (FIRS) FCA–PS–72 Effective Date: 27–JAN–05. Effect on Previous Action: None. Source of Authority: Sections 5.9 and 5.17 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended. The Farm Credit Administration Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement: I. Policy The Financial Institution Rating System (FIRS) shall be the rating system used by Farm Credit Administration (FCA or Agency) examiners for evaluating and categorizing the safety and soundness of Farm Credit System (System) institutions on an ongoing, uniform, and comprehensive basis. The FIRS will provide valuable information to the Agency for assessing risk and allocating resources based on the safety and soundness of regulated institutions. Ratings assigned to regulated institutions will be adjusted periodically so that they accurately reflect the condition of institutions. II. Standards and Implementation Based on the conclusions reached in the ongoing examination of an institution’s financial, managerial, and operational condition, FCA examiners will assign ratings to each of the rating factor components and assign a composite rating that reflects the condition and overall safety and soundness of the System institution. These ratings shall be reported to the institution’s Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer. Component and composite ratings are assigned on a 1 to 5 numerical scale. A 1-rating indicates the strongest performance and management practices and the least degree of supervisory and regulatory concern, while a 5-rating indicates an extremely high, immediate or near-term probability of failure and unsatisfactory management practices PO 00000 Frm 00080 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 and, therefore, the highest degree of concern. Although each institution has its own examination and supervisory issues and concerns, the FIRS is structured to evaluate all significant financial, asset quality, and management factors common to all System institutions. Examination criteria for each of the rating components are defined in the FCA Examination Manual, which is available to the public. The FCA Examination Manual also incorporates the evaluative criteria under which component and composite ratings are assigned. Composite Rating The FIRS provides a general framework for assimilating and evaluating all significant financial, managerial, and operational factors to assign a composite rating to each System institution. The composite rating is based on a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the factors comprising each of the following components, the interrelationships among components, and the overall level of concern for those risks that affect a System institution. The composite rating does not assume a predetermined weight for each component nor does it represent an arithmetic average of assigned component ratings. The weight given to any individual component in determining composite ratings varies depending on the degree of concern associated with the component and the threat posed to the overall safety and soundness of the institution. Component Ratings Listed below is a brief description of the FIRS components and the more common evaluative criteria and factors considered under each component. • Capital—A System institution is expected to maintain capital commensurate with the nature and extent of risks to the institution and the ability of management to identify, measure, monitor, and control these risks. The capital component is based on an evaluation of an institution’s capacity to absorb losses and provide for future growth. An evaluation of capital relies on many factors such as regulatory capital requirements, trends, portfolio and institutional risk, growth, adequacy of risk funds, management capability, and other factors as appropriate. • Assets—This component is based on an assessment of both the quality of the current portfolio and the quality of the associated management processes that substantially impact the quality of E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices assets. An assessment of assets relies on many factors such as loan portfolio management, investment portfolio management, loan portfolio trends, risk identification processes, credit administration, allowance for loan losses, and other factors that affect the quality, performance, income producing capacity, and stability of assets. • Management—The management component is based on an assessment of board and management performance against all factors considered necessary to operate the institution within accepted banking practices and in a safe and sound manner in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and guidelines. • Earnings—This component is based on an evaluation of the quantity, quality, and sustainability of the institution’s earning performance. An evaluation of earnings considers factors such as the level of earnings, composition and quality of net income, stability of earnings performance, relationship to portfolio risk, quality of earnings management, and other factors as deemed appropriate. • Liquidity—The liquidity component is based on an evaluation of an institution’s capacity to promptly meet the demand for payment of its obligations, fund its loan portfolio, and readily meet the reasonable credit needs of the territory served. An evaluation of liquidity also considers continued access to funding, the existence of secondary sources of liquidity, and other factors as deemed appropriate. • Sensitivity—This component reflects the degree to which changes in interest rates may affect earnings or the market value of an institution’s equity. An evaluation of this component considers such factors as the size and complexity of the institution’s financial activities, the level of interest rate risk exposure relative to capital and earnings, investment and derivatives activities, management’s ability to identify, measure, monitor, project, and control interest rate risk, and other factors as deemed appropriate. III. Responsibility It is the responsibility of the Chief Examiner to ensure that the components used to support the composite ratings are reviewed periodically to make certain they reflect the material matters that impact the safety and soundness of institutions. In this respect, the Chief Examiner shall make recommendations to the FCA Board to add or delete components as necessary. Specific evaluative criteria and factors for determining component and composite ratings shall be established by the Chief VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 Examiner and incorporated in the FCA Examination Manual or by other means as appropriate. The Chief Examiner is responsible for ensuring that ratings assigned to institutions are commensurate with and accurately reflect the risk in the institutions. IV. Reporting At least quarterly, the Chief Examiner will provide the FCA Board a report of the composite rating of all FCS institutions. V. Implementation System institutions examined after the date this policy is adopted by the FCA Board will be assigned composite and component ratings in accordance with this Policy Statement. Dated this 27th day of January, 2005. By Order of the Board. Jeanette C. Brinkley, Secretary to the Board. Borrower Privacy FCA–PS–77 Effective Date: 10–NOV–99. Effect on Previous Action: None. Source of Authority: Section 5.9 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended. The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement The Farm Credit Administration Board believes that consumer privacy is an important component of individual freedom. The FCA Board also realizes that the free flow of information is necessary for the functioning of our democratic society and market economy. As cooperative institutions organized using the principles of democracy and free markets, these same issues are important to Farm Credit System (System) institutions and their shareholders. Moreover, since Farm Credit institutions are owned and directed by the farmers, ranchers and cooperatives who borrow from them, the privacy and security of customer information is vital to the System’s continued dependability and long-term success. Recently we have witnessed the proliferation of businesses that specialize in the collection and dissemination of personal financial information. These ‘‘information brokers’’ market public and nonpublic information to various customers. Advances in computer technology have enabled ‘‘information brokers’’ to access and distribute personal financial information easily, cheaply, and without a consumer’s knowledge or consent. PO 00000 Frm 00081 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 71159 Since 1972, FCA regulations have required that borrower information be held in strict confidence by Farm Credit institutions, their directors, officers and employees. Our regulations at 12 CFR Part 618, Subpart G specifically restrict Farm Credit institution directors and employees from disclosing information not normally contained in published reports or press releases about the institution or its borrowers or members. These regulations also provide Farm Credit institutions clear guidelines for protecting their borrowers’ nonpublic personal information. The FCA Board believes that Farm Credit institutions have a responsibility to inform their shareholders of their obligation to protect shareholders’ nonpublic personal information. Therefore, Farm Credit institutions should inform new borrowers at loan closing of the FCA regulations on releasing borrower information. Farm Credit institutions should also address this information in the Annual Report to Shareholders. The implementation of these measures will ensure that new and existing borrowers are aware of the privacy protections afforded them through FCA regulations and Farm Credit System institution efforts. Dated this 10th day of November, 1999. By Order of the Board. Vivian L. Portis, Secretary to the Board. Official Names of Farm Credit System Institutions FCA–PS–78 Effective Date: May 3, 2000. Effect on Previous Action: Supercedes FCA–PS–63 [NV–96–22] 05/30/96. Source of Authority: Sections 1.3(b), 2.0(b)(8), 2.10(c), 3.0, 5.17(a)(2)(A), 7.0, 7.6(a), 7.8(a) of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended; 12 CFR Part 611. The Farm Credit Administration (FCA or Agency) Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement Objective Our objective is to ensure that the public can identify a Farm Credit System (System) bank, association, or service corporation as belonging to the Farm Credit System and is not misled by the name the institution uses. We also believe that Farm Credit System institutions should have more flexibility in proposing official names for their institutions. Our prior policy required institutions’ official names to include either a statutory or regulatory designation, or its corresponding acronym. The new policy expands the methods by which institutions may identify themselves as members of the E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1 71160 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 226 / Friday, November 25, 2005 / Notices System and adopts a policy for trade names and names of subsidiaries. Official Names The FCA Board will approve an official name for a Farm Credit System bank,1 association, or service corporation that meets the following two requirements: • The name includes appropriate identification of the institution as a System institution; and • The name is not misleading or inappropriate. • Appropriate identification means the name contains either 1) the relevant statutory or regulatory designation, or its corresponding acronym, or 2) other appropriate identification as a System institution. Relevant statutory and regulatory designations, and their corresponding acronyms, are as follows: • Agricultural Credit Bank or ACB. • Bank for Cooperatives or BC. • Farm Credit Bank or FCB. • Agricultural Credit Association or ACA. • Production Credit Association or PCA. • Federal Land Credit Association or FLCA. • Federal Land Bank Association or FLBA. Other appropriate identification as a System institution includes the following: • Farm Credit Services. • Farm Credit. • FCS. • A member of the Farm Credit System. Misleading names are those that a reasonable person might find confusing. For example, we would not issue a charter to an institution requesting a name that is the same as or similar to that of an existing institution because the public might find this confusing. Merely avoiding identical names is not enough; to minimize confusion, a proposed name must sufficiently distinguish an institution from other institutions. If the Agency had approved a charter for an institution using MyTown, ACA, as its official name, it would not issue a charter for an institution proposing ACA of MyTown or MyTown Farm Credit Services, ACA, as its official name. Nor would we issue a charter with the phrase ‘‘farm credit association’’ as part of the official name, because the inevitable use of the acronym ‘‘FCA’’ would be confused with the name of the Agency. Also, we would not approve a name for an institution that could cause the public to confuse that institution’s authorities and services with those of a commercial bank, thrift institution, or credit union. For example, we would not issue a charter to a System institution requesting the term ‘‘national bank’’ in its official name because this could cause confusion regarding the services the institution may offer. Trade Names A System institution may use a trade name. The trade name may not be misleading. If an institution uses a trade name, it must use both the official and trade names in all written communications. Related Issues If an ACA and its subsidiaries operate under substantially different names, they must clearly identify the parent/ subsidiary relationship in all written communications. For example, if MyTown, PCA, is a subsidiary of EveryTown, ACA, the PCA must identify itself as a subsidiary of the parent ACA in its written communications. Please note that while the FCA cannot reserve names, the Patent and Trademark Office will register names under certain conditions. When applying for a name change or new charter, System institutions should submit a statement indicating whether they have applied for a trademark in that name. This statement addresses only FCA’s policy. Other laws, such as Federal or state trademark laws, may apply. Institutions should ensure that their official and trade names do not infringe the trademarks or service marks of other companies. Institutions may wish to consult legal counsel to determine whether their proposed names could be challenged or protected under state or federal law. Dated this 3rd day of May, 2000. By Order of the Board. Nan P. Mitchem, Acting Secretary, Farm Credit Administration Board. Dated: November 17, 2005. Jeanette C. Brinkley, Secretary, Farm Credit Administration Board. [FR Doc. 05–23237 Filed 11–23–05; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6705–01–P 14:11 Nov 23, 2005 Jkt 205001 PO 00000 Sunshine Act Meeting November 17, 2005. 10 a.m., Thursday, December 1, 2005. PLACE: The Richard V. Backley Hearing Room, 9th Floor, 601 New Jersey Avenue, NW., Washington, DC. STATUS: Open. MATTERS TO BE CONSIDERED: The Commission will consider and act upon the following in open session: Secretary of Labor v. Martin County Coal Corporation and Geo/Environmental Associates, Docket Nos. KENT 2002– 42–R, KENT 2002–43–R, KENT 2002– 44–R, KENT 2002–45–R, KENT 2002– 251, KENT 2002–261, and KENT 2002– 262. (Issues include whether the judge properly dismissed citations issued to Martin County Coal Corp. and Geo/ Environmental Associates for various violations of 30 CFR 77.216(d), 77.216– 3(d), and 77.216–4(a)(2); whether Martin County Coal Corp. violated 30 CFR 77.216(d) as found by the judge; and whether and Geo/Environmental Associates violated 30 CFR 77.216– 4(a)(7) as found by the judge). The Commission will hear oral argument in this matter on November 17, 2005. Any person attending this meeting who requires special accessibility features and/or auxiliary aids, such as sign language interpreters, must inform the Commission in advance of those needs, subject to 29 CFR 2706.150(a)(3) and 2706.160(d). CONTACT PERSON FOR MORE INFORMATION: Jean Ellen, (202) 434–9950/(202) 708– 9300 for TDD Relay/1–800–877–8339 for toll free. TIME AND DATE: Jean H. Ellen, Chief Docket Clerk. [FR Doc. 05–23313 Filed 11–21–05; 4:03 pm] BILLING CODE 6735–01–M GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION [FAI N03] Federal Acquisition Institute/Defense Acquisition University Vendor Meeting Office of the Chief Acquisition Officer, General Services Administration (GSA). ACTION: Notice of meeting. AGENCY: SUMMARY: The Federal Acquisition Institute (FAI) and the Defense Acquisition University (DAU) will hold 1 Farm Credit System bank includes Farm Credit Banks, Banks for Cooperatives, and Agricultural Credit Banks. VerDate Aug<31>2005 FEDERAL MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH REVIEW COMMISSION Frm 00082 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\25NON1.SGM 25NON1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 226 (Friday, November 25, 2005)]
[Notices]
[Pages 71142-71160]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-23237]


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FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION


Farm Credit Administration Board Policy Statements

AGENCY: Farm Credit Administration.

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board recently undertook 
a review of all FCA policy statements, resulting in their repeal, 
amendment or readoption. All 15 current policy statements are included 
in this notice.

DATES: The effective date is indicated on each individual policy 
statement set forth below.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wendy Laguarda, Senior Counsel, Office 
of General Counsel, Farm Credit Administration, 1501 Farm Credit Drive, 
McLean Virginia 22102-5090, (703) 883-4020, TTY (703) 883-4020.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: A list of all current FCA Board policy 
statements and the text of each are set forth below in their entirety:

FCA Board Policy Statements

FCA-PS-34 Disclosure of the Issuance and Termination of Enforcement 
Documents
FCA-PS-37 Communications During Rulemaking
FCA-PS-41 Alternative Means of Dispute Resolution
FCA-PS-44 Travel
FCA-PS-53 Examination Philosophy
FCA-PS-59 Regulatory Philosophy
FCA-PS-62 Equal Employment Opportunity Programs and Diversity
FCA-PS-64 Rules for the Transaction of Business of the Farm Credit 
Administration Board
FCA-PS-65 Release of Consolidated Reporting System Information
FCA-PS-67 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Agency 
Programs and Activities
FCA-PS-68 FCS Building Association Management Operations Policies 
and Practices
FCA-PS-71 Disaster Relief Efforts by Farm Credit Institutions
FCA-PS-72 Financial Institution Rating System (FIRS)
FCA-PS-77 Borrower Privacy
FCA-PS-78 Official Names of Farm Credit Institutions

[[Page 71143]]

Disclosure of the Issuance and Termination of Enforcement Documents

FCA-PS-34

    Effective Date: 27-JAN-05.
    Effect on Previous Actions: BM-13-JAN-94-03 (FCA-PS-57).
    Source of Authority: None.
    The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board finds that it is in the 
best interest of the Farm Credit System (FCS), the FCA, and the public 
that certain information concerning the issuance and any subsequent 
termination of final enforcement orders, formal agreements and 
conditions imposed in writing (Enforcement Documents) be disclosed to 
the FCS and the public. Specifically, the basis for disclosing this 
information is to communicate to the FCS and the public that the FCA is 
effectively using its enforcement powers through the issuance of 
Enforcement Documents and the subsequent termination of such 
Enforcement Documents, when appropriate.

The FCA Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement

    Upon issuance or termination of any Enforcement Document, the 
Office of Examination shall notify the Director of the Office of 
Communications and Public Affairs (OCPA) of such event. OCPA shall 
prepare, for release to the FCS and the public, a disclosure, subject 
to the concurrence of the Office of General Counsel (OGC). If the OGC 
determines that a disclosure adversely affects a civil or criminal 
investigation, the disclosure will not be made. The disclosure shall 
include the information described below:
    1. The type and date of action taken;
    2. The type of institution to which the action pertains, or if the 
action pertains to an individual or entity, the relationship between 
the individual or entity and the institution; and
    3. A description of the essential facts pertaining to the action, 
excluding information that would identify the institution and/or 
persons involved.

    Dated this 27th day of January, 2005.

    By Order of the Board.

Jeanette C. Brinkley,
Secretary to the Board.

Communications During Rulemaking

FCA-PS-37

    Effective Date: 27-JAN-05.
    Effect on Previous Actions: Replaces previous Farm Credit 
Administration (FCA or Agency) Board policy on public communications 
during a rulemaking, adopted March 25th, 1992. See 57 FR 11083, April 
1, 1992.
    Source of Authority: None.
    The FCA Board finds that it is in the public interest and 
consistent with the requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act to 
revise its policy on communications with the public during the 
rulemaking process.

The FCA Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement

    In keeping with the need to ensure an open, freely accessible, and 
well-informed rulemaking process while balancing the need for 
impartiality and fairness, the FCA adopts the following guidelines 
governing substantive oral communications between the public and Board 
members and staff during the course of a related rulemaking.

Before a Rulemaking Begins

    Unrestricted communication with the public before rulemaking begins 
supports and promotes the Agency's efforts to design creative and 
effective regulatory policy. No specific guidelines apply to that 
communication.

From Publication of Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to the End of the 
Comment Period

    After a particular rulemaking has begun with publication of a 
notice of proposed rulemaking (including publication of an advance 
notice of proposed rulemaking), FCA encourages members of the public to 
provide written comments during the public comment period. All written 
comments are placed in a public file, where they are available for 
examination and copying during normal business hours. The comments 
receive careful consideration and become part of the public record of 
the rulemaking.
    Where appropriate, FCA may also conduct public hearings or open 
meetings to take testimony or hold discussions on a rulemaking. Such 
opportunities for comment from the public will be announced in advance 
and the comments received will be placed in the public rulemaking file.
    Substantive oral communications during the comment period between 
FCA personnel, including Board members and staff, and members of the 
public regarding the subject of an ongoing rulemaking will be 
summarized in writing and placed in the public rulemaking file. While 
FCA personnel are always available to explain or clarify proposed 
rules, if an individual wants to engage FCA personnel in substantive 
discussion concerning a published proposed rule, he or she should first 
file a written comment covering the matter to be discussed, 
particularly if he or she has not already filed a written comment. If 
new substantive comments are discussed, FCA staff will reduce the 
substance of such comments to writing, promptly place it in the public 
rulemaking file, and urge the individual to submit a written comment.

From the Close of the Comment Period to the Adoption of the Final Rule

    From the close of the comment period until adoption of the final 
rule, substantive discussions between members of the public and FCA 
personnel relating to the proposed rule should be curtailed. In the 
interest of fairness, if new facts or arguments must be brought to the 
attention of the FCA, the communication must be in writing so that it 
can promptly be placed in the public rulemaking file.
    FCA believes these guidelines will help ensure a complete 
rulemaking record for future agency consideration of the rule or in the 
event of court review. Further, FCA strongly believes that the 
rulemaking process must be open and evenhanded in order to avoid even 
the appearance of impropriety or undue influence that might arise from 
private communication during certain periods. Finally, if a substantive 
comment on a proposed rule were transmitted to FCA in a private 
communication that did not become part of the public record, other 
members of the public would not have an opportunity to respond to any 
new arguments or facts contained in that communication. Because FCA 
believes that its rulemaking process benefits from give and take among 
commenters who are able to consider each others' comments, this policy 
statement requires all comments to be placed in the public rulemaking 
file.
    This policy statement does not apply to public communications 
regarding any rulemaking issue unless and until the matter becomes the 
subject of a notice of proposed rulemaking. Nothing in the policy 
statement is meant to affect the ability of FCA to use negotiated 
rulemakings, open meetings or other types of public forums to augment 
its rulemaking under section 553 of the Administrative Procedure Act.

    Dated this 27th day of January, 2005.

    By Order of the Board.

Jeanette C. Brinkley,
Secretary to the Board.

Alternative Means of Dispute Resolution

FCA-PS-41

    Effective Date: 27-JAN-05.
    Effect on Previous Action: Originally adopted 16-JUL-92 (see 57 FR 
33198,

[[Page 71144]]

July 27, 1992); amended 30-MAY-96; amended 10-FEB-97.
    Source of Authority: Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996, 
Public Law 104-320, 110 Stat. 3870 (1996), and codified at 5 U.S.C. 571 
et seq.
    The Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996 (Act), addresses 
the concern that traditional methods of dispute resolution, such as 
litigation and administrative adjudication, have become increasingly 
time-consuming and expensive. The Act authorizes and encourages greater 
use of alternative means of dispute resolution (ADR), requiring each 
Federal agency to adopt a policy addressing the use of ADR.
    ADR consists of informal, voluntary procedures used by parties who 
seek to resolve their disputes by consent. Such procedures include, but 
are not limited to, mediation, conciliation, facilitation, fact-
finding, arbitration, and mini-trials, or any combination thereof. By 
emphasizing the common goals of the parties and fostering an atmosphere 
of cooperation, ADR can offer a less contentious and more expeditious 
alternative to traditional methods of dispute resolution such as 
litigation and administrative adjudication.
    The use of ADR in appropriate circumstances is consistent with the 
Farm Credit Administration's (FCA or Agency) mission as an agency. To 
promote a safe and sound, competitive Farm Credit System, the FCA 
always strives to effectively and efficiently manage its resources. By 
expediting the resolution of certain disputes, ADR can reduce the FCA's 
transaction costs, increase the FCA's productivity, and help the FCA 
accomplish its goals.

The FCA Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement

    It is the policy of the FCA to resolve disputes in an effective and 
efficient manner. Many of the disputes encountered by the FCA are 
resolved most effectively and efficiently through settlement 
negotiations between the FCA and the other parties to the disputes 
prior to the initiation, or in the early stages of, more formal 
litigation or administrative adjudication. The FCA will continue to use 
settlement negotiations as a method of dispute resolution.
    In addition, the FCA will consider whether it is appropriate to use 
ADR when a dispute arises. In assessing the advisability of using ADR 
procedures, as defined in 5 U.S.C. 571(3), the FCA will consider 
whether such procedures are likely to reduce the FCA's transaction 
costs, increase the FCA's productivity, and help the FCA accomplish its 
goals of effective regulations and policies and the enhancement of 
FCA's effectiveness and cost efficiency. The FCA will also consider the 
factors set forth in 5 U.S.C. 572(b) in deciding whether it is 
appropriate to use such ADR procedures.
    The FCA's Dispute Resolution Specialist (ADR Specialist), 
designated by the Chairman, is responsible for the implementation of 
this policy statement. The ADR Specialist is available to assist FCA 
personnel in considering the appropriate application of ADR procedures. 
Before deciding whether it is appropriate to use an ADR procedure, FCA 
personnel will consult with, and obtain the concurrence of, the ADR 
Specialist or his or her designee.
    The ADR Specialist and those FCA personnel involved in resolving 
disputes are encouraged to attend educational and training programs 
relating to the theory and application of ADR on a regular basis, as 
the FCA budget permits.
    Based on the voluntary nature of ADR, all parties to a dispute must 
agree to use an ADR procedure before it can be initiated.

    Dated this 27th day of January, 2005.

    By Order of the Board.

Jeanette C. Brinkley,
Secretary to the Board.

Travel

FCA-PS-44

    Effective Date: 27-JAN-05.
    Effect on Previous Actions: Originally adopted 13-JUN-91; amended 
12-NOV-92.
    Source of Authority: 5 U.S.C. 7351, 7353; 5 U.S.C. App. (Ethics in 
Government Act of 1978); E.O. 12674, 54 FR 15159, 3 CFR, 1989 Comp., p. 
215, as modified by E.O. 12731, 55 FR 42547, 3 CFR, 1990 Comp., p. 306; 
12 U.S.C. 2242 (Section 5.8 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as 
amended), 41 CFR Part 301.

The FCA Board Hereby Adopts the Following Policy Statement

    Members of the Farm Credit Administration (FCA or Agency) Board 
(we) are not subject to the same requirements regarding allowances for 
travel and subsistence that generally apply to officers and employees 
of the United States (section 5.8 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as 
amended). Nevertheless, it is the general policy of the FCA Board 
(Board) that we will travel on official business in the most economical 
fashion reasonable under the circumstances.
    We are subject to Federal laws, rules, and Executive Orders 
relating to conflicts of interest that may result from accepting gifts, 
including travel related expenses, from outside sources. Generally, we 
may not accept anything of value from:
     A person seeking official action from, doing business 
with, or conducting activities regulated by the FCA, or
     A person whose interests may be substantially affected by 
the performance or nonperformance of our official duties.
    Such persons are prohibited sources. (See Executive Order 12674, as 
amended; 5 U.S.C. 7353; and 5 CFR Part 2635, the Executive Branch-wide 
standards of ethical conduct issued by the Office of Government 
Ethics.) An organization is also a prohibited source if more than half 
of its members are prohibited sources.
    The gift rule under the standards of ethical conduct and the 
Agency's gift acceptance authority at 31 U.S.C. 1353 outline the 
limited circumstances in which we may accept gifts and the payment of 
travel expenses from outside sources. Unless an exception applies, 
ethics rules prevent us from accepting gifts offered to us because of 
our official position. Under no circumstances may we accept anything of 
value in return for being influenced in the performance of an official 
act. The aim of these rules is to prevent an actual conflict of 
interest or the appearance of a conflict and to uphold public 
confidence in the integrity of the Government and the Agency.
    Except as noted above, third parties may not pay for official 
Agency expenditures. Because the Agency is responsible for the cost of 
conducting official business, we will ensure that the Agency is billed 
directly for travel expenses whenever possible (for example, by using 
our Government credit card for travel expenses). On those occasions 
when direct Agency payment is impossible or impractical (for example, a 
large group business dinner arranged and paid for in advance by the 
organizer), we will promptly notify the Agency of the obligation and 
ensure that the payer is promptly reimbursed. We recognize that it is 
important not to create the impression that a third party, particularly 
a prohibited source, is paying for our expenses.

Travel

Transportation

    We will use less than first-class accommodations for all modes of 
transportation except in circumstances where:

[[Page 71145]]

    1. We must use first-class accommodations because no other space 
accommodations are reasonably available or where other practical 
considerations exist (such as to accommodate a disability or other 
special need);
    2. Exceptional security circumstances require it;
    3. The conduct of Agency business requires it; or
    4. We receive first-class travel benefits on an unsolicited basis 
from a carrier (such as free first-class coupons) and the benefit 
cannot be used by the Agency either in the present or the future, 
cannot be redeemed for cash value, and does not require the redemption 
of official miles. Under these circumstances, we can use the first-
class benefit for either official or personal travel.
    We will use a commercial charter flight at Agency expense only when 
no commercially scheduled flights are available in time to meet the 
requirements of the travel or when the charter flight would be more 
economical than a commercial flight. We will avoid the use of private 
aircraft whenever possible and use them only where commercial or 
charter flights are not reasonably available or would impose undue 
hardships. When reporting travel expenses, we must adequately justify 
the use of a commercial charter flight, private aircraft, or first-
class accommodations.

Lodging

    When available and practical, we will book lodging at the 
Government rate or another available reduced rate at hotels and motels. 
When attending a convention, meeting, or other official activity, we 
ordinarily obtain lodging at the hotel or motel holding the activity 
even if reduced rates are available elsewhere. We may book more than 
one room when necessary for the conduct of official business on the 
premises.
    The Agency will not ordinarily reimburse us for lodging in the 
metropolitan Washington, DC, area. When conducting business in and 
around the official duty station in McLean, Virginia, we ordinarily 
reside at home.

Other Expenses for Official Activities

    The FCA will reimburse us for the usual and reasonable expenses we 
incur as a consequence of official activities in the Washington, DC, 
metropolitan area and in other locations. The Agency will allow the 
repayment of expenses for:
    1. Transportation costs;
    2. Meal costs;
    3. Registration fees or other fees assessed for attendance or 
participation;
    4. The cost of miscellaneous supplies needed to participate in a 
particular function or activity; and
    5. Other costs we incur by participating in official activities.
    The Agency will not allow reimbursement of expenses for official 
activity incurred on behalf of other persons, including relatives, 
except as provided in the Board policy on Official Function 
(Representation and Reception) Expenses.

Form of Payment

    We will arrange for official travel using the Agency's travel 
management system whenever possible. We may use cash to pay for 
official travel expenses and seek repayment from the Agency afterwards 
but, whenever possible, we will use the Government-issued credit card 
for all official travel expenses.

Receipts

    When filing claims for reimbursement of travel expenses, we will 
provide receipts for expenses as normally required of other FCA 
employees under the Federal Travel Regulation, which currently requires 
receipts for all lodging and travel expenses over $75. However, failure 
to provide a receipt as normally required is not grounds for denial of 
a claim. If we do not have a receipt, we will provide a statement 
explaining the nature and amount of the expense and the reason for not 
having a receipt.

Combining Official Business Travel With Personal Activities

    Although it is permissible to engage in personal activities while 
on official travel, the purpose of the trip must always be the need to 
conduct official business. The Agency pays for travel and related 
expenses incurred in performing official business. However, the Agency 
may not pay for personal expenses incurred while on official travel. 
Therefore, it is important to record and allocate expenses carefully to 
ensure that official expenses are clearly differentiated from personal 
expenses. Proper handling of Agency expenses is always important, but 
particularly so when engaging in personal activities while on official 
Agency business.
    We are aware that, in certain circumstances, engaging in personal 
activities while on official travel could create an appearance that 
personal activities, not official business, prompted the trip. When we 
take a trip to conduct official business, it is usually clear from the 
nature of our business that the trip is proper and necessary. If we are 
concerned that personal activities during the trip might suggest 
otherwise, we will consult the DAEO to avoid a possible appearance of 
impropriety. We understand that engaging in official travel that takes 
us to a given destination (for example, our home state) on a 
disproportionate basis may raise questions about whether the travel 
truly is necessary. Again, we will consult with the DAEO about such 
concerns.

    Dated this 27th day of January, 2005.

    By Order of the Board.

Jeanette C. Brinkley,
Secretary to the Board.

Examination Philosophy

FCA-PS-53

    Effective Date: 08-JUN-05.
    Effect on Previous Action: Responds to NV 93-04 (15-JAN-93) and 
Amends FCA Policy Statement 53 dated 15-JUL-93.
    Source of Authority: Sections 5.9 and 5.19 of the Farm Credit Act 
of 1971, as amended.

The Farm Credit Administration (FCA or Agency) Board Hereby Adopts the 
Following Policy Statement

    This policy provides a general philosophy and direction for the 
examination and oversight of the Farm Credit System (System).
    The FCA Board provides for the examination and supervision of each 
System institution in accordance with the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as 
amended (the ``Act''). The Board fulfills this responsibility primarily 
through the Office of Examination (OE) The FCA fulfills its supervision 
and examination responsibilities for Farmer Mac, a separate government-
sponsored enterprise, through its Office of Secondary Market Oversight. 
OE develops oversight plans, conducts examinations, monitors the 
System's condition, current and emerging risks, and develops 
supervisory strategies to ensure that the System operates in a safe and 
sound manner and fulfills its public policy purpose. The Act also 
provides that the Farm Credit System Insurance Corporation (FCSIC) 
Board of Directors should utilize FCA examiners to conduct examinations 
of System institutions, to the extent practicable.

Oversight and Examination

    The FCA Board directs the maintenance of a ``risk-based'' approach 
to oversight and examination for System institutions, which maximizes 
OE's effectiveness and strategically addresses the System's safety and 
soundness and

[[Page 71146]]

compliance with laws and regulations. Examination resources will be 
allocated to matters of highest risk or potential risk to the System at 
large and specific institutions to proactively address emerging risks. 
The amount of examination resources devoted to a System institution and 
the scope of an examination will depend on an institution's ability to 
identify and manage its risks. Accordingly, oversight and examination 
efforts will be heightened and accompanied by appropriate preventive, 
corrective, or enforcement actions when institutions are unable or 
unwilling to address material unsafe and unsound practices or comply 
with law and regulations. This risk-based approach is critical to 
maintaining shareholder, investor, and public confidence in the 
financial strength and future viability of the System.

Examination Staff and Communications

    The risk-based approach must promote effective communications with 
System institutions. Examiners are an essential communication link with 
System institutions through ongoing institution oversight, on-site 
examinations, meetings with boards and management, and written reports 
and correspondence. The examination program shall therefore maintain 
adequately trained examiners who understand the unique risks and 
opportunities of agriculture as principally a biological industry, 
maintain an appropriate level of regulatory and financial industry 
experience and skills, and communicate and work effectively with System 
institutions to ensure they remain safe and sound and able to fulfill 
their public policy purpose.

Reporting to the FCA Board

    Annually, the Chief Examiner will provide the Board an annual 
oversight and examination plan (plan) for approval. This plan will:
     Assess the condition of and risks affecting the System at 
large and in specific institutions;
     Establish priorities and identify staffing, training, and 
budgetary needs;
     Include an examination schedule that ensures statutory 
requirements are met; and,
     Include operational objectives and strategies for meeting 
the plan.
    The Chief Examiner will report semi-annually to the Board on the 
status of, and proposed adjustments to, the plan. The Chief Examiner 
will also report quarterly on the current condition of the Farm Credit 
System, emerging risks, and any necessary follow-up strategies.

    Dated this 8th day of June, 2005.

    By Order of the Board.

Jeanette C. Brinkley,
Secretary to the Board.

Regulatory Philosophy

FCA-PS-59

    Effective Date: 08-JUN-05.
    Effect on Previous Action: Originally adopted BM-17-FEB-94-02 (see 
59 FR 32189, June 22, 1994); see also 60 FR 26034, May 16, 1995.
    Sources of Authority: Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended; 12 
U.S.C. 2001 et seq.

The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board Hereby Adopts the Following 
Policy Statement

    The FCA shall develop regulations consistent with its authorities 
under the Farm Credit Act of 1971 (Act), as amended, and other relevant 
statutes. It is the FCA Board's philosophy to (1) Promulgate 
regulations that are necessary to implement the law; (2) support 
achievement of the Farm Credit System's (System) public mission; and 
(3) ensure the System's safety and soundness.
    The FCA Board will strive to create an environment that promotes 
the confidence of customers and shareholders, investors, Congress, and 
the public in the System's financial strength and future viability. The 
FCA Board believes that safe and sound operations of System 
institutions will instill: (a) Investor confidence in System debt 
securities, which helps ensure that adequate funds are available at 
reasonable rates; and, (b) shareholder/member confidence in each 
cooperatively owned System institution by ensuring that sufficient 
financial resources are maintained to support an adequate supply of 
credit and other services to its shareholders/members in both good and 
bad times.
    FCA will give high priority to issues that enable the System to 
more effectively accomplish its mission and to those issues that pose 
significant risks to the successful operation of the System, with the 
intent of ensuring an adequate and flexible flow of money into rural 
areas. As such, the FCA Board intends to provide System institutions 
with the flexibility consistent with changes in law, agriculture, and 
rural America so institutions can offer high quality, reasonably priced 
credit and related services to farmers, ranchers, their cooperatives, 
rural residents, and other entities upon which farming operations are 
dependent.
    The strategies for accomplishing the Board's regulatory philosophy 
are as follows:
    1. We will develop regulations based on a reasoned determination 
that benefits of any proposed regulation justify its cost.
    2. We will focus our regulatory efforts on issues that address 
identified risks in System institutions or enhance the ability of 
System institutions to better meet the needs of agriculture and rural 
America. Preambles to regulations will explain the rationale for the 
regulatory approach adopted.
    3. We will utilize diverse approaches to encourage public 
participation in the development and review of regulatory proposals in 
appropriate circumstances.
    4. We will emphasize the cooperative principles of a farmer-owned 
Government-sponsored enterprise by advancing regulatory proposals that 
encourage farmer- and rancher-borrowers to participate in the 
management, control, and ownership of their institutions.
    5. We will work to eliminate unnecessary regulations that impair 
the ability of the System to accomplish its mission to serve 
agriculture and rural America and any regulations that are unduly 
burdensome, costly, or not based on the law.
    The details of how the FCA will implement these strategies will be 
described in the Agency's Five-Year Strategic and Annual Performance 
Plans and in its Unified Agenda.
    Semi-annually, the Director of the Office of Policy Analysis (OPA) 
will provide the Board a proposed Unified Agenda for approval. The 
Unified Agenda will describe the regulatory projects the Agency plans 
to work on during the next 12 month period and apply the principles and 
strategies reflected in this policy. Quarterly, the OPA Director will 
report to the Board on the status of, and proposed adjustments to, 
regulatory projects scheduled on the Unified Agenda.

    Dated this 8th day of June, 2005.

    By Order of the Board.

Jeannette C. Brinkley,
Secretary to the Board.

Equal Employment Opportunity Programs and Diversity

FCA-PS-62

    Effective Date: 12-SEP-02.
    Effect on Previous Action: Updates FCA-PS-62 [NV-94-44] 8-3-94.
    Source of Authority: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as 
amended (42 U.S.C. 2000e et seq.); Age Discrimination in Employment Act 
(29 U.S.C. 621 et seq.); Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (29 
U.S.C. 721 et seq.); Equal Pay Act of 1974 (29 U.S.C. 206(d)); Civil 
Service Reform Act of

[[Page 71147]]

1978 (5 U.S.C. 3112); Executive Order 11478, as amended on May 2, 2000; 
Executive Order 13145, February 8, 2000; 29 CFR Part 1614; Equal 
Employment Opportunity Commission Management Directives.

Purpose

    The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board affirms its commitment 
to Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity (EEOD) and provides 
guidance to Agency management and staff for deciding and taking action 
in these critical areas.

Importance

    Unquestionably, the employees who comprise the FCA are its most 
important resource. The Board fully recognizes the Agency draws its 
strength from the dedication, experience, and diversity of its 
employees. The Board is firmly committed to taking whatever steps are 
needed to protect the rights of its staff and to carrying out programs 
that foster the development of each employee's potential. We believe an 
investment in efforts that strongly promote EEOD will prevent the 
conflict and the high costs of correction for taking no, or inadequate, 
action in these areas.

The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board Adopts the Following Policy 
Statement

    It is the policy of the FCA to prohibit discrimination in Agency 
policies, program practices, and operations. Employees, applicants for 
employment, and members of the public who seek to take part in FCA 
programs, activities, and services will be treated fairly. FCA, under 
the appropriate laws and regulations, will:
     Ensure equal employment opportunity based on merit and 
qualification, without discrimination because of race, color, religion, 
sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, status as a 
parent, genetic information or participation in discrimination or 
harassment complaint proceedings;
     Provide for the prompt and fair consideration of 
complaints of discrimination;
     Make reasonable accommodations for qualified applicants 
for employment and employees with physical or mental disabilities under 
law;
     Provide an environment free from harassment to all 
employees;
     Create and maintain an organizational culture that 
recognizes, values, and supports employee and public diversity;
     Implement affirmative programs to carry out this policy; 
and
     Develop objectives within the strategic planning process 
to meet the goals of EEOD.

Affirmative Employment and Diversity

    The FCA intends to be a model employer. That is, as far as 
possible, FCA will build and maintain a workforce that reflects the 
rich diversity of individual differences evident throughout this 
Nation. The Board views individual differences as complementary and 
believes these differences can enrich our organization. When individual 
differences are respected, recognized, and valued, diversity becomes a 
powerful force that can contribute to achieving superior results. 
Therefore, we will create, maintain, and continuously improve on an 
organizational culture that fully recognizes, values, and supports 
employee diversity. The Board is committed to promoting and supporting 
an inclusive environment that provides to all employees, individually 
and collectively, the chance to work to their full potential in the 
pursuit of the Agency's mission. We will provide everyone the 
opportunity to develop to his or her fullest potential. When a barrier 
to someone achieving this goal exists, we will strive to remove this 
barrier.
    The Board expects full cooperation and support from everyone 
associated with recruitment, selection, development, and promotion to 
ensure such actions are free of discrimination. Though staff commitment 
is important, the role of supervisors is paramount to success. Agency 
supervisors must be coaches and are responsible for helping every 
employee to develop their talents and to give their best efforts in 
contributing to the mission of the FCA. Therefore, all supervisors will 
be evaluated on their EEOD achievements as part of their overall job 
performance.

Workplace Harassment

    It is the policy of the FCA to provide a work environment free from 
unlawful discrimination in any form, and to protect all employees, male 
or female, from any form of harassment, either physical or verbal. The 
FCA will not tolerate harassment in the workplace for any reason. The 
FCA also will not tolerate retaliation against any employee for 
reporting harassment or for aiding in any inquiry about reporting 
harassment.

Disabled Veterans Affirmative Action Program (DVAAP)

    A disabled veteran is defined as someone who is entitled to 
compensation under the laws administered by the Veterans Administration 
or someone who was discharged or released from active duty because of a 
service-connected disability.
    The FCA is committed to increasing the representation of disabled 
veterans within its organization. Our Nation owes a debt to those 
veterans who served their country, especially those who were disabled 
because of service. To honor these disabled veterans, the FCA shall 
place emphasis on making vacancies known to and providing opportunities 
for employing disabled veterans.

Responsibilities

    The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is ultimately 
responsible for developing and carrying out all EEOD requirements and 
initiatives in accordance with laws and regulations to fulfill 
diversity initiatives in approved program plans.
    To help in fulfilling these responsibilities the CEO, or designee, 
will select individuals to fill the following positions:
     An EEO Director;
     Special Emphasis Program Managers required by law or 
regulation; and
     EEO Counselors in sufficient number to ensure the needs of 
each Agency office are met.
    Individuals selected for these positions will:
     Perform duties as determined by the CEO, and as formally 
expressed in position descriptions or individual performance rating 
elements, as appropriate;
     Serve on a collateral-duty basis--the CEO will decide the 
percent of time devoted to these collateral duties, which may be 
adjusted over time as circumstances and program requirements dictate;
     Attend appropriate training in the areas they have 
responsibility for; and
     Develop, monitor progress, report on, and periodically 
update program plans in their respective areas of responsibility.
    The CEO or EEO Director may also establish standing committees to 
deal with specific issues as they arise. The Head of each Agency office 
will provide support to the individuals identified above on an as 
needed basis upon request from the EEO Director.

    Dated this 12th day of September, 2002.

    By Order of the Board.

Jeanette C. Brinkley,
Acting Secretary to the Board.

[[Page 71148]]

Rules for the Transaction of Business of the Farm Credit Administration 
Board

FCA-PS-64

    Effective Date: 27-JUN-05.
    Effect on Previous Action: Originally adopted by NV-94-05 (07-FEB-
94)[FCA-PS-58]; corrected by memo 09-FEB-94; amended by NV-95-03 (13-
JAN-95)[FCA-PS-64]; amended by NV-95-18 (20-MAR-95); amended by NV-95-
46 (9-AUG-95); amended by BM-24-OCT-95-02; amended by NV-95-69 (02-JAN-
96). See also 58 FR 6633, Feb. 1, 1993 and 59 FR 17537, Apr. 13, 1994; 
reaffirmed by NV-96-22 (30-MAY-96); amended by NV-96-36 (26-AUG-96); 
amended by NV-98-16 (8-MAY-98); amended by NV-99-09 (16-MAR-99); 
amended by NV-99-25 (24-SEP-99).
    Source of Authority: Sections 5.8, 5.9, 5.10, 5.11 and 5.17 of the 
Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended.
    The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board Hereby Adopts the 
Following Policy Statement:

Rules for the Transaction of Business of the Farm Credit Administration 
Board

Purpose, Scope, and Definitions

    Section 1. Purpose and Scope. These Rules adopted under section 
5.8(c) of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended (Act), concerning the 
transaction of business of the Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board 
(Board) supplement the statutes and regulations that govern the 
procedures and practice of the Board (including, without limitation, 
the Act, the Sunshine Act, and FCA regulations, 12 CFR 600 et seq.). 
Unless otherwise provided in these Rules, or relevant statutes or 
regulations, this Board will transact its business in accordance with 
Robert's Rules of Order (Newly Revised) (10th Edition).
    Section 2. Definitions, Reporting Relationships, and Performance 
Appraisals.
     ``Act'' means the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended.
     ``Board Member'' means each of the three individuals 
appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the 
Senate, to serve as Members of the Board, including the Chairman, 
unless the context requires otherwise. Each Board Member appraises the 
performance of his or her staff.
     ``Chairman'' means the Board Member designated by the 
President to serve as Chairman of the Board. The Chairman also serves 
as the Agency's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and is designated by the 
Director of the Office of Management and Budget to serve as Head of the 
Agency. After consultation with the other Board Members, the Chairman 
appraises the performance of the Secretary, Inspector General, EEO 
Director, Designated Agency Ethics Official, Senior Agency Official, 
and all Office Directors reporting directly to him or her.
     ``Designated Agency Ethics Official'' means an employee of 
the FCA designated by the Head of the Agency to administer the 
provisions of Title I of the Ethics in Government Act of 1978, to 
coordinate and manage the Agency's ethics program, and to provide 
liaison with the Office of Government Ethics on all aspects of FCA's 
ethics program. The DAEO reports directly to the Chairman on the 
Agency's ethics program.
     ``Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Director'' means an 
employee of the FCA designated by the Head of the Agency to administer 
the provisions of the Agency's EEO program as set forth in 29 CFR Part 
1614.
     ``General Counsel'' means an employee of the FCA who 
serves as the chief legal officer of the Board. The General Counsel 
reports to the Chairman concerning administrative matters and to the 
FCA Board on matters of Agency policy. By the nature of the position 
the General Counsel, as appropriate and necessary, maintains special 
advisory relationships in confidence with the individual Board Members. 
The General Counsel must also keep the FCA Board fully informed of all 
litigation in which the Agency is involved.
     ``Office Director'' means an employee of the FCA serving 
as head of an FCA Office, excluding the Inspector General unless 
specified.
     ``Secretary'' means an employee of the FCA who serves as 
Secretary to the Board as appointed by the Chairman. The Secretary, or 
another FCA employee designated by the Chairman, serves as the 
parliamentarian for the Board. The Secretary keeps permanent and 
complete records and minutes of the acts and proceedings of the Board.
     ``Senior Agency Official'' means an employee of the FCA in 
a senior position other than Office Director, such as a Chief of Staff 
or Chief Operating Officer. The Senior Agency Official appraises the 
performance of staff that report directly to him or her. The Chairman, 
in consultation with the other Board Members, reviews the performance 
appraisals conducted by the Senior Agency Official.
     ``Sunshine Act'' means the Government in the Sunshine Act, 
5 U.S.C. 552b.

Amendments

    Section 1. The business of the Board will be transacted in 
accordance with these Rules, which may be amended from time to time: 
Provided, however, that upon agreement of at least two Board Members 
convened in a duly called meeting, the Rules may be waived in any 
particular instance, except that action may be taken on items at a 
Special Meeting only in accordance with Part I, Article I, Sec.  3(b) 
of this policy.
    Section 2. These Rules may be changed or amended by the concurring 
vote of at least two Board Members upon notice of the proposed change 
or amendments having been given at least thirty days before such vote.
    Section 3. These Rules will be reviewed by the Board at least every 
five years or as needed.

Part I--Rules for the FCA Board Meetings

Article I. Board Meetings.
Article II. Board Action.
Article III. Board and Chairman Delegations.

Article I

Board Meetings

    Section 1. Sunshine Act. All FCA Board meetings will be announced 
and conducted in conformance with the Government in Sunshine Act.
    Section 2. Presiding Officer. The Chairman will preside at each 
meeting. In the event the Chairman is unavailable, the other Board 
Member from the Chairman's political party will preside. If there is no 
other Board Member from the Chairman's political party, then the Board 
Member serving the longest on the Board will preside.
    Section 3. Calls and Agenda.
    (a) Regular Meeting. The Secretary, at the direction of the 
Chairman, issues a call for items for the agenda to the other Board 
Members and the Office Directors of FCA. The Secretary provides to the 
Chairman a list of all the items submitted, including a list of 
outstanding notational votes and matters voted ``not appropriate for 
notational vote.'' The Chairman then establishes the agenda to be 
published in the Federal Register at least one week before the meeting 
date. At each meeting, the Board votes to approve or amend the agenda 
established by the Chairman. The Board may amend the agenda to add 
items that the Board Members believe need to be considered at that 
meeting.
    (b) Special Meeting. Special meetings of the Board may be called:
    (1) By the Chairman; or
    (2) By the other two Board Members; or

[[Page 71149]]

    (3) If there is at the time a vacancy on the Board, by a single 
Board Member.
    Any call for a Special Meeting will specify the business to be 
transacted and state the place and time of such meeting. No business 
will be brought before a Special Meeting that has not been specified in 
the notice of call of such meeting without the unanimous consent of all 
Board Members.
    (c) Notice. The Secretary will give appropriate notice of any and 
all meetings and make the call for Special meetings. Reasonable efforts 
to provide such notice to Board Members will be made for all meetings 
of the Board, but failure of notice will in no case invalidate a 
meeting or any action taken during that meeting.
    Section 4. Board Materials. The Secretary will distribute complete 
Board Briefing Books to each Board Member at least two full business 
days before any Regular Meeting. Unless agreed to by all Board Members, 
no vote may be taken on an issue unless the necessary material has been 
provided to the Board Members not less than twenty-four hours before 
the meeting to consider such issue.
    Section 5. Supporting Documentation. The Secretary will maintain 
one copy of all Board Briefing Book material. All copies of the Board 
Briefing Book material for Closed Sessions provided to anyone other 
than the Secretary will be returned to the Secretary for disposal or 
maintained in a secure location approved by the Secretary. One copy of 
each Executive Summary provided to a Board Member will be provided to 
and maintained by the Secretary. Board Briefing Books and Executive 
Summaries are not part of the minutes of the Board unless expressly 
incorporated therein.
    Section 6. Telephone Conference. Any Board Member, including the 
Chairman, may participate in a meeting of the Board through the use of 
conference call telephone or similar equipment, provided that all 
persons participating in the meeting can simultaneously speak to and 
hear each other. Any Board Member so participating will be deemed 
present at the meeting for all purposes.
    Section 7. Public Attendance.
    (a) Attendance. Members of the public may attend all meetings of 
the Board except those meetings or portions of meetings that are closed 
as directed by the Board, consistent with the Sunshine Act.
    (b) Public Appearances Before the Board. While members of the 
public are invited and encouraged to attend Board meetings, no member 
of the public has a right to speak in a Board meeting. However, the 
Board may, in its sole discretion, permit a member of the public to 
address the Board if he or she provides a written request and statement 
covering the intended subject matter at least fifteen days before the 
meeting.
    Section 8. Minutes.
    (a) Format. The format of minutes of the Board meetings, unless 
otherwise stated in these rules or relevant statutes or regulations, 
will comply with Robert's Rules of Order (Newly Revised) (10th Edition) 
and the Sunshine Act. The minutes will clearly identify the date, time, 
and place of the meeting, the type of meeting held, whether the meeting 
was open or closed, the identity of Board Members present and, where 
applicable, that they participated by telephone, and the identity of 
the Secretary and the General Counsel in attendance, or, in their 
absence, the names of the persons who substituted for them. The minutes 
will contain a separate paragraph for each subject matter, and will 
note all main motions or motions to bring a main motion before the 
assembly, except any that were withdrawn. The minutes will not contain 
any reference to statements made unless a request is specifically made 
that a statement be made a part of the record, or if required by the 
Sunshine Act. The minutes of meetings will indicate the substance and 
disposition of any notational votes completed since the last meeting. 
Except in the case of a voice vote, the Secretary will record the vote 
of each Board Member on a question or will note a unanimous consent. 
The Chairman and the Secretary will sign the minutes of the Board, 
indicating the date of approval by the Board.
    (b) Circulation. The Chairman and General Counsel will review draft 
minutes. The Secretary will circulate draft minutes to all Board 
Members one week before their consideration at a Board Meeting. The 
Secretary will place in all Board Briefing Books copies of the minutes 
of the meetings of the Board (Open Session) to be voted on at a Board 
Meeting. The Secretary will place only in the Board Briefing Books of 
the Board Members, the Secretary, and the General Counsel copies of the 
minutes of the meetings of the Board (Closed Session) to be voted on at 
a Board Meeting.

Article II

Board Action

    Section 1. Affirmative Vote Required. Action on any matter requires 
the affirmative vote of at least two Board Members, except as provided 
in Article III, Sec.  1 of this Part.
    Section 2. Records of Board Action.
    (a) Meetings. The vote of each Board Member, including the 
Chairman, on a question voted on at a meeting will be recorded in the 
minutes. The Chairman may, if there is no objection, call for a voice 
vote on adjournment or other actions. If a voice vote is taken, its 
result will be recorded in the minutes.
    (b) Notational Votes. The Secretary will provide a summary of any 
action taken by notational vote to the Board Members and Chairman and 
the action taken will be reflected in the minutes of the next meeting 
of the Board.
    Section 3. Notational Voting.
    (a) Nothing in these Rules precludes the transaction of business by 
the circulation of written items (notational votes) to the Board 
Members.
    (b) The Board may use notational voting procedures to decide any 
matter that may come before it. Any Board Member may submit a motion to 
the Secretary for distribution as a notational vote. However, in view 
of the public policy of openness reflected in the Sunshine Act and the 
desire to allow any Board Member to present viewpoints to the other 
Board Members, any Board Member can veto the use of the notational 
voting procedure for the consideration of any particular matter by 
voting ``not appropriate for notational vote.''
    (c) Upon submission of an item for notational vote, the Secretary 
will provide each Board Member a complete package of all relevant 
information and a notational vote ballot specifying the Board Member 
making the motion, the motion itself, and the deadline for return of 
the ballot. Within ten business days of receipt, or earlier if the 
motion requires, each Board Member will act on the matter by returning 
the ballot to the Secretary. Each Board Member is to indicate his/her 
position in writing on the ballot in the following manner: (1) Approve; 
(2) disapprove; (3) abstain; or (4) not appropriate for notational 
vote.
    (d) No partial concurrences or amendments are permitted; however, a 
Board Member may suggest a revision to the proponent of the motion, 
subject to compliance with the Sunshine Act, and the proponent may 
withdraw his motion at any time before receipt by the Secretary of all 
the ballots of all Board Members or the end of the time period provided 
for on the ballot.
    (e) A Board Member who is absent from the office may authorize a 
staff member to initial the ballot for him/her, provided that the Board 
Member has a designation memorandum on file with the Secretary.
    Section 4. Board Records. The Secretary will maintain the records 
of the Board including, without limitation,

[[Page 71150]]

the minutes of the Board meetings and notational votes.

Article III

Board and Chairman Delegations

    Section 1. Two Vacancies/Authority to Act. In the event two Board 
Members are not available by reason of refusal, resignation, temporary 
or permanent incapacitation, or death, to perform the duties of their 
offices, the Board hereby delegates to the remaining Board Member the 
authority to exercise, in his/her discretion, the authorities of the 
FCA granted to the Agency or the Board by statute, regulation or 
otherwise, except those authorities which are nondelegable. This 
delegation of authority does not include authority to establish general 
policy and promulgate rules and regulations, or any delegation 
expressly prohibited by statute. This delegation will include but is 
not limited to the exercise of the following powers:
    (a) The approval of actions of the Farm Credit System (System) 
institutions that are required by statute, regulations or otherwise to 
be approved by the FCA or its Board;
    (b) The exercise of all powers of enforcement granted to the FCA by 
statute, including but not limited to, the authorities contained in 12 
U.S.C. 2154, 2154a, 2183, 2202a, and 2261-2274; and
    (c) Any actions or approvals required in connection with the 
conduct of a receivership or conservatorship of a System institution.
    Authorities delegated by this Section may be redelegated, in 
writing, at the discretion of the remaining Board Member, to other FCA 
officers or employees.
    Section 2. National Security Emergencies. Pursuant to Executive 
Order 12656, as amended, in the event of a national security emergency, 
if the Chairman is unable to perform his or her duties for any reason, 
the Chairman, at his or her sole discretion, delegates to the following 
individuals, in the order mentioned and subject to being available, the 
authority to exercise and perform all the functions, powers, authority 
and duties of the Chairman in an acting capacity until such time as 
either the Chairman can resume his/her position or, if no longer able 
to serve as Chairman, the President of the United States designates a 
new Chairman:
    (a) Member of the Board of the Chairman's political party;
    (b) If there is no other Board Member from the Chairman's political 
party, then the Board Member serving the longest on the Board;
    (c) General Counsel.
    The Chairman or Acting Chairman will ensure that FCA has an 
alternative location for its headquarters functions in the event a 
national security emergency renders FCA's headquarters inoperative. The 
Chairman or Acting Chairman may establish such branch office or offices 
of the FCA as are necessary to coordinate its operations with those of 
other government agencies.
    Section 3. Individual Assignments. To the extent consistent with 
law, the Board or the Chairman may offer another Member of the Board a 
special assignment and define the duties incident thereto, and the 
Chairman may delegate to another Board Member certain duties and 
responsibilities of the Chairman.
    Section 4. Other Delegations. The FCA Board may delegate such 
authorities as it deems necessary and appropriate. Such delegations are 
included in Attachments A and B to this policy.

Part II--Board and Staff Governance

Article I. Board Governance.
Article II. Staff Governance.

Article I

Board Governance

    Section 1. General. The purpose of this Part is to ensure the 
efficient operation of the FCA in light of the various authorities and 
operational responsibilities of Board and the FCA Chairman and CEO.
    The Board recognizes that for the Agency to run efficiently, the 
Chairman/CEO must have sufficient latitude and discretion to direct the 
implementation of Board policies and run the Agency's day-to-day 
affairs. Notwithstanding such latitude, the other Board Members must 
have access to staff and must be able to request information from staff 
that they find necessary to fulfill their policy- and rulemaking 
responsibilities under the Act.
    The Chairman/CEO is always free to bring to the Board issues that 
do not require Board action. Conversely, the Board may involve itself 
in operational matters ordinarily reserved for the Chairman/CEO if it 
concludes that they rise to the level of policy due to their 
sensitivity, seriousness, or controversial nature.
    Section 2. Board Authorities. The Board, acting as a unit, must 
manage, administer, and establish policies for the FCA. The Board 
specifically approves the rules and regulations implementing the Act; 
provides for the examination, enforcement, and regulation of System 
institutions; provides for the performance of all the powers, 
functions, and duties vested in the FCA; and requires any reports 
deemed necessary from System institutions. The Board also adopts the 
FCA seal. Each Board Member has the authority to appoint and direct 
regular, full-time staff in his or her immediate office.
    Section 3. Chairman Authorities. The Chairman, in carrying out his 
or her responsibilities, is governed by the general policies adopted by 
the Board and by such regulatory decisions, findings, and policy 
determinations as the Board may by law be authorized to make.
    The Chairman, in carrying out policies as directed by the Board, 
acts as spokesperson for the Board and represents the Board and the FCA 
in official relations within the Federal Government. Under policies 
adopted by the Board, the Chairman must consult on a regular basis with 
the Secretary of the Treasury concerning the exercise of the System's 
powers under section 4.2 of the Act; the Board of Governors of the 
Federal Reserve System concerning the effect of System lending 
activities on national monetary policy; and the Secretary of 
Agriculture concerning the effect of System policies on farmer, 
ranchers, and the agricultural economy. As to third persons, all acts 
of the Chairman will be conclusively presumed to be in compliance with 
general policies and regulatory decisions, findings, and determinations 
of the Board.
    The Chairman enforces the rules, regulations, and orders of the 
Board. The Chairman designates attorneys to represent the Agency in any 
civil proceeding or civil action brought in connection with the 
administration of conservatorships and receiverships and in civil 
proceedings or civil actions when so authorized by the Attorney General 
under provisions of title 28 of the United States Code. The Chairman, 
subject to the approval of the Board, may establish one or more 
advisory committees in accordance with the Federal Advisory Committee 
Act.
    The Chairman may not delegate any of the foregoing powers without 
prior Board approval.
    The Chairman also exercises those powers conferred on the Head of 
the Agency, including the power to make certain designations.
    Section 4. CEO Authorities. The Chairman of the FCA Board is also 
the Agency's CEO. The CEO, in carrying out his or her responsibilities, 
directs the implementation of policies and regulations adopted by the 
Board and, after consultation with the Board,

[[Page 71151]]

executes the administrative functions and duties of the FCA.
    ``Consultation with the Board'' is achieved when the Chairman/CEO 
makes a good faith attempt to seek advice, guidance, and input from the 
Board before taking significant action on matters related to the 
execution of administrative functions or duties.
    The Chairman as CEO runs the day-to-day operations of the Agency. 
This includes the power to implement the policies and regulations 
adopted by the Board; appoint personnel as necessary to carry out 
Agency functions; set staff pay and benefits; and direct staff. As 
provided in section 5.11(b) of the Act, the Chairman/CEO appoints heads 
of major administrative divisions subject to the approval of the Board.
    The Chairman as CEO may designate to other FCA officers and 
employees the authority to exercise and perform those powers necessary 
for the day-to-day management of the Agency.

Article II

Staff Governance

    Section 1. Authority over Staff. The Chairman/CEO has authority to 
hire the personnel necessary to carry out the mission of the Agency and 
to direct staff, except that each Board Member is entitled to appoint 
and direct his or her regular, full-time staff within the constraints 
of the adopted budget for the Office of the Board.
    Subject to the approval of the Board, the Chairman/CEO appoints and 
removes the ``heads of major administrative divisions.'' The Board 
defines the ``heads of major administrative divisions'' as all Office 
Directors who are career appointees. The Board must approve the 
conversion of an existing career position to a noncareer (political) 
position.
    Section 2. Organization Chart. Consistent with its mandate to 
approve regulations and appointments outlined above, the Board approves 
the FCA organizational chart down through the Office level along with 
relevant functional statements for each Office. Authority to make 
organizational changes within any division rests with the Chairman/CEO, 
and may be delegated to the Senior Agency Official or Office Directors.

Part III--Board Operations

Article I. Committee and Financial Operations, and Other Activities.
Article II. Board Member Travel and Related Expenses.

Article I

Committee and Financial Operations, and Other Activities

    Section 1. Committee Operations. To assist the Board in exercising 
its authority for oversight and approval of the Strategic Plan, the 
formulation of regulations and policy, and the monitoring and 
assessment of risk, the Board directs the formation of three 
committees.
    Each Committee Chair will be designated by the Chairman. Each 
committee will be comprised of the Board Members' Executive Assistants 
and such Agency staff as determined by the Committee Chair. The 
Committee Chair will designate a Coordinator with expertise in, or 
significant accountability for, the activities of the committee. 
Committees will meet as often as determined by the Committee Chair to 
achieve committee objectives. The Chairman may also approve the use of 
external consultants to assist the committees on an as-needed basis.
    (a) Strategic Planning Committee. The objective of this committee 
is to provide a forum for Board input on (1) the development of, and 
periodic updates to, the Strategic Plan, and (2) changes in processes 
and procedures that will improve the quality of this key Agency 
document.
    (b) Regulation and Policy Development Committee. The objective of 
this committee is to provide a forum to (1) Obtain Board input 
throughout the entire process of developing, modifying, or eliminating 
individual regulations, (2) discuss changes in processes and procedures 
that will improve the Agency's regulation and policy development 
process, and (3) foster open discussion during the development and 
periodic update of the Agency's regulatory agenda.
    (c) Risk Committee. The objective of this committee is to provide a 
forum to (1) Facilitate Board awareness of risks to the ongoing mission 
fulfillment and safety and soundness of the System and Farmer Mac, (2) 
ensure an integrated and coordinated Agency risk analysis process that 
effectively uses information from a wide variety of internal and 
external sources, and (3) foster open discussion about risks to the 
System and Farmer Mac and the implications of such risks for future 
Agency operations.
    Section 2. Financial Operations.
    (a) Budget Approval. The Chairman, consistent with the provisions 
of the Act, other law and regulations, and applicable policy, oversees 
the development of budget proposals and causes the expenditure of funds 
within approved budgets to meet the Agency's mission and objectives. 
The Board approves an object class budget for the Agency as a whole and 
a budget for each office. Any reallocation of funds in excess of 
$100,000 requires FCA Board approval. Reallocation of funds of $100,000 
or less requires the Chairman's approval (or that of the Chairman's 
designee). The objective of single procurements and the provision of 
services or materials in excess of $100,000 will be made during the 
budget approval process. The Chief Financial Officer will report 
monthly on all budgetary reallocations that occur after the FCA Board 
approves a fiscal year budget.
    Section 3. Other Board Operations.
    (a) Audit Resolution Process. The Chairman is responsible for 
overseeing the audit resolution process and, through a designee, for 
audit resolution implementation and follow-up. However, the Chairman 
must obtain Board approval of audit resolutions where the issue would 
normally require Board action. The Inspector General and Audit Follow-
up Official will report to the Board the status of any unresolved audit 
recommendations, unimplemented management decisions, and other issues 
on a semiannual basis following the Inspector General's Semi-Annual 
Report to Congress.
    (b) Litigation. The Chairman has authority to undertake litigation 
to defend the Agency, consistent with established Board policy. The 
Board will approve litigation where the Agency is plaintiff, will 
approve recommendations to the Justice Department to pursue an appeal, 
and will approve positions advanced in litigation that conflict with 
existing Board policy or establish a significant new policy. The 
Chairman's authority to settle certain claims against the Agency have 
been delegated to the General Counsel (GC) provided the GC consults 
with the Chairman.
    (c) Documents and Communications.
    (1) Approval, Review, and Consultation. The FCA Board is 
responsible for determining the Agency's posi
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