Economic Development Administration Regulatory Revision, 76107-76139 [2014-28806]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
• Economic Development Administration

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 244 (Friday, December 19, 2014)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 76107-76139]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-28806]



[[Page 76107]]

Vol. 79

Friday,

No. 244

December 19, 2014

Part III





 Department of Commerce





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 Economic Development Administration





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13 CFR Parts 300, 301, 302 et al.





 Economic Development Administration Regulatory Revision; Final Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 79 , No. 244 / Friday, December 19, 2014 / 
Rules and Regulations

[[Page 76108]]


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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Economic Development Administration

13 CFR Parts 300, 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 310, and 
314

[Docket No.: 110726429-4508-02]
RIN 0610-AA66


Economic Development Administration Regulatory Revision

AGENCY: Economic Development Administration, U.S. Department of 
Commerce.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Economic Development Administration (``EDA'' or 
``Agency''), U.S. Department of Commerce (``DOC''), is amending its 
regulations implementing the Public Works and Economic Development Act 
of 1965, as amended (``PWEDA''). These comprehensive changes are 
intended to reflect EDA's current practices and policies in 
administering its economic development assistance programs.

DATES: This rule is effective on January 20, 2015.

ADDRESSES: For convenience, the full text of EDA's regulations as 
amended is available on EDA's Web site at https://www.eda.gov/.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Stephen D. Kong, Chief Counsel, Office 
of the Chief Counsel, Economic Development Administration, U.S. 
Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue NW., 7th Floor, 
Washington, DC 20230; telephone: (202) 482-4687.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    The mission of EDA is to lead the Federal economic development 
agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions 
for growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA makes investments 
in and provides technical assistance to economically distressed 
communities in order to facilitate job creation for U.S. workers, 
increase private sector investment, promote American innovation, and 
accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth. EDA's regulations, 
codified at 13 CFR Chapter III, provide the framework through which the 
Agency administers its economic development assistance programs.
    Although EDA had amended its regulations in 2006 (71 FR 56675), 
2008 (73 FR 62865), and 2010 (75 FR 4262), since early 2011 the Agency 
has undertaken an across-the-board review of its regulations to ensure 
consistency with the Agency's emphasis on incentivizing innovation and 
regional collaboration and to reduce burdens on stakeholders and the 
public by removing outdated provisions and streamlining and clarifying 
existing requirements.
    On December 12, 2011, EDA published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking 
(``NPRM'') in the Federal Register (76 FR 76492) requesting public 
comments on EDA's proposed changes to its regulations. Subsequently, 
EDA extended the deadline for submitting comments to NPRM from the 
original date of February 8, 2012 to February 15, 2012 (77 FR 6517).
    The NPRM proposed a number of substantive and non-substantive 
revisions intended to ensure that the regulations reflect the Agency's 
focus on innovation and regional collaboration and provide EDA's 
stakeholders with the flexibility and local control needed to achieve 
these ends. From a programmatic standpoint, the most significant 
proposed changes were to the Comprehensive Economic Development 
Strategies requirements outlined in Part 303 and the Revolving Loan 
Fund program described in Part 307. The revisions proposed in the NPRM 
are summarized below. Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined 
in this Final Rule have the meanings ascribed to them in EDA's current 
regulations.

Part 300--General Information

     The NPRM inserted the term ``new and better jobs'' in 
place of ``higher-skill, higher-wage jobs'' (Sec.  300.1), revised 
EDA's Headquarters address in Washington, DC (Sec.  300.2(a)), and 
replaced and/or deleted certain words in Sec.  300.2(b).
     EDA also proposed changes and/or corrections to the 
definitions of ``Cooperative Agreement,'' ``Grant,'' ``Eligible 
Recipient,'' ``Federal Funding Opportunity,'' ``Federally Declared 
Disaster,'' ``Indian Tribe,'' ``Investment or Investment Assistance, 
``Investment Rate,'' ``Local Share or Matching Share,'' 
``Presidentially Declared Disaster,'' ``Region or Regional'' and 
``Trade Act'' in Sec.  300.3.
     In addition, EDA proposed removing the definition of 
``Private Sector Representative'' to be consistent with proposed 
changes to Parts 303 and 304 and adding a definition for ``Regional 
Innovation Clusters or RICs.''

Part 301--Eligibility, Investment Rate and Application Requirements

     The NPRM proposed amending Sec.  301.1 to more accurately 
describe EDA's application process.
     EDA proposed non-substantive changes to Sec. Sec.  
301.3(a)(1) and 301.3(c)(1).
     EDA proposed updates to Sec.  301.3(a)(4) to clarify the 
data requirements Eligible Recipients must follow to demonstrate 
economic distress.
     The NPRM provided, via revisions to Table 2 of Sec.  
301.4(b)(5), that EDA may authorize a grant rate of up to 80 percent to 
incentivize Projects that encourage broad, innovative Regional planning 
or demonstrate effective leveraging of other Federal Agency resources.
     The NPRM proposed amending Table 2 of Sec.  301.4(b)(5) to 
make clear that EDA may provide up to a 100 percent grant rate when 
``EDA receives appropriations under section 703 of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 
3233),'' which authorizes disaster economic recovery activities.
     To provide added flexibility when warranted, EDA proposed 
to remove the requirement in Table 2 of Sec.  301.4(b)(5) that a 
disaster-related application must be submitted within 18 months of the 
relevant disaster declaration to receive a 100 percent grant rate.
     The NPRM proposed removing a number of repetitive 
numerical references in Sec.  301.4.
     EDA proposed clarifying, non-substantive revisions to 
Sec.  301.6.
     The NPRM modified the language in Sec.  301.7 to reflect 
the Agency's improved grant review and selection process under its 
Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance programs.
     Besides minor changes to the text, EDA's revised Sec.  
301.8 outlined EDA's updated criteria for evaluating applications. 
Under the NPRM's approach, EDA would evaluate applications based on the 
extent to which they: (a) Ensure regional collaboration; (b) leverage 
public-private partnerships; (c) advance national strategic priorities; 
(d) enhance global competitiveness; (e) encourage environmentally 
sustainable development; and (f) support economically distressed and 
underserved communities.
     EDA proposed minor changes to the language of Sec.  301.9.
     In Sec.  301.10, the NPRM provides for a new paragraph (d) 
that would require a feasibility study to be conducted by an impartial 
third party, and an operational plan for any ``Project'' involving the

[[Page 76109]]

construction of business, technology or other types of incubators or 
accelerators. The NPRM also proposed other clarifying revisions to 
Sec.  301.10.
     EDA proposed to add a new Sec.  301.11 entitled 
``Infrastructure.'' In Sec.  301.11(a), EDA provides examples of 
innovation- and entrepreneurship-related infrastructure and definitions 
of these terms, including business incubation, business acceleration, 
venture development organizations, proof of concept centers and 
technology transfer. In paragraph (b), EDA notes that it will seek to 
fund Projects that effectively leverage Federal, State and local 
resources and reiterates its prohibition under PWEDA on providing funds 
to any for-profit entity.

Part 302--General Terms and Conditions for Investment Assistance

     EDA proposed minor, non-substantive changes to Sec. Sec.  
302.1, 302.3, 302.6, 302.8, 302.9(a)-(b), and 302.11.
     EDA proposed updates to Sec.  302.10, which includes a 
``post-employment'' restriction on the employment of certain EDA 
employees by Eligible Applicants, as required by PWEDA. The NPRM 
provides for greater flexibility in the application of the post-
employment restriction, putting particular focus on those situations 
where there is a greater chance of undue influence. In addition, EDA 
proposed restructuring this section to separate the post-employment 
restriction from expediter requirements, along with several minor 
corrections.
     EDA proposed a revision to Sec.  302.16 outlining EDA's 
accountability expectations; namely, in new paragraph (d), EDA 
emphasizes that it expects Recipients to use good faith efforts to meet 
Project goals and sets forth the ramifications should the Recipient 
fail to undertake such efforts. Also, the NPRM adds additional 
paragraph headings and several clarifying changes to the text.
     In Sec.  302.18, EDA proposed a revision to clarify that 
post-approval requirements apply to all EDA awards.
     EDA proposed minor, non-substantive changes to Sec. Sec.  
302.17 and 302.20(b)(1).

Part 303--Planning Investments and Comprehensive Economic Development 
Strategies

     The NPRM proposed numerous non-substantive revisions to 
Sec. Sec.  303.1, 303.3, 303.4, 303.6 and 303.9.
     In Sec.  303.1, EDA proposed two substantive revisions. 
First, EDA proposed to replace the phrase ``Private Sector 
Representative'' with ``the private sector.'' Although ``Private Sector 
Representative'' was removed as a defined term in Sec.  300.1, EDA 
wanted to emphasize that it still expects the private sector to play a 
key role in the Regions' planning processes. Second, EDA proposed to 
add ``non-profit organizations'' and ``educational institutions'' to 
the list of entities that EDA expects to will be actively involved in 
the planning process.
     EDA proposed a significant restructuring of, and important 
substantive revisions to, Sec.  303.6, which sets forth the process 
requirements for developing Comprehensive Economic Development 
Strategies (CEDS). In order to ensure that there exists sufficient 
flexibility for all types of communities and Regions, the NPRM proposed 
maintaining the requirement that a Strategy Committee represent the 
main economic interests of the Region (e.g., private sector, public 
officials, community leaders, private individuals, representatives of 
workforce development boards, institutions of higher education, 
minority and labor groups), but eliminated the requirement for a 
majority or membership threshold from any type of economic stakeholder. 
EDA also proposed adding language to Sec.  303.6(b)(1) to capture any 
stakeholders not specifically mentioned in the list. Although the 
membership threshold would be removed, EDA proposed adding a sentence 
to emphasize that the capability of each Strategy Committee to 
undertake a collaborative Regional planning process is still of 
principal importance. Finally, besides a minor correction to Sec.  
303.6(b), EDA proposed a change to this paragraph that emphasizes 
broader and on-going stakeholder input in the Regional planning 
process. More specifically, under the proposed Sec.  303.6(b)(2) 
describing the revised public comment requirements, the Planning 
Organization, before submission of a CEDS to EDA, must provide the 
public and appropriate governments and interest groups with adequate 
notice and opportunity to comment on the CEDS. The Planning 
Organization, as before, would still be required to keep the comment 
period open for at least 30 days. In addition, the Planning 
Organization must make the CEDS available in electronic or other 
appropriate form, throughout the comment period. Also, the updated 
Sec.  303.6(b)(2) requires the Planning Organization to provide to EDA, 
upon request, any comments received on the CEDS and demonstrate how the 
comments were addressed.
     In Sec.  303.7(b), several discrete changes were proposed 
for clarity purposes and to emphasize certain concepts. But the most 
significant revision proposed was streamlining the CEDS requirements 
from a laundry-list of ten detailed items to the following four 
essential planning elements in Sec.  303.7(b)(1)(i)-(iv): (a) A summary 
of economic development conditions of the Region; (b) an in-depth 
analysis of the economic and community strengths, weaknesses, 
opportunities and threats; (c) strategies and an implementation plan to 
build upon the Region's strengths and opportunities and resolve or 
mitigate the weaknesses and threats facing the Region, but should not 
be inconsistent with applicable State and local economic development or 
workforce development strategies; and (d) performance measures used to 
evaluate the Planning Organization's successful development and 
implementation of the CEDS. Moreover, as noted in the NPRM, EDA intends 
to provide further content to stakeholders through the publication of 
periodically-updated CEDS guidelines, which will be based on best 
practices and developed in collaboration with EDA's economic 
development and research partners. All of these substantive changes are 
expected to enhance local control and allow EDA's planning partners to 
focus on strategies, performance, and outputs.

Part 304--Economic Development Districts

     The NPRM proposed to correct minor errors and/or remove 
redundancies in Sec. Sec.  304.1, 304.2, and 304.4, as well as make a 
conforming change in Sec.  304.2(c)(2).
     To allow District Organizations to focus on an effective 
planning process rather than constant compliance with membership 
requirements, EDA proposed to revise Sec.  304.2(c)(2) to eliminate the 
current membership thresholds. However, EDA's new provision would 
maintain the requirement that governing bodies demonstrate that they 
are broadly representative of the principal economic interests of the 
Region and added a sentence emphasizing that governing bodies must have 
the capability to implement the relevant CEDS.
     In order to increase public participation in District 
Organization operations and provide for greater public awareness of the 
importance of these entities, the NPRM provided in Sec.  304.2(c)(4) 
that District Organizations must meet at least twice a year, instead of 
only once a year.

Part 305--Public Works and Economic Development Investments

     EDA proposed minor, non-substantive revisions to 
Sec. Sec.  305.1, 305.2(c), 305.6, and 305.8.

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     The NPRM proposed substantive changes to Sec.  305.6(a), 
which addresses allowable methods of procurement for construction 
services. EDA was seeking to ensure that Recipients, if they wished to 
use alternate construction procurement methods to the traditional 
design/bid/build approach, still followed correct procedures and that 
the maximum amount of project costs were allowable under applicable 
regulations and Federal cost principles. A proposed change to the first 
sentence clarifies that Recipients must obtain EDA's prior written 
approval before any such alternate construction procurement method can 
be used. The justification for using an alternate method must include a 
brief analysis of the appropriateness and benefits of using the method 
to successfully execute the Project, as well as the Recipient's past 
experience in using the method.
     In an apparent oversight, Sec.  305.10 currently only 
addresses construction contract bid underrun procedures. To correct 
this problem, EDA proposed a new heading entitled ``Bid Underrun and 
Overrun.'' The existing provision regarding bid underrun procedures 
would become a new paragraph (a). A new paragraph (b), simply codifying 
EDA's existing practice, would set forth EDA's procedures in the event 
of an overrun at construction contract bid opening. If there is an 
overrun, the proposed provision allows the Recipient to take deductive 
alternatives if provided for in the bid documents, reject all bids and 
re-advertise, or augment the Matching Share. But if the Recipient 
demonstrates to EDA's satisfaction that these options are not feasible 
and the Project cannot be completed otherwise, the Recipient may submit 
a written request to EDA for additional funding. The final decision 
will be in the sole discretion of EDA and considered in accordance with 
EDA's competitive process requirements.
     EDA also sought a change to the newly-proposed Sec.  
305.10(a) requiring the Recipient, in the event of a bid underrun, to 
contact EDA immediately to determine the relevant procedures.

Part 306--Training, Research and Technical Assistance Investments

     The NPRM proposed minor, non-substantive changes to 
Sec. Sec.  306.1, 306.3, 306.4, 306.6 and 306.7.

Part 307--Economic Adjustment Assistance Investments

     Through the NPRM, EDA sought to clarify award requirements 
for the Economic Adjustment Assistance (``EAA'') Program as well as 
incorporate all Revolving Loan Fund (``RLF'') requirements under 
Subpart B, which EDA proposed renaming ``Revolving Loan Fund Program.'' 
For example, the NPRM incorporated the RLF application review and post-
approval requirements under the new Sec.  307.7 entitled ``Revolving 
Loan Fund award requirements'' in Subpart B.
     EDA proposed minor, non-substantive changes to Sec.  
307.1.
     In EDA's interim final rule published in the Federal 
Register on October 22, 2008 (73 FR 62858), EDA made clear it would no 
longer allow RLF Recipients to use RLF capital to guarantee loans. The 
NPRM proposed a revision to Sec.  307.3(b)(2) to remove the reference 
to ``loan guaranties'' that was inadvertently missed in the 2008 
regulatory revision.
     Because of an omission in Sec.  307.4(c)(2), EDA proposed 
changes to the text of new Sec.  307.7(a)(1)(ii) to specify that EDA 
will review disaster-related RLF applications to assess the need to 
provide appropriate support for post-disaster economic recovery efforts 
in Presidentially Declared Disaster areas.
     Without changing the requirements applicable to EAA 
awards, EDA proposed relocating portions of current Sec.  307.6 to 
Sec.  307.4, making minor yet necessary additional revisions to the 
language of Sec.  307.4, and making conforming changes to the table of 
contents of Part 307.
     The NPRM proposed redesignating the current Sec.  307.7 as 
Sec.  307.6 and incorporating redesignated Sec.  307.6 under Subpart B. 
EDA also proposed a minor change to the wording of redesignated Sec.  
307.6.
     EDA also proposed an amendment to Sec.  307.9(a)(2) to 
clarify the existing requirement that the RLF Recipient is responsible 
for complying with applicable environmental laws as outlined in Sec.  
307.10, meaning that the Recipient must adopt compliance procedures and 
otherwise ensure that borrowers adhere to relevant environmental laws 
and regulations.
     The NPRM proposed minor, non-substantive changes to 
Sec. Sec.  307.9(b), 307.10(a)-(b), 307.11(b), (d), (e), (f), 
307.12(a)-(b) and 307.13(a)-(b).
     EDA proposed additional language to Sec.  307.14(c) to 
provide that EDA may waive the requirement to submit the RLF Income and 
Expense Statement (Form ED-209I), required of any RLF Recipient that 
uses either 50 percent or more (or more than $100,000) of RLF Income 
for administrative costs in a six-month Reporting Period, for small 
RLFs as determined by the Agency. The NPRM also proposed to remove 
repetitive numerical references from Sec.  307.14(c).
     EDA proposed a revision to Sec.  307.15(b)(1), which 
contains the requirement that an accountant certify to the adequacy of 
an RLF Recipient's accounting system before EDA can disburse funds. The 
proposed language, to address concerns raised in prior programmatic 
audits, imposes a rigorous standard that the certification be made by 
``a qualified independent accountant who preferably has audited the RLF 
recipient in accordance with OMB Circular A-133 requirements.''
     Besides removing several repetitive references in 
Sec. Sec.  307.15(b)-(d), EDA proposed a change to Sec.  
307.15(d)(1)(iii) so that any Federal loans, not just those from the 
U.S. Small Business Administration's 7(a) and 504 debenture programs, 
can be used by the RLF Recipient to meet its leveraging requirement. In 
addition, the NPRM provides additional clarity by listing loans from 
U.S. Department of Agriculture as a type of Federal loan than can be 
used as leverage.
     In its current form, Sec.  307.16(c)(1)(ii) creates an 
exception to EDA's capitalization utilization standard of 75 percent of 
RLF Capital if the RLF Recipient anticipates making large loans 
relative to the size of its RLF Capital base. EDA, recognizing that 
such an approach is a deviation from the rule, rather than an 
exception, proposed to delete this provision. At the same time, EDA 
proposed to make related conforming amendments to Sec. Sec.  
307.16(c)(1) and (c)(2)(i).
     EDA proposed non-substantive revisions to various portions 
of Sec. Sec.  307.16(a), (c) and (d).
     In general, RLF Capital cannot be used to refinance 
existing debt, but EDA may allow the RLF Recipient to use RLF Capital 
to purchase the rights of a prior lien holder during a foreclosure 
action in order to prevent a significant loss on an RLF loan. To make 
use of RLF Capital in this manner, the RLF Recipient must currently 
demonstrate under Sec.  307.17(b)(6)(ii) that there is a high 
probability that the sale of assets will result in compensation 
sufficient to cover the RLF's costs, plus a reasonable portion of the 
outstanding loan, within 18 months of the refinancing. To provide 
greater flexibility in uncertain economic conditions, EDA proposed to 
change the 18-month time limit to ``a reasonable period of time, as 
determined by EDA.'' The NPRM also proposed to remove a repetitive 
numerical reference in Sec.  307.17(c).
     The NPRM proposed amending Sec.  307.18(a) to allow EDA to 
approve, at the request of an RLF Recipient, the

[[Page 76111]]

addition of a new lending area before the full amount of the RLF Grant 
is disbursed to the Recipient. To effect this revision, EDA proposed to 
remove Sec.  307.18(a)(1)(i) and renumber the remainder of the 
subparagraph accordingly.
     To clarify that all RLF loans must be made in accordance 
with the RLF Plan, the NPRM also proposed removing the phrase ``to 
implement and assist economic activity'' from the first sentence of 
Sec.  307.18(a)(1) as well as proposing other minor, non-substantive 
revisions to this subparagraph.
     EDA proposed textual changes to Sec.  307.18(b) to help 
clarify the distinction between a ``consolidation,'' when a single RLF 
Recipient that has multiple RLF awards obtains EDA approval for the 
consolidation of the multiple awards into a single RLF, and a 
``merger,'' when two or more RLF recipients obtain EDA approval for the 
merger of their respective RLF awards to form a single RLF award. The 
NPRM also corrects repetitive numbering found in Sec. Sec.  
307.18(b)(1) and (b)(2).
     EDA proposed amending Sec.  307.19 that outlines the 
requirements for an RLF Recipient to sell or securitize RLF loans. 
Pursuant to this section, EDA may approve the Sale or Securitization of 
all or a portion of an RLF loan portfolio if, inter alia, the RLF 
Recipient requests that EDA subordinate the Agency's interest in all or 
a portion of the RLF loan portfolio to be sold or securitized. Put 
simply, however, if after seeking and receiving EDA approval, the RLF 
Recipient sells a portion of its loan portfolio, there is no 
``interest' for EDA to subordinate. Thus, the NPRM proposed removing 
paragraph (b) that contains the subordination request requirement and 
renumbered the other paragraphs accordingly.
     The NPRM proposed removing unnecessary phrases from 
Sec. Sec.  307.20(a) and 307.21(a)(1), eliminating redundant numerical 
references in Sec.  307.20 and making small non-substantive changes in 
Sec.  307.21(a)(1)(viii).

Part 308--Performance Incentives

     EDA proposed minor, non-substantive revisions to 
Sec. Sec.  308.2 and 308.3.

Part 310--Special Impact Areas

     The NPRM proposed minor, non-substantive changes to 
Sec. Sec.  310.1 and 310.2(b).

Part 311--America COMPETES

     EDA proposed revising the heading for this Part to 
``America COMPETES'' in preparation for any regulations needed for 
implementation of the America Competes Reauthorization Act of 2010 
(Pub. L. 111-358, January 4, 2011).

Part 314--Property

     EDA proposed to amend the table of contents for this Part, 
which sets forth the rules controlling property acquired or improved, 
in whole or in part, with EDA Investment Assistance. More specifically, 
EDA would eliminate Subparts A through D to enhance comprehension and 
revise the headings for Sec. Sec.  314.8 and 314.9.
     The NPRM proposed a non-substantive revision to Sec.  
314.1.
     EDA proposed changes to Sec.  314.3(a) to clarify that the 
terms and conditions of the award are the reference point for 
determining the purpose of a given Project. Also, the NPRM added the 
clause ``during the Estimated Useful Life of the Project'' to both 
Sec. Sec.  314.3(a) and 314.3(b) to clarify that EDA's use restrictions 
apply only during the Estimated Useful Life of Project Property.
     EDA proposed additional minor changes to Sec. Sec.  
314.3(c), 314.4(c) and 314.5(b).
     EDA proposed a number of revisions to Sec.  314.6(b), 
which sets forth the exceptions to the general rule that Property must 
be free from encumbrances.
    [cir] The NPRM reorders paragraph (b) and makes appropriate changes 
to headings and text so that requirements will apply based on the point 
in time when a Recipient asks EDA to subordinate the Federal Interest 
(i.e., Recipient has already mortgaged the Project Property before 
EDA's award decision, request for subordination made at same time as 
award decision, or after award decision made).
    [cir] EDA proposed adding a new subsection (b)(1), titled ``Shared 
first lien position,'' to set forth the Agency's authority to enter 
into an inter-creditor agreement under which EDA and another lien 
holder share a first lien position.
    [cir] The NPRM redesignates current Sec.  314.6(b)(1) as subsection 
(b)(3) and then makes a clarifying change to the new Sec.  314.(b)(3).
    [cir] Current Sec.  314.6(b)(3), addressing when EDA can consider 
requests to subordinate its interest, is unclear whether it requires an 
Eligible Applicant to request subordination prior to the Grant award 
decision or whether it applies after EDA has awarded funds to the 
Recipient, or both. To provide clarity, EDA adds a new subsection 
(b)(4) with the heading ``Encumbrances proposed proximate to Project 
approval,'' which outlines the requirements applicable to subordination 
requests made contemporaneously with the Grants award decision. The 
list of determinations that EDA must make to subordinate its interest 
are similar to those in current Sec.  314.6(b)(3), but EDA has proposed 
adding the requirement that the terms and conditions of the encumbrance 
are acceptable to the Agency.
    [cir] EDA proposed a revision to subsection (b)(4)(i), adding the 
clause ``and legal authority'' to indicate that EDA may waive the 
restriction against encumbrances if it finds that there is both ``good 
cause'' to waive the restriction and legal authority to waive.
    [cir] In Sec.  314.6(b)(4)(ii), EDA proposed to expand the 
availability of the equity in Project Property for other economic 
development projects, so long as EDA determines that those projects are 
consistent with EDA's mission.
    [cir] The NPRM designates each of the requirements under subsection 
(b)(4)(v) with the letters ``A'' through ``D'' to improve organization, 
with a new subsection (b)(4)(v)(C) that requires the submission of an 
appraisal so that EDA can weigh the risk to the Federal Interest if EDA 
agrees to subordinate at a time that may be several years after the 
original award decision.
    [cir] EDA also proposed to add a phrase to the introductory text of 
subsection (b)(4) specifying that the kind of ``debt'' that may be the 
subject of a subordination request includes ``time and maturity-limited 
debt, that finances the Project Property,'' with the intention of 
better accommodating New Market Tax Credits and other financing 
mechanisms.
     The NPRM redesignated the text of current Sec.  
314.6(b)(3) as Sec.  314.6(b)(5) and adds the heading ``Encumbrances 
proposed after Project approval.''
    [cir] EDA proposed to amend redesignated subparagraph (b)(5) to 
provide additional flexibility to waive the prohibition on encumbrances 
subsequent to Grant award. Similar to the requirements of revised 
(b)(4), revised (b)(5) provides that EDA may subordinate its interest 
after Grant award when EDA determines that: (1) There is good cause and 
legal authority to waive the general requirement; (2) all of the 
proceeds will be used to enhance Project Property or for related 
activities or other activities consistent with EDA's programs; (3) the 
grantor or lender will not provide funds without the security of a 
lien; (4) the terms and conditions of the encumbrance are satisfactory 
to EDA; and (5) the risk of the encumbrance is acceptable based on a 
number of factors, including the

[[Page 76112]]

approximate value of the Project Property at the time the encumbrance 
is requested, and the financial strength of the Recipient. Essentially, 
under revised (b)(5), a Recipient can request that EDA agree to 
subordinate its interest when the appraised value of the Real Property 
provides sufficient collateral for the EDA award even if EDA takes a 
second lien position.
     EDA proposed numerous changes to Sec.  314.7 to streamline 
EDA's title requirements and make them more understandable, including 
providing paragraph and subparagraph headings to act as a useful guide 
for Recipients and others.
    [cir] The NPRM revised the heading of Sec.  314.7(b)(1), removes an 
unnecessary phrase from this subparagraph, and adds headings to 
subparagraphs (c)(1) through (c)(5) to clarify the exceptions to the 
general title requirement.
    [cir] EDA proposed adding the substance of Sec.  314.7(c)(6) to 
Sec.  314.7(c)(5) and then removing Sec.  317.(c)(6). The change is 
proposed because the requirements of current subsections (c)(5) and 
(c)(6) are similar and address analogous situations where the EDA-
approved purpose of a Project is to construct facilities that benefit 
Real Property owned by the Recipient (Sec.  314.7(c)(5)) or privately 
owned Real Property (Sec.  314.7(c)(6)), where the benefitted Real 
Property ultimately will be sold or leased to private parties in order 
to spur economic development. The requirements of the two provisions 
will be set forth in revised Sec.  314.7(c)(5)(i), which will also be 
amended to make clear that these provisions apply to both Recipients 
and private Owners.
    [cir] EDA proposed removing current Sec.  314.7(c)(5)(i)(D), which 
provides that 10 years after an award is made EDA may waive the 
requirement that a sale of project property during the Estimated Useful 
life be for Adequate Consideration and that the purpose of the award 
continued to be fulfilled, because it is inconsistent with EDA's policy 
on Estimated Useful Life and has created uncertainty in situations 
involving the sale of Property. In addition, EDA proposed removing an 
unnecessary phrase and a repetitive numerical reference from Sec.  
314.7(c)(5)(i).
    [cir] The NPRM proposed other revisions to current Sec.  
314.7(c)(5), a regulation that has caused confusion because it refers 
to both the authorized scope of the work and the Property that is to be 
benefitted by the scope of the work as the ``Project.'' The proposed 
changes distinguish between these two different concepts by clarifying 
that the Recipient is responsible for completing the ``Project.'' The 
``Project'' encompasses: (1) The activities to be completed under the 
EDA-approved scope of work and supported by the Grant; and (2) in 
appropriate situations, ensuring that the development of land and 
improvements on the Real Property is completed in accordance with the 
terms and conditions of the Investment Assistance. By contrast, the 
revisions refer to Real Property to be benefitted by the ``Project'' as 
``development of land and improvements on the Real Property to be 
served by or that provides the economic justification for the 
Project.''
    [cir] EDA proposed to add a heading to Sec.  314.7(c)(5)(i) and 
remove an unnecessary phrase from Sec.  314.7(c)(5)(ii). The NPRM 
relocated to Sec.  314.7(c)(5)(iii), the requirement in current Sec.  
314.7(c)(6)(i)(B) that the Recipient and Owner must agree to use the 
Real Property improved or benefitted by the EDA Investment Assistance 
only for authorized uses of the Project and consistent with the terms 
and conditions of the Investment Assistance when an authorized use is 
to construct facilities to benefit privately owned Real Property. In 
addition, the NPRM relocated the statement, currently set forth in 
Sec. Sec.  314.7(c)(5)(i)(F) and (c)(6)(i)(F), that EDA may deem that a 
violation of Sec.  314.7(c)(5) constitutes an Unauthorized Use of 
Project Property to new Sec.  314.7(c)(5)(iv).
     Consistent with the removal of the subpart B designation, 
EDA proposed to amend the heading of Sec.  314.8 to clarify that this 
section outlines the recordation requirements specifically for Real 
Property.
     Given the removal of the subpart C heading for Personal 
Property, the NPRM proposed to change the heading of Sec.  314.9 to 
clarify that the requirements of this specific regulation apply only to 
Personal Property. EDA also proposed removing an unnecessary phrase in 
this section as well as specifying the security interest EDA requires 
with respect to Personal Property; namely, a ``Uniform Commercial Code 
Financing Statement (Form UCC-1, as provided by State law).''
     In Sec.  314.10, EDA proposed to streamline the procedures 
for the release of the Federal Interest in connection with EDA-assisted 
Property.
    [cir] The NPRM reorganizes Sec.  314.10 to add a new Sec.  
314.10(a), which provides additional information on EDA's practice in 
establishing the Estimated Useful Life of Projects. Since 1999, EDA has 
typically established useful lives between 15 and 20 years, depending 
on the nature of the asset.
    [cir] EDA proposed to redesignate current paragraph (a), which 
details the process for EDA's release of the Federal Interest before 
the expiration of the Estimated Useful Life but at least 20 years after 
the date of the award, as new paragraph (d) accompanied by a clarifying 
heading, additional clarifying language and removal of a repetitive 
reference.
    [cir] EDA proposed to delete the content of current paragraph (b) 
as unnecessary and replace it with new language that outlines the 
general rule that upon written request, EDA may release the Federal 
Interest in Project Property at the expiration of the Project's 
Estimated Useful Life, so long as the Recipient has made a good faith 
effort to fulfill the terms and conditions of the award, as determined 
by EDA. Accordingly, EDA would also revise the heading of new Sec.  
314.10(b).
    [cir] The NPRM proposed to remove, revise and relocate certain 
portions of current Sec.  314.10(c). The new paragraph (c) would 
provide that EDA can release its interest before the expiration of the 
Estimated Useful Life of Project Property only if the Agency receives 
compensation for the fair market value of the Federal Interest, and 
would have a new heading.
    [cir] EDA proposed to remove the content of current Sec.  
314.10(c)(1)(ii), which provides that notwithstanding the release of 
the Federal Interest, Project Property may not be used for inherently 
religious activities prohibited by applicable Federal law. In the NPRM, 
EDA acknowledged that this prohibition may not be required and in fact, 
may serve to prevent religious institutions from fully participating in 
EDA's economic development assistance programs by treating them as less 
than equal in their ability to obtain a release of the Federal 
Interest.
    [cir] Paragraph (e), as proposed by EDA in the NPRM, would provide 
that EDA may not approve a release of its interest if the Agency lacks 
the legal authority to do so (including under the Establishment 
Clause), if the Recipient has not performed in accordance with the 
terms and conditions of the Investment or has used Project Property in 
violation of Sec. Sec.  314.3 or 314.4, or other such factors as EDA 
deems appropriate. Reserving such authority would allow EDA to review 
its legal authority to release the Federal Interest at the time of the 
request.
    [cir] However, notwithstanding any release of the Federal Interest 
under Sec.  314.10, in accordance with DOC's regulations at 15 CFR part 
8, compliance with nondiscrimination requirements is a continuing 
obligation. Additionally,

[[Page 76113]]

upon consideration of the public comments and EDA's own review, EDA is 
reserving its proposed change to the covenant requirements for 
releasing Federal interest in new Sec.  314.10(e)(2) and (3). Thus, EDA 
proposed to retain the content of current Sec.  314.10(c)(1)(i), but 
relocate the provision to new paragraph Sec. Sec.  314.10(e)(3).
    EDA did not propose any changes to Parts 309 (``Redistributions of 
Investment Assistance''), 311-312 (``[Reserved]''), 313 (``Community 
Trade Adjustment Assistance'') and 315 (``Trade Adjustment Assistance 
for Firms'').

Summary of Final Rule

    After careful review of the public comments received and additional 
internal deliberations, EDA has determined that the policy and legal 
rationales underlying the changes proposed in NPRM remain compelling. 
Thus, with one exception, EDA has not made any substantive changes to 
the NPRM in this Final Rule.
    With respect to Sec.  314.10(e) addressing EDA's review process and 
requirements for releasing the Federal Interest in Property, EDA will 
revise the language proposed in the NPRM. More specifically, for the 
reasons outlined below (see Agency Response to Topic 18), in the final 
version of Sec.  314.10(e) EDA will: (a) Delete the reference to 
``governing Establishment Clause law'' in (e)(2); and (b) retain the 
express prohibition on using Property acquired or improved with 
Investment Assistance for ``inherently religious activities in 
violation of applicable Federal law'' that is provided for in the 
current rule at Sec. Sec.  314.10(c)(1)(ii) and (d)(2)(i)(A). While it 
maintains its legal position on the validity of the proposed change to 
this requirement, EDA would like to further examine its options at this 
time.

Summary of Comments and EDA's Responses

    EDA received over 120 comments from a variety of respondents on the 
NPRM. Most of the comments supported EDA's proposals. They believed 
that the flexibility provided by the changes would have a significant 
positive impact on the quality of EDA projects, which would now better 
reflect regional composition and needs. The comments, organized by 
topic and directly followed by a specific Agency response, are 
discussed and addressed in further detail below.

Comment Topic 1: Regulatory Review Process and Purpose of Regulations

    Multiple commenters provided general feedback on EDA's approach to 
amending its regulations. Several commenters provided specific, strict 
rules that they would like to see applied, now and in the future, to 
EDA's regulatory review process (e.g., mandatory schedule of review, 
requirement for EDA to immediately remove provisions once they become 
obsolete, cutting regulatory language by 10% to enhance comprehension). 
Others were of the view that EDA should draft its regulations with the 
overarching goal of supporting communities and businesses.

Agency Response to Topic 1

    EDA is committed to ensuring that its regulations provide a 
framework and the flexibility needed to allow the Agency's programs and 
resources to be leveraged to respond to current and future economic 
conditions in communities across the nation. EDA aims to ensure that 
all regulations are clear and as easy-to-follow and implement as 
possible, while balancing the need to ensure sufficient oversight and 
controls on the expenditure of Federal funds and the needs to be good 
stewards of taxpayer resources. EDA reviews its regulations 
periodically to determine whether, and if so, how, updates or 
adjustments are needed to best support businesses and communities 
across the nation, and to ensure that EDA's operations are conducted in 
an appropriate manner that balances the need for efficient and 
streamlined processes with sufficient controls and due diligence. EDA 
will maintain its existing approach of reviewing and updating 
regulations on an as-needed basis, rather than instituting universal 
sunsets or rigid timelines, in order to ensure business continuity. It 
is essential that effective regulatory provisions remain in place while 
the time-consuming, yet necessary, dialogue on whether certain 
requirements should be added or removed from EDA's regulatory scheme 
moves forward. Overall, EDA emphasizes that this regulatory revision 
represents a significant clarification and streamlining of the 
requirements (e.g., composition of CEDS Strategy Committees, CEDS 
content requirements) contained in previous regulations.

Comment Topic 2: Third-Party Feasibility Analysis for Incubators

    EDA received three comments expressing concern with the Agency's 
new proposed Sec.  301.10(d) that would require a feasibility study 
when proposing the development of a business incubator.

Agency Response to Topic 2

    Despite these concerns, EDA will move forward with the revision. 
EDA believes that business incubators can play a pivotal role in a 
community's job development effort by stimulating and nurturing 
business enterprises. Incubators have been proven to increase the 
probability of survival and growth of small businesses at a precarious 
time in their formation. Because support of these activities closely 
parallels EDA's objectives, the number of funding requests for 
incubators is increasing. However, EDA's experience has demonstrated 
that there are best practices that are strong predictors of incubator 
(and other innovation-focused projects) success that should be 
considered during the project selection phase. In particular, EDA 
believes that a feasibility study is a critical element in the grant-
making process by helping EDA understand and confirm the market demand 
for the specific start-up companies proposed for incubation (e.g., 
technology, general business, biotechnology, manufacturing, etc.) while 
demonstrating that there are adequate resources to operate the 
incubator.
    Although there was no objection from the commenters regarding EDA's 
additional substantive requirement in Sec.  301.10(d) that projects 
proposing construction of an incubator must include an operational 
plan, EDA notes that verification of the financial health of the 
incubator and a clear management direction (including tenant selection, 
graduation policies, etc.) are also helpful in determining the future 
success and sustainability of the incubator.

Comment Topic 3: Use of American Community Survey (``ACS'') Data

    One commenter noted the difficulty, especially in rural areas, of 
using ACS data to capture a reliable picture of economic distress and 
urged EDA to rely on more current data.

 Agency Response to Topic 3

    Pursuant to the proposed and now final Sec.  301.3(a)(4)(i), EDA 
requires, for eligibility purposes, applications for Investment 
Assistance to document the Region's per capita income from a variety of 
possible sources. While EDA strongly encourages and prefers the use of 
the ACS, EDA recognizes that for some communities, this is not the most 
current Federal data available. EDA's regulations are designed to 
provide flexibility in such circumstances for an applicant to use 
other, more current Federal data. In those rare cases where

[[Page 76114]]

no other Federal data is available, applicants may use the most current 
State data available. However, EDA requires the ACS or other Federal 
data in the first instance as it provides a more consistent mechanism 
to evaluate and compare economic distress across applications.

Comment Topic 4: Investment Rates and Matching Share

    Several commenters expressed the need for grant rates higher than 
the traditional 50%. These commenters collectively praised EDA's 
proposal to amend Section 301.4 to authorize an Investment Rate of up 
to 80 percent for Projects that: (a) Involve broad Regional planning 
and coordination with other entities outside the Eligible Applicant's 
political jurisdiction or area of authority, under special 
circumstances as determined by EDA; and/or (b) effectively leverage 
other Federal Agency resources.

Agency Response to Topic 4

    EDA emphasizes that both the existing and revised regulations 
provide authority for applying a higher Federal grant rate than 50% 
under certain conditions. EDA remains committed to evaluating current 
economic conditions and adjusting regulation requirements, including 
those for Matching Share, as necessary to ensure that distressed 
communities have ample opportunity to compete for assistance as part of 
the Agency's grant competitions. EDA, by amending Sec.  301.4(b)(5) to 
permit up to a 100% grant rate for projects to be funded by 
appropriations authorizing disaster economic recovery activities, also 
recognizes that in the wake of a disaster event, securing matching 
funds can be difficult and that there is a need for flexibility in the 
regulations to be able to provide timely assistance to impacted 
communities that they can effectively leverage.

Comment Topic 5: Quarterly Cycle v. Rolling Admissions

    EDA received a number of comments about the pros and cons of the 
Agency's quarterly cycle approach and their view that improvements 
should continue to be made to the grant awarding and monitoring 
process.

Agency Response to Topic 5

    Under the present system, EDA accepts applications for review four 
times a year, based on the quarters of the Federal fiscal year (i.e., 
October to December, January to March, April to June, and July to 
September). The NPRM proposed an amendment to Sec.  301.7(a) to reflect 
the Agency's current practice. At this time, EDA will continue with the 
quarterly application cycle process and adopt Sec.  301.7(a) as 
proposed.
    EDA is committed to process improvements that will enhance the 
Agency's efficiency and effectiveness in working with communities to 
support economic development projects in rural and urban communities 
across the nation. Implementing more specific deadlines and an 
established response framework and timeline is an important part of 
this process improvement. While EDA recognizes that in some cases the 
quarterly cycle process limits the Agency's ability to move quickly to 
support time-sensitive economic development objectives, overall this 
approach provides a level of transparency and accountability to 
stakeholders that many communities have appreciated. Moreover, 
processes do exist for grant applications to be considered for ``out-
of-cycle'' consideration if the circumstances warrant. EDA will 
continue to implement steps to make applying and administering awards 
more streamlined and more efficient.
    EDA's regulations are intended to outline core requirements, with 
specific process improvements and priorities being articulated through 
specific funding opportunities, program guidance, and related 
materials. EDA is moving forward with its regulatory changes under this 
approach and is committed to ensuring that while improvements are made 
to streamline the organization's processes it does not deleteriously 
impact the Agency's ability to support rural and urban communities. 
Importantly, as it continues to consider process improvements EDA 
strives to implement and advance best practices. However, contrary to 
one of the public comments, EDA's support for best practices is not 
intended to constrain the adoption and implementation of novel 
approaches that may serve as the best practices for tomorrow. Instead, 
EDA emphasizes best practices because they provide the empirical 
foundation needed for the prudent consideration of new ideas and which 
contribute, ultimately, to successful Agency investments.

Comment Topic 6: Grant Award Notification

    The position of one commenter is that the regulations should 
require that the Economic Development District (EDD) be notified before 
all others when an award decision on a project is made by EDA.

Agency Response to Topic 6

    EDA does not believe that the protocol for notification of award 
decisions warrants documentation in the regulations. However, EDA would 
like to highlight that the Agency appreciates the hard work that 
applicants invest in completing applications for EDA assistance. As 
such, EDA is committed to the timely notification of its grant award 
decisions. EDA encourages all of its stakeholders, including the EDDs, 
to stay in close communication with the appropriate Economic 
Development Representative or Economic Development Specialist 
throughout the application process in order to successfully address all 
their information needs while staying abreast of the latest 
developments.

Comment Topic 7: Regional Innovation Clusters and Innovation- and 
Entrepreneurship-Related Infrastructure

    In the NPRM, EDA proposed a definition in Sec.  300.3 for the 
phrase ``regional innovation cluster'' (RIC), an important economic 
development strategy designed to spark job creation and help 
communities and Regions become more competitive in the global economy. 
EDA also proposed adding a new section, Sec.  301.11, to make clear 
that EDA funds a broad portfolio of construction and non-construction 
infrastructure to meet a community's strategic goals, from basic assets 
to innovation- and entrepreneurship-related infrastructure. In proposed 
Sec.  301.11(a), for the first time EDA provided some examples of 
innovation and entrepreneurship-related infrastructure, including 
business incubation, business acceleration, venture development 
organizations, proof of concept centers and technology transfer.
    These proposed changes engendered a number of comments. They were 
generally supportive of EDA's explicit recognition of RICs and the 
flexibility provided by the Agency's description of non-traditional 
infrastructure. Two commenters, however, were concerned that the 
definitions and examples proposed in Sec. Sec.  300.3 and 300.11(a) 
were too narrow and thus, might foreclose the funding of certain 
Projects.

Agency Response to Topic 7

    EDA will adopt the definition of RICs and the new Sec.  300.11, as 
proposed. In response to the concerns expressed by the commenters, EDA 
emphasizes that the amendments will not prevent potential, innovation- 
and entrepreneurship-related infrastructure projects from being funded. 
Instead,

[[Page 76115]]

EDA's regulations will simply provide necessary context by clarifying 
the meaning of key terms and the type of investments that may be 
supported. The definitions and examples do not in any way limit what 
type or scope of investment may be construed to support innovation- and 
entrepreneurship-related infrastructure, nor do they assume that a 
cluster, an empirically defined, measurable concept based on 
independent research and analysis, will only need hard infrastructure 
investments. EDA agrees with the other commenters that investments 
supporting a broad range of infrastructure activities may fall into the 
category of innovation- and entrepreneurship-related infrastructure, 
and that clusters require both hard and soft infrastructure to thrive. 
EDA's regulations are designed to allow flexibility in funding 
announcements, guidance and other policy documents so that EDA remains 
nimble and best able to support diverse Project types from both rural 
and urban communities across the nation.

Comment Topic 8: Attorneys and Consultants of Eligible Applicants

    EDA received a comment that Sec.  302.10(a) should be amended to 
require that the Eligible Applicant certify the name of the law firm or 
consulting firm retained by the Eligible Applicant to expedite its 
Investment Assistance application rather than the name of the specific 
individual(s) that performed the work.

Agency Response to Topic 8

    EDA is not adopting this recommendation in the Final Rule. Having a 
specific name allows the Agency to more easily contact those involved 
on the project if necessary. Also, this requirement allows the Agency 
to better monitor and otherwise ensure that the Eligible Applicant, 
because of the activities or relationships of the entities providing 
assistance on the application, does not itself have a conflict of 
interest.

Comment Topic 9: Composition of CEDS Strategy Committees and District 
Organization Governing Bodies

    EDA proposed, and now revises Sec. Sec.  303.6(b)(1) and 
304.2(c)(2) to provide additional flexibilities with respect to the 
composition of CEDS Strategy Committees and District Organization 
governing bodies (also referred to as ``EDD policy boards''). These 
revisions will properly shift the focus of these entities from 
membership structure to performance and outcomes by maintaining the 
requirement that CEDS Strategy Committees and District Organization 
governing bodies represent the main interests of the Region, including 
the private sector, public officials, community leaders, private 
individuals, representatives of workforce development boards, 
institutions of higher education and minority and labor groups, but 
will no longer require a majority or membership threshold from any type 
of economic stakeholder. However, the new regulations make clear that 
these organizations are still expected to retain strong private sector 
representation and must continue to demonstrate the capacity to 
effectively undertake planning processes and implement strategies, as 
applicable.
    EDA received numerous comments addressing these provisions. Most 
commenters supported the new streamlined requirements because Planning 
Organizations and District Organizations will now have more flexibility 
to appoint committees and boards, respectively, which better reflect 
their own unique local qualities and priorities. By contrast, others 
expressed their view that the current composition requirements should 
stay the same, with a particular focus on maintaining the requirement 
for majority representation of elected officials or designated 
appointees on District Organization governing bodies because of their 
accountability to the general public.

Agency Response to Topic 9

    As noted above, EDA agrees with those supporting new, less 
restrictive composition requirements. EDA is committed to ensuring that 
its regulations provide a general framework and the flexibility needed 
to respond to current and future economic conditions in communities 
across the nation. EDA believes (and the new regulations require) that 
effective economic development planning needs the input of multiple 
sectors (e.g., private, public, non-profit, educational) to reflect 
regional interests effectively. By removing the requirement for 
specific sector percentages (i.e., majority private sector 
representation for CEDS Strategy Committees and majority public sector 
representation for EDD boards), EDA intends to empower communities to 
decide how best to structure these entities to meet the varying needs 
and priorities of each Region while ensuring broad stakeholder input is 
achieved. EDA believes that the flexibility to develop regional 
composition based on regional economic interests and dynamics will 
better contribute to the overall effectiveness of the planning process.

Comment Topic 10: CEDS Content Requirements

    The NPRM proposed streamlining the rigid list of required CEDS 
items in Sec.  303.7(b) to four essential planning elements. A number 
of commenters praised the more concise and flexible format of the 
proposed content requirements, while two were of the view that the 
existing list of guidelines should not be simplified because they 
encouraged thoughtful deliberation and provided needed structure in the 
planning process. EDA also received comments requesting more guidance 
from EDA with respect to developing the content of the CEDS.

Agency Response to Topic 10

    EDA, on balance, believes that the static list of ten CEDS 
requirements may be of limited value and even counterproductive to many 
Regions attempting to develop dynamic, responsive and relevant economic 
development strategies, and will adopt the proposed changes to Sec.  
303.7(b) in the final regulations. Nor does this Final Rule preclude 
inclusion of lists of proposed projects in the CEDS (see Agency 
Response to Topic 12).
    Moreover, EDA emphasizes that it is in the process of developing 
new CEDS Content Guidelines to help regional Planning Organizations 
prepare more impactful CEDS. The Content Guidelines will offer 
suggestions on what should be included in each of the required sections 
(as outlined in the regulations), and recommends tools, resources and 
examples to help in the development of the CEDS document. EDA has 
sought the review and feedback of key stakeholders such as the National 
Association of Development Organizations (NADO) and its members in 
developing the Content Guidelines, which will be released shortly after 
publication of this Final Rule.

Comment Topic 11: CEDS Public Comment Requirement

    EDA received a number of comments that were generally supportive of 
EDA's proposed changes to the CEDS public review and comment period 
requirement in Sec.  303.6(b)(2). Instead of keeping the existing bare-
bones requirement intact--namely, that the CEDS be made available to 
the public for comment for at least 30 days before submission to EDA--
EDA proposed adding more details to the requirement. While maintaining 
the mandate that the comment period be for at least 30 days, the NPRM 
specified that the Planning Organization must provide the public and 
appropriate governments and

[[Page 76116]]

interest groups with adequate notice and opportunity to comment, make 
the CEDS available electronically or otherwise throughout the period, 
and that the Planning Organization, upon request by EDA, provide to EDA 
any comments received on the CEDS and demonstrate how those comments 
were resolved.

Agency Response to Topic 11

    EDA is adopting this change in the Final Rule. EDA is committed to 
a high level of transparency and accountability in its programs. Public 
participation, as a key component of the planning process, is viewed as 
critical to the success of the CEDS process. The more detailed 
requirement in the Final Rule reinforces the importance of a robust, 
broad-based participatory process that is inclusive of the economic 
interests of multiple stakeholders while at the same time, providing 
Planning Organizations with some degree of flexibility in determining 
what is adequate and appropriate in terms of input.

Comment Topic 12: CEDS Project Lists/Project Consistency with CEDS

    The NPRM proposed streamlining CEDS requirements outlined in Sec.  
303.7(b) from ten detailed specifications to four essential planning 
elements. One of the specifications EDA proposed removing was the 
``project list,'' which requires that a CEDS include ``[a] section 
listing all suggested Projects and the projected numbers of jobs to be 
created as a result thereof.'' Multiple comments were received about 
EDA's proposal to no longer require a project list in the CEDS 
document. Many of these respondents objected to this proposed change, 
expressing their view that listing specific projects was an important 
and unique part of the CEDS process that ensured that the project was 
critical to the Region. In a related concern, a number of these 
respondents expressed their disapproval of EDA's proposed revision 
Sec.  301.8 that would remove the specific references that an EDA 
project ``be part of an overarching, long-term Comprehensive Economic 
Development Strategy . . .'' and ``demonstrate [ ] a high degree of 
local commitment.''

Agency Response to Topic 12

    Despite the concerns voiced by the commenters, EDA will adopt the 
new Sec.  303.7(b), as proposed. Although a listing of projects is no 
longer required, the proposed regulations do not prohibit the CEDS 
contents from including a list of projects. EDA firmly believes that a 
successful CEDS should be a strategy-driven plan based on regional 
visioning, prioritized actions and performance outcomes rather than a 
stand-alone list of projects and programs. This is not to say, however, 
that the CEDS should not include an action or implementation plan. EDA 
recommends that a strong CEDS include a robust action plan with a 
collection of worthwhile capacity building activities. However, the 
action plan should not simply be a list of projects and programs. Nor 
should it exclusively reflect those activities which EDA alone could 
support. The action plan should include a wide-range of activity types 
(housing, transportation, environmental, etc.) and must be clearly 
linked to the strategic direction within the plan. The emphasis of the 
CEDS should be on its strategic direction--and any subsequent actions 
should flow from the corresponding goals and objectives. The action 
plan should provide a guide to prioritizing resources and efforts. It 
should not be used to limit the identification and implementation of 
other projects and activities that effectively align with the strategic 
direction that was established as part of the vision goals and 
objectives within the CEDS.
    We also disagree with the commenters' suggestions regarding Sec.  
301.8 and maintain the revisions proposed in the NPRM. First, EDA 
believes that the updated evaluation criteria does not diminish the 
Agency's emphasis on projects that demonstrate local commitment and in 
fact, are geared towards selecting projects that best reflect the 
ability to help the impacted community grow the local economy 
effectively, create new and better jobs and coherently engage local 
partners. Second, even with the proposed elimination of the regulatory 
language, EDA is not eliminating the need for certain projects to be 
aligned with a CEDS. PWEDA itself requires projects under EDA's Public 
Works and EAA programs to be consistent with a relevant CEDS. See 42 
U.S.C. 3141, 3149.

Comment Topic 13: CEDS Consistency with Other Plans

    As discussed above, EDA proposed streamlining the CEDS content 
requirements in Sec.  303.7(b) from a laundry-list of ten items to four 
essential planning elements. One of these proposed elements was 
``[s]trategies and an implementation plan to build upon the Region's 
strengths and opportunities and resolve the weaknesses and threats 
facing the Regions, which should not be inconsistent with applicable 
State and local economic development or workforce development 
strategies.'' A number of respondents felt that the language in the 
regulation that states that the CEDS ``should not be inconsistent'' 
with other strategies is misleading and should be clarified because it 
implies that CEDS are somehow subordinate to, or developed after, other 
plans.

Agency's Response to Topic 13

    EDA does not see any ambiguity in the language of the proposed rule 
and thus, adopts such language in the Final Rule. EDA is highly 
committed to the process of cross-pollination when it comes to crafting 
impactful CEDS. EDA believes that related plans should build upon and 
be linked to each other to leverage existing information and approaches 
while avoiding duplication and actions or activities that may be at 
cross-purposes. The language in proposed (and now final) Sec.  303.7(b) 
was not intended to suggest that CEDS were secondary to, or must await 
the development of, other plans. Instead, this element was intended to 
promote the concept that other community and regional planning efforts, 
if already crafted, should be used to inform the development or update 
of the CEDS as appropriate, and vice versa.

Comment Topic 14: RLF Audits

    EDA received several comments on the proposed new requirement that 
the certification of prudent management of RLF funds be made by ``a 
qualified independent accountant who preferably has audited the RLF 
Recipient in accordance with OMB Circular A-133 requirements.'' The 
commenters expressed concern with the change to Sec.  307.15(b)(1), 
arguing that in many Regions it would be difficult and costly to find a 
firm qualified, and even willing because of liability issues, to make 
such a certification.

Agency's Response to Topic 14

    EDA disagrees with the position of the commenters, and the proposed 
language will be adopted in the Final Rule. The concerns of the 
commenters are speculative, and in any event, issues raised in prior 
programmatic audits have created the need for the revision. EDA also 
emphasizes that it is the Agency's aim to ensure that all regulations 
are clear and as easy to follow and implement as possible, while also 
balancing the need to ensure sufficient oversight and controls on the 
expenditure of Federal funds and the need to be good stewards of 
taxpayer resources. RLF audits are governed by OMB Circular A-133, and 
are required either when a Recipient expends $500,000 or more in 
combined Federal funds from all Federal agencies in a

[[Page 76117]]

given year or when the thresholds outlined by program specific A-133 
compliance supplementals are met. EDA's A-133 Compliance Supplemental 
for the RLF program provides specific instruction on how RLF funds 
should be used to calculate towards the $500,000 expenditure threshold 
requirement. EDA's definition of prudent management is not prescriptive 
of specific activities that must be followed and is not intended to 
limit the scope of the audit beyond conformity to OMB Circular A-133.
    EDA notes that on December 26, 2013, the Office of Management and 
Budget (OMB) issued the Final Rule to the ``Uniform Administrative 
Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal 
Awards'' (78 FR 78590). This rule, commonly known as the ``Super 
Circular,'' streamlines a number of OMB Circulars, including A-133, 
into a single, comprehensive guidance document and has important 
implications for Federal grant-making entities, Federal grant 
recipients, and applicants for Federal grant assistance. For example, 
the Super Circular raises the threshold for compliance audits of 
Federal grant recipients from $500,000 to $750,000 per fiscal year. The 
Super Circular, although effective on December 26, 2013, provided that 
Federal agencies have until December 26, 2014 to promulgate regulations 
implementing this guidance. When DOC finalizes its Department-wide 
regulations, EDA will take appropriate steps to amend its own 
regulations and issue additional policy guidance to its stakeholders.
    One of the above commenters also expressed concern that the 
requirement that the certification be made within 60 days before ``the 
initial disbursement of EDA funds'' is ambiguous. EDA believes that the 
language is clear: The certification is only required prior to the 
initial disbursement, not after each subsequent disbursement.

Comment Topic 15: RLF Advisory Committee

    One commenter points out that in the narrative of the proposed 
rule, EDA acknowledged that it had ``identified the need to create an 
internal RLF task force to improve communications and resolve program 
issues, and currently is in the process of establishing one.'' (76 FR 
76512). The commenter suggested that any EDA RLF task force should 
include external members as well.

Agency's Response to Topic 15

    We agree with the commenter's opinion that feedback from 
practitioners and others outside of EDA would benefit the RLF program, 
but there is no current need for a specific regulatory change or 
provision to address this issue. EDA is committed to a high-level of 
transparency and accountability in its programs. Although EDA has 
identified the need to create an internal task force to improve 
communications and resolve RLF program issues, public participation is 
viewed as critical to the success of the initiative. EDA believes that 
the process improvements require the input of multiple sectors (e.g., 
private, public, non-profit) and intends to interact with our external 
stakeholders to better contribute to the overall effectiveness of the 
RLF program.

Comment Topic 16: RLF Flexibility

    Several comments were received regarding the need for flexibility 
in the RLF program and alternative uses of RLF funds. For example, one 
commenter suggested that EDA outline a process in its regulations for 
converting RLF funds into an approved public infrastructure investment.

Agency's Response to Topic 16

    Although at this time EDA will not be incorporating any of these 
proposals into its Final Rule, EDA emphasizes that it is committed to 
ensuring its regulations provide a general framework and the 
flexibility needed to respond to current and future economic conditions 
in communities across the nation. Within the confines of its statutory 
authority, EDA has taken a critical and comprehensive look-back at its 
regulations to reduce burdens by removing outmoded provisions and 
streamlining and clarifying requirements. EDA will continue this 
process going forward to ensure that EDA's operations are conducted in 
an appropriate manner that balances the need for efficient and 
streamlined processes with sufficient controls and due diligence.

Comment Topic 17: RLF Defederalization

    Multiple commenters provided feedback on the need to release the 
Federal interest in RLF assets after all of the initial funds have been 
fully disbursed.

Agency's Response to Topic 17

    EDA recognizes the challenges presented by the present requirement 
that EDA maintain its interest in RLF assets in theoretic perpetuity. 
One result of particular concern to stakeholders is that RLFs must then 
comply with reporting and audit requirements in perpetuity. However, 
unlike the case with Real Property and tangible Personal Property, 
currently there is no statutory authority for EDA to release its 
interest in RLF assets.
    However, the RLF program has grown significantly in its capital 
base because of its longevity and continues to support its original 
purpose of fostering economic development and supporting businesses and 
communities throughout the nation. Recognizing the value of the program 
and the need to reduce burdens when appropriate, EDA will continually 
review its regulations to determine whether updates or adjustments can 
be made to provide greater flexibility for RLF Recipients.

Comment Topic 18: Inherently Religious Activities

    EDA received three comments on its proposal to modify Sec.  
314.10(c)(1)(ii), which required that Real or tangible Personal 
Property ``acquired or improved with Investment Assistance [from EDA] . 
. . not be used . . . [f]or inherently religious activities prohibited 
by applicable Federal law.'' EDA proposed to modify this language to 
read, in new Sec.  314.10(e)(2): ``In determining whether to release 
the Federal Interest, EDA will review EDA's legal authority to release 
its interest, including governing Establishment Clause law; the 
Recipient's performance under and conformance with the terms and 
conditions of the Investment Assistance; any use of Project Property in 
violation of Sec. Sec.  314.3 or 314.4 of this part; and other such 
factors as EDA deems appropriate.''
    The commenters object to this change on the grounds that it would 
violate the Establishment Clause of the United States Constitution 
(U.S. Const. amend. I), and may allow sectarian organizations that 
receive EDA funds to use such Federal money for religious purposes. 
More specifically, as summarized by one of the commenters, they contend 
that ``the current rule [prior Sec.  314.10(c)(1)(ii)] prohibits 
entities from using property built or rehabilitated with taxpayer 
funding for religious activities,'' while the proposed rule ``would 
abolish this current--constitutionally necessary--provision.'' Two of 
the commenters also argue that EDA's reliance on a 2003 opinion from 
the Department of Justice's Office of Legal Counsel (``OLC'') on 
whether grant money could be used to restore the Old North Church in 
Boston, Massachusetts, Authority of the Department of the Interior to 
Provide Historic Preservation Grants to Historic Religious Properties 
Such as the Old North Church, 27 Op. O.L.C. 91, 2003 WL 21246893 (April 
30, 2003) (``Old North Church opinion''),

[[Page 76118]]

was misplaced. Rather, they argue, the U.S. Supreme Court decision in 
Tilton v. Richardson, 403 U.S. 672 (1971) is controlling here. There, 
as we noted in the NPRM, the Supreme Court held that recipients of 
Federal grants cannot use that grant money to purchase or renovate a 
building that is later used for religious or sectarian purposes, even 
after the expiration of the 20-year useful life period of the Federal 
government's interest in the acquired property. All three commenters 
claim that the regulatory change EDA proposed contradicts this Supreme 
Court precedent, and thus, violates the Establishment Clause.

Agency's Response to Topic 18

    EDA disagrees that the revision proposed would fundamentally alter 
the current provision. First, EDA notes that the proposed text would 
have specifically required EDA to take into account the current law on 
the Establishment Clause. It states that, ``In determining whether to 
release the Federal Interest, EDA will review EDA's legal authority to 
release its interest, including governing Establishment Clause law.'' 
This proposed change would not, therefore, have ignored EDA's 
constitutional obligations, but rather reinforced them. Nor would the 
proposed clause have prevented EDA from taking any action it could take 
under the current rules, such as prohibiting a grantee from using for 
any religious or sectarian purpose any buildings that were constructed, 
purchased, or renovated using Federal funds. Instead, the proposed 
provision would have allowed EDA to take into account the specific 
situation of any grantee seeking a release of EDA's interest in 
Property acquired or improved using EDA funding. If EDA found or 
believed that the Property may be used for a religious or sectarian 
purpose following the release, EDA could refuse to release its 
interest, require the grantee to file a covenant on the Property upon 
release that the property will not be used for a religious or sectarian 
purpose, or require the Recipient to compensate EDA for the Federal 
Share of such Property.
    Moreover, the proposed amendment to EDA's regulations is not 
precluded by Tilton or subsequent Federal case law on the Establishment 
Clause. The language in the NPRM would have specifically required EDA 
to take into account any Establishment Clause concerns raised by the 
release of the Federal Interest on a case-by-basis. Tilton does not 
preclude this kind of case-by-case review.
    Were Property, previously acquired or improved with EDA funding and 
after the project's useful life, sold by a grantee to a church or 
religious organization for its then fair market value, there would be 
no violation of the Establishment Clause as there could be no subsidy 
of any religious activity through the EDA grant. OLC's Old North Church 
opinion also indicates that there are certain circumstances in which 
the Establishment Clause does not preclude the use of federal grants to 
maintain buildings that are used in part for religious purposes.
    The proposed regulation at Sec.  314.10(e)(2) would have allowed 
EDA to take all of the relevant circumstances into account. If a 
Recipient that has otherwise fulfilled the terms of the grant award 
asks for a release of Federal Interest on the Property, EDA would have 
been required to consider current Establishment Clause jurisprudence, 
and could impose restrictions on the future use of the Property for 
religious or sectarian purposes, as appropriate to the circumstances 
presented. For example, if a church or faith-based organization is the 
grantee and seeks to have EDA release its interest on Property it 
purchased, built, or renovated using, in part, EDA-provided funds, then 
EDA could require the organization to execute a covenant on the land 
prohibiting the future use of the Property for any religious or 
sectarian use as long as the organization owns the Property, prior to 
or contemporaneously with the release of EDA's interest in the 
Property. EDA could also seek to have the religious organization or 
successor-in-interest compensate EDA for the Federal Share of such 
Property, as current Sec.  314.10(d)(2)(ii) already allows. Conversely, 
if a non-sectarian grantee seeks a release of the Federal interest 
after 20 years and after fulfilling the terms of its grant, under the 
proposed rule EDA could have allowed the release without the above 
conditions of future use, if EDA's due diligence indicates that the 
Property will not be used for religious purposes.
    Overall, the commenters overstate the effect of EDA's proposed 
change for Sec.  314.10. We agree with the commenters that Federal 
grant funds or money cannot be awarded for religious or sectarian 
purposes, but the rule as proposed does not change EDA's obligation to 
ensure that such an event does not occur. Rather, it recognizes that a 
blanket prohibition on the use of Property that has been disposed of by 
the grant Recipient in an arm's length transaction for its then-fair 
market value, whether during or after its useful life, would not be 
appropriate. In such a case, EDA's interest in the Property--the 
performance of the terms of a grant to help create jobs--has been 
fulfilled and terminated. The proposed rule would allow EDA to take 
into account such case-specific circumstances within the boundaries set 
by governing Establishment Clause law.
    Nevertheless, despite our disagreement with the position of the 
commenters, EDA will not adopt proposed Sec.  314.10(e)(2) in its 
entirety, but may do so in the future. EDA is sensitive to the legal 
and practical ramifications of a change to our regulatory language that 
involves the Establishment Clause. Thus, we wish to proceed carefully, 
deliberately, and in a fashion consistent with the approaches of other 
agencies in the Executive Branch. We will continue to review this 
change, but in the interim EDA will: (a) Remove the reference to 
``governing Establishment Clause law'' in proposed Sec.  314.10(e)(2); 
and (b) restore in (e)(2) and (e)(3) the express prohibition on using 
Property acquired or improved with Investment Assistance for 
``inherently religious activities in violation of applicable Federal 
law'' that is provided for in the current rule at Sec. Sec.  
314.10(c)(1)(ii) and (d)(2)(i)(A), but otherwise retain the remainder 
of proposed Sec.  314.10(e) in the final version.

Classification

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    As noted in the NPRM, prior notice and opportunity for public 
comment are not legally required for rules concerning public property, 
loans, grants, benefits, and contracts (5 U.S.C. 553(a)(2)). However, 
as matter of policy, EDA put the rule out for notice and comment 
because it constituted a comprehensive regulatory overhaul.
    Nevertheless, because prior notice and an opportunity for public 
comment are not required pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553, or any other law, 
the analytical requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 
601 et seq.) are not applicable to this Final Rule. Therefore, a 
regulatory flexibility analysis has not been prepared.

Executive Orders No. 12866 and No. 13563

    This rule was drafted in accordance with Executive Orders 12866 and 
13563. It was reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), 
which found the rule to be ``significant'' according to Executive Order 
12866 and Executive Order 13563. Accordingly,

[[Page 76119]]

the rule has undergone interagency review.

Congressional Review Act

    This Final Rule is not major under the Congressional Review Act (5 
U.S.C. 801 et seq.).

Executive Order No. 13132

    It has been determined that this Final Rule does not contain 
policies with federalism implications as that term is defined in under 
Executive Order 13132.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.) 
(``PRA'') requires that a Federal Agency consider the impact of 
paperwork and other information collection burdens imposed on the 
public and, under the provisions of PRA section 3507(d), obtain 
approval from OMB for each collection of information it conducts, 
sponsors, or requires through regulations. Notwithstanding any other 
provision of law, no person is required to respond to, nor shall any 
person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection 
of information subject to the PRA unless that collection displays a 
currently valid OMB Control Number.
    The following table provides a complete list of the collections of 
information (and corresponding OMB Control Numbers) set forth in this 
Final Rule. These collections of information are necessary for the 
proper performance and functions of EDA.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Part or section of this final rule            Nature of request                 Form/title/OMB control No.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
301.2; 301.10......................  With an application for Investment     ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      Assistance, a non-profit Eligible      Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      Applicant must include a resolution
                                      passed by an authorized
                                      representative of a political
                                      subdivision of a State.
301.3(a); 301.10; 305.3(a)(1)......  An Eligible Applicant must             ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      substantiate Regional eligibility      Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      and justify the requested EDA
                                      Investment Assistance based on, for
                                      example, the unemployment rate, per
                                      capita income levels, or a Special
                                      Need (as determined by EDA) in the
                                      Region in which the Project will be
                                      located. The Eligible Applicant also
                                      must identify and submit to EDA the
                                      source of data used to substantiate
                                      Regional eligibility (e.g., ACS or
                                      BLS data, other Federal data for the
                                      Region in which the Project will be
                                      located, or data available through
                                      the State government).
301.4(b)(1)(i); 305.3(a)(1)........  An Eligible Applicant must provide     ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      information on the severity of the     Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      Region's unemployment and its
                                      duration, the per capita income
                                      levels and extent of the Region's
                                      unemployment or outmigration.
301.4(b)(4)........................  An Eligible Applicant for a Project    ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      under part 306 must provide            Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      information to show that the Project
                                      merits an increase to the Investment
                                      Rate because of the Project's
                                      infeasibility without such an
                                      increase, or because the Project
                                      will be of no or only incidental
                                      benefit to the Eligible Applicant.
301.5; 301.10......................  An Eligible Applicant must provide     ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      information to show that Matching      Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      Share funds will be available for
                                      the Project.
301.10(c)..........................  An Eligible Applicant for a Project    ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      under parts 305 or 307 must include    Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      with its application for Investment
                                      Assistance a CEDS acceptable to EDA
                                      (pursuant to part 303) or otherwise
                                      incorporate by reference a current
                                      CEDS that EDA approves for the
                                      proposed Project.
301.10(d)..........................  An Eligible Applicant for a Project    ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      to construct a business, technology,   Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      or other type of incubator or
                                      accelerator, must include a
                                      feasibility study demonstrating the
                                      need for the Project and an
                                      operational plan based on industry
                                      best practices demonstrating the
                                      Eligible Applicant's plan for
                                      ongoing successful operations.
302.7(a)...........................  Recipients must submit requests for    Award Amendment Request (0610-0102).
                                      amendments to Investment awards in
                                      writing to EDA for approval and
                                      provide information and
                                      documentation as EDA deems necessary.
302.9(a)...........................  An Eligible Applicant must furnish     ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      comments on the Project from the       Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      relevant governmental authority in
                                      the Region or proof of efforts to
                                      obtain comments if none were
                                      provided by the governmental
                                      authority.
302.10(a)..........................  An Eligible Applicant must certify to  ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      EDA the names of any persons engaged   Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      by or on behalf of the Eligible
                                      Applicant for the purpose of
                                      expediting Investment Assistance
                                      applications made to EDA.
302.14(a)..........................  Recipients shall keep records of the   Audits of States, Local Governments,
                                      amount and disposition of awards of    and Non-Profit Organizations, OMB
                                      Investment Assistance, the total       Circular A-133
                                      cost of the Project, the amount and
                                      nature of the portion of the Project
                                      costs provided by other sources and
                                      other records that would facilitate
                                      an effective audit.

[[Page 76120]]

 
302.15.............................  An Eligible Applicant must certify     ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      (and submit evidence thereof           Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      satisfactory to EDA) that it meets
                                      the requirements for receiving
                                      Investment Assistance.
302.16(b)..........................  Recipients are required to submit      GPRA Performance Validation Forms
                                      reports consisting of data-specific    (0610-0098).
                                      evaluations of the Project's
                                      effectiveness.
302.16(c)..........................  EDA may require a Recipient to         Project Service Map (0610-0102).
                                      provide a ``Project service map''
                                      and other information in order to
                                      determine which segments of the
                                      Region are being assisted with the
                                      Investment Assistance.
302.20(d)..........................  Recipients and Other Parties must      ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      submit written assurances to EDA       Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      that they will comply with
                                      nondiscrimination laws and
                                      regulations.
303.9(c)...........................  Eligible Applicants for short-term     GPRA Performance Validation Forms
                                      Planning Investment Assistance must    (0610-0098).
                                      provide performance measures
                                      acceptable to EDA, and provide EDA
                                      with progress reports during the
                                      term of the Planning Investment.
304.1; 304.4(a)....................  To have a Region certified as an EDD,  Comprehensive Economic Development
                                      a District Organization must submit    Strategies and Planning Investments
                                      information showing that the Region    (0610-0093).
                                      contains at least one area subject
                                      to the relevant economic distress
                                      criteria, is able to foster
                                      development on a larger scale than
                                      in a single area, has an EDA-
                                      approved CEDS, and obtains
                                      commitments from a majority of the
                                      relevant counties and States.
304.2(c)(2); 304.4(b)..............  The District Organization must         ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      demonstrate that its governing body    Assistance (0610-0094);
                                      is broadly representative of the       Comprehensive Economic Development
                                      principal economic interests of the    Strategies and Planning Investments
                                      Region.                                (0610-0093).
304.2(c)(4)........................  The District Organization must notify  Comprehensive Economic Development
                                      the public of its annual meetings,     Strategies and Planning Investments
                                      its decisions, the results of          (0610-0093).
                                      programs, and as reasonably
                                      requested, the results of audited
                                      statements, annual budgets, and
                                      minutes of public meetings.
305.2(b); 305.3(a)(3)..............  An Eligible Applicant must show that   ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      the Public Works Project will          Assistance (0610-0094);
                                      promote: the growth of industrial or   Construction Investments (0610-
                                      commercial plants, the creation of     0096).
                                      long-term employment opportunities
                                      primarily for low-income families,
                                      and the fulfillment of the Region's
                                      pressing needs.
305.4(c)...........................  In order to receive any portion of     ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      the Investment Assistance for design   Assistance (0610-0094);
                                      and engineering work, an Eligible      Construction Investments (0610-
                                      Applicant must submit and certify      0096).
                                      information that documents
                                      compliance with the Investment
                                      awards of all design and engineering
                                      contracts.
305.5..............................  In order to allow a District           ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      Organization to administer the         Assistance (0610-0094);
                                      Project for another Recipient, the     Construction Investments (0610-
                                      Recipient must make this request and   0096).
                                      submit information to EDA showing
                                      that the Recipient does not have the
                                      current staff capacity to administer
                                      the Project, the District
                                      Organization would be more effective
                                      than another local business or
                                      organization, the District
                                      Organization would not subcontract
                                      the work, and the costs of District
                                      Organization administration will not
                                      exceed the allowable costs were the
                                      Recipient administering it.
305.6..............................  A Recipient shall seek EDA's prior     ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      written approval to use an alternate   Assistance (0610-0094);
                                      construction procurement method to     Construction Investments (0610-
                                      the traditional design/bid/build. If   0096).
                                      an alternate method is used, the
                                      Recipient must submit to EDA for
                                      approval a construction services
                                      procurement plan and the Recipient
                                      must use a design professional to
                                      oversee the process.
305.7..............................  The Recipient may use ``in-house       ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      forces'' for design, construction,     Assistance (0610-0094);
                                      inspection, legal services or other    Construction Investments (0610-
                                      work on the Project if it submits a    0096).
                                      sufficient justification to EDA.
305.8(a); 305.8(b).................  Recipients of EDA construction awards  ED-900. Application for Investment
                                      must obtain prior approval for the     Assistance (0610-0094);
                                      use of furnished equipment and         Construction Investments (0610-
                                      materials. Requests must show that     0096).
                                      costs claimed for furnished
                                      equipment and materials are
                                      competitive with local market costs
                                      for similar equipment and materials.
305.9..............................  An EDA construction award Recipient    ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      must submit information to EDA         Assistance (0610-0094);
                                      regarding why phasing is necessary,    Construction Investments (0610-
                                      a description of the phasing,          0096).
                                      related costs and schedules, and
                                      certification that the Recipient
                                      will pay for overruns and that it is
                                      capable of paying for incurred costs
                                      before the first disbursement.

[[Page 76121]]

 
305.10(a)..........................  If at the construction contract bid    Construction Investments (0610-
                                      opening, the lowest responsive bid     0096).
                                      is less than total Project cost, the
                                      Recipient will notify EDA to
                                      determine relevant procedures.
305.10(b)..........................  In case of an overrun at construction  Construction Investments (0610-
                                      contract bid opening, the Recipient    0096).
                                      may take deductive alternatives if
                                      provided for in the bid documents,
                                      reject all bids and re-advertise if
                                      there is a rational basis to believe
                                      that such action will result in a
                                      lower bid, or augment the Matching
                                      Share by an amount sufficient to
                                      cover the excess cost. If EDA
                                      determines that these options are
                                      not feasible, the Recipient may
                                      submit a written request for
                                      additional EDA funding.
305.11.............................  Recipients may issue a notice          Construction Investments (0610-
                                      permitting construction under          0096).
                                      contract to commence prior to an EDA
                                      determination of award compliance
                                      and eligibility for cost
                                      reimbursement, but will proceed at
                                      their own risk until EDA review and
                                      concurrence. The EDA regional office
                                      may request information from the
                                      Recipient to make a determination of
                                      award compliance.
305.12.............................  EDA requires a Recipient to erect a    Construction Investments (0610-
                                      Project sign or signs at the Project   0096).
                                      construction site to indicate that
                                      the Federal government is
                                      participating in the Project. The
                                      regional office will provide
                                      mandatory specifications for Project
                                      signage.
305.13.............................  Recipients involved in a contract      Construction Investments (0610-
                                      change order must submit them to EDA   0096).
                                      for review.
306.2..............................  EDA selects Projects for Local and     ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      National Technical Assistance based    Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      on the criteria in part 301 and the
                                      extent to which the Eligible
                                      Applicant demonstrates that the
                                      Project will achieve more specific
                                      objectives in the Region (as set
                                      forth in Sec.   306.2) and meets the
                                      criteria in the applicable FFO.
306.5..............................  EDA provides Investment Assistance to  ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      University Center Projects based on    Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      the selection criteria in part 301,
                                      the competitive selection process
                                      outlined in the applicable FFO, and
                                      the extent to which the Eligible
                                      Applicant demonstrates other more
                                      specific, related criteria.
307.5(a)...........................  Each application for Economic          ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      Adjustment Assistance must include     Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      or incorporate by reference (if so
                                      approved by EDA) a CEDS.
307.9..............................  All RLF Recipients must submit to EDA  RLF Standard Terms and Conditions
                                      an RLF Plan.                           (0610-0095).
307.11(a)..........................  Prior to the disbursement of EDA       RLF Standard Terms and Conditions
                                      funds, RLF Recipients must provide     (0610-0095).
                                      in a form acceptable to EDA evidence
                                      of fidelity bond coverage and
                                      evidence of certification in
                                      accordance with Sec.   307.15(b)(1).
307.11(e)..........................  If the Recipient receives Grant funds  RLF Standard Terms and Conditions
                                      and the RLF loan disbursement is       (0610-0095).
                                      subsequently delayed beyond 30 days,
                                      the Recipient must notify the
                                      applicable grants officer and return
                                      such non-disbursed funds to EDA.
307.13(a)..........................  RLF Recipients must maintain Closed    RLF Standard Terms and Conditions
                                      Loan files and all related             (0610-0095).
                                      documents, books of account,
                                      computer data files, and other
                                      records over the term of the Closed
                                      Loan and for a three-year period
                                      from the date of final disposition
                                      of such Closed Loan.
307.13(b)..........................  RLF Recipients must maintain adequate  RLF Standard Terms and Conditions
                                      accounting records to substantiate     (0610-0095).
                                      the amount of RLF Income expended
                                      for eligible administrative costs
                                      and retain records of administrative
                                      expenses incurred for activities and
                                      equipment relating to the operation
                                      of the RLF.
307.14(a)..........................  All RLF Recipients must submit semi-   ED-209, Semi-Annual Report (0610-
                                      annual reports in electronic format    0095).
                                      to EDA, unless EDA approves a paper
                                      submission.
307.14(b)..........................  All Recipients must certify as part    ED-209, Semi-Annual Report (0610-
                                      of the semi-annual report that the     0095) ED-209A, Annual Report (0610-
                                      RLF is operating in accordance with    0095).
                                      the RLF Plan, and describe any
                                      modifications to the RLF Plan to
                                      ensure effective use of the RLF.

[[Page 76122]]

 
307.14(c)..........................  An RLF Recipient using either fifty    ED-209I, Income and Expense
                                      percent or more (or more than          Statement (0610-0095).
                                      $100,000) of RLF Income for
                                      administrative costs in a 12-month
                                      reporting period must submit a
                                      completed Income and Expense
                                      Statement annually to the
                                      appropriate EDA regional office. EDA
                                      may waive this requirement for an
                                      RLF Grant with a small RLF Capital
                                      Base.
307.15(b)(1).......................  Within 60 days prior to the initial    RLF Standard Terms and Conditions
                                      disbursement of EDA funds, a           (0610-0095).
                                      qualified independent accountant who
                                      preferably has audited the RLF
                                      Recipient in accordance with OMB
                                      Circular A-133 requirements, shall
                                      certify to EDA and the Recipient
                                      that such system is adequate to
                                      identify, safeguard and account for
                                      all RLF operations.
307.15(b)(2).......................  Prior to the disbursement of any EDA   RLF Standard Terms and Conditions
                                      funds, an RLF Recipient must certify   (0610-0095).
                                      that standard loan documents
                                      necessary for lending are in place
                                      and that these documents have been
                                      reviewed by its legal counsel for
                                      adequacy and compliance with the
                                      terms and conditions of the Grant
                                      and applicable State and local law.
307.16(b)..........................  Recipients must promptly notify EDA    RLF Standard Terms and Conditions
                                      in writing of any condition that may   (0610-0095).
                                      adversely affect their ability to
                                      meet prescribed schedule deadlines.
                                      Recipients must submit a written
                                      request for continued use of Grant
                                      funds beyond a missed deadline for
                                      disbursement of RLF funds.
307.19.............................  With prior approval from EDA, a        RLF Standard Terms and Conditions
                                      Recipient may enter into a Sale or     (0610-0095).
                                      Securitization of all or a portion
                                      of its RLF loan portfolio.
307.21(b)..........................  EDA may approve a request from a       RLF Standard Terms and Conditions
                                      Recipient to terminate an RLF Grant.   (0610-0095).
part 310...........................  Upon the application of an Eligible    Comprehensive Economic Development
                                      Applicant, EDA may designate the       Strategies and Planning Investments
                                      Region which the Project will serve    (0610-0093).
                                      as a Special Impact Area and waive
                                      the CEDS requirement if the Eligible
                                      Applicant demonstrates that its
                                      proposed Project will directly
                                      fulfill a pressing need and assist
                                      in preventing excessive unemployment.
314.3(f)...........................  With EDA's prior written approval, a   Property Management 0610-0103.
                                      Recipient may undertake an
                                      incidental use of Property that does
                                      not interfere with the scope of the
                                      Project or the economic purpose for
                                      which the Investment was made,
                                      provided it satisfies the conditions
                                      set forth in Sec.   314.3(f).
314.6(b)...........................  In order to use EDA-funded property    ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      to secure a mortgage or deed of        Assistance (0610-0094);
                                      trust or encumber the property, the    Construction Investments (0610-
                                      Recipient must provide information     0096).
                                      that satisfies one or more of the
                                      exceptions set forth in Sec.
                                      314.6(b).
314.7(a) and (c)...................  The Recipient must provide             ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      information that satisfies EDA that    Assistance (0610-0094);
                                      the Recipient has title to the Real    Construction Investments (0610-
                                      Property and all easements, rights-    0096).
                                      of-way, permits or long-term leases,
                                      unless it can provide information
                                      proving it meets an exception to the
                                      rule.
314.7(b)...........................  The Recipient must provide             ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      information regarding all              Assistance (0610-0094);
                                      encumbrances on the Real Property to   Construction Investments (0610-
                                      EDA.                                   0096).
314.8..............................  Recipients must execute a lien,        ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      covenant, or other statement of        Assistance (0610-0094);
                                      EDA's interest in all Property         Construction Investments (0610-
                                      acquired or improved with EDA          0096).
                                      Investment Assistance and record it
                                      in the proper jurisdiction.
314.9..............................  Recipients must execute a security     ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      interest or other statement of EDA's   Assistance (0610-0094);
                                      interest in Personal Property          Construction Investments (0610-
                                      acquired or improved by EDA funds      0096).
                                      and record the interest in
                                      accordance with applicable law.
314.10.............................  If a Recipient wishes for EDA to       Property Management (0610-0103).
                                      release its Real Property or
                                      tangible Personal Property interest
                                      before or after the expiration of
                                      the Property's Estimated Useful
                                      Life, it must submit a request for
                                      such release to EDA. EDA's release
                                      is not automatic and may require
                                      some action on behalf of the
                                      Recipient.
315.5(b)...........................  Current or prospective TAACs must      ED-900, Application for Investment
                                      submit either a new or amended         Assistance (0610-0094).
                                      application to EDA, along with a
                                      proposed budget, narrative scope of
                                      work and other information as may be
                                      requested by EDA.
315.5(c)...........................  TAACs must submit information          GPRA Performance Validation Form
                                      regarding performance to be            (0610-0098).
                                      evaluated by EDA.

[[Page 76123]]

 
315.6(a)(1); 315.7; 315.8..........  Firms must provide specific            ED-840P, Petition by a Firm for
                                      information to EDA in order to be      Certification of Eligibility to
                                      certified for participation in the     Apply for Trade Adjustment
                                      TAAF program.                          Assistance (0610-0091).
315.6(a)(2); 315.6(a)(3); 315.16...  A Certified Firm must submit an        ED-840P, Petition by a Firm for
                                      Adjustment Proposal to EDA for         Certification of Eligibility to
                                      approval. If EDA approves the          Apply for Trade Adjustment
                                      Adjustment Proposal, the Firm may      Assistance (0610-0091).
                                      then request Adjustment Assistance
                                      from the TAAC.
315.9..............................  In order to have a public hearing, a   ED-840P, Petition by a Firm for
                                      Person with a Substantial Interest     Certification of Eligibility to
                                      in an accepted petition for TAAF       Apply for Trade Adjustment
                                      certification must submit a request    Assistance (0610-0091).
                                      that follows this section's
                                      procedures.
315.12.............................  Each TAAC shall keep records           GPRA Performance Validation Form
                                      disclosing the use of all TAAF funds.  (0610-0098).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

List of Subjects

13 CFR Part 300

    Distressed region, Financial assistance, Headquarters, Organization 
and functions (Government agencies), Regional offices.

13 CFR Part 301

    Applicant requirements, Application requirements, Economic distress 
levels, Eligibility requirements, Investment rates, Match share 
requirements.

13 CFR Part 302

    Civil rights, Community development, Conflicts-of-interest, 
Environmental review, Federal policy and procedures, Fees, Inter-
governmental review,, Post-approval requirements Pre-approval 
requirements, Project administration, Reporting and audit requirements, 
Technical assistance..

13 CFR Part 303

    Award and application requirements, Comprehensive economic 
development strategy, Planning, Short-term planning investments, State 
plans.

13 CFR Part 304

    District modification and termination, Economic development 
district, Organizational requirements, Performance evaluations.

13 CFR Part 305

    Award and application requirements, Economic development, Public 
works, Requirements for approved projects.

13 CFR Part 306

    Award and application requirements, Community development, Grant 
programs--housing and community development, Performance evaluations, 
Research, Technical assistance, Training, University centers.

13 CFR Part 307

    Award and application requirements, Business and industry, Economic 
adjustment assistance, Grant programs, Income, Liquidation, Merger, 
Pre-loan requirements, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, 
Revolving loan fund, Sales and securitizations, Termination.

13 CFR Part 308

    Business and industry, Community development, Performance awards, 
Planning performance awards.

13 CFR Part 310

    Excessive unemployment, Special impact area, Special need.

13 CFR Part 314

    Authorized use, Community development, Federal interest, Federal 
share, Property, Property interest, Release, Title.

Regulatory Text

    For the reasons discussed above, EDA is amending title 13, chapter 
III of the Code of Federal Regulations as follows:

PART 300--GENERAL INFORMATION

0
1. The authority citation for part 300 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 3121; 42 U.S.C. 3122; 42 U.S.C. 3211; 
Department of Commerce Organization Order 10-4.


0
2. Revise Sec.  300.1 to read as follows:


Sec.  300.1  Introduction and mission.

    EDA was created by Congress pursuant to the Public Works and 
Economic Development Act of 1965 to provide financial assistance to 
both rural and urban distressed communities. EDA's mission is to lead 
the Federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and 
competitiveness, preparing American regions for growth and success in 
the worldwide economy. EDA will fulfill its mission by fostering 
entrepreneurship, innovation and productivity through Investments in 
infrastructure development, capacity building and business development 
in order to attract private capital investments and new and better jobs 
to Regions experiencing substantial and persistent economic distress. 
EDA works in partnership with distressed Regions to address problems 
associated with long-term economic distress as well as to assist those 
Regions experiencing sudden and severe economic dislocations, such as 
those resulting from natural disasters, conversions of military 
installations, changing trade patterns and the depletion of natural 
resources. EDA Investments generally take the form of Grants to or 
Cooperative Agreements with Eligible Recipients.

0
3. Revise Sec.  300.2 to read as follows:


Sec.  300.2  EDA Headquarters and regional offices.

    (a) EDA's Headquarters Office is located at: U.S. Department of 
Commerce, Economic Development Administration, 1401 Constitution Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20230.
    (b) EDA has regional offices throughout the United States and each 
regional office's contact information may be found on EDA's Internet 
Web site at https://www.eda.gov or in the applicable announcement of 
Federal Funding Opportunity issued by EDA. Please contact the 
appropriate regional office to learn about EDA Investment opportunities 
in your Region.

0
4. Amend Sec.  300.3 by:
0
a. Revising the definition of Cooperative Agreement, paragraph (7) of 
the definition of Eligible Recipient, and the definitions of Federal 
Funding Opportunity or FFO, Federally Declared Disaster, Grant, Indian 
Tribe, Investment or Investment Assistance, Investment Rate, Local 
Share or Matching Share, and Presidentially-Declared Disaster;
0
b. Removing the definition of Private Sector Representative;
0
c. Revising the definitions of PWEDA, and Region or Regional;
0
d. Adding in alphabetical order a definition of Regional Innovation 
Clusters or RICs; and
0
e. Revising the definition of Trade Act;

[[Page 76124]]

    The revisions and addition read as follows:


Sec.  300.3  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Cooperative Agreement means the financial assistance award of EDA 
funds to an Eligible Recipient where substantial involvement is 
expected between EDA and the Eligible Recipient in carrying out a 
purpose or activity authorized under PWEDA or another statute. See 31 
U.S.C. 6305.
* * * * *
    Eligible Recipient * * *
    (7) Private individual or for-profit organization, but only for 
Training, Research and Technical Assistance Investments pursuant to 
Sec.  306.1(d)(3) of this chapter.
* * * * *
    Federal Funding Opportunity or FFO means an announcement EDA 
publishes during the fiscal year at https://www.grants.gov and on EDA's 
Internet Web site at https://www.eda.gov that provides the funding 
amounts, application and programmatic requirements, funding priorities, 
special circumstances, and other information concerning a specific 
competitive solicitation for EDA's economic development assistance 
programs. EDA also may periodically publish FFOs on specific programs 
or initiatives.
    Federally Declared Disaster means a Presidentially Declared 
Disaster, a fisheries resource disaster pursuant to section 312(a) of 
the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, as 
amended (16 U.S.C. 1861a(a)), or other Federally declared disasters 
pursuant to applicable law.
    Grant means the financial assistance award of EDA funds to an 
Eligible Recipient, under which the Eligible Recipient bears 
responsibility for carrying out a purpose or activity authorized under 
PWEDA or another statute. See 31 U.S.C. 6304.
* * * * *
    Indian Tribe means an entity on the list of recognized tribes 
published pursuant to the Federally Recognized Indian Tribe List Act of 
1994, as amended (Pub. L. 103-454) (25 U.S.C. 479a et seq.), and any 
Alaska Native Village or Regional Corporation (as defined in or 
established under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 
1601 et seq.). This term includes the governing body of an Indian 
Tribe, non-profit Indian corporation (restricted to Indians), Indian 
authority, or other non-profit Indian tribal organization or entity; 
provided that the Indian tribal organization or entity is wholly owned 
by, and established for the benefit of, the Indian Tribe or Alaska 
Native Village.
* * * * *
    Investment or Investment Assistance means a Grant or Cooperative 
Agreement entered into by EDA and a Recipient.
    Investment Rate means, as set forth in Sec.  301.4 of this chapter, 
the amount of the EDA Investment in a particular Project expressed as a 
percentage of the total Project cost.
* * * * *
    Local Share or Matching Share means the non-EDA funds and any In-
Kind Contributions that are approved by EDA and provided by a Recipient 
or third party as a condition of an Investment. The Matching Share may 
include funds from another Federal Agency only if authorized by statute 
that allows such use, which may be determined by EDA's reasonable 
interpretation of such authority.
    Presidentially Declared Disaster means a major disaster or 
emergency declared under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and 
Emergency Assistance Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.).
* * * * *
    PWEDA means the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965, 
as amended (42 U.S.C. 3121 et seq.).
* * * * *
    Region or Regional means an economic unit of human, natural, 
technological, capital or other resources, defined geographically. 
Geographic areas comprising a Region need not be contiguous or defined 
by political boundaries, but should constitute a cohesive area capable 
of undertaking self-sustained economic development. For the limited 
purposes of determining economic distress levels and Investment Rates 
pursuant to part 301 of this chapter, a Region also may comprise a 
specific geographic area defined solely by its level of economic 
distress, as set forth in Sec. Sec.  301.3(a)(2) and 301.3(a)(3) of 
this chapter.
* * * * *
    Regional Innovation Clusters or RICs means networks of similar, 
synergistic, or complementary entities that support a single industry 
sector and its various supply chains. In general, RICs:
    (1) Are based on a geographic area that may cross municipal, 
county, and other jurisdictional boundaries;
    (2) May include catalysts of innovation and drivers of Regional 
economic growth, such as universities, government research centers, and 
other research and development resources;
    (3) Have active channels for business transactions and 
communication; and
    (4) Depend upon specialized infrastructure, labor markets, and 
services that build on the unique competitive assets of a location, 
including talent, technology, services, and hard and soft 
infrastructure, to spur innovation, job creation, and business 
expansion.
* * * * *
    Trade Act, for purposes of EDA, means title II, chapters 3, 4 and 
5, of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2341 et seq.).
* * * * *

PART 301--ELIGIBILITY, INVESTMENT RATE AND APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

0
5. The authority citation for part 301 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 3121; 42 U.S.C. 3141-3147; 42 U.S.C. 3149; 
42 U.S.C. 3161; 42 U.S.C. 3175; 42 U.S.C. 3192; 42 U.S.C. 3194; 42 
U.S.C. 3211; 42 U.S.C. 3233; Department of Commerce Delegation Order 
10-4.

Subpart A--General

0
6. Amend Sec.  301.1 by revising the introductory text and paragraphs 
(d) and (e) and adding paragraph (f) to read as follows:


Sec.  301.1  Overview of eligibility requirements.

    In order to receive EDA Investment Assistance, the following 
requirements must be met:
* * * * *
    (d) The Eligible Applicant must satisfy the formal application 
requirements set forth in subpart E of this part;
    (e) The Project must meet the general requirements set forth in 
part 302 (General Terms and Conditions for Investment Assistance) and 
the specific program requirements (as applicable) set forth in part 303 
(Planning Investments and Comprehensive Economic Development 
Strategies), part 304 (Economic Development Districts), part 305 
(Public Works and Economic Development Investments), part 306 
(Training, Research and Technical Assistance Investments), or part 307 
(Economic Adjustment Assistance Investments) of this chapter; and
    (f) EDA must select the Eligible Applicant's proposed Project.

Subpart C--Economic Distress Criteria

0
7. In Sec.  301.3, revise paragraphs (a)(1) and (2), (a)(4) 
introductory text, (a)(4)(i), and (c)(1) to read as follows:

[[Page 76125]]

Sec.  301.3  Economic distress levels.

    (a) Part 305 (Public Works and Economic Development Investments) 
and part 307 (Economic Adjustment Assistance Investments). (1) Except 
as otherwise provided by this paragraph (a), for a Project to be 
eligible for Investment Assistance under parts 305 or 307 of this 
chapter, the Project must be located in a Region that, on the date EDA 
receives an application for Investment Assistance, is subject to one or 
more of the following economic distress criteria:
    (i) An unemployment rate that is, for the most recent 24-month 
period for which data are available, at least one percentage point 
greater than the national average unemployment rate;
    (ii) Per capita income that is, for the most recent period for 
which data are available, 80 percent or less of the national average 
per capita income; or
    (iii) A Special Need, as determined by EDA.
    (2) A Project located within an Economic Development District, 
which is located in a Region that does not meet the economic distress 
criteria described in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, also is 
eligible for Investment Assistance under parts 305 or 307 of this 
chapter if EDA determines that the Project will be of ``substantial 
direct benefit'' to a geographic area within the District that meets 
the criteria of paragraph (a)(1) of this section. For this purpose, a 
Project provides a ``substantial direct benefit'' if it provides 
significant employment opportunities for unemployed, underemployed or 
low-income residents of the geographic area within the District.
* * * * *
    (4) Data requirements to demonstrate economic distress levels. EDA 
will determine the economic distress levels pursuant to this subsection 
at the time EDA receives an application for Investment Assistance as 
follows:
    (i) For economic distress levels based upon per capita income 
requirements, EDA will base its determination upon the most recent 
American Community Survey (``ACS'') published by the U.S. Census 
Bureau. For economic distress levels based upon the unemployment rate, 
EDA will base its determination upon the most recent data published by 
the Bureau of Labor Statistics (``BLS''), within the U.S. Department of 
Labor. For eligibility based upon either per capita income requirements 
or the unemployment rate, when the ACS or BLS data, as applicable, are 
not the most recent Federal data available, EDA will base its decision 
upon the most recent Federal data from other sources (including data 
available from the Census Bureau and the Bureaus of Economic Analysis, 
Labor Statistics, Indian Affairs, or any other Federal source 
determined by EDA to be appropriate). If no Federal data are available, 
an Eligible Applicant must submit to EDA the most recent data available 
from the State. The required data must be for the Region where the 
Project will be located (paragraph (a)(1) of this section), the 
geographic area where substantial direct Project benefits will occur 
(paragraph (a)(2) of this section), or the geographic area of poverty 
or high unemployment (paragraph (a)(3) of this section), as applicable.
* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (1) Contain at least one geographic area that fulfills the economic 
distress criteria set forth in paragraph (a)(1) of this section and is 
identified in an approved CEDS; and
* * * * *

Subpart D--Investment Rates and Matching Share Requirements

0
8. In Sec.  301.4, revise paragraphs (b)(1) introductory text, 
(b)(1)(ii), (b)(2), (b)(3)(i) through (iii), (b)(4) introductory text, 
(b)(5), and (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  301.4  Investment rates.

* * * * *
    (b) Maximum Investment Rate--(1) General rule. Except as otherwise 
provided by this paragraph (b) or paragraph (c) of this section, the 
maximum EDA Investment Rate for all Projects shall be determined in 
accordance with Table 1 in paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section. The 
maximum EDA Investment Rate shall not exceed the sum of 50 percent, 
plus up to an additional 30 percent based on the relative needs of the 
Region in which the Project is located, as determined by EDA.
* * * * *
    (ii) Table 1. Table 1 of this paragraph sets forth the maximum 
allowable Investment Rate for Projects located in Regions subject to 
certain levels of economic distress. In cases where Table 1 produces 
divergent results (i.e., where Table 1 produces more than one maximum 
allowable Investment Rate based on the Region's levels of economic 
distress), the higher Investment Rate produced by Table 1 shall be the 
maximum allowable Investment Rate for the Project.

                                 Table 1
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Maximum
                                                             allowable
          Projects located in regions in which:             investment
                                                               rates
                                                           (percentage)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(A) The 24-month unemployment rate is at least 225% of                80
 the national average; or...............................
(B) The per capita income is not more than 50% of the                 80
 national average.......................................
(C) The 24-month unemployment rate is at least 200% of                70
 the national average; or...............................
(D) The per capita income is not more than 60% of the                 70
 national average.......................................
(E) The 24-month unemployment rate is at least 175% of                60
 the national average; or...............................
(F) The per capita income is not more than 65% of the                 60
 national average.......................................
(G) The 24-month unemployment rate is at least one                    50
 percentage point greater than the national average; or.
(H) The per capita income is not more than 80% of the                 50
 national average.......................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) Projects subject to a Special Need. EDA shall determine the 
maximum allowable Investment Rate for Projects subject to a Special 
Need (as determined by EDA pursuant to Sec.  301.3(a)(1)(iii)) based on 
the actual or threatened overall economic situation of the Region in 
which the Project is located. However, unless the Project is eligible 
for a higher Investment Rate pursuant to paragraph (b)(5) of this 
section, the maximum allowable Investment Rate for any Project subject 
to a Special Need shall be 80 percent.
    (3) * * *
    (i) The minimum Investment Rate for Projects under part 303 of this 
chapter shall be 50 percent.

[[Page 76126]]

    (ii) Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (b)(3)(iii) of this 
section or in paragraph (b)(5) of this section, the maximum allowable 
Investment Rate for Projects under part 303 of this chapter shall be 
the maximum allowable Investment Rate set forth in Table 1 for the most 
economically distressed county or other equivalent political unit 
(e.g., parish) within the Region. The maximum allowable Investment Rate 
shall not exceed 80 percent.
    (iii) In compelling circumstances, the Assistant Secretary may 
waive the application of the first sentence in paragraph (b)(3)(ii) of 
this section.
    (4) Projects under part 306. Except as otherwise provided in 
paragraph (b)(5) of this section, the maximum allowable Investment Rate 
for Projects under part 306 of this chapter shall generally be 
determined based on the relative needs (as determined under paragraph 
(b)(1) of this section) of the Region which the Project will serve. As 
specified in section 204(c)(3) of PWEDA, the Assistant Secretary has 
the discretion to establish a maximum Investment Rate of up to 100 
percent where the Project:
    (i) * * *
    (ii) * * *
    (5) Special Projects. Table 2 of this paragraph sets forth the 
maximum allowable Investment Rate for certain special Projects as 
follows:

                                 Table 2
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Maximum
                                                             allowable
                        Projects                            investment
                                                               rates
                                                           (percentage)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Projects that involve broad Regional planning and                     80
 coordination with other entities outside the Eligible
 Applicant's political jurisdiction or area of
 authority, under special circumstances determined by
 EDA, and Projects that effectively leverage other
 Federal Agency resources...............................
Projects of Indian Tribes...............................             100
Projects for which EDA receives appropriations under                 100
 section 703 of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3233) and Projects to
 address and implement post-disaster economic recovery
 efforts in Presidentially Declared Disaster areas in a
 timely manner..........................................
Projects of States or political subdivisions of States               100
 that the Assistant Secretary determines have exhausted
 their effective taxing and borrowing capacity, or
 Projects of non-profit organizations that the Assistant
 Secretary determines have exhausted their effective
 borrowing capacity.....................................
Projects under parts 305 or 307 that receive performance             100
 awards pursuant to Sec.   308.2 of this chapter........
Projects located in a District that receive planning                 100
 performance awards pursuant to Sec.   308.3 of this
 chapter................................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (c) Federal Funding Opportunity announcements may provide 
additional Investment Rate criteria and standards to ensure that the 
level of economic distress of a Region, rather than a preference for a 
geographic area or a specific type of economic distress, is the primary 
factor in allocating Investment Assistance.

0
9. In Sec.  301.6, revise the section heading and paragraphs (a) 
introductory text and (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  301.6  Supplementary Investment Assistance.

    (a) Pursuant to a request made by an Eligible Applicant, EDA 
Investment Assistance may supplement a grant awarded in another 
``designated Federal grant program,'' if the Eligible Applicant 
qualifies for financial assistance under such program, but is unable to 
provide the required non-Federal share because of the Eligible 
Applicant's economic situation. For purposes of this section, a 
``designated Federal grant program'' means a Federal grant program 
that:
* * * * *
    (b) For a Project that meets the economic distress criteria 
provided in Sec.  301.3(a), the Investment Assistance, combined with 
funds from a designated Federal grant program, may be at the maximum 
allowable Investment Rate, even if the designated Federal grant program 
has a lower grant rate. If the designated Federal grant program has a 
grant rate higher than the maximum EDA Investment Rate, the EDA 
Investment and other Federal funds together may exceed the EDA 
Investment Rate, provided that the EDA share of total funding does not 
exceed the maximum allowable Investment Rate.

Subpart E--Application Requirements; Evaluation Criteria

0
10. In Sec.  301.7, revise paragraph (a) to read as follows:


Sec.  301.7  Investment Assistance application.

    (a) The EDA Investment Assistance process begins with the 
submission of an application. The Application for Investment Assistance 
(Form ED-900 or any successor form) may be obtained electronically from 
https://www.grants.gov or from the appropriate regional office. In 
general, EDA accepts applications on a continuing basis and 
competitively evaluates all applications received in quarterly funding 
cycles throughout the fiscal year. Subject to the availability of 
funds, the timing in which EDA receives complete and competitive 
applications affects EDA's ability to participate in a given Project. 
EDA will evaluate all applications in accord with the criteria set 
forth in the applicable FFO and in Sec.  301.8 and will:
    (1) Return the application to the applicant for specified 
deficiencies and suggest resubmission after corrections are made; or
    (2) Deny the application for specifically stated reasons and notify 
the applicant.
* * * * *

0
11. Revise Sec.  301.8 to read as follows:


Sec.  301.8  Application evaluation criteria.

    EDA will screen all applications for the feasibility of the budget 
presented and conformance with EDA's statutory and regulatory 
requirements. EDA will assess the economic development needs of the 
affected Region in which the proposed Project will be located (or will 
service), as well as the capability of the Eligible Applicant to 
implement the proposed Project. In addition to criteria set out in the 
applicable FFO, EDA will consider the degree to which an Investment in 
the proposed Project will satisfy one or more of the following 
criteria:
    (a) Ensures collaborative Regional innovation. The Investment will 
support the development and growth of innovation clusters based on 
existing Regional competitive strengths. Such initiatives must engage 
stakeholders; facilitate collaboration among urban, suburban, and rural 
(including Tribal) areas; provide stability for economic development 
through long-term

[[Page 76127]]

intergovernmental and public/private collaboration; and support the 
growth of existing and emerging industries.
    (b) Leverages public-private partnerships. The Investment will use 
both public and private sector resources and leverage complementary 
investments by other government/public entities or non-profit 
organizations.
    (c) Advances national strategic priorities. The Investment will 
encourage job growth and business expansion in clean energy; green 
technologies; sustainable manufacturing; information technology 
infrastructure; communities severely impacted by automotive industry 
restructuring; natural disaster mitigation and resiliency; access to 
capital for small- and medium-sized and ethnically diverse enterprises; 
and innovations in science, health care, and alternative fuel 
technologies.
    (d) Enhances global competitiveness. The Investment will support 
high-growth businesses and innovation-based entrepreneurs to expand and 
compete in global markets.
    (e) Encourages environmentally sustainable development. The 
Investment will encompass best practices in ``environmentally 
sustainable development,'' broadly defined to include projects that 
enhance environmental quality and develop and implement green products, 
processes, and buildings as part of the green economy.
    (f) Supports economically distressed and underserved communities. 
The Investment will strengthen diverse communities that have suffered 
disproportionate economic and job losses or are rebuilding to become 
more competitive in the global economy.

0
12. Revise Sec.  301.9 to read as follows:


Sec.  301.9  Application selection criteria.

    (a) EDA will review completed application materials for compliance 
with the requirements set forth in PWEDA, this chapter, the applicable 
FFO, and other applicable Federal statutes and regulations. From those 
applications that meet EDA's technical and legal requirements, EDA will 
select applications based on the:
    (1) Availability of funds;
    (2) Competitiveness of the applications in accord with the criteria 
set forth in Sec.  301.8; and
    (3) Funding priority considerations identified in the applicable 
FFO.
    (b) EDA will endeavor to notify applicants as soon as practicable 
regarding whether their applications are selected for funding.

0
13. I Sec.  301.10, revise paragraphs (b), (c) introductory text, and 
(c)(2) and add paragraph (d) to read as follows:


Sec.  301.10  Formal application requirements.

* * * * *
    (b) Identify the sources of funds, both eligible Federal and non-
EDA, and In-Kind Contributions that will constitute the required 
Matching Share for the Project (see the Matching Share requirements 
under Sec.  301.5); and
    (c) For Projects under parts 305 or 307 of this chapter, include a 
CEDS acceptable to EDA pursuant to part 303 of this chapter or 
otherwise incorporate by reference a current CEDS that EDA approves for 
the Project. The requirements stated in the preceding sentence shall 
not apply to:
* * * * *
    (2) A Project located in a Region designated as a Special Impact 
Area pursuant to part 310 of this chapter.
    (d) Projects that propose the construction of a business, 
technology, or other type of incubator or accelerator, must include a 
feasibility study demonstrating the need for the Project and an 
operational plan based on industry best practices demonstrating the 
Eligible Applicant's plan for ongoing successful operations. EDA will 
provide further guidance in the applicable FFO. EDA may require the 
Recipient to demonstrate that the feasibility study has been conducted 
by an impartial third party, as determined by EDA.

0
14. Add Sec.  301.11 to subpart E to read as follows:


Sec.  301.11  Infrastructure.

    (a) EDA will fund both construction and non-construction 
infrastructure necessary to meet a Region's strategic economic 
development goals and needs, which in turn results in job creation. 
This includes infrastructure used to develop and upgrade basic economic 
development assets as described in Sec. Sec.  305.1 and 305.2 of this 
chapter, as well as infrastructure that supports innovation and 
entrepreneurship. The following are examples of innovation and 
entrepreneurship-related infrastructure that support job creation:
    (1) Business Incubation. Business incubation includes both physical 
facilities and business support services to advance the successful 
development of start-up companies by providing entrepreneurs with an 
array of targeted resources and services.
    (2) Business Acceleration. Business acceleration includes both 
physical facilities and an array of business support services to help 
new and existing businesses develop new processes or products, get 
products and services to market more efficiently, expand market 
opportunities, or increase sales and exports.
    (3) Venture Development Organization. A venture development 
organization (``VDO'') works to ensure that Regional economies operate 
as smoothly and efficiently as possible in support of innovation-based 
entrepreneurship. A VDO may make strategic investments of time, talent, 
and other resources toward innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology 
to help nurture and grow promising companies and ideas, thereby 
promoting and taking advantage of the innovation assets of a Region and 
addressing the needs of the high-growth, innovation-oriented start-up 
companies in the Region.
    (4) Proof of Concept Center. A proof of concept center serves as a 
hub of collaborative and entrepreneurial activity designed to 
accelerate the commercialization of innovations into the marketplace. 
Such centers support innovation-based, high growth entrepreneurship 
through a range of services, including technology and market 
evaluation, business planning and mentorship, network development, and 
early stage access to capital.
    (5) Technology Transfer. Technology transfer is the process of 
transferring scientific findings from one organization to another for 
the purpose of further development and commercialization. The process 
typically includes: Identifying new technologies; protecting 
technologies through patents and copyrights; and forming development 
and commercialization strategies, such as marketing and licensing, for 
existing private sector companies or creating start-up companies based 
on the technology.
    (b) In general, successful Projects, including innovation and 
entrepreneurship-related infrastructure, require the engagement of a 
broad range of Regional stakeholders and resources. Therefore through 
appropriate FFOs and program requirements, EDA will seek to advance 
interagency coordination by funding Projects that demonstrate effective 
leveraging of other Federal Agency resources based on a Region's 
strategic economic development goals and needs. For all types of 
Projects, EDA assistance may not be used to provide direct venture 
capital to a for-profit entity because of the restrictions set out in 
section 217 of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3154c) and part 309 of this chapter. 
Nonetheless, EDA may consider an application more competitive if it 
includes measures to address the need to provide entrepreneurs with 
access to early stage capital outside of the

[[Page 76128]]

proposed EDA Project budget. See Sec.  301.8(b).

PART 302--GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR INVESTMENT ASSISTANCE

0
15. The authority citation for part 302 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 19 U.S.C. 2341 et seq.; 42 U.S.C. 3150; 42 U.S.C. 
3152; 42 U.S.C. 3153; 42 U.S.C. 3192; 42 U.S.C. 3193; 42 U.S.C. 
3194; 42 U.S.C. 3211; 42 U.S.C. 3212; 42 U.S.C. 3216; 42 U.S.C. 
3218; 42 U.S.C. 3220; 42 U.S.C. 5141; Department of Commerce 
Delegation Order 10-4.


0
16. Revise Sec.  302.1 to read as follows:


Sec.  302.1  Environment.

    EDA will undertake environmental reviews of Projects in accordance 
with the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, 
as amended (Pub. L. 91-190; 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq., as implemented 
under 40 CFR chapter V) (``NEPA''), and all applicable Federal 
environmental statutes, regulations, and Executive Orders. These 
authorities include the implementing regulations of NEPA requiring EDA 
to provide public notice of the availability of Project-specific 
environmental documents, such as environmental impact statements, 
environmental assessments, findings of no significant impact, and 
records of decision, to the affected or interested public, as specified 
in 40 CFR 1506.6(b). Depending on the Project's location, environmental 
information concerning specific Projects may be obtained from the 
individual serving as the Environmental Officer in the appropriate EDA 
regional office listed in the applicable FFO.

0
17. In Sec.  302.3, revise the introductory text to read as follows:


Sec.  302.3  Project servicing for loans, loan guaranties and 
Investment Assistance.

    EDA will provide Project servicing to borrowers who received EDA 
loans or EDA-guaranteed loans and to lenders who received EDA loan 
guaranties under an EDA-administered program. Project servicing 
includes loans made under PWEDA prior to the effective date of the 
Economic Development Administration Reform Act of 1998, the Trade Act, 
and the Community Emergency Drought Relief Act of 1977 (Pub. L. 95-31; 
42 U.S.C. 5184 note).
* * * * *

0
18. Revise Sec.  302.6 to read as follows:


Sec.  302.6  Additional requirements; Federal policies and procedures.

    Recipients are subject to all Federal laws and to Federal, 
Department and EDA policies, regulations and procedures applicable to 
Federal financial assistance awards, including 15 CFR part 14, the 
Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Cooperative 
Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, Other Non-
Profit and Commercial Organizations, and 15 CFR part 24, the Uniform 
Administrative Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements to 
State and Local Governments, as applicable.

0
19. Revise Sec.  302.8 to read as follows:


Sec.  302.8  Pre-approval Investment Assistance costs.

    Project activities carried out before approval of Investment 
Assistance shall be carried out at the sole risk of the Eligible 
Applicant. Such activity is subject to the rejection of the 
application, the disallowance of costs, or other adverse consequences 
as a result of non-compliance with EDA or Federal requirements, 
including procurement requirements, civil rights requirements, Federal 
labor standards, or Federal environmental, historic preservation, and 
related requirements.

0
20. Revise Sec.  302.9 to read as follows:


Sec.  302.9  Inter-governmental review of projects.

    (a) When an Eligible Applicant is not a State, Indian Tribe, or 
other general purpose governmental authority, the Eligible Applicant 
must afford the appropriate general purpose local governmental 
authority (the ``Authority'') in the Region a minimum of 15 days to 
review and comment on a proposed Project under EDA's Public Works and 
Economic Development program or a proposed construction Project or RLF 
Grant under EDA's Economic Adjustment Assistance program. Under these 
programs, the Eligible Applicant shall furnish the following with its 
application:
    (1) If no comments are received from the Authority, a statement of 
efforts made to obtain such comments; or
    (2) If comments are received from the Authority, a copy of the 
comments and a statement of any actions taken to address such comments.
    (b) As required by 15 CFR part 13 and Executive Order 12372, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,'' as amended, if a 
State has adopted a process under Executive Order 12372 to review and 
coordinate proposed Federal financial assistance and direct Federal 
development (commonly referred to as the ``single point of contact 
review process''), all Eligible Applicants also must give State and 
local governments a reasonable opportunity to review and comment on the 
proposed Project, including review and comment from area-wide planning 
organizations in metropolitan areas, as provided for in 15 CFR part 13.

0
21. Revise Sec.  302.10 to read as follows:


Sec.  302.10  Attorneys' and consultants' fees, employment of 
expediters, and post-employment restriction.

    (a) Employment of expediters. Investment Assistance awarded under 
PWEDA shall not directly or indirectly reimburse any attorneys' or 
consultants' fees incurred in connection with obtaining Investment 
Assistance and contracts under PWEDA. Such Investment Assistance shall 
not be awarded to any Eligible Applicant, unless the owners, partners, 
or officers of the Eligible Applicant certify to EDA the names of any 
attorneys, agents, and other persons engaged by or on behalf of the 
Eligible Applicant for the purpose of expediting an application made to 
EDA in connection with obtaining Investment Assistance under PWEDA and 
the fees paid or to be paid to the person(s) for expediting the 
application.
    (b) Post-employment restriction. (1) In general, any Eligible 
Applicant that is a non-profit organization, District Organization, or 
for-profit entity, for the two-year period beginning on the date on 
which the Investment Assistance under PWEDA is awarded to the Eligible 
Applicant, must refrain from employing, offering any office or 
employment to, or retaining for professional services any person who, 
on the date on which the Investment Assistance is awarded or within the 
one-year period ending on that date:
    (i) Served as an officer, attorney, agent, or employee of the 
Department; and
    (ii) Occupied a position or engaged in activities that the 
Assistant Secretary determines involved discretion with respect to the 
award of Investment Assistance under PWEDA.
    (2) In addition to the types of Eligible Applicants noted in this 
paragraph (b), EDA may require another Eligible Applicant to execute an 
agreement to abide by the above-described post-employment restriction 
on a case-by-case basis; for example, when an institution of higher 
education implements activities under or related to the Investment 
Assistance through a separate non-profit organization or association.

0
22. Revise Sec.  302.11 to read as follows:


Sec.  302.11  Economic development information clearinghouse.

    Pursuant to section 502 of PWEDA, EDA maintains an economic

[[Page 76129]]

development information clearinghouse on its Internet Web site at 
https://www.eda.gov.

0
23. Revise the heading of Sec.  302.15 to read as follows:


Sec.  302.15  Acceptance of certifications made by Eligible Applicants.

* * * * *

0
24. Revise Sec.  302.16 to read as follows:


Sec.  302.16  Accountability.

    (a) General. Each Recipient must submit reports to EDA at intervals 
and in the manner that EDA shall require, except that EDA shall not 
require any report to be submitted more than ten years after the date 
of closeout of the Investment Assistance.
    (b) Data on Project effectiveness. Each report must contain a data-
specific evaluation of the effectiveness of the Investment Assistance 
provided in fulfilling the Project's purpose (including alleviation of 
economic distress and meeting Project goals) and in meeting the 
objectives of PWEDA. Data used by a Recipient in preparing reports 
shall be accurate and verifiable as determined by EDA, and from 
independent sources (whenever possible). EDA will use this data and 
report to fulfill its performance measurement reporting requirements 
under the Government Performance and Results Act of 1993, as amended 
(Pub. L. 103-62) and to monitor internal, Investment, and Project 
performance through an internal performance measurement system.
    (c) Reporting Project service benefits. To enable EDA to determine 
the economic development effect of a Project that provides service 
benefits, EDA may require the Recipient to submit a Project service map 
and information from which to determine whether services are provided 
to all segments of the Region being assisted.
    (d) Consequences for failure to undertake good faith efforts. (1) 
The Recipient must undertake good faith efforts to fulfill the purpose 
of the Project as set out in the terms of the Investment Assistance and 
must report regularly on Project goals. In the event that EDA 
determines that the Recipient is failing to make good faith efforts to 
meet these goals, or otherwise is failing to meets its obligations 
under the Investment Assistance, EDA shall take necessary actions to 
protect EDA's interest in the Project, including the following:
    (i) Discontinue disbursement of funds pending correction;
    (ii) Suspend the Investment Assistance;
    (iii) Terminate the Investment Assistance;
    (iv) Require reimbursement of the EDA share of the Project; or
    (v) Institute formal Government-wide debarment and suspension 
proceedings against the Recipient.
    (2) Before making a determination under this subsection, EDA shall 
provide the Recipient with reasonable notice and opportunity to 
respond. A determination under this subsection is final and cannot be 
appealed.

0
25. In Sec.  302.17, revise paragraphs (a), (b)(2), and (c)(2) and (3) 
to read as follows:


Sec.  302.17  Conflicts of interest.

    (a) General. It is EDA's and the Department's policy to maintain 
the highest standards of conduct to prevent conflicts of interest in 
connection with the award of Investment Assistance or its use for 
reimbursement or payment of costs (e.g., procurement of goods or 
services) by or to the Recipient. A conflict of interest generally 
exists when an Interested Party participates in a matter that has a 
direct and predictable effect on the Interested Party's personal or 
financial interests. A conflict also may exist where there is an 
appearance that an Interested Party's objectivity in performing his or 
her responsibilities under the Project is impaired. For example, an 
appearance of impairment of objectivity may result from an 
organizational conflict where, because of other activities or 
relationships with other persons or entities, an Interested Party is 
unable to render impartial assistance, services or advice to the 
Recipient, a participant in the Project or to the Federal government. 
Additionally, a conflict of interest may result from non-financial gain 
to an Interested Party, such as benefit to reputation or prestige in a 
professional field.
    (b) * * *
    (2) An Interested Party also shall not, directly or indirectly, 
solicit or accept any gift, gratuity, favor, entertainment or other 
benefit having monetary value, for himself or herself or for another 
person or entity, from any person or organization which has obtained or 
seeks to obtain Investment Assistance from EDA.
* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (2) A Recipient of an RLF Grant shall not lend RLF funds to an 
Interested Party; and
    (3) Former board members of a Recipient of an RLF Grant and members 
of his or her Immediate Family shall not receive a loan from such RLF 
for a period of two years from the date that the board member last 
served on the RLF's board of directors.

0
26. Revise Sec.  302.18 to read as follows:


Sec.  302.18  Post-approval requirements.

    A Recipient must comply with all financial, performance, progress 
report, and other requirements set forth in the terms and conditions of 
the Investment Assistance, including any special award conditions and 
applicable Federal cost principles (collectively, ``Post-Approval 
Requirements''). A Recipient's failure to comply with Post-Approval 
Requirements may result in the disallowance of costs, termination of 
the Investment Assistance award, or other adverse consequences to the 
Recipient.

0
27. In Sec.  302.20, revise paragraph (b)(1) to read as follows:


Sec.  302.20  Civil rights.

* * * * *
    (b) Definitions. (1) For purposes of this section, an ``Other 
Party'' means an ``other party subject to this part,'' as defined in 15 
CFR 8.3(l), and includes an entity which (or which is intended to) 
creates and/or saves 15 or more permanent jobs as a result of 
Investment Assistance; provided that such entity also is either 
specifically named in the application as benefiting from the Project, 
or is or will be located in an EDA building, port, facility, or 
industrial, commercial or business park constructed or improved in 
whole or in part with Investment Assistance prior to EDA's final 
disbursement of award funds.
* * * * *

PART 303--PLANNING INVESTMENTS AND COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC 
DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES

0
28. The authority citation for part 303 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 3143; 42 U.S.C. 3162; 42 U.S.C. 3174; 42 
U.S.C. 3211; Department of Commerce Organization Order 10-4.


0
29. Designate Sec. Sec.  303.1 through 303.5 as subpart A under the 
following heading:

Subpart A--General

0
30. In Sec.  303.1, revise the section heading and introductory text to 
read as follows:


Sec.  303.1  Overview of EDA's Planning Program.

    The purpose of EDA Planning Investments is to provide support to 
Planning Organizations for the development, implementation, revision, 
or replacement of Comprehensive

[[Page 76130]]

Economic Development Strategies, and for related State plans and short-
term Planning Investments designed to create and retain new and better 
jobs, particularly for the unemployed and underemployed in the nation's 
most economically distressed Regions. EDA's Planning Investments 
support partnerships with District Organizations, Indian Tribes, 
community development corporations, non-profit Regional planning 
organizations, and other Eligible Recipients. Planning activities 
supported by these Investments must be part of a continuous process 
involving the active participation of the private sector, public 
officials, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and 
private citizens, and include:
* * * * *

0
31. In Sec.  303.3, revise paragraphs (a)(5) and (c) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  303.3  Application requirements and evaluation criteria.

    (a) * * *
    (5) Feasibility of the proposed scope of work to create and retain 
new and better jobs through implementation of the CEDS.
* * * * *
    (c) For Planning Investment awards to a State, the Assistant 
Secretary also shall consider the extent to which the State will 
integrate and coordinate its CEDS with local and Economic Development 
District plans.
* * * * *


0
32. In Sec.  303.4, revise paragraphs (a) and (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  303.4  Award requirements.

    (a) Planning Investments shall be coordinated with and effectively 
leverage any other available Federal, State, or local planning 
assistance and private sector investments.
* * * * *
    (c) EDA will provide a Planning Investment for the period of time 
required to develop, revise or replace, and implement a CEDS, generally 
in 36-month renewable Investment project periods.


0
33. Designate Sec. Sec.  303.6 and 303.7 as subpart B under the 
following heading:

Subpart B--Partnership Planning Assistance

0
34. Revise Sec.  303.6 to read as follows:


Sec.  303.6  Partnership Planning and the EDA-funded CEDS process.

    (a) Partnership Planning Overview. Partnership Planning Investments 
support a nationwide network of Planning Organizations to provide 
comprehensive economic development planning services to distressed 
Regions. EDA makes Partnership Planning Investments to enable Planning 
Organizations to manage and coordinate the development and 
implementation of CEDS to address the unique needs of their respective 
Regions.
    (b) CEDS Process. If EDA awards Investment Assistance to a Planning 
Organization to develop, revise, or replace a CEDS, the Planning 
Organization must follow the procedures set forth in this section:
    (1) CEDS Strategy Committee. The Planning Organization must appoint 
a Strategy Committee. The Strategy Committee must represent the main 
economic interests of the Region, including the private sector, public 
officials, community leaders, private individuals, representatives of 
workforce development boards, institutions of higher education, 
minority and labor groups, and others who can contribute to and benefit 
from improved economic development in the Region. In addition, the 
Strategy Committee must demonstrate the capacity to undertake a 
collaborative and effective planning process. The Strategy Committee 
representing Indian Tribes or States may vary.
    (2) Public notice and comment. The Planning Organization must 
develop and submit to EDA a CEDS that complies with the requirements of 
Sec.  303.7. Before submission to EDA, the Planning Organization must 
provide the public and appropriate governments and interest groups in 
the relevant Region with adequate notice of and opportunity to comment 
on the CEDS. The comment period shall be at least 30 days and the 
Planning Organization shall make the CEDS readily available through 
appropriate means of distribution, electronically and otherwise, 
throughout the comment period. The Planning Organization also shall 
make the CEDS available in hardcopy upon request. EDA may require the 
Planning Organization to provide any comments received and demonstrate 
how the comments were resolved.
    (3) Reports and updates. (i) After obtaining EDA approval of the 
CEDS, the Planning Organization must submit annually an updated CEDS 
performance report to EDA.
    (ii) The Planning Organization must submit a new or revised CEDS to 
EDA at least every five years, unless EDA or the Planning Organization 
determines that a new or revised CEDS is required earlier due to 
changed circumstances.
    (iii) Any updated CEDS performance report that results in a change 
of the requirements set forth in Sec.  303.7(b)(1)(iii) of the EDA-
accepted CEDS or any new or revised CEDS, must be available for review 
and comment by the public in accordance with paragraph (b)(2) of this 
section.
    (4) Inadequate CEDS. If EDA determines that implementation of the 
CEDS is inadequate, it will notify the Planning Organization in writing 
and the Planning Organization shall submit to EDA a new or revised 
CEDS.
    (5) Regional Commission notification. If any part of a Region is 
covered by one or more of the Regional Commissions as set forth in 
section 404 of PWEDA, the Planning Organization shall ensure that a 
copy of the CEDS is provided to the Regional Commission(s).


0
35. In Sec.  303.7, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  303.7  Requirements for Comprehensive Economic Development 
Strategies.

* * * * *
    (b) Strategy requirements. (1) A CEDS must be the result of a 
continuing economic development planning process, developed with broad-
based and diverse public and private sector participation. Consistent 
with section 302 of PWEDA, each CEDS must promote Regional resiliency 
and be unique and responsive to the relevant Region. Each CEDS must 
include:
    (i) A summary of economic development conditions of the Region;
    (ii) An in-depth analysis of economic and community development 
strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (commonly known as a 
``SWOT'' analysis);
    (iii) Strategies and an implementation plan to build upon the 
Region's strengths and opportunities and resolve the weaknesses and 
threats facing the Region, which should not be inconsistent with 
applicable State and local economic development or workforce 
development strategies; and
    (iv) Performance measures used to evaluate the Planning 
Organization's successful development and implementation of the CEDS.
    (2) EDA will publish and periodically update specific CEDS content 
guidelines.
* * * * *


0
36. Designate Sec. Sec.  303.8 and 303.9 as subpart C under the 
following heading:

Subpart C--State and Short-Term Planning Assistance

0
37. In Sec.  303.9, revise paragraphs (a) introductory text and (b) to 
read as follows:

[[Page 76131]]

Sec.  303.9  Requirements for short-term Planning Investments.

    (a) In addition to providing support for CEDS and State plans, EDA 
also may provide Investment Assistance to support short-term planning 
activities. EDA may provide such Investment Assistance to:
* * * * *
    (b) Eligible activities may include updating a portion of a CEDS, 
economic analysis, development of economic development policies and 
procedures, and development of economic development goals.
* * * * *

PART 304--ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS

0
38. The authority citation for part 304 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 3122; 42 U.S.C. 3171; 42 U.S.C. 3172; 42 
U.S.C. 3196; Department of Commerce Organization Order 10-4.


0
39. In Sec.  304.1, revise paragraph (a) and paragraph (c) introductory 
text to read as follows:


Sec.  304.1  Designation of Economic Development Districts: Regional 
eligibility.

* * * * *
    (a) Contains at least one geographic area that is subject to the 
economic distress criteria set forth in Sec.  301.3(a)(1) of this 
chapter and is identified in an approved CEDS;
* * * * *
    (c) Has an EDA-approved CEDS that:
* * * * *
0
40. In Sec.  304.2, revise paragraphs (c)(1) and (2) and (c)(4)(i) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  304.2  District Organizations: Formation, organizational 
requirements and operations.

* * * * *
    (c) Organization and governance. (1) Each District Organization 
must meet the requirements of this paragraph (c) concerning membership 
composition, the maintenance of adequate staff support to perform its 
economic development functions, and its authorities and 
responsibilities for carrying out economic development functions. The 
District Organization's board of directors (or other governing body) 
also must meet these requirements.
    (2) The District Organization must demonstrate that its governing 
body is broadly representative of the principal economic interests of 
the Region, including the private sector, public officials, community 
leaders, representatives of workforce development boards, institutions 
of higher education, minority and labor groups, and private 
individuals. In addition, the governing body must demonstrate the 
capacity to implement the EDA-approved CEDS.
* * * * *
    (4) * * *
    (i) The District Organization must hold meetings open to the public 
at least twice a year and also shall publish the date and agenda of 
such meetings sufficiently in advance to allow the public a reasonable 
time to prepare in order to participate effectively.
* * * * *


0
41. In Sec.  304.3, revise paragraph (b) introductory text to read as 
follows:


Sec.  304.3  District modification and termination.

* * * * *
    (b) Termination. EDA may, upon 60 days prior written notice to the 
District Organization, member counties, and other areas determined by 
EDA and each affected State, terminate a Region's designation as an 
Economic Development District when:
* * * * *


0
42. In Sec.  304.4, revise paragraphs (a) introductory text, (a)(3), 
and (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  304.4  Performance evaluations.

    (a) EDA shall evaluate the management standards, financial 
accountability and program performance of each District Organization 
within three years after the initial Investment award and at least once 
every three years thereafter, so long as the District Organization 
continues to receive Investment Assistance. EDA's evaluation shall 
assess:
* * * * *
    (3) The implementation of the CEDS, including the District 
Organization's performance and contribution towards the retention and 
creation of employment, as set forth in Sec.  303.7 of this chapter.
    (b) For peer review, EDA shall ensure the participation of at least 
one other District Organization in the performance evaluation on a 
cost-reimbursement basis.

PART 305--PUBLIC WORKS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENTS

0
43. The authority citation for part 305 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 3211; 42 U.S.C. 3141; Department of 
Commerce Organization Order 10-4.

Subpart A--General

0
44. Revise Sec.  305.1 to read as follows:


Sec.  305.1  Purpose and scope.

    Public Works and Economic Development Investments (``Public Works 
Investments'') intend to help the nation's most distressed communities 
revitalize, expand, and upgrade their physical infrastructure (as 
defined in Sec.  301.11 of this chapter) to attract new industry, 
encourage business expansion, diversify local economies, and generate 
or retain long-term private sector jobs and investments. The primary 
goal of these Investments is to create new or retain existing, long-
term private sector job opportunities in communities experiencing 
significant economic distress as evidenced by chronic high 
unemployment, underemployment, low per capita income, outmigration, or 
a Special Need. These Investments also intend to assist communities in 
attracting private capital investment and new and better job 
opportunities and to promote the successful long-term economic recovery 
of a Region.


0
45. In Sec.  305.2, revise paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  305.2  Award requirements.

* * * * *
    (c) Not more than 15 percent of the annual appropriations made 
available to EDA to fund Public Works Investments may be made in any 
one State.


0
46. In Sec.  305.6, revise paragraphs (a) introductory text, (a)(1), 
and (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  305.6  Allowable methods of procurement for construction 
services.

    (a) Recipients shall seek EDA's prior written approval to use 
alternate construction procurement methods to the traditional design/
bid/build procedures (including lump sum or unit price-type 
construction contracts). These alternate methods may include design/
build, construction management at risk, and force account. If an 
alternate method is used, the Recipient shall submit to EDA for 
approval a construction services procurement plan and the Recipient 
must use a design professional to oversee the process. The Recipient 
shall submit the plan to EDA prior to advertisement for bids and shall 
include the following, as applicable:
    (1) Justification for the proposed method for procurement of 
construction services, including a brief analysis of the 
appropriateness and benefits of using the method to successfully 
execute the Project and the Recipient's experience in using the method;
* * * * *

[[Page 76132]]

    (b) For all procurement methods, the Recipient must comply with the 
procedures and standards set forth in 15 CFR part 14 or 24, as 
applicable.


0
47. In Sec.  305.8, revise paragraphs (a) and (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  305.8  Recipient-furnished equipment and materials.

* * * * *
    (a) EDA must approve any use of Recipient-furnished equipment and 
materials. EDA may require that major equipment items be subject to a 
lien in favor of EDA and also may require a statement from the 
Recipient regarding expected useful life and salvage value of such 
equipment;
* * * * *
    (c) Acquisition of Recipient-furnished equipment or materials under 
this section also is subject to the requirements of 15 CFR part 14 or 
24, as applicable.


0
48. Revise Sec.  305.10 to read as follows:


Sec.  305.10  Bid underrun and overrun.

    (a) Underrun. If at the construction contract bid opening, the 
lowest responsive bid is less than the total Project cost, the 
Recipient shall notify EDA immediately to determine relevant 
procedures.
    (b) Overrun. (1) In the case of an overrun at the construction 
contract bid opening, the Recipient may:
    (i) If provided for in the bid documents, take deductive 
alternatives to eliminate certain Project elements in case of 
insufficient funds in the exact order shown on the invitation for bid 
until at least one of the responsive bids, less deductive 
alternative(s), results in a price within the budget for that item of 
work;
    (ii) Reject all bids and re-advertise if there is a rational basis 
to expect that re-advertising will result in a lower bid; or
    (iii) Augment the Matching Share by an amount sufficient to cover 
the excess cost. The Recipient must furnish a letter to EDA identifying 
the source of the additional funds and confirming that the Matching 
Share meets the requirements of Sec.  301.5 of this chapter.
    (2) If the Recipient demonstrates to EDA's satisfaction that the 
options listed in paragraph (b)(1) of this section are not feasible and 
the Project cannot be completed otherwise, the Recipient may submit a 
written request to EDA for additional funding in accordance with 
applicable EDA guidance. The award of additional Investment Assistance 
is at EDA's sole discretion and will be considered in accord with EDA's 
competitive process requirements. EDA's consideration of a request for 
additional Investment Assistance does not indicate approval.

PART 306--TRAINING, RESEARCH AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE INVESTMENTS

0
49. The authority citation for part 306 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 3147; 42 U.S.C. 3196; 42 U.S.C. 3211; 
Department of Commerce Organization Order 10-4.


0
50. In Sec.  306.1, revise paragraph (a) introductory text to read as 
follows:


Sec.  306.1  Purpose and scope.

    (a) Local and National Technical Assistance Investments may be 
awarded to:
* * * * *


0
51. In Sec.  306.3, revise paragraph (a) to read as follows:


Sec.  306.3  Application requirements.

    (a) EDA will provide Investment Assistance under this subpart for 
the period of time required to complete the Project's scope of work, 
generally not to exceed 12 to 18 months.
* * * * *

Subpart B--University Center Economic Development Program

0
52. Revise Sec.  306.4 to read as follows:


Sec.  306.4  Purpose and scope.

    The University Center Economic Development Program is intended to 
help improve the economies of distressed Regions. Institutions of 
higher education have many assets, such as faculty, staff, libraries, 
laboratories, and computer systems that can address local economic 
problems and opportunities. With Investment Assistance, institutions of 
higher education establish and operate research centers (``University 
Centers'') that provide technical assistance to public and private 
sector organizations with the goal of enhancing local economic 
development.


0
53. In Sec.  306.6, revise paragraph (d) to read as follows:


Sec.  306.6  Application requirements.

* * * * *
    (d) At least 80 percent of EDA funding must be allocated to direct 
costs of program delivery.


0
54. In Sec.  306.7, revise paragraphs (a)(1) and (c) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  306.7  Performance evaluations of University Centers.

    (a) * * *
    (1) Evaluate each University Center within three years after the 
initial Investment award and at least once every three years 
thereafter, so long as such University Center continues to receive 
Investment Assistance; and
* * * * *
    (c) For peer review, EDA shall ensure the participation of at least 
one other University Center in the performance evaluation on a cost-
reimbursement basis.

PART 307--ECONOMIC ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE INVESTMENTS

0
55. The authority citation of part 307 remains as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 3211; 42 U.S.C. 3149; 42 U.S.C. 3161; 42 
U.S.C. 3162; 42 U.S.C. 3233; Department of Commerce Organization 
Order 10-4.

Subpart A--General

0
56. In Sec.  307.1, revise the introductory text and paragraph (b) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  307.1  Purpose.

    The purpose of Economic Adjustment Assistance Investments is to 
address the needs of communities experiencing adverse economic changes 
that may occur suddenly or over time, including those caused by:
* * * * *
    (b) Federally Declared Disaster;
* * * * *


0
57. In Sec.  307.3, revise paragraphs (b)(1) and (2) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  307.3  Use of Economic Adjustment Assistance Investments.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (1) Infrastructure (as defined in Sec.  301.11 of this chapter) 
improvements, such as site acquisition, site preparation, construction, 
rehabilitation and equipping of facilities;
    (2) Provision of business or infrastructure financing through the 
capitalization of Recipient-administered Revolving Loan Funds 
(``RLFs''), which may include loans and interest rate buy-downs to 
facilitate business lending activities;
* * * * *


0
58. In Sec.  307.4, revise paragraphs (a), (b), and (c)(2), add 
paragraph (c)(3), and revise paragraph (d) to read as follows:


Sec.  307.4  Award requirements.

    (a) General. EDA will select Economic Adjustment Assistance 
Projects in accordance with part 301 of this chapter and the additional 
criteria provided in paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this section, as 
applicable. Funding priority considerations for Economic

[[Page 76133]]

Adjustment Assistance, including RLF Grants, may be set forth in an 
FFO.
    (b) Strategy Grants. EDA will review Strategy Grant applications to 
ensure that the proposed activities conform to the CEDS requirements 
set forth in Sec.  303.7 of this chapter. Strategy Grants shall comply 
with the applicable provisions of part 303 of this chapter.
    (c) * * *
    (2) Implementation Grants involving construction shall comply with 
the provisions of subpart B of part 305 of this chapter.
    (3) Implementation Grants that do not involve construction shall 
comply with the applicable provisions of subpart A of part 306 of this 
chapter.
    (d) See Sec.  307.7 for RLF award requirements.


Sec.  307.6  [Removed]

0
59. Remove Sec.  307.6.

0
60. Revise the heading of subpart B to read as follows:

Subpart B--Revolving Loan Fund Program


Sec.  3017.7  [Redesignated as Sec.  307.6]

0
61. Redesignate Sec.  307.7 as Sec.  307.6, placing it in subpart B, 
and revise newly redesignated Sec.  307.6 to read as follows:


Sec.  307.6  Revolving Loan Funds established for business lending.

    Economic Adjustment Assistance Grants to capitalize or recapitalize 
RLFs most commonly fund business lending, but also may fund public 
infrastructure or other authorized lending activities. The requirements 
in this subpart B apply to RLFs established for business lending 
activities. Special award conditions may contain appropriate 
modifications of these requirements to accommodate non-business RLF 
awards.

0
62. Add new Sec.  307.7 to read as follows:


Sec.  307.7  Revolving Loan Fund award requirements.

    (a) For Eligible Applicants seeking to capitalize or recapitalize 
an RLF, EDA will review applications for the following, as applicable:
    (1) Need for a new or expanded public financing tool to:
    (i) Enhance other business assistance programs and services 
targeting economic sectors and locations described in the CEDS; or
    (ii) Provide appropriate support for post-disaster economic 
recovery efforts in Presidentially Declared Disaster areas;
    (2) Types of financing activities anticipated; and
    (3) Capacity of the RLF organization to manage lending activities, 
create networks between the business community and other financial 
providers, and implement the CEDS.
    (b) RLF Grants shall comply with the requirements set forth in this 
part and in the following publications:
    (1) EDA's RLF Standard Terms and Conditions; and
    (2) The Compliance Supplement to OMB Circular A-133. The Compliance 
Supplement is available via the Internet at https://www.omb.gov.

0
63. In Sec.  307.9, revise paragraphs (a)(2), (b)(2)(ii), (b)(3), and 
(c)(1) and (2) to read as follows:


Sec.  307.9  Revolving Loan Fund Plan.

* * * * *
    (a) * * *
    (2) Part II of the Plan titled ``Operational Procedures'' must 
serve as the RLF Recipient's internal operating manual and set out 
administrative procedures for operating the RLF consistent with 
``Prudent Lending Practices,'' as defined in Sec.  307.8, the RLF 
Recipient's environmental review and compliance procedures as set out 
in Sec.  307.10, and EDA's conflicts of interest rules set out in Sec.  
302.17 of this chapter.
    (b) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (ii) Financing policies and portfolio standards that are consistent 
with EDA's policies and requirements; and
    (3) The Plan must demonstrate an adequate understanding of 
commercial loan portfolio management procedures, including loan 
processing, underwriting, closing, disbursements, collections, 
monitoring, and foreclosures. It also shall provide sufficient 
administrative procedures to prevent conflicts of interest and to 
ensure accountability, safeguarding of assets and compliance with 
Federal and local laws.
    (c) * * *
    (1) An RLF Recipient must update its Plan as necessary in 
accordance with changing economic conditions in the Region; however, at 
a minimum, an RLF Recipient must submit an updated Plan to EDA every 
five years.
    (2) An RLF Recipient must notify EDA of any change(s) to its Plan. 
Any material modification, such as a merger, consolidation, or change 
in the EDA-approved lending area under Sec.  307.18, a change in 
critical management staff, or a change to the strategic purpose of the 
RLF, must be submitted to EDA for approval prior to any revision of the 
Plan. If EDA approves the modification, the RLF Recipient must submit 
an updated Plan to EDA in electronic format, unless EDA approves a 
paper submission.

0
64. In Sec.  3017.10, revise paragraphs (a) and (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  307.10  Pre-loan requirements.

    (a) RLF Recipients must adopt procedures to review the impacts of 
prospective loan proposals on the physical environment. The Plan must 
provide for compliance with applicable environmental laws and other 
regulations, including parts 302 and 314 of this chapter. The RLF 
Recipient also must adopt procedures to comply, and ensure that 
potential borrowers comply, with applicable environmental laws and 
regulations.
    (b) RLF Recipients must ensure that prospective borrowers, 
consultants, or contractors are aware of and comply with the Federal 
statutory and regulatory requirements that apply to activities carried 
out with RLF loans. Accordingly, RLF loan agreements shall include 
applicable Federal requirements to ensure compliance and RLF Recipients 
must adopt procedures to diligently correct instances of non-
compliance, including loan call stipulations.
* * * * *

0
65. In Sec.  307.11, revise paragraphs (b), (d), (e), and (f)(2) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  307.11  Disbursement of funds to Revolving Loan Funds.

* * * * *
    (b) Timing of request for disbursements. An RLF Recipient shall 
request disbursements of Grant funds only to close a loan or disburse 
RLF funds to a borrower. The RLF Recipient must disburse the RLF funds 
to a borrower within 30 days of receipt of the Grant funds. Any Grant 
funds not disbursed within the 30 day period shall be refunded to EDA 
pursuant to paragraph (e) of this section.
* * * * *
    (d) Interest-bearing account. All grant funds disbursed by EDA to 
the RLF Recipient for loan obligations incurred but not yet disbursed 
to an eligible RLF borrower must be deposited and held in an interest-
bearing account by the Recipient until an RLF loan is made to a 
borrower.
    (e) Delays. If the RLF Recipient receives Grant funds and the RLF 
loan disbursement is subsequently delayed beyond 30 days, the RLF 
Recipient must notify the applicable grants officer and return such 
non-disbursed funds to EDA. Grant funds returned to EDA shall be 
available to the RLF Recipient for future draw-downs. When returning 
prematurely drawn Grant funds, the RLF Recipient must clearly identify 
on the face of the check or in the written notification to the 
applicable grants

[[Page 76134]]

officer ``EDA,'' the Grant award number, the words ``Premature Draw,'' 
and a brief description of the reason for returning the Grant funds.
    (f) * * *
    (2) When an RLF has a combination of In-Kind Contributions and cash 
Local Share, the cash Local Share and the Grant funds will be disbursed 
proportionately as needed for lending activities, provided that the 
last 20 percent of the Grant funds may not be disbursed until all cash 
Local Share has been expended. The full amount of the cash Local Share 
shall remain for use in the RLF.

0
66. In Sec.  307.12, revise paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) and (b) 
introductory text to read as follows:


Sec.  307.12  Revolving Loan Fund Income.

    (a) * * *
    (1) Such RLF Income and the administrative costs are incurred in 
the same six-month Reporting Period;
    (2) RLF Income that is not used for administrative costs during the 
six-month Reporting Period is made available for lending activities;
* * * * *
    (b) Compliance guidance. When charging costs against RLF Income, 
RLF Recipients must comply with applicable Federal cost principles and 
audit requirements as found in:
* * * * *

0
67. In Sec.  307.13, revise paragraphs (a) introductory text and (b)(2) 
and (3) to read as follows:


Sec.  307.13  Records and retention.

    (a) Closed Loan files and related documents. The RLF Recipient 
shall maintain Closed Loan files and all related documents, books of 
account, computer data files and other records over the term of the 
Closed Loan and for a three-year period from the date of final 
disposition of such Closed Loan. The date of final disposition of a 
Closed Loan is the date:
* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) Retain records of administrative expenses incurred for 
activities and equipment relating to the operation of the RLF for three 
years from the actual submission date of the last semi-annual report 
that covers the Reporting Period in which such costs were claimed.
    (3) Make available for inspection retained records, including those 
retained for longer than the required period. The record retention 
periods described in this section are minimum periods and such 
prescription does not limit any other record retention requirement of 
law or agreement. In no event will EDA question claimed administrative 
costs that are more than three years old, unless fraud is at issue.

0
68. In Sec.  307.14, revise paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  307.14  Revolving Loan Fund semi-annual report and Income and 
Expense Statement.

* * * * *
    (c) RLF Income and Expense Statement. An RLF Recipient using either 
50 percent or more (or more than $100,000) of RLF Income for 
administrative costs in a six-month Reporting Period must submit to EDA 
a completed Income and Expense Statement (Form ED-209I or any successor 
form) for that Reporting Period in electronic format, unless EDA 
approves a paper submission. EDA may waive this requirement for an RLF 
Grant with a small RLF Capital Base, as determined by EDA.

0
69. In Sec.  307.15, revise paragraphs (b)(1), (c)(1), (c)(2), (d)(1) 
introductory text, and (d)(1)(iii) to read as follows:


Sec.  307.15  Prudent management of Revolving Loan Funds.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (1) Within 60 days prior to the initial disbursement of EDA funds, 
a qualified independent accountant who preferably has audited the RLF 
Recipient in accordance with OMB Circular A-133 requirements, shall 
certify to EDA and the RLF Recipient that such system is adequate to 
identify, safeguard, and account for all RLF Capital, outstanding RLF 
loans, and other RLF operations.
* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (1) General rule. An RLF Recipient may make loans to eligible 
borrowers at interest rates and under conditions determined by the RLF 
Recipient to be appropriate in achieving the goals of the RLF. The 
minimum interest rate an RLF Recipient may charge is four percentage 
points below the lesser of the current money center prime interest rate 
quoted in the Wall Street Journal, or the maximum interest rate allowed 
under State law. In no event shall the interest rate be less than the 
lower of four percent or 75 percent of the prime interest rate listed 
in the Wall Street Journal.
    (2) Exception. Should the prime interest rate listed in the Wall 
Street Journal exceed 14 percent, the minimum RLF interest rate is not 
required to be raised above 10 percent if doing so compromises the 
ability of the RLF Recipient to implement its financing strategy.
    (d) * * *
    (1) RLF loans must leverage private investment of at least two 
dollars for every one dollar of such RLF loans. This leveraging 
requirement applies to the RLF portfolio as a whole rather than to 
individual loans and is effective for the duration of the RLF's 
operation. To be classified as leveraged, private investment must be 
made within 12 months of approval of an RLF loan, as part of the same 
business development project, and may include:
* * * * *
    (iii) The non-guaranteed portions and 90 percent of the guaranteed 
portions of a Federal loan, including the U.S. Small Business 
Administration's 7(A) loans and 504 debenture loans and U.S. Department 
of Agriculture loans.
* * * * *

0
70. In Sec.  307.16, revise paragraphs (a)(1), (a)(2)(i), (c)(1), 
(c)(2)(i), (d)(1) introductory text, and (d)(1)(i) to read as follows:


Sec.  307.16  Effective utilization of Revolving Loan Funds.

    (a) * * *
    (1) RLF loan activity must be sufficient to draw down Grant funds 
in accordance with the schedule prescribed in the award conditions for 
loan closings and disbursements to eligible RLF borrowers. The schedule 
usually requires that the RLF Recipient lend the entire amount of the 
initial RLF Capital base within three years of the Grant award.
    (2) * * *
    (i) Closed Loans approved prior to the schedule deadline will 
commence and complete disbursements within 45 days of the deadline;
* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (1) During the Revolving Phase, RLF Recipients must manage their 
repayment and lending schedules to provide that at all times at least 
75 percent of the RLF Capital is loaned or committed, except that EDA 
may require an RLF Recipient with an RLF Capital base in excess of $4 
million to adopt a Plan that maintains a proportionately higher 
percentage of its funds loaned.
    (2) * * *
    (i) Sequestration of excess funds. If the RLF Recipient fails to 
satisfy the capital utilization standard for two consecutive Reporting 
Periods, EDA may require the RLF Recipient to deposit excess funds in 
an interest-bearing account. The portion of interest earned on the 
account holding excess funds attributable to the Federal Share (as 
defined in Sec.  314.5 of this chapter) of the RLF Grant shall be 
remitted to the

[[Page 76135]]

U.S. Treasury. The RLF Recipient must obtain EDA's written 
authorization to withdraw any sequestered funds.
* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (1) EDA shall monitor the RLF Recipient's loan default rate to 
ensure proper protection of the Federal Share of the RLF property, and 
request information from the RLF Recipient as necessary to determine 
whether it is collecting loan repayments and complying with the 
financial obligations under the RLF Grant. Such information may 
include:
    (i) A written analysis of the RLF Recipient's portfolio, which 
shall consider the Recipient's RLF Plan, loan and collateral policies, 
loan servicing and collection policies and procedures, the rate of 
growth of the RLF Capital base, and detailed information on any loan in 
default; and
* * * * *

0
71. In Sec.  307.17, revise paragraphs (b)(6)(ii) and (c) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  307.17  Uses of capital.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (6) * * *
    (ii) RLF Capital will finance the purchase of the rights of a prior 
lien holder during a foreclosure action which is necessary to preclude 
a significant loss on an RLF loan. RLF Capital may be used for this 
purpose only if there is a high probability of receiving compensation 
from the sale of assets sufficient to cover an RLF's costs plus a 
reasonable portion of the outstanding RLF loan within a reasonable 
period of time, as determined by EDA, following the date of 
refinancing.
    (c) Compliance and Loan Quality Review. To ensure that the RLF 
Recipient makes eligible RLF loans consistent with its RLF Plan or such 
other purposes approved by EDA, EDA may require an independent third 
party to conduct a compliance and loan quality review for the RLF Grant 
every three years. The RLF Recipient may undertake this review as an 
administrative cost associated with the RLF's operations provided the 
requirements set forth in Sec.  307.12 are satisfied.
* * * * *

0
72. In Sec.  307.18, revise the section heading, paragraph (a)(1), 
paragraph (b) heading, and paragraphs (b)(1) introductory text, 
(b)(1)(ii) and (iii), and (b)(2) introductory text to read as follows:


Sec.  307.18  Addition of lending areas; consolidation and merger of 
RLFs.

    (a)(1) An RLF Recipient shall make loans only within its EDA-
approved lending area, as set forth and defined in the RLF Grant and 
the Plan. An RLF Recipient may add a lending area (an ``Additional 
Lending Area'') to its existing lending area to create a new merged 
lending area (the ``New Lending Area'') only with EDA's prior written 
approval and subject to the following provisions and conditions:
    (i) The Additional Lending Area must meet the economic distress 
criteria for Economic Adjustment Assistance Investments under this part 
and in accordance with Sec.  301.3(a) of this chapter;
    (ii) Prior to EDA's disbursement of additional funds to the RLF 
Recipient (for example, through a recapitalization), EDA shall 
determine a new Investment Rate for the New Lending Area based on the 
criteria set forth in Sec.  301.4 of this chapter;
    (iii) The RLF Recipient must demonstrate that the Additional 
Lending Area is consistent with its CEDS, or modify its CEDS for any 
such Additional Lending Area, in accordance with Sec.  307.9(b)(1);
    (iv) The RLF Recipient shall modify its Plan to incorporate the 
Additional Lending Area and revise its lending strategy, as necessary;
    (v) The RLF Recipient shall execute an amended financial assistance 
award, as necessary; and
    (vi) The RLF Recipient fulfills any other conditions reasonably 
requested by EDA.
* * * * *
    (b) Consolidation and merger of RLFs--(1) Single RLF Recipient. An 
RLF Recipient with more than one EDA-funded RLF Grant may consolidate 
two or more EDA-funded RLFs into one surviving RLF with EDA's prior 
written approval and provided:
* * * * *
    (ii) It demonstrates a rational basis for undertaking the 
consolidation (for example, the lending area(s) and borrower criteria 
identified in different RLF Plans are compatible, or will be 
compatible, for all RLFs to be consolidated);
    (iii) It amends and consolidates its Plan to account for the 
consolidation of RLFs, including items such as the New Lending Area 
(including any Additional Lending Area(s)), its lending strategy and 
borrower criteria;
* * * * *
    (2) Multiple RLF Recipients. Two or more RLF Recipients may merge 
their EDA-funded RLFs into one surviving RLF with EDA's prior written 
approval and provided:
* * * * *

0
73. In Sec.  307.19, remove paragraph (b), redesignate paragraphs (c) 
and (d) as paragrpahs (b) and (c), respectively, and revise newly 
designated paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  307.19  RLF loan portfolio Sales and Securitizations.

* * * * *
    (c) Except as provided in paragraph (b), no provision of this 
section supersedes or otherwise affects the application of the 
``securities laws'' (as such term is defined in section 3(a)(47) of the 
Exchange Act) or the rules, regulations or orders issued by the 
Commission or a self-regulatory organization under the Commission.

0
74. In Sec.  307.20, revise paragraphs (a) introductory text, (a)(1) 
and (2), and (c)(3) to read as follows:


Sec.  307.20  Partial liquidation; liquidation upon termination.

    (a) Partial liquidation or disallowance of a portion of an RLF 
Grant. If the RLF Recipient engages in certain problematic practices, 
EDA may disallow a corresponding proportion of the Grant or direct the 
RLF Recipient to transfer loans to an RLF Third Party for liquidation. 
Problematic practices for which EDA may disallow a portion of an RLF 
Grant and recover the pro-rata Federal Share (as defined in Sec.  314.5 
of this chapter) include the RLF Recipient:
    (1) Having RLF loans that are more than 120 days delinquent;
    (2) Having excess cash sequestered for 12 months or longer and EDA 
has not approved an extension request;
* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (3) EDA may enter into an agreement with the RLF Third Party to 
liquidate the assets of one or more RLFs or RLF Recipients;
* * * * *

0
75. In Sec.  307.21, revise paragraphs (a)(1) introductory text and 
(a)(1)(viii) to read as follows:


Sec.  307.21  Termination of Revolving Loan Funds.

    (a)(1) EDA may suspend or terminate an RLF Grant for cause, 
including the RLF Recipient's failure to:
* * * * *
    (viiii) Comply with the audit requirements set forth in OMB 
Circular A-133 and the related Compliance Supplement, including 
reference to the correctly valued EDA RLF Federal expenditures in the 
Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards

[[Page 76136]]

(``SEFA''), timely submission of audit reports to the Federal Audit 
Clearinghouse, and the correct designation of the RLF as a ``major 
program'' (as that term is defined in OMB Circular A-133);
* * * * *

PART 308--PERFORMANCE INCENTIVES

0
76. The authority citation for part 308 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 3151; 42 U.S.C. 3154a; 42 U.S.C. 3154b; 
Department of Commerce Delegation Order 10-4.


0
77. In Sec.  308.2, revise paragraphs (a), (b) introductory text, (c), 
and (d) to read as follows:


Sec.  308.2  Performance awards.

    (a) A Recipient of Investment Assistance under parts 305 or 307 of 
this chapter may receive a performance award in connection with an 
Investment made on or after the date of enactment of section 215 of 
PWEDA in an amount not to exceed 10 percent of the amount of the 
Investment award.
    (b) To receive a performance award, a Recipient must demonstrate 
Project performance in one or more of the areas listed in this 
paragraph, weighted at the discretion of the Assistant Secretary:
* * * * *
    (c) A Recipient may receive a performance award no later than three 
years following the Project's closeout.
    (d) A performance award may fund up to 100 percent of the cost of 
an eligible Project or any other authorized activity under PWEDA. For 
the purpose of meeting the non-Federal share requirement of PWEDA or 
any other statute, the amount of a performance award shall be treated 
as non-Federal funds.
* * * * *

0
78. In Sec.  308.3, revise paragraphs (a) introductory text, (a)(2) and 
(3), and (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  308.3  Planning performance awards.

    (a) A Recipient of Investment Assistance awarded on or after the 
date of enactment of section 216 of PWEDA for a Project located in an 
EDA-funded Economic Development District may, at the discretion of the 
Assistant Secretary, receive a planning performance award in an amount 
not to exceed five percent of the amount of the applicable Investment 
award if EDA determines before closeout of the Project that:
* * * * *
    (2) The Project demonstrated exceptional fulfillment of one or more 
components of, and is otherwise in accordance with, the applicable 
CEDS, including any job creation or job retention requirements; and
    (3) The Recipient demonstrated exceptional collaboration with 
Federal, State, and local economic development entities throughout the 
development of the Project.
    (b) The Recipient shall use the planning performance award to 
increase, up to 100 percent, the Federal share of the cost of a Project 
under this chapter.
* * * * *

PART 310--SPECIAL IMPACT AREAS

0
79. The authority citation for part 310 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 3154; Department of Commerce Organization 
Order 10-4.


0
80. In Sec.  310.1, revise the introductory text to read as follows:


Sec.  310.1  Special Impact Area.

    Upon the application of an Eligible Applicant, and with respect to 
that Eligible Applicant's Project only, the Assistant Secretary may 
designate the Region which the Project will serve as a Special Impact 
Area if the Eligible Applicant demonstrates that its proposed Project 
will:
* * * * *

0
81. In Sec.  310.2, revise paragraphs (a)(6), (b), and (c) introductory 
text to read as follows:


Sec.  310.2  Pressing need; alleviation of unemployment or 
underemployment.

    (a) * * *
    (6) Has been designated as a Federally Declared Disaster area; or
* * * * *
    (b) For purposes of this part, excessive unemployment exists if the 
24-month unemployment rate is at least 225 percent of the national 
average or the per capita income is not more than 50 percent of the 
national average. A Region demonstrates excessive underemployment if 
the employment of a substantial percentage of workers in the Region is 
less than full-time or at less skilled tasks than their training or 
abilities would otherwise permit. Eligible Applicants seeking a Special 
Impact Area designation under this criterion must present appropriate 
and compelling economic and demographic data.
    (c) Eligible Applicants may demonstrate the provision of useful 
employment opportunities by quantifying and evidencing the Project's 
prospective:
* * * * *

PART 314--PROPERTY

0
82-83. The authority citation for part 314 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 3211; Department of Commerce Organization 
Order 10-4.

Subpart A [Removed]

0
84. Remove the designation of subpart A for Sec. Sec.  314.1 through 
314.6.
0
85. In Sec.  314.1, revise the definition of Real Property to read as 
follows:


Sec.  314.1  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Real Property means any land, whether raw or improved, and includes 
structures, fixtures, appurtenances and other permanent improvements, 
excluding moveable machinery and equipment. Real Property includes land 
that is improved by the construction of Project infrastructure such as 
roads, sewers, and water lines that are not situated on or under the 
land, where the infrastructure contributes to the value of such land as 
a specific purpose of the Project.
* * * * *

0
86. In Sec.  314.3, revise paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  314.3  Authorized Use of Property.

    (a) During the Estimated Useful Life of the Project, the Recipient 
or Owner must use any Property acquired or improved in whole or in part 
with Investment Assistance only for authorized Project purposes as set 
out in the terms of the Investment Assistance. Such Property must not 
be Disposed of or encumbered without EDA's prior written authorization.
    (b) Where EDA and the Recipient determine during the Estimated 
Useful Life of the Project that Property acquired or improved in whole 
or in part with Investment Assistance is no longer needed for the 
original purpose of the Investment Assistance, EDA, in its sole 
discretion, may approve the use of such Property in other Federal grant 
programs or in programs that have purposes consistent with those 
authorized by PWEDA and by this chapter.
    (c) Where EDA determines that the authorized purpose of the 
Investment Assistance is to develop Real Property to be leased or sold, 
such sale or lease is permitted provided it is for Adequate 
Consideration and the sale is consistent with the authorized purpose of 
the Investment Assistance and with all applicable Investment Assistance 
requirements, including

[[Page 76137]]

nondiscrimination and environmental compliance.
* * * * *

0
87. In Sec.  314.4, revise paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  314.4  Unauthorized Use of Property.

* * * * *
    (c) Where the Disposition, encumbrance or use of any Property 
violates paragraph (a) or (b) of this section, EDA may assert its 
interest in the Property to recover the Federal Share for the Federal 
government and may take such actions as authorized by PWEDA and this 
chapter, including the actions provided in Sec. Sec.  302.3, 302.16, 
and 307.21 of this chapter. EDA may pursue its rights under paragraph 
(a) of this section and this paragraph (c) to recover the Federal 
Share, plus costs and interest. When the Federal government is fully 
compensated for the Federal Share, the Federal Interest is extinguished 
as provided in Sec.  314.2(b), and EDA will have no further interest in 
the ownership, use or Disposition of the Property.

0
88. In Sec.  314.5, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  314.5  Federal Share.

* * * * *
    (b) The Federal Share excludes that portion of the current fair 
market value of the Property attributable to acquisition or 
improvements before or after EDA's participation in the Project, which 
are not included in the total Project costs. For example, if the total 
Project costs are $100, consisting of $50 of Investment Assistance and 
$50 of Matching Share, the Federal Share is 50 percent. If the Property 
is disposed of when its current fair market is $250, the Federal Share 
is $125 (i.e., 50 percent of $250). If $10 is spent to put the Property 
into salable condition, the Federal Share is $120 (i.e., 50 percent of 
($250-$10)).

0
89. In Sec.  314.6, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  314.6  Encumbrances.

* * * * *
    (b) Exceptions. Subject to EDA's approval, which will not be 
unreasonably withheld or unduly delayed, paragraph (a) of this section 
does not apply in the following circumstances:
    (1) Shared first lien position. EDA, at its discretion, may approve 
an encumbrance on Project Property where a lien holder and EDA enter 
into an inter-creditor agreement pursuant to which EDA and the other 
lien holder share a first lien position on terms satisfactory to EDA.
    (2) Utility encumbrances. Encumbrances arising solely from the 
requirements of a pre-existing water or sewer facility or other utility 
encumbrances, which by their terms extend to additional Property 
connected to such facilities.
    (3) Pre-existing encumbrances. Encumbrances already in place at the 
time EDA approves the Project where EDA determines that the 
requirements of Sec.  314.7(b) of this chapter are met.
    (4) Encumbrances proposed proximate to Project approval. 
Encumbrances required to secure debt, including time and maturity-
limited debt, that finances the Project Property at the same proximate 
time that EDA approves the Project when all of the following are met:
    (i) EDA, in its sole discretion, determines that there is good 
cause and legal authority to waive paragraph (a) of this section;
    (ii) All proceeds secured by the encumbrance on the Property shall 
be available only to the Recipient and shall be used only for the 
Project for which the Investment Assistance applies, for related 
activities of which the Project is an essential part, or other 
activities that EDA determines are authorized under PWEDA;
    (iii) A grantor or lender will not provide funds without the 
security of a lien on the Property;
    (iv) The terms and conditions of the encumbrance are satisfactory 
to EDA; and
    (v) There is a reasonable expectation, as determined by EDA, that 
the Recipient will not default on its obligations. In determining 
whether an expectation is reasonable for purposes of this paragraph, 
EDA shall take into account whether:
    (A) A Recipient that is a non-profit organization is joined in the 
Project with a co-Recipient that is a public body and all co-Recipients 
are jointly and severally responsible;
    (B) The non-profit organization is financially strong and is an 
established organization with sufficient organizational life to 
demonstrate stability over time;
    (C) The approximate value of the Project Property so that the total 
amount of all debt plus the Federal share of cost as reflected on the 
EDA Investment award, and any amendments as applicable, does not exceed 
the value of the Project Property as improved; and
    (D) Such other factors as EDA deems appropriate.
    (5) Encumbrances proposed after Project approval. Encumbrances 
proposed to be incurred after Project approval where all of the 
following are met:
    (i) EDA, in its sole discretion, determines that there is good 
cause and legal authority to waive paragraph (a) of this section;
    (ii) All proceeds secured by the encumbrance on the Property shall 
be available only to the Recipient and shall be used only for the 
Project for which the Investment Assistance applies, for related 
activities of which the Project is an essential part, or other 
activities that EDA determines are authorized under PWEDA;
    (iii) A grantor or lender will not provide funds without the 
security of a lien on the Property;
    (iv) The terms and conditions of the encumbrance are satisfactory 
to EDA; and
    (v) There is a reasonable expectation, as determined by EDA, that 
the Recipient will not default on its obligations. In determining 
whether an expectation is reasonable for purposes of this paragraph, 
EDA shall take into account whether:
    (A) A Recipient that is a non-profit organization is joined in the 
Project with a co-Recipient that is a public body and all co-Recipients 
are jointly and severally responsible;
    (B) The non-profit organization is financially strong and is an 
established organization with sufficient organizational life to 
demonstrate stability over time;
    (C) The Recipient's equity in the Project Property based on the 
appraised value of the Project Property at the time the encumbrance is 
requested so that the total amount of all debt plus the Federal share 
of cost as reflected on the EDA Investment award, and any amendments as 
applicable, does not exceed the value of the Project Property as 
improved; and
    (D) Such other factors as EDA deems appropriate.
* * * * *

Subpart B [Removed]

0
90. Remove the designation of subpart B for Sec. Sec.  314.7 and 314.8.
0
91. In Sec.  314.7:
0
a. Revise paragraph (a);
0
b. Add a paragraph (b) heading;
0
c. Revise paragraphs (b)(1) introductory text, (c)(1) introductory 
text, (c)(2) introductory text, (c)(3), (c)(4) introductory text, and 
(c)(5); and
0
d. Remove paragraph (c)(6).
    The revisions and addition read as follows:


Sec.  314.7  Title.

    (a) General title requirement. The Recipient must hold title to the 
Real

[[Page 76138]]

Property required for a Project at the time the Investment Assistance 
is awarded or as provided by paragraph (c) of this section and must 
maintain title at all times during the Estimated Useful Life of the 
Project, except in those limited circumstances as provided in paragraph 
(c) of this section. The Recipient also must furnish evidence, 
satisfactory in form and substance to EDA, that title to Real Property 
required for a Project (other than property of the United States) is 
vested in the Recipient and that any easements, rights-of-way, State or 
local government permits, long-term leases or other items required for 
the Project have been or will be obtained by the Recipient within an 
acceptable time, as determined by EDA.
    (b) Disclosure of encumbrances. (1) The Recipient must disclose to 
EDA all encumbrances, including the following:
* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (1) Real Property acquisition. Where the acquisition of Real 
Property required for a Project is contemplated as part of an 
Investment Assistance award, EDA may determine that an agreement for 
the Recipient to purchase the Real Property will be acceptable for 
purposes of paragraph (a) of this section if:
* * * * *
    (2) Leasehold interests. EDA may determine that a long-term 
leasehold interest for a period not less than the Estimated Useful Life 
of the Real Property required for a Project will be acceptable for 
purposes of paragraph (a) of this section if:
* * * * *
    (3) Railroad right-of-way construction. When a Project includes 
construction within a railroad's right-of-way or over a railroad 
crossing, EDA may find it acceptable for the work to be completed by 
the railroad and for the railroad to continue to own, operate, and 
maintain that portion of the Project, if required by the railroad; and 
provided that, the construction is a minor but essential component of 
the Project.
    (4) Public highway construction. When the Project includes 
construction on a public highway the owner of which is not the 
Recipient, EDA may allow the Project to be constructed in whole or in 
part in the right-of-way of such public highway, provided that:
* * * * *
    (5) Construction of Recipient-owned facilities to serve Recipient 
or privately owned Real Property--(i) General. At EDA's discretion, 
when an authorized purpose of the Project is to construct Recipient-
owned facilities to serve Recipient or privately owned Real Property, 
including industrial or commercial parks, for sale or lease to private 
parties, such ownership, sale, or lease, as applicable, is permitted so 
long as:
    (A) In cases where an authorized purpose of the Project is to sell 
Real Property, the Recipient or Owner, as applicable, provides evidence 
sufficient to EDA that it holds title to the Real Property required for 
such Project prior to the disbursement of any portion of the Investment 
Assistance and will retain title until the sale of the Property;
    (B) In cases where an authorized purpose of the Project is to lease 
Real Property, the Recipient or Owner, as applicable, provides evidence 
sufficient to EDA that it holds title to the Real Property required for 
such Project prior to the EDA disbursement of any portion of the 
Investment Assistance and will retain title for the entire Estimated 
Useful Life of the Project;
    (C) The Recipient provides adequate assurances that the Project and 
the development of land and improvements on the Recipient or privately 
owned Real Property to be served by or that provides the economic 
justification for the Project will be completed according to the terms 
of the Investment Assistance;
    (D) The sale or lease of any portion of the Project or of Real 
Property served by the Project or that provides the economic 
justification for the Project during the Project's Estimated Useful 
Life must be for Adequate Consideration and the terms and conditions of 
the Investment Assistance and the purpose(s) of the Project must 
continue to be fulfilled after such sale or lease; and
    (E) The Recipient agrees that EDA may deem the termination, 
cessation, abandonment or other failure on behalf of the Recipient, 
Owner, purchaser, or lessee (as the case may be) to complete the 
Project or the development of land and improvements on Real Property 
served by or that provides the economic justification for the Project 
by the five-year anniversary of the award date of the Investment 
Assistance constitutes a failure on behalf of the Recipient to use the 
Real Property for the economic purposes justifying the Project.
    (ii) Additional conditions on sale or lease. EDA also may condition 
the sale or lease on the satisfaction by the Recipient, Owner, 
purchaser, or lessee (as the case may be) of any additional 
requirements that EDA may impose, including EDA's pre-approval of the 
sale or lease.
    (iii) Agreement between Recipient and Owner. In addition to 
paragraphs (c)(5)(i) and (ii) of this section, when an authorized 
purpose of the Project is to construct facilities to serve privately 
owned Real Property, the Recipient and the Owner must agree to use the 
Real Property improved or benefited by the EDA Investment Assistance 
only for the authorized purposes of the Project and in a manner 
consistent with the terms and conditions of the EDA Investment 
Assistance for the Estimated Useful Life of the Project.
    (iv) Unauthorized Use and compensation of Federal Share. EDA may 
deem that a violation of this paragraph (c)(5) by the Recipient, Owner, 
purchaser, or lessee (as the case may be) constitutes an Unauthorized 
Use of the Real Property and the Recipient must agree to compensate EDA 
for the Federal government's Federal Share of the Project in the case 
of such Unauthorized Use.

0
92. In Sec.  314.8, revise the section heading and add paragraph (d) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  314.8  Recorded statement for Real Property.

* * * * *
    (d) In extraordinary circumstances and at EDA's sole discretion, 
EDA may choose to accept another instrument to protect EDA's interest 
in Project Property, such as an escrow agreement or letter of credit, 
provided that EDA determines such instrument is adequate and a recorded 
statement in accord with paragraph (a) of this section is not 
reasonably available. The terms and provisions of the relevant 
instrument shall be satisfactory to EDA in EDA's sole judgment. The 
costs and fees for escrow services and letters of credit shall be paid 
by Recipient.

Subpart C [Removed]

0
93. Remove the designation of subpart C for Sec.  314.9.
0
94. Revise Sec.  314.9 to read as follows:


Sec.  314.9  Recorded statement for Personal Property.

    For all Projects which EDA determines involve the acquisition or 
improvement of significant items of Personal Property, including ships, 
machinery, equipment, removable fixtures or structural components of 
buildings, the Recipient shall execute a Uniform Commercial Code 
Financing Statement (Form UCC-1, as provided by State law) or other 
statement of EDA's interest in the Personal Property, acceptable in 
form and substance to EDA, which statement must be perfected and placed 
of record in accordance with applicable law, with continuances re-filed 
as appropriate. Whether or not a statement is required

[[Page 76139]]

by EDA to be recorded, the Recipient must hold title to the Personal 
Property acquired or improved as part of the Project, except as 
otherwise provided in this part.

Subpart D [Removed]

0
95. Remove the designation of subpart D for Sec.  314.10.
0
96. Revise Sec.  314.10 to read as follows:


Sec.  314.10  Procedures for release of EDA's Property interest.

    (a) General. As provided in Sec.  314.2 of this chapter, the 
Federal Interest in Property acquired or improved with Investment 
Assistance extends for the duration of the Estimated Useful Life of the 
Project. While EDA determines the length of the Estimated Useful Life 
at the time of Investment award, in recent years, the length generally 
extends for 15 to 20 years, depending on the nature of the improvement. 
Prior to 1999, the Estimated Useful Life of some Projects, such as 
water and wastewater Projects, could extend for 40 years or more. Upon 
request of the Recipient, EDA will release the Federal Interest in 
Project Property upon expiration of the Estimated Useful Life as 
established in the terms and conditions of the Investment Assistance 
and in accord with the requirements of this section and part. This 
section provides procedures to govern the manner of obtaining a release 
of the Federal Interest.
    (b) Release of Property after the expiration of the Estimated 
Useful Life. At the expiration of a Project's Estimated Useful Life and 
upon the written request of a Recipient, the Assistant Secretary may 
release the Federal Interest in Project Property if EDA determines that 
the Recipient has made a good faith effort to fulfill all terms and 
conditions of the Investment Assistance. The determination provided for 
in this paragraph shall be established at the time of Recipient's 
written request and shall be based, at least in part, on the facts and 
circumstances provided in writing by Recipient. For a Project in which 
a Recorded Statement as provided for in Sec. Sec.  314.8 and 314.9 of 
this chapter has been recorded, EDA will provide for the release by 
executing an instrument in recordable form. The release will terminate 
the Investment as of the date of its execution and satisfy the Recorded 
Statement.
    (c) Release prior to expiration of the Estimated Useful Life. If 
the Recipient will no longer use the Project Property in accord with 
the requirements of the terms and conditions of the Investment within 
the time period of the Estimated Useful Life, EDA will determine if 
such use by the Recipient constitutes an Unauthorized Use of Property 
and require compensation for the Federal Interest as provided in Sec.  
314.4 and this part. EDA may release the Federal Interest in connection 
with such Property upon receipt of full payment in compensation of the 
Federal Interest.
    (d) Release of certain Property after 20 years. In accord with 
section 601(d)(2) of PWEDA, upon the request of a Recipient and before 
the expiration of the Estimated Useful Life of a Project that exceeds 
20 years, EDA may release any Real Property or tangible Personal 
Property interest held by EDA, in connection with Investment Assistance 
after the date that is 20 years after the date on which the Investment 
Assistance was awarded.
    (e) Limitations and Covenant of Use. (1) EDA's release of the 
Federal Interest pursuant to this section is not automatic; it requires 
EDA's approval, which will not be withheld except for good cause or as 
otherwise required by law, as determined in EDA's sole discretion. As 
deemed appropriate, EDA may require the Recipient to take some action 
as a condition of the release.
    (2) In determining whether to release the Federal Interest, EDA 
will review EDA's legal authority to release its interest, including 
the Recipient's performance under and conformance with the terms and 
conditions of the Investment Assistance; any use of Project Property in 
violation of Sec.  314.3 or Sec.  314.4 of this part; and other such 
factors as EDA deems appropriate.
    (3) Notwithstanding any release of the Federal Interest under this 
section, a Recipient must ensure that Project Property is not used for 
inherently religious activities in violation of applicable Federal law 
and in violation of nondiscrimination requirements set forth in Sec.  
302.20 of this chapter. Accordingly, upon the release of the Federal 
Interest, the Recipient must execute a covenant of use that prohibits 
use of Real Property or tangible Personal Property for inherently 
religious activities prohibited by applicable Federal law and for any 
purpose that would violate the nondiscrimination requirements set forth 
in Sec.  302.20 of this chapter.
    (i) With respect to Real Property, the Recipient must record a 
covenant under this subsection in the jurisdiction where the Real 
Property is located in accordance with Sec.  314.8.
    (ii) With respect to items of tangible Personal Property, the 
Recipient must perfect and record a covenant under this subsection in 
accordance with applicable law, with continuances re-filed as 
appropriate, in accordance with Sec.  314.9.

    Dated: December 4, 2014.
Roy K.J. Williams,
Assistant Secretary for Economic Development.
[FR Doc. 2014-28806 Filed 12-18-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-24-P