Rural Development Regulations With the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) for Federal Awards, 34955-34959 [2024-09447]
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Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 85 / Wednesday, May 1, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
you after you present information in
opposition to a proposed debarment
under 2 CFR 180.815, you can ask the
debarring official to reconsider the
decision for material errors of fact or
law that you believe will change the
outcome of the matter.
(b) A request for review under this
section must be in writing; state the
specific findings you believe to be in
error; and include the reasons or legal
bases for your position.
(c) DFC may debar a person or entity
for refusing to engage in efforts to
remediate identified environmental,
social, and human rights harm
stemming from their activities,
including harm that may be identified
through a DFC Office of Accountability
complaints process.
(d) The debarring official must notify
you of their decisions under this
section, in writing, using the notice
procedures at 2 CFR 180.615 and
180.975.
Subpart I—Definitions
§ 1600.930
Debarring official.
The debarring official for DFC is the
Vice President & Chief Administrative
Officer, Office of Administration, or
designee as delegated in Agency policy.
§ 1600.1010
Suspending official.
The suspending official for DFC is the
Vice President & Chief Administrative
Officer, Office of Administration, or
designee as delegated in Agency policy.
PARTS 1601–1699 [RESERVED]
Dated: April 10, 2024.
Lisa Wischkaemper,
Assistant General Counsel, Office of the
General Counsel, U.S. International
Development Finance Corporation.
[FR Doc. 2024–08855 Filed 4–30–24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3210–02–P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
Rural Housing Service
Rural Utilities Service
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7 CFR Parts 1719, 1738, 1739, 1774,
1775, 3570, 4274, 4279, 4280, and 4288
[Docket Number: RHS–22–ADMIN–0025]
Rural Development Regulations With
the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) for
Federal Awards
Rural Business-Cooperative
Service, Rural Housing Service, Rural
Utilities Service, USDA.
AGENCY:
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ACTION:
Final rule.
The Rural BusinessCooperative Service (RBCS), Rural
Housing Service (RHS), and Rural
Utilities Services (RUS), agencies in the
United States Department of Agriculture
(USDA) Rural Development (RD)
Mission area, are issuing a final rule to
update RD program regulations by
removing references to the Data
Universal Numbering System (DUNS)
numbers and replacing them with the
new Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) as
the primary means of identifying
entities registered for Federal awards
government-wide in the System for
Award Management (SAM).
DATES: Effective date: May 1, 2024.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Lauren Cusick, Rural Development
Innovation Center—Regulations
Management Division, United States
Department of Agriculture, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, South
Building, Washington, DC 20250–1522.
Telephone: (202) 720–1414. Email:
lauren.cusick@usda.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
SUMMARY:
I. Background
RD is a mission area within USDA
comprised of RBCS, RHS, and RUS that
strives to increase economic
opportunity and improve the quality of
life for all rural Americans. RD invests
in rural America with loan, grant, and
loan guarantee programs to help drive
economic security and prosperity. These
programs help expand access to highspeed internet, electric,
telecommunications, and transportation
infrastructure as well as support
business growth, healthcare, education,
housing, and other community
essentials.
In 2016, the Federal Government
revised both the Federal Acquisition
Regulation (FAR) and title 2 of the Code
of Federal Regulations (CFR) to remove
any proprietary references to the DUNS.
On July 10, 2019, the General Services
Administration (GSA) published a
notice in the Federal Register at 84 FR
32916, announcing a public meeting
that was held on July 25, 2019. During
this meeting, GSA presented
information on replacing the DUNS
with a governmentwide UEI. A
universal identifier is required under
titles 2 and 48 of the CFR for all
applicants (non-individuals), recipients,
and subrecipients of Federal agency
awards.
On April 4, 2022, the universal
identifier used across the Federal
Government transitioned from using the
DUNS number to the UEI, which is now
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34955
the official identifier for doing business
with the Federal Government. UEIs are
required in accordance with 2 CFR part
25, and this transition has resulted in
the UEI being issued by the Federal
Government through SAM which is a
government-wide registry for any entity
doing business with the Federal
Government, from securing Federal
contracts to receiving Federal financial
assistance. SAM centralizes information
in conducting the acquisition and
financial assistance which includes
grants and cooperative agreements
processes and provides a central
location for Federal award recipients to
change organizational information. The
use of an UEI means entities no longer
rely on a third party to obtain an
identifier which has allowed the
government to streamline the entity
identification and validation process,
making it easier and less burdensome
for entities to do business with the
Federal Government.
The Administrative Procedures Act
exempts from prior notice any actions
‘‘relating to agency management or
personnel or to public property, loans,
grants, benefits, or contracts’’ (5 U.S.C.
553(b)(A)): therefore, RD is issuing this
action as a final rule.
II. Summary of Changes
This final rule will update the
remaining RBCS, RHS, and RUS
regulations that are still using a DUNS
number reference and replace it with
the UEI. This change will make it clear
that the UEI will be required, unless
exempt, when applying for Federal
awards from RD. The following is a
summary, by regulation, of the changes
made:
1. 7 CFR part 1719. Section
1719.5(b)(2)(ii) was updated to replace
the requirement for a DUNs number
with the UEI.
2. 7 CFR part 1738. Section 1738.202
was updated to remove paragraph (b)
that addressed the DUNs number, the
remaining paragraphs were
redesignated, and the new paragraph (b)
was updated to incorporate the UEI with
the SAM registration information and
the reference to a commercial and
Government Entity (CAGE) code in
paragraph (c) was removed as that is no
longer required.
3. 7 CFR part 1739. Section 1739.10
was updated to remove paragraph (c)
that addressed the DUNs number,
paragraph (d) was redesignated as
paragraph (c) and the new paragraph
(c)(1) was updated to incorporate the
UEI with the SAM registration
information.
4. 7 CFR part 1774. Section 1774.2
was updated to remove the definition of
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DUNS number and § 1774.10(a) was
updated to replace the DUNS number
information with UEI.
5. 7 CFR part 1775. Section 1775.2
was updated to remove the definition of
DUNS number and § 1775.10,
paragraphs (b)(3) and (c) were updated
to replace the DUNS number
information with the UEI.
6. 7 CFR part 3570. Section 3570.252
was updated to remove the definition of
DUNS number and § 3570.267(b) was
updated to replace the DUNS number
information with the UEI.
7. 7 CFR part 4274. Section
4274.352(a)(4)(i) was updated to replace
the DUNS number with the UEI.
8. 7 CFR part 4279. The introductory
text for §§ 4279.161 and 4279.261(i)
were updated to replace the DUNS
number with the UEI.
9. 7 CFR part 4280. Section
4280.416(c)(3) was updated to replace
the DUNS number with the UEI.
10. 7 CFR part 4288. Section
4288.20(b) was updated to replace the
DUNS number with the UEI.
III. Executive Orders
Paperwork Reduction Act
This final rule contains no reporting
or recordkeeping provisions requiring
Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) approval under the Paperwork
Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C.
chapter 35).
E-Government Act Compliance
RD is committed to the E-Government
Act, which requires Government
agencies in general to provide the public
the option of submitting information or
transacting business electronically to
the maximum extent possible and to
promote the use of the internet and
other information technologies to
provide increased opportunities for
citizen access to Government
information and services, and for other
purposes.
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Executive Order 12372—
Intergovernmental Consultation
This final rule is not subject to the
requirements of Executive Order 12372,
‘‘Intergovernmental Review of Federal
Programs,’’ as implemented under
USDA’s regulations at 2 CFR part 415,
subpart C.
Executive Order 12866
This final rule is exempt from OMB
review for purposes of Executive Order
12866 and, therefore, has not been
reviewed by OMB.
Executive Order 13132—Federalism
The policies contained in this rule do
not have any substantial direct effect on
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States, on the relationship between the
National Government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government. Nor does this rule
impose substantial direct compliance
costs on State and local governments.
Therefore, consultation with the States
is not required.
Congressional Review Act
This rule is not subject to the
Congressional Review Act (‘‘CRA’’) (5
U.S.C. 801 et seq.), as the CRA provides
an exemption for any rule relating to
agency management or personnel and
for rules relating to agency organization,
procedure, or practice that does not
substantially affect the rights or
obligations of non-agency parties.
Regulatory Flexibility Act Certification
The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5
U.S.C. 601–602) (RFA) generally
requires an agency to prepare a
regulatory flexibility analysis of any rule
subject to notice and comment
rulemaking requirements under the
Administrative Procedure Act (‘‘APA’’)
or any other statute. The Administrative
Procedures Act exempts from notice and
comment requirements rules ‘‘relating to
agency management or personnel or to
public property, loans, grants, benefits,
or contracts’’ (5 U.S.C. 553(a)(2)), so
therefore an analysis has not been
prepared for this rule.
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
This final rule contains no Federal
Mandates (under the regulatory
provision of title II of the Unfunded
Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C.
chapter 25) for State, local, and tribal
governments, or the private sector.
Thus, this final rule is not subject to the
requirements of sections 202 and 205 of
the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of
1995.
National Environmental Policy Act
In accordance with the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969,
Public Law 91–190, this final rule has
been reviewed in accordance with 7
CFR part 1970 (‘‘Environmental Policies
and Procedures’’). The Agency has
determined that: (i) This action meets
the criteria established in 7 CFR
1970.53(f); (ii) No extraordinary
circumstances exist; and (iii) The action
is not ‘‘connected’’ to other actions with
potentially significant impacts, is not
considered a ‘‘cumulative action’’ and is
not precluded by 40 CFR 1506.1.
Therefore, the Agency has determined
that the action does not have a
significant effect on the human
environment, and therefore neither an
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Environmental Assessment nor an
Environmental Impact Statement is
required.
Executive Order 13175—Consultation
and Coordination With Indian Tribal
Governments
This Executive order imposes
requirements on RBCS, RHS and RUS
(the Agencies) in the development of
regulatory policies that have tribal
implications or preempt tribal laws. The
Agencies have determined that the final
rule does not have a substantial direct
effect on one or more Indian tribe(s) or
on either the relationship or the
distribution of powers and
responsibilities between the Federal
Government and Indian tribes. Thus,
this final rule is not subject to the
requirements of Executive Order 13175.
If Tribal leaders are interested in
consulting with the Agencies on this
final rule, they are encouraged to
contact USDA’s Office of Tribal
Relations or RD’s Native American
Coordinator at: AIAN@usda.gov to
request such a consultation.
Assistance Listing Number (Formally
Known as the Catalog of Federal
Domestic Assistance)
The Assistance Listing Numbers
assigned to the programs affected by this
final rule are: 10.351—Rural Business
Development Grants, 10.751—Rural
Energy Savings Program, 10.759—
Special Evaluation Assistance for Rural
Communities and Households, 10.761—
Technical Assistance and Training
Grants, 10.762—Solid Waste
Management Grants, 10.766—
Community Facilities Training and
Technical Assistance Grants, 10.767
Intermediary Relending Program,
10.768—Business and Industry Loans,
10.863—Community Connect Grants,
10.865—Biorefinery Assistance
Program, 10.867—Bioenergy Program
for Advanced Biofuels, and 10.886—
Rural Broadband Access Loan and Loan
Guarantee Program. The Assistance
Listings are available at SAM.gov.
Civil Rights Impact Analysis
RD has reviewed this final rule in
accordance with USDA Regulation
4300–4, Civil Rights Impact Analysis, to
identify any major civil rights impacts
the rule might have on program
participants on the basis of age, race,
color, national origin, sex, disability,
marital or familial status. Based on the
review and analysis of the rule and all
available data, issuance of this final rule
is not likely to negatively impact low
and moderate-income populations,
minority populations, women, Indian
tribes or persons with disability, by
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virtue of their age, race, color, national
origin, sex, disability, or marital or
familial status. No major civil rights
impact is likely to result from this final
rule.
USDA Non-Discrimination Statement
In accordance with Federal civil
rights laws and USDA civil rights
regulations and policies, the USDA, its
Mission Areas, agencies, staff offices,
employees, and institutions
participating in or administering USDA
programs are prohibited from
discriminating based on race, color,
national origin, religion, sex, gender
identity (including gender expression),
sexual orientation, disability, age,
marital status, family/parental status,
income derived from a public assistance
program, political beliefs, or reprisal or
retaliation for prior civil rights activity,
in any program or activity conducted or
funded by USDA (not all bases apply to
all programs). Remedies and complaint
filing deadlines vary by program or
incident.
Program information may be made
available in languages other than
English. Persons with disabilities who
require alternative means of
communication to obtain program
information (e.g., Braille, large print,
audiotape, American Sign Language)
should contact the responsible Mission
Area, agency, or staff office; or the 711
Relay Service.
To file a program discrimination
complaint, a complainant should
complete a Form AD–3027, USDA
Program Discrimination Complaint
Form, which can be obtained online at
www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/
documents/ad-3027.pdf, from any
USDA office, by calling (866) 632–9992,
or by writing a letter addressed to
USDA. The letter must contain the
complainant’s name, address, telephone
number, and a written description of the
alleged discriminatory action in
sufficient detail to inform the Assistant
Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about
the nature and date of an alleged civil
rights violation. The completed AD–
3027 form or letter must be submitted to
USDA by:
(1) Mail: U.S. Department of
Agriculture, Office of the Assistant
Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington,
DC 20250–9410; or
(2) Fax: (833) 256–1665 or (202) 690–
7442; or
(3) Email: Program.Intake@usda.gov.
List of Subjects
7 CFR Part 1719
Electric power, Grant programs—
energy, Loan programs—energy,
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Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements, Rural areas.
PART 1719—RURAL ENERGY
SAVINGS PROGRAM
7 CFR Part 1738
■
Loan programs—communications,
Rural areas, Telecommunications,
Telephone.
34957
1. The authority citation for part 1719
continues to read as follows:
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8107a (Section 6407).
Subpart B—Application, Submission
and Administration of RESP Loans
7 CFR Part 1739
Grant programs—communications,
Rural areas, Telecommunications,
Telephone.
2. Amend § 1719.5 by revising
paragraph (b)(2)(ii) to read as follows:
■
7 CFR Part 1774
§ 1719.5 Application process and required
information.
Community development, Grant
programs, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements, Rural areas, Waste
treatment and disposal, Water supply.
*
7 CFR Part 1775
Business and industry, Community
development, Community facilities,
Grant programs—housing and
community development, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements, Rural
areas, Waste treatment and disposal,
Water supply, Watersheds.
7 CFR Part 3570
Administrative practice and
procedure, Fair housing, Grant
programs—housing and community
development, Housing, Low and
moderate income housing, Reporting
and recordkeeping requirements, Rural
areas.
7 CFR Part 4274
Community development, Loan
programs—business, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements, Rural
areas.
7 CFR Part 4279
Community development, Energy,
Energy conservation, Fees, Grant
programs, Loan programs—business,
Loan programs—housing and
community development, Renewable
energy, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements, Rural areas.
7 CFR Part 4280
Business and industry, Energy, Grant
programs—business, Loan programs—
business, Rural areas.
7 CFR Part 4288
Administrative practice and
procedure, Biobased products, Energy,
Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements.
Accordingly, for the reasons set forth
in the preamble, the Agency amends 7
CFR parts 1719, 1738, 1739, 1774, 1775,
3570, 4274, 4279, 4280 and 4288 as
follows:
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(b) * * *
(2) * * *
(ii) The Applicant’s tax identification
number, SAM Managed Identifier
(SAMMI), Unique Entity Identifier, and
such similar information as it may be
subsequently amended or required for
Federal funding.
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*
PART 1738—RURAL BROADBAND
LOANS, LOAN/GRANT
COMBINATIONS, AND LOAN
GUARANTEES
3. The authority citation for part 1738
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 901 et seq.
Subpart E—Loan and Loan/Grant
Combination Application Review and
Underwriting
4. Amend § 1738.202 by:
a. Removing paragraph (b);
b. Redesignating paragraphs (c)
through (e) as paragraphs (b) through
(d), respectively; and
■ c. Revising newly redesignated
paragraph (b).
The revision reads as follows:
■
■
■
§ 1738.202 Elements of a complete
application.
*
*
*
*
*
(b) SAM registration. Prior to
submitting an application, all
Applicants requesting loan/grant
combination funds must register in the
System for Award Management (SAM)
at https://sam.gov/ and provide a
Unique Entity Identifier as part of the
application. SAM registration must be
active with current data at all times,
from the application review throughout
the active Federal Award. To maintain
the required registration in the SAM
database, annual renewal is required
with a review and update of all
information. The Applicant must ensure
that the information in the database is
current, accurate, and complete.
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PART 1739—BROADBAND GRANT
PROGRAM
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C. 1989; 16
U.S.C. 1005.
5. The authority citation for part 1739
continues to read as follows:
Subpart—A General Provisions
■
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 901 et seq.
6. Amend § 1739.10 by:
a. Removing paragraph (c);
b. Redesignating paragraph (d) as
paragraph (c); and
■ c. Revising newly redesignated
paragraph (c)(1).
The revision reads as follows:
■
■
■
11. Amend § 1775.2 by removing the
definition of ‘‘DUNS Number’’.
Subpart B—Grant Application
Processing
Eligible applicant.
PART 1774—SPECIAL EVALUATION
ASSISTANCE FOR RURAL
COMMUNITIES AND HOUSEHOLDS
PROGRAM (SEARCH)
7. The authority citation for part 1774
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 1926(a)(2)(C).
Subpart A—General Provisions
[Amended]
8. Amend § 1774.2 by removing the
definition of ‘‘DUNS Number’’.
■
■
Applications.
*
*
*
*
(b) * * *
(3) Electronic applications will be
accepted prior to the filing deadline
through the Federal Government’s
eGrants website (Grants.gov) at https://
www.grants.gov. Applicants should refer
to instructions found on the Grants.gov
website to submit an electronic
application. A Unique Entity Identifier
(UEI) from the System for Award
Management and a Central Contractor
Registry (CCR) registration is required
prior to electronic submission. The signup procedures, required by Grants.gov,
may take several business days to
complete.
(c) Application requirements. To file
an application, an organization must
provide their UEI in accordance with
2 CFR part 25. Instructions for
obtaining the UEI are available at
https://sam.gov/. To file a complete
application, the following information
should be submitted:
*
*
*
*
*
13. The authority citation for part
3570 continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C. 1989.
9. Amend § 1774.10 by revising
paragraph (a) introductory text to read
as follows:
■
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§ 1774.10
Applications.
(a) To file an application, an
organization must provide their Unique
Entity Identifier (UEI) in accordance
with 2 CFR part 25. Instructions for
obtaining the UEI are available at
https://sam.gov/. To file a complete
application, the following should be
submitted:
*
*
*
*
*
PART 1775—TECHNICAL
ASSISTANCE GRANTS
10. The authority citation for part
1775 continues to read as follows:
■
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Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C. 1932
note; 7 U.S.C. 1989.
§ 1775.10
PART 3570—COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
Subpart B—Grant Application
Processing
16. The authority citation for part
4274 continues to read as follows:
■
Subpart D—Intermediary Relending
Program (IRP)
*
*
*
*
*
(c) * * *
(1) At the time of application, whether
applying electronically or by paper,
each applicant must have a Unique
Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active
registration in SAM before submitting
its application in accordance with
2 CFR part 25. Instructions for
obtaining the UEI are available at
https://sam.gov/.
*
*
*
*
*
PART 4274—DIRECT AND INSURED
LOANMAKING
12. Amend § 1775.10 by revising
paragraphs (b)(3) and (c) introductory
text to read as follows:
■
*
§ 1774.2
[Amended]
■
Subpart A—Community Connect Grant
Program
§ 1739.10
§ 1775.2
complete application the following
information must be submitted:
*
*
*
*
*
Subpart F—Community Facilities
Technical Assistance and Training
Grants
§ 3570.252
[Amended]
14. Amend § 3570.252 by removing
the definition of ‘‘DUNS’’.
■ 15. Amend § 3570.267 by revising
paragraph (b) introductory text to read
as follows:
■
§ 3570.267
Applications.
*
*
*
*
*
(b) Application requirements. To file
an application, an organization must
provide their Unique Entity Identifier
(UEI) in accordance with 2 CFR part 25.
Instructions for obtaining the UEI are
available at https://sam.gov/. To file a
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17. Amend § 4274.352 by revising
paragraph (a)(4)(i) to read as follows:
§ 4274.352 Loan documentation for
ultimate recipients.
*
*
*
*
*
(a) * * *
(4) * * *
(i) Name, address, Unique Entity
Identifier, Federal ID number, and North
American Classification System
(NAICS) Code of the ultimate recipient;
*
*
*
*
*
PART 4279—GUARANTEED
LOANMAKING
18. The authority citation for part
4279 continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C. 1989; 7
U.S.C. 1932(a); and Public Law 116–136,
Division B, Title I.
Subpart B—Business and Industry
Loans
19. Amend § 4279.161 by revising the
introductory text to read as follows:
■
§ 4279.161 Filing preapplications and
applications.
Borrowers and lenders are encouraged
to file preapplications and obtain
Agency comments before completing an
application. However, if they prefer,
borrowers and lenders may file a
complete application without filing a
preapplication. The Agency will neither
accept nor process preapplications and
applications unless a lender has agreed
to finance the proposal. For borrowers
other than individuals, a Unique Entity
Identifier (UEI) is required. Instructions
for obtaining the UEI are available at
https://sam.gov/. Guaranteed loans
exceeding $600,000 must be submitted
under the requirements specified in
paragraph (b) of this section. However,
guaranteed loans of $600,000 and less
may be submitted under the
requirements of either paragraph (b) or
(c) of this section.
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must submit to the Agency the
documents specified in paragraphs
(b)(1) through (6) of this section.
*
*
*
*
*
Subpart C—Biorefinery, Renewable
Chemical, and Biobased Product
Manufacturing Assistance Loans
20. Amend § 4279.261 by revising
paragraph (i) to read as follows:
■
§ 4279.261
content.
Application for loan guarantee
*
*
*
*
*
(i) Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). For
Borrowers other than individuals, a UEI,
which can be obtained online at https://
sam.gov/.
*
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*
*
[FR Doc. 2024–09447 Filed 4–30–24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410–XY–P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Rural Housing Service
PART 4280—LOANS AND GRANTS
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
21. The authority citation for part
4280 continues to read as follows:
Rural Utilities Service
■
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 1989(a), 7 U.S.C. 2008s.
Update to Methodology and Formulas
for Allocation of Loan and Grant
Program Funds
22. Amend § 4280.416 by revising
paragraph (c)(3) to read as follows:
■
§ 4280.416
Rural Business-Cooperative
Service, Rural Housing Service, and
Rural Utilities Service, USDA.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
Applicant eligibility.
*
*
*
*
*
(c) * * *
(3) Provide its Unique Entity
Identifier (UEI) in each application it
submits to the Agency. The UEI is
included on the Standard Form (SF)
424, ‘‘Application for Federal
Assistance.’’
*
*
*
*
*
23. The authority citation for part
4288 continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C. 1989.
Subpart A—Repowering Assistance
Payments to Eligible Biorefineries
24. Amend § 4288.20 by revising
paragraph (b) introductory text to read
as follows:
■
Submittal of applications.
*
*
*
*
*
(b) Content and form of submission.
Applicants must submit a signed
original and one copy of an application
containing the information specified in
this section. The applicant must also
furnish the Agency the required
documentation identified in Form RD
4288–4, ‘‘Repowering Assistance
Program Application,’’ to verify
compliance with program provisions
before acceptance into the program.
Note that applicants are required to
have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)
(unless the applicant is an individual).
Instructions for obtaining the UEI are
available at https://sam.gov/. Applicants
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:34 Apr 30, 2024
Jkt 262001
The Rural BusinessCooperative Service, Rural Housing
Service, and Rural Utilities Service
(RBCS, RHS, RUS, or collectively
referred to as the Agency), of the Rural
Development (RD) mission area within
the U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA), is issuing this final rule to
update the data it uses to determine a
State’s percentage of national
nonmetropolitan unemployment
income. The Agency is amending two
regulations to correct the source for the
data and provide transparency on its
process of determining state funding
allocations for various Agency
programs.
DATES: The effective date of this final
rule is May 1, 2024.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John
Delaney at john.delaney@usda.gov,
Senior Policy Advisor, Rural
Development Innovation Center, USDA,
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Mail
Stop 0793, Room 6138-South,
Washington, DC 20250–0793; or call
(202) 720–9705.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
SUMMARY:
PART 4288—PAYMENT PROGRAMS
§ 4288.20
7 CFR Parts 1780 and 1940
[Docket No. RUS–24–AGENCY–0004]
Subpart E—Rural Business
Development Grants
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1
Basil I. Gooden,
Under Secretary, Rural Development, United
States Department of Agriculture.
Background
Rural Development is a mission area
within USDA comprised of RBCS, RHS
and RUS. Rural Development’s mission
is to increase economic opportunity and
improve the quality of life for all rural
Americans and RD meets its mission by
providing loans, grants, loan guarantees,
PO 00000
Frm 00007
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
34959
and technical assistance through a
multitude of programs aimed at creating
and improving businesses, housing and
infrastructure throughout rural America.
The Agency receives funding through
the annual appropriations process.
Several programs under the Agency
apply a formula to determine how much
each state should receive in a funding
allocation for a given fiscal year. Where
applicable, the formulas have multiple
components that include a state’s
percentage of the national
nonmetropolitan unemployment income
figure. The regulations that are part of
this rulemaking currently cite the
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as the
source for the national nonmetropolitan
unemployment information, but this
data is not publicly available. The
Agency is changing the cited data
source to the Census Bureau’s American
Community Survey (ACS).
The Agency is amending the
regulations associated with this
rulemaking to make the source of data
clear. This amendment is not changing
a current process or procedure.
Summary of Changes
7 CFR 1780
1. Section 1780.18(c)(2)(ii)(C) was
amended to change the Bureau of Labor
Statistics to 5-year income data from the
ACS to correctly cite the source of data
used as part of the allocation
calculation.
7 CFR 1940
2. Sections 1940.585(b)(2),
1940.588(a)(2)(ii)(C), and 1940.591(b)(2)
were amended to show that the 5-year
income data from the ACS should be
used for nonmetropolitan
unemployment income and not BLS.
These changes were made to correctly
cite the source of data.
Executive Orders/Acts
Executive Order 12866—Classification
This rule is not subject to the
provisions of Executive Order 12866
because it has no impact on borrowers
or other members of the public. It is the
policy of this Department that rules
relating to public property, loans,
grants, benefits, or contracts shall be
published for comments,
notwithstanding the exemption in 5
U.S.C. 553 with respect to such rules.
The action, however, is not published
for proposed rulemaking because it
involves only internal agency
management and publication for
comment is unnecessary.
E:\FR\FM\01MYR1.SGM
01MYR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 85 (Wednesday, May 1, 2024)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 34955-34959]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2024-09447]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
Rural Housing Service
Rural Utilities Service
7 CFR Parts 1719, 1738, 1739, 1774, 1775, 3570, 4274, 4279, 4280,
and 4288
[Docket Number: RHS-22-ADMIN-0025]
Rural Development Regulations With the Unique Entity Identifier
(UEI) for Federal Awards
AGENCY: Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Rural Housing Service,
Rural Utilities Service, USDA.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBCS), Rural Housing
Service (RHS), and Rural Utilities Services (RUS), agencies in the
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development (RD)
Mission area, are issuing a final rule to update RD program regulations
by removing references to the Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS)
numbers and replacing them with the new Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)
as the primary means of identifying entities registered for Federal
awards government-wide in the System for Award Management (SAM).
DATES: Effective date: May 1, 2024.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lauren Cusick, Rural Development
Innovation Center--Regulations Management Division, United States
Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, South Building,
Washington, DC 20250-1522. Telephone: (202) 720-1414. Email:
[email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. Background
RD is a mission area within USDA comprised of RBCS, RHS, and RUS
that strives to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality
of life for all rural Americans. RD invests in rural America with loan,
grant, and loan guarantee programs to help drive economic security and
prosperity. These programs help expand access to high-speed internet,
electric, telecommunications, and transportation infrastructure as well
as support business growth, healthcare, education, housing, and other
community essentials.
In 2016, the Federal Government revised both the Federal
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and title 2 of the Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) to remove any proprietary references to the DUNS. On
July 10, 2019, the General Services Administration (GSA) published a
notice in the Federal Register at 84 FR 32916, announcing a public
meeting that was held on July 25, 2019. During this meeting, GSA
presented information on replacing the DUNS with a governmentwide UEI.
A universal identifier is required under titles 2 and 48 of the CFR for
all applicants (non-individuals), recipients, and subrecipients of
Federal agency awards.
On April 4, 2022, the universal identifier used across the Federal
Government transitioned from using the DUNS number to the UEI, which is
now the official identifier for doing business with the Federal
Government. UEIs are required in accordance with 2 CFR part 25, and
this transition has resulted in the UEI being issued by the Federal
Government through SAM which is a government-wide registry for any
entity doing business with the Federal Government, from securing
Federal contracts to receiving Federal financial assistance. SAM
centralizes information in conducting the acquisition and financial
assistance which includes grants and cooperative agreements processes
and provides a central location for Federal award recipients to change
organizational information. The use of an UEI means entities no longer
rely on a third party to obtain an identifier which has allowed the
government to streamline the entity identification and validation
process, making it easier and less burdensome for entities to do
business with the Federal Government.
The Administrative Procedures Act exempts from prior notice any
actions ``relating to agency management or personnel or to public
property, loans, grants, benefits, or contracts'' (5 U.S.C. 553(b)(A)):
therefore, RD is issuing this action as a final rule.
II. Summary of Changes
This final rule will update the remaining RBCS, RHS, and RUS
regulations that are still using a DUNS number reference and replace it
with the UEI. This change will make it clear that the UEI will be
required, unless exempt, when applying for Federal awards from RD. The
following is a summary, by regulation, of the changes made:
1. 7 CFR part 1719. Section 1719.5(b)(2)(ii) was updated to replace
the requirement for a DUNs number with the UEI.
2. 7 CFR part 1738. Section 1738.202 was updated to remove
paragraph (b) that addressed the DUNs number, the remaining paragraphs
were redesignated, and the new paragraph (b) was updated to incorporate
the UEI with the SAM registration information and the reference to a
commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code in paragraph (c) was
removed as that is no longer required.
3. 7 CFR part 1739. Section 1739.10 was updated to remove paragraph
(c) that addressed the DUNs number, paragraph (d) was redesignated as
paragraph (c) and the new paragraph (c)(1) was updated to incorporate
the UEI with the SAM registration information.
4. 7 CFR part 1774. Section 1774.2 was updated to remove the
definition of
[[Page 34956]]
DUNS number and Sec. 1774.10(a) was updated to replace the DUNS number
information with UEI.
5. 7 CFR part 1775. Section 1775.2 was updated to remove the
definition of DUNS number and Sec. 1775.10, paragraphs (b)(3) and (c)
were updated to replace the DUNS number information with the UEI.
6. 7 CFR part 3570. Section 3570.252 was updated to remove the
definition of DUNS number and Sec. 3570.267(b) was updated to replace
the DUNS number information with the UEI.
7. 7 CFR part 4274. Section 4274.352(a)(4)(i) was updated to
replace the DUNS number with the UEI.
8. 7 CFR part 4279. The introductory text for Sec. Sec. 4279.161
and 4279.261(i) were updated to replace the DUNS number with the UEI.
9. 7 CFR part 4280. Section 4280.416(c)(3) was updated to replace
the DUNS number with the UEI.
10. 7 CFR part 4288. Section 4288.20(b) was updated to replace the
DUNS number with the UEI.
III. Executive Orders
Paperwork Reduction Act
This final rule contains no reporting or recordkeeping provisions
requiring Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval under the
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. chapter 35).
E-Government Act Compliance
RD is committed to the E-Government Act, which requires Government
agencies in general to provide the public the option of submitting
information or transacting business electronically to the maximum
extent possible and to promote the use of the internet and other
information technologies to provide increased opportunities for citizen
access to Government information and services, and for other purposes.
Executive Order 12372--Intergovernmental Consultation
This final rule is not subject to the requirements of Executive
Order 12372, ``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,'' as
implemented under USDA's regulations at 2 CFR part 415, subpart C.
Executive Order 12866
This final rule is exempt from OMB review for purposes of Executive
Order 12866 and, therefore, has not been reviewed by OMB.
Executive Order 13132--Federalism
The policies contained in this rule do not have any substantial
direct effect on States, on the relationship between the National
Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various levels of government. Nor does this
rule impose substantial direct compliance costs on State and local
governments. Therefore, consultation with the States is not required.
Congressional Review Act
This rule is not subject to the Congressional Review Act (``CRA'')
(5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), as the CRA provides an exemption for any rule
relating to agency management or personnel and for rules relating to
agency organization, procedure, or practice that does not substantially
affect the rights or obligations of non-agency parties.
Regulatory Flexibility Act Certification
The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601-602) (RFA) generally
requires an agency to prepare a regulatory flexibility analysis of any
rule subject to notice and comment rulemaking requirements under the
Administrative Procedure Act (``APA'') or any other statute. The
Administrative Procedures Act exempts from notice and comment
requirements rules ``relating to agency management or personnel or to
public property, loans, grants, benefits, or contracts'' (5 U.S.C.
553(a)(2)), so therefore an analysis has not been prepared for this
rule.
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
This final rule contains no Federal Mandates (under the regulatory
provision of title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2
U.S.C. chapter 25) for State, local, and tribal governments, or the
private sector. Thus, this final rule is not subject to the
requirements of sections 202 and 205 of the Unfunded Mandates Reform
Act of 1995.
National Environmental Policy Act
In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969,
Public Law 91-190, this final rule has been reviewed in accordance with
7 CFR part 1970 (``Environmental Policies and Procedures''). The Agency
has determined that: (i) This action meets the criteria established in
7 CFR 1970.53(f); (ii) No extraordinary circumstances exist; and (iii)
The action is not ``connected'' to other actions with potentially
significant impacts, is not considered a ``cumulative action'' and is
not precluded by 40 CFR 1506.1. Therefore, the Agency has determined
that the action does not have a significant effect on the human
environment, and therefore neither an Environmental Assessment nor an
Environmental Impact Statement is required.
Executive Order 13175--Consultation and Coordination With Indian Tribal
Governments
This Executive order imposes requirements on RBCS, RHS and RUS (the
Agencies) in the development of regulatory policies that have tribal
implications or preempt tribal laws. The Agencies have determined that
the final rule does not have a substantial direct effect on one or more
Indian tribe(s) or on either the relationship or the distribution of
powers and responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian
tribes. Thus, this final rule is not subject to the requirements of
Executive Order 13175. If Tribal leaders are interested in consulting
with the Agencies on this final rule, they are encouraged to contact
USDA's Office of Tribal Relations or RD's Native American Coordinator
at: [email protected] to request such a consultation.
Assistance Listing Number (Formally Known as the Catalog of Federal
Domestic Assistance)
The Assistance Listing Numbers assigned to the programs affected by
this final rule are: 10.351--Rural Business Development Grants,
10.751--Rural Energy Savings Program, 10.759--Special Evaluation
Assistance for Rural Communities and Households, 10.761--Technical
Assistance and Training Grants, 10.762--Solid Waste Management Grants,
10.766--Community Facilities Training and Technical Assistance Grants,
10.767 Intermediary Relending Program, 10.768--Business and Industry
Loans, 10.863--Community Connect Grants, 10.865--Biorefinery Assistance
Program, 10.867--Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels, and 10.886--
Rural Broadband Access Loan and Loan Guarantee Program. The Assistance
Listings are available at SAM.gov.
Civil Rights Impact Analysis
RD has reviewed this final rule in accordance with USDA Regulation
4300-4, Civil Rights Impact Analysis, to identify any major civil
rights impacts the rule might have on program participants on the basis
of age, race, color, national origin, sex, disability, marital or
familial status. Based on the review and analysis of the rule and all
available data, issuance of this final rule is not likely to negatively
impact low and moderate-income populations, minority populations,
women, Indian tribes or persons with disability, by
[[Page 34957]]
virtue of their age, race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or
marital or familial status. No major civil rights impact is likely to
result from this final rule.
USDA Non-Discrimination Statement
In accordance with Federal civil rights laws and USDA civil rights
regulations and policies, the USDA, its Mission Areas, agencies, staff
offices, employees, and institutions participating in or administering
USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color,
national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender
expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status,
family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance
program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil
rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA
(not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing
deadlines vary by program or incident.
Program information may be made available in languages other than
English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of
communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large
print, audiotape, American Sign Language) should contact the
responsible Mission Area, agency, or staff office; or the 711 Relay
Service.
To file a program discrimination complaint, a complainant should
complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form,
which can be obtained online at www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ad-3027.pdf, from any USDA office, by calling (866) 632-9992,
or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the
complainant's name, address, telephone number, and a written
description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail
to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the
nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-
3027 form or letter must be submitted to USDA by:
(1) Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant
Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-9410; or
(2) Fax: (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or
(3) Email: [email protected].
List of Subjects
7 CFR Part 1719
Electric power, Grant programs--energy, Loan programs--energy,
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Rural areas.
7 CFR Part 1738
Loan programs--communications, Rural areas, Telecommunications,
Telephone.
7 CFR Part 1739
Grant programs--communications, Rural areas, Telecommunications,
Telephone.
7 CFR Part 1774
Community development, Grant programs, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements, Rural areas, Waste treatment and disposal, Water supply.
7 CFR Part 1775
Business and industry, Community development, Community facilities,
Grant programs--housing and community development, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements, Rural areas, Waste treatment and disposal,
Water supply, Watersheds.
7 CFR Part 3570
Administrative practice and procedure, Fair housing, Grant
programs--housing and community development, Housing, Low and moderate
income housing, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Rural areas.
7 CFR Part 4274
Community development, Loan programs--business, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements, Rural areas.
7 CFR Part 4279
Community development, Energy, Energy conservation, Fees, Grant
programs, Loan programs--business, Loan programs--housing and community
development, Renewable energy, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements, Rural areas.
7 CFR Part 4280
Business and industry, Energy, Grant programs--business, Loan
programs--business, Rural areas.
7 CFR Part 4288
Administrative practice and procedure, Biobased products, Energy,
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
Accordingly, for the reasons set forth in the preamble, the Agency
amends 7 CFR parts 1719, 1738, 1739, 1774, 1775, 3570, 4274, 4279, 4280
and 4288 as follows:
PART 1719--RURAL ENERGY SAVINGS PROGRAM
0
1. The authority citation for part 1719 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8107a (Section 6407).
Subpart B--Application, Submission and Administration of RESP Loans
0
2. Amend Sec. 1719.5 by revising paragraph (b)(2)(ii) to read as
follows:
Sec. 1719.5 Application process and required information.
* * * * *
(b) * * *
(2) * * *
(ii) The Applicant's tax identification number, SAM Managed
Identifier (SAMMI), Unique Entity Identifier, and such similar
information as it may be subsequently amended or required for Federal
funding.
* * * * *
PART 1738--RURAL BROADBAND LOANS, LOAN/GRANT COMBINATIONS, AND LOAN
GUARANTEES
0
3. The authority citation for part 1738 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 901 et seq.
Subpart E--Loan and Loan/Grant Combination Application Review and
Underwriting
0
4. Amend Sec. 1738.202 by:
0
a. Removing paragraph (b);
0
b. Redesignating paragraphs (c) through (e) as paragraphs (b) through
(d), respectively; and
0
c. Revising newly redesignated paragraph (b).
The revision reads as follows:
Sec. 1738.202 Elements of a complete application.
* * * * *
(b) SAM registration. Prior to submitting an application, all
Applicants requesting loan/grant combination funds must register in the
System for Award Management (SAM) at https://sam.gov/ and provide a
Unique Entity Identifier as part of the application. SAM registration
must be active with current data at all times, from the application
review throughout the active Federal Award. To maintain the required
registration in the SAM database, annual renewal is required with a
review and update of all information. The Applicant must ensure that
the information in the database is current, accurate, and complete.
* * * * *
[[Page 34958]]
PART 1739--BROADBAND GRANT PROGRAM
0
5. The authority citation for part 1739 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 901 et seq.
Subpart A--Community Connect Grant Program
0
6. Amend Sec. 1739.10 by:
0
a. Removing paragraph (c);
0
b. Redesignating paragraph (d) as paragraph (c); and
0
c. Revising newly redesignated paragraph (c)(1).
The revision reads as follows:
Sec. 1739.10 Eligible applicant.
* * * * *
(c) * * *
(1) At the time of application, whether applying electronically or
by paper, each applicant must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and
an active registration in SAM before submitting its application in
accordance with 2 CFR part 25. Instructions for obtaining the UEI are
available at https://sam.gov/.
* * * * *
PART 1774--SPECIAL EVALUATION ASSISTANCE FOR RURAL COMMUNITIES AND
HOUSEHOLDS PROGRAM (SEARCH)
0
7. The authority citation for part 1774 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 1926(a)(2)(C).
Subpart A--General Provisions
Sec. 1774.2 [Amended]
0
8. Amend Sec. 1774.2 by removing the definition of ``DUNS Number''.
Subpart B--Grant Application Processing
0
9. Amend Sec. 1774.10 by revising paragraph (a) introductory text to
read as follows:
Sec. 1774.10 Applications.
(a) To file an application, an organization must provide their
Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) in accordance with 2 CFR part 25.
Instructions for obtaining the UEI are available at https://sam.gov/.
To file a complete application, the following should be submitted:
* * * * *
PART 1775--TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS
0
10. The authority citation for part 1775 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C. 1989; 16 U.S.C. 1005.
Subpart--A General Provisions
Sec. 1775.2 [Amended]
0
11. Amend Sec. 1775.2 by removing the definition of ``DUNS Number''.
Subpart B--Grant Application Processing
0
12. Amend Sec. 1775.10 by revising paragraphs (b)(3) and (c)
introductory text to read as follows:
Sec. 1775.10 Applications.
* * * * *
(b) * * *
(3) Electronic applications will be accepted prior to the filing
deadline through the Federal Government's eGrants website (Grants.gov)
at https://www.grants.gov. Applicants should refer to instructions
found on the Grants.gov website to submit an electronic application. A
Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) from the System for Award Management and
a Central Contractor Registry (CCR) registration is required prior to
electronic submission. The sign-up procedures, required by Grants.gov,
may take several business days to complete.
(c) Application requirements. To file an application, an
organization must provide their UEI in accordance with 2 CFR part 25.
Instructions for obtaining the UEI are available at https://sam.gov/.
To file a complete application, the following information should be
submitted:
* * * * *
PART 3570--COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
0
13. The authority citation for part 3570 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C. 1989.
Subpart F--Community Facilities Technical Assistance and Training
Grants
Sec. 3570.252 [Amended]
0
14. Amend Sec. 3570.252 by removing the definition of ``DUNS''.
0
15. Amend Sec. 3570.267 by revising paragraph (b) introductory text to
read as follows:
Sec. 3570.267 Applications.
* * * * *
(b) Application requirements. To file an application, an
organization must provide their Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) in
accordance with 2 CFR part 25. Instructions for obtaining the UEI are
available at https://sam.gov/. To file a complete application the
following information must be submitted:
* * * * *
PART 4274--DIRECT AND INSURED LOANMAKING
0
16. The authority citation for part 4274 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C. 1932 note; 7 U.S.C. 1989.
Subpart D--Intermediary Relending Program (IRP)
0
17. Amend Sec. 4274.352 by revising paragraph (a)(4)(i) to read as
follows:
Sec. 4274.352 Loan documentation for ultimate recipients.
* * * * *
(a) * * *
(4) * * *
(i) Name, address, Unique Entity Identifier, Federal ID number, and
North American Classification System (NAICS) Code of the ultimate
recipient;
* * * * *
PART 4279--GUARANTEED LOANMAKING
0
18. The authority citation for part 4279 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C. 1989; 7 U.S.C. 1932(a); and
Public Law 116-136, Division B, Title I.
Subpart B--Business and Industry Loans
0
19. Amend Sec. 4279.161 by revising the introductory text to read as
follows:
Sec. 4279.161 Filing preapplications and applications.
Borrowers and lenders are encouraged to file preapplications and
obtain Agency comments before completing an application. However, if
they prefer, borrowers and lenders may file a complete application
without filing a preapplication. The Agency will neither accept nor
process preapplications and applications unless a lender has agreed to
finance the proposal. For borrowers other than individuals, a Unique
Entity Identifier (UEI) is required. Instructions for obtaining the UEI
are available at https://sam.gov/. Guaranteed loans exceeding $600,000
must be submitted under the requirements specified in paragraph (b) of
this section. However, guaranteed loans of $600,000 and less may be
submitted under the requirements of either paragraph (b) or (c) of this
section.
* * * * *
[[Page 34959]]
Subpart C--Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product
Manufacturing Assistance Loans
0
20. Amend Sec. 4279.261 by revising paragraph (i) to read as follows:
Sec. 4279.261 Application for loan guarantee content.
* * * * *
(i) Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). For Borrowers other than
individuals, a UEI, which can be obtained online at https://sam.gov/.
* * * * *
PART 4280--LOANS AND GRANTS
0
21. The authority citation for part 4280 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 1989(a), 7 U.S.C. 2008s.
Subpart E--Rural Business Development Grants
0
22. Amend Sec. 4280.416 by revising paragraph (c)(3) to read as
follows:
Sec. 4280.416 Applicant eligibility.
* * * * *
(c) * * *
(3) Provide its Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) in each application
it submits to the Agency. The UEI is included on the Standard Form (SF)
424, ``Application for Federal Assistance.''
* * * * *
PART 4288--PAYMENT PROGRAMS
0
23. The authority citation for part 4288 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C. 1989.
Subpart A--Repowering Assistance Payments to Eligible Biorefineries
0
24. Amend Sec. 4288.20 by revising paragraph (b) introductory text to
read as follows:
Sec. 4288.20 Submittal of applications.
* * * * *
(b) Content and form of submission. Applicants must submit a signed
original and one copy of an application containing the information
specified in this section. The applicant must also furnish the Agency
the required documentation identified in Form RD 4288-4, ``Repowering
Assistance Program Application,'' to verify compliance with program
provisions before acceptance into the program. Note that applicants are
required to have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) (unless the applicant
is an individual). Instructions for obtaining the UEI are available at
https://sam.gov/. Applicants must submit to the Agency the documents
specified in paragraphs (b)(1) through (6) of this section.
* * * * *
Basil I. Gooden,
Under Secretary, Rural Development, United States Department of
Agriculture.
[FR Doc. 2024-09447 Filed 4-30-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-XY-P
