section_id,title_number,title_name,chapter,subchapter,part_number,part_name,subpart,subpart_name,section_number,section_heading,agency,authority,source_citation,amendment_citations,full_text
15:15:4.2.1.9.4.0.43.1,15,Commerce and Foreign Trade,XX,,2003,PART 2003—REGULATIONS OF TRADE POLICY STAFF COMMITTEE,,,,"§ 2003.0 Office, mailing address, telephone number, and hours.",NIST,,,,"(a) The office of the Committee is at room 729, 1800 G Street NW., Washington, DC 20506.

(b) All communications to the Committee should be addressed to the “Secretary, Trade Policy Staff Committee, Office of the Special Representative for Trade Negotiations, room 729, 1800 G Street, NW., Washington, DC 20506.”

(c) The telephone number of the office of the Committee is (202) 395-3395.

(d) The regular hours of the office of the Committee are from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on each business day, Monday through Friday."
15:15:4.2.1.9.4.0.43.2,15,Commerce and Foreign Trade,XX,,2003,PART 2003—REGULATIONS OF TRADE POLICY STAFF COMMITTEE,,,,§ 2003.1 Notice of public hearings.,NIST,,,"[40 FR 18421, Apr. 28, 1975, as amended at 40 FR 39498, Aug. 28, 1975; 40 FR 60042, Dec. 31, 1975]","The Committee shall publish in the  Federal Register  a notice of a proposed public hearing, the subject matter of the proposed public hearing, the period during which written briefs may be submitted, the period during which requests may be submitted to present oral testimony, and the time and place of the proposed public hearing, in the following instances:

(a) Upon publication of lists of articles by the President under section 131(a), or sections 503(a) and 131(a), of the Trade Act as a result of which public hearings are required to be held by section 133 of the Trade Act with respect to any matter relevant to a proposed trade agreement, or with respect to any matter relevant to the granting of generalized tariff preferences for the listed articles;

(b) Whenever the Special Representative or the Deputy Special Representative determines that public hearings in connection with the review of a request submitted pursuant to Part 2007 of these regulations, pertaining to the duty-free treatment accorded to articles under the GSP, are in the public interest.

(c) Upon instructions of the Special Representative."
15:15:4.2.1.9.4.0.43.3,15,Commerce and Foreign Trade,XX,,2003,PART 2003—REGULATIONS OF TRADE POLICY STAFF COMMITTEE,,,,§ 2003.2 Testimony and submission of written briefs.,NIST,,,"[40 FR 18421, Apr. 28, 1975, as amended at 40 FR 39498, Aug. 28, 1975]","(a) Participation by an interested party in a public hearing announced under § 2003.1 shall require the submission of a written brief before the close of the period announced, in the public notice for its submission. Such brief may be, but need not be, supplemented by the presentation of oral testimony in accordance with § 2003.4.

(b) A written brief by an interested party concerning any aspect of the trade agreements program or any related matter not subject to paragraph (a) of this section, and submitted pursuant to a public notice shall be submitted before the close of the period announced in the public notice for its submission.

(c) A written brief shall state clearly the position taken and shall describe with particularity the evidence supporting such position. It shall be submitted in not less than twenty (20) copies which shall be legibly typed, printed, or duplicated.

(d) In order to assure each party an opportunity to contest the information provided by other interested parties, the Committee will entertain rebuttal briefs filed by any party within a time limit specified by the Committee. Rebuttal briefs shall conform, in form and number, to the provisions of paragraph (c) of this section. Rebuttal briefs should be strictly limited to demonstrating errors of fact or analysis not pointed out in the briefs or hearings and should be as concise as possible.

(e) A written brief by an interested party concerning any aspect of the Trade Agreements Program or any related matter not subject to paragraph (a) or (b) of this section may be submitted at any time.

(f) The requirements in paragraphs (a) through (d) of this section may be waived by the Special Representative, the Deputy Special Representative, or the Chairman of the Committee for reasons of equity and the public interest."
15:15:4.2.1.9.4.0.43.4,15,Commerce and Foreign Trade,XX,,2003,PART 2003—REGULATIONS OF TRADE POLICY STAFF COMMITTEE,,,,§ 2003.3 [Reserved],NIST,,,,
15:15:4.2.1.9.4.0.43.5,15,Commerce and Foreign Trade,XX,,2003,PART 2003—REGULATIONS OF TRADE POLICY STAFF COMMITTEE,,,,§ 2003.4 Presentation of oral testimony at public hearings.,NIST,,,"[40 FR 18421, Apr. 28, 1975, as amended at 40 FR 39498, Aug. 28, 1975]","(a) A request by an interested party to present oral testimony at a public hearing shall be submitted in writing before the close of the period announced in the public notice for its submission, and shall state briefly the interest of the applicant and the position to be taken by the applicant. Such request will be granted only if a written brief has been prepared and submitted in accordance with § 2003.2. The requirements of this subpart may be waived by the Special Representative, the Deputy Special Representative or the Chairman of the Committee for reasons of equity and the public interest.

(b) After receipt and consideration of a request to present oral testimony at a public hearing, the Secretary of the Committee shall notify the applicant whether the request conforms to the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section, and if so, the time and place for the hearing and for his appearance, and the amount of time allotted for his oral testimony, and if not, will give the reasons why the request does not conform to the requirements.

(c) In presenting testimony, the interested party should supplement the information contained in the written brief, and should be prepared to answer questions relating to such information.

(d) A stenographic record shall be made of every public hearing."
15:15:4.2.1.9.4.0.43.6,15,Commerce and Foreign Trade,XX,,2003,PART 2003—REGULATIONS OF TRADE POLICY STAFF COMMITTEE,,,,§ 2003.5 Information open to public inspection.,NIST,,,,"(a) With the exception of information subject to § 2003.6, an interested party may, upon request, inspect at the office of the Committee:

(1) Any written request, brief, or similar submission of information;

(2) Any stenographic record of a public hearing;

(3) Other public written information concerning the trade agreements program and related matters.

(b) [Reserved]"
15:15:4.2.1.9.4.0.43.7,15,Commerce and Foreign Trade,XX,,2003,PART 2003—REGULATIONS OF TRADE POLICY STAFF COMMITTEE,,,,§ 2003.6 Information exempt from public inspection.,NIST,,,,"(a) The Committee shall exempt from public inspection business information submitted by an interested party if the Committee determines that such information concerns or relates to trade secrets and commercial and financial information the disclosure of which is not authorized by the interested party furnishing such information and is not required by law.

(b) A party requesting that the Committee exempt from public inspection business information submitted in writing shall clearly mark each page “ Business Confidential ” at the top.

(c) The Committee may deny a request that it exempt from public inspection any particular business information if it determines that such information is not entitled to exemption under paragraph (a) of this section. In the event of such denial, the party submitting the particular business information will be notified of the reasons for the denial and will be permitted to withdraw his submission."
24:24:5.1.1.1.3.0.1.1,24,Housing and Urban Development,XII,,2003,PART 2003—IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRIVACY ACT OF 1974,,,,§ 2003.1 Scope of the part and applicability of other HUD regulations.,HUD,,,,"(a)  General.  This part contains the regulations of the Office of Inspector General (“OIG”) implementing the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a). The regulations inform the public that the Inspector General has the responsibility for carrying out the requirements of the Privacy Act and for issuing internal OIG orders and directives in connection with the Privacy Act. These regulations apply to all records that are contained in systems of records maintained by the OIG and that are retrieved by an individual's name or personal identifier.

(b)  Applicability of part 16.  In addition to these regulations, the provisions of 24 CFR part 16 apply to the OIG, except that appendix A to part 16 is not applicable. The provisions of this part shall govern in the event of any conflict with the provisions of part 16."
24:24:5.1.1.1.3.0.1.2,24,Housing and Urban Development,XII,,2003,PART 2003—IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRIVACY ACT OF 1974,,,,§ 2003.2 Definitions.,HUD,,,"[59 FR 14098, Mar. 25, 1994]","For purposes of this part:

Department  means the OIG, except that in the context of §§ 16.1(d); 16.11(b) (1), (3), and (4); and 16.12(e), when those sections are incorporated by reference, the term means the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Privacy Act Officer  means an Assistant Inspector General.

Privacy Appeals Officer  means the Inspector General."
24:24:5.1.1.1.3.0.1.3,24,Housing and Urban Development,XII,,2003,PART 2003—IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRIVACY ACT OF 1974,,,,§ 2003.3 Requests for records.,HUD,,,,"(a) A request from an individual for an OIG record about that individual which is not contained in an OIG system of records will be considered to be a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request and will be processed under 24 CFR part 2002.

(b) A request from an individual for an OIG record about that individual which is contained in an OIG system of records will be processed under both the Privacy Act and the FOIA in order to ensure maximum access under both statutes. This practice will be undertaken regardless of how an individual characterizes the request.

(1) The procedures for inquiries and requirements for access to records under the Privacy Act are more specifically set forth in 24 CFR part 16, except that appendix A to part 16 does not apply to the OIG.

(2) An individual will not be required to state a reason or otherwise justify his or her request for access to a record."
24:24:5.1.1.1.3.0.1.4,24,Housing and Urban Development,XII,,2003,PART 2003—IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRIVACY ACT OF 1974,,,,§ 2003.4 Officials to receive requests and inquiries.,HUD,,,"[57 FR 62142, Dec. 29, 1992, as amended at 59 FR 14098, Mar. 25, 1994]","Officials to receive requests and inquiries for access to, or correction of, records in OIG systems of records are the Privacy Act Officers described in § 2003.2 of this part. Written requests may be addressed to the appropriate Privacy Act Officer at: Office of Inspector General, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Washington, DC 20410."
24:24:5.1.1.1.3.0.1.5,24,Housing and Urban Development,XII,,2003,PART 2003—IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRIVACY ACT OF 1974,,,,§ 2003.5 Initial denial of access to records.,HUD,,,,"(a) Access by an individual to a record about that individual which is contained in an OIG system of records will be denied only upon a determination by the Privacy Act Officer that:

(1) The record was compiled in reasonable anticipation of a civil action or proceeding; or the record is subject to a Privacy Act exemption under § 2003.8 or § 2003.9 of this part; and

(2) The record is also subject to a FOIA exemption under § 2002.21(b) of this chapter.

(b) If a request is partially denied, any portions of the responsive record that can be reasonably segregated will be provided to the individual after deletion of those portions determined to be exempt.

(c) The provisions of 24 CFR 16.6(b) and 16.7, concerning notification of an initial denial of access and administrative review of the initial denial, apply to the OIG, except that:

(1) The final determination of the Inspector General, as Privacy Appeals Officer for the OIG, will be in writing and will constitute final action of the Department on a request for access to a record in an OIG system of records; and

(2) If the denial of the request is in whole or in part upheld, the final determination of the Inspector General will include notice of the right to judicial review."
24:24:5.1.1.1.3.0.1.6,24,Housing and Urban Development,XII,,2003,PART 2003—IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRIVACY ACT OF 1974,,,,§ 2003.6 Disclosure of a record to a person other than the individual to whom it pertains.,HUD,,,,"(a) The OIG may disclose an individual's record to a person other than the individual to whom the record pertains in the following instances:

(1) Upon written request by the individual, including authorization under 24 CFR 16.5(e);

(2) With the prior written consent of the individual;

(3) To a parent or legal guardian of the individual under 5 U.S.C. 552a(h); or

(4) When permitted by the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a(b) (1) through (12).

(b) [Reserved]"
24:24:5.1.1.1.3.0.1.7,24,Housing and Urban Development,XII,,2003,PART 2003—IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRIVACY ACT OF 1974,,,,§ 2003.7 Authority to make law enforcement-related requests for records maintained by other agencies.,HUD,,,,"(a) The Inspector General is authorized by written delegation from the Secretary of HUD and under the Inspector General Act to make written requests under 5 U.S.C. 552a(b)(7) for transfer of records maintained by other agencies which are necessary to carry out an authorized law enforcement activity under the Inspector General Act.

(b) The Inspector General delegates the authority under paragraph (a) of this section to the following OIG officials:

(1) Deputy Inspector General;

(2) Assistant Inspector General for Audit;

(3) Assistant Inspector General for Investigation; and

(4) Assistant Inspector General for Management and Policy.

(c) The officials listed in paragraph (b) of this section may not redelegate the authority described in paragraph (a) of this section."
24:24:5.1.1.1.3.0.1.8,24,Housing and Urban Development,XII,,2003,PART 2003—IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRIVACY ACT OF 1974,,,,§ 2003.8 General exemptions.,HUD,,,"[57 FR 62142, Dec. 29, 1992, as amended at 65 FR 50904, Aug. 21, 2000]","(a) The systems of records entitled “Investigative Files of the Office of Inspector General,” “Hotline Complaint Files of the Office of Inspector General,” “Name Indices System of the Office of Inspector General,” and “AutoInvestigation of the Office of Inspector General” consist, in part, of information compiled by the OIG for the purpose of criminal law enforcement investigations. Therefore, to the extent that information in these systems falls within the scope of exemption (j)(2) of the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2), these systems of records are exempt from the requirements of the following subsections of the Privacy Act, for the reasons stated in paragraphs (a)(1) through (6) of this section.

(1) From subsection (c)(3), because release of an accounting of disclosures to an individual who is the subject of an investigation could reveal the nature and scope of the investigation and could result in the altering or destruction of evidence, improper influencing of witnesses, and other evasive actions that could impede or compromise the investigation.

(2) From subsection (d)(1), because release of investigative records to an individual who is the subject of an investigation could interfere with pending or prospective law enforcement proceedings, constitute an unwarranted invasion of the personal privacy of third parties, reveal the identity of confidential sources, or reveal sensitive investigative techniques and procedures.

(3) From subsection (d)(2), because amendment or correction of investigative records could interfere with pending or prospective law enforcement proceedings, or could impose an impossible administrative and investigative burden by requiring the OIG to continuously retrograde its investigations attempting to resolve questions of accuracy, relevance, timeliness and completeness.

(4) From subsection (e)(1), because it is often impossible to determine relevance or necessity of information in the early stages of an investigation. The value of such information is a question of judgment and timing; what appears relevant and necessary when collected may ultimately be evaluated and viewed as irrelevant and unnecessary to an investigation. In addition, the OIG may obtain information concerning the violation of laws other than those within the scope of its jurisdiction. In the interest of effective law enforcement, the OIG should retain this information because it may aid in establishing patterns of unlawful activity and provide leads for other law enforcement agencies. Further, in obtaining evidence during an investigation, information may be provided to the OIG which relates to matters incidental to the main purpose of the investigation but which may be pertinent to the investigative jurisdiction of another agency. Such information cannot readily be identified.

(5) From subsection (e)(2), because in a law enforcement investigation it is usually counterproductive to collect information to the greatest extent practicable directly from the subject thereof. It is not always feasible to rely upon the subject of an investigation as a source for information which may implicate him or her in illegal activities. In addition, collecting information directly from the subject could seriously compromise an investigation by prematurely revealing its nature and scope, or could provide the subject with an opportunity to conceal criminal activities, or intimidate potential sources, in order to avoid apprehension.

(6) From subsection (e)(3), because providing such notice to the subject of an investigation, or to other individual sources, could seriously compromise the investigation by prematurely revealing its nature and scope, or could inhibit cooperation, permit the subject to evade apprehension, or cause interference with undercover activities.

(b) [Reserved]"
24:24:5.1.1.1.3.0.1.9,24,Housing and Urban Development,XII,,2003,PART 2003—IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRIVACY ACT OF 1974,,,,§ 2003.9 Specific exemptions.,HUD,,,"[57 FR 62142, Dec. 29, 1992, as amended at 65 FR 50904, Aug. 21, 2000]","(a) The systems of records entitled “Investigative Files of the Office of Inspector General,” “Hotline Complaint Files of the Office of Inspector General,” “Name Indices System of the Office of Inspector General,” and “AutoInvestigation of the Office of Inspector General” consist, in part, of investigatory material compiled by the OIG for law enforcement purposes. Therefore, to the extent that information in these systems falls within the coverage of exemption (k)(2) of the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2), these systems of records are exempt from the requirements of the following subsections of the Privacy Act, for the reasons stated in paragraphs (a) (1) through (4) of this section.

(1) From subsection (c)(3), because release of an accounting of disclosures to an individual who is the subject of an investigation could reveal the nature and scope of the investigation and could result in the altering or destruction of evidence, improper influencing of witnesses, and other evasive actions that could impede or compromise the investigation.

(2) From subsection (d)(1), because release of investigative records to an individual who is the subject of an investigation could interfere with pending or prospective law enforcement proceedings, constitute an unwarranted invasion of the personal privacy of third parties, reveal the identity of confidential sources, or reveal sensitive investigative techniques and procedures.

(3) From subsection (d)(2), because amendment or correction of investigative records could interfere with pending or prospective law enforcement proceedings, or could impose an impossible administrative and investigative burden by requiring the OIG to continuously retrograde its investigations attempting to resolve questions of accuracy, relevance, timeliness and completeness.

(4) From subsection (e)(1), because it is often impossible to determine relevance or necessity of information in the early stages of an investigation. The value of such information is a question of judgment and timing; what appears relevant and necessary when collected may ultimately be evaluated and viewed as irrelevant and unnecessary to an investigation. In addition, the OIG may obtain information concerning the violation of laws other than those within the scope of its jurisdiction. In the interest of effective law enforcement, the OIG should retain this information because it may aid in establishing patterns of unlawful activity and provide leads for other law enforcement agencies. Further, in obtaining evidence during an investigation, information may be provided to the OIG which relates to matters incidental to the main purpose of the investigation but which may be pertinent to the investigative jurisdiction of another agency. Such information cannot readily be identified.

(b) The systems of records entitled “Investigative Files of the Office of Inspector General,” “Hotline Complaint Files of the Office of Inspector General,” “Name Indices System of the Office of Inspector General,” and “Autoinvestigation of the Office of Inspector General” consist in part of investigatory material compiled by the OIG for the purpose of determining suitability, eligibility, or qualifications for Federal civilian employment or Federal contracts, the release of which would reveal the identity of a source who furnished information to the Government under an express promise that the identity of the source would be held in confidence. Therefore, to the extent that information in these systems fall within the coverage of exemption (k)(5) of the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5), these systems of records are exempt from the requirements of subsection (d)(1), because release would reveal the identity of a source who furnished information to the Government under an express promise of confidentiality. Revealing the identity of a confidential source could impede future cooperation by sources, and could result in harassment or harm to such sources."
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.1,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§ 2003.1 Definitions.,RHS,,,"[62 FR 67259, Dec. 24, 1997, as amended at 84 FR 59923, Nov. 7, 2019]","EEO —the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972, 42 U.S.C. § 2000e  et seq.

O&M —Operations and Management.

P&P —Policy and Planning.

RBS —Rural Business-Cooperative Development Service, USDA, or any successor agency.

RHS —Rural Housing Service, USDA, or any successor agency.

Rural Development —Rural Development mission area of USDA.

RUS —Rural Utilities Service, USDA, or any successor agency.

Secretary —the Secretary of USDA.

USDA —the United States Department of Agriculture."
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.10,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§§ 2003.15-2003.16 [Reserved],RHS,,,,
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.11,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§ 2003.17 Availability of information.,RHS,,,,"Information concerning Rural Development programs and agencies may be obtained from the Office of Communications, Rural Development, U. S. Department of Agriculture, STOP 0705, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0705."
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.12,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§ 2003.18 Functional organization of RHS.,RHS,,,"[62 FR 67259, Dec. 24, 1997, as amended at 64 FR 32388, June 17, 1999]","(a)  General.  The Secretary established RHS pursuant to section 233 of the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 (7 U.S.C. 6943).

(b)  Office of the Administrator.  According to 7 CFR 2.49, the Administrator has responsibility for implementing programs aimed at delivering loans and grant assistance to rural Americans and their communities in obtaining adequate and affordable housing and community facilities, in accordance with Title V of the Housing Act of 1949 (42 U.S.C. 1471  et seq. ) and the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1921  et seq. ).

(1)  Legislative Affairs Staff.  The duties and responsibilities of this staff have now been aligned under the Office of Communication, headed by a director who reports directly to the Under Secretary for O&M. The Office of Communication is responsible for providing and carrying out legislative, public communication, and information services for the Rural Development mission area.

(2)  Office of Program Support Staff.  The Program Support Staff is headed by a staff director who is responsible to the Administrator for monitoring managerial and technical effectiveness of RHS programs. The staff coordinates review and analysis of legislation, Executive Orders, OMB circulars, and Department regulations for their impact on Agency programs. The staff develops, implements, and reports on architectural and environmental policies, in cooperation with the Department. Staff responsibilities also include managing RHS's Hazardous Waste Management Fund, coordinating the Debarment and Suspension process for RHS, tracking the use of Program Loan Cost Expense funds, and maintaining the RHS Internet “Home Page.”

(3)  Office of Deputy Administrator, Single Family Housing.  Headed by the Deputy Administrator, Single Family Housing, this office is responsible to the Administrator for the development and implementation of RHS's Single Family Housing programs, which extend supervised housing credit to rural people of limited resources, for adequate, modest, decent, safe, and sanitary homes. The office is responsible for administering and managing sections 502 and 504 Rural Housing direct and guaranteed loan and grant programs, Rural Housing and Self-Help Site loans, the Self-Help Technical Assistance grant program, Housing Application Packaging and Technical and Supervisory Assistance grants, and Home Improvement and Repaid loans and grants. The office directs the following three divisions: Single Family Housing Processing Division, Single Family Housing Servicing and Property Management Division, and Single Family Housing Centralized Servicing Center in St. Louis, Mo.

(i)  Office of Single Family Housing Processing Division.  Headed by a division director, this division is responsible for development and nationwide implementation of policies on processing Single Family Housing direct and guaranteed program loans. In addition, the division provides direction on the following: the Rural Housing Targeted Area Set-Aside program, debarments, payment assistance, title clearance and loan closing, site/subdivision development, Deferred Mortgage Payment Program; construction defects, credit reports, appraisals, Manufactured Housing, coordinated assessment reviews, Home Buyer's Counseling/Education Program, and allocation of loan and grant program funds.

(ii)  Office of Single Family Housing Servicing and Property Management Division.  Headed by a division director, this division is responsible for the development and implementation of nationwide policies for servicing RHS's multi-billion dollar portfolio of Single Family Housing loans, and managing and selling Single Family Housing inventory properties. The division also conducts state program evaluations, identifies program weaknesses, makes recommendations for improvements, and identifies corrective actions.

(iii)  Office of Single Family Housing Centralized Servicing Center (CSC)—St. Louis, Missouri.  Headed by a director, CSC is responsible for centrally servicing RHS's multi-billion dollar portfolio of Single Family Housing loans. CSC provides interest credit or payment assistance renewals, performs escrow activities for real estate taxes and property hazard insurance, oversees collection of loan payments, and grants interest credit, payment assistance, and moratoria.

(4)  Office of the Deputy Administrator, Multi-Family Housing Division.  Headed by the Deputy Administrator, Multi-Family Housing, this office is responsible for the development and nationwide implementation of RHS's Multi-Family Housing programs, which extend supervised housing credit to rural residents an opportunity to have decent, safe, and sanitary rental housing. The following programs are administered and managed by this office: Section 515 Rural Rental Housing, Rural Cooperative and Congregate Housing Programs, Section 521 Rental Assistance, Farm Labor Housing loan and grant programs, Housing Preservation Grants, rural housing vouchers, and Housing Application Packaging Grants. This office directs the following two divisions:

(i)  Multi-Family Housing Processing Division.  Headed by a division director, this division is responsible for the development and nationwide implementation of policies on processing Multi-Family Housing program loans. The division manages the following program areas: elderly and family rental housing, Farm Labor Housing loans and grants, outreach contacts, congregate facilities, Housing Preservation Grants, cooperative housing, rural housing vouchers, appraisals, Congregate Housing Services Grants, Rental Assistance, Housing Application Packaging Grants, targeted area and nonprofit set asides, Multi-Family Housing suspensions and debarments, title clearance and loan closing, allocation and monitoring of loan and grant funds, adverse decisions and appeals, commercial credit reports, individual credit reports, and, site development.

(ii)  Multi-Family Housing Portfolio Management Division.  Headed by a division director, this division is responsible for the development and institution of policies on the management and servicing of the nationwide Multi-Family Housing programs. The Division implements current and long range plans for servicing Rural Rental Housing loans, Labor Housing loans and grants, and Rental Assistance or similar tenant subsidies.

(5)  Office of the Deputy Administrator, Community Programs.  Headed by the Deputy Administrator, Community Programs, this office is responsible for overseeing the administration and management of Community Facilities loans and grants to hospitals and nursing homes, police and fire stations, libraries, schools, adult and child care centers, etc. The office monitors and evaluates the administration of loan and grant programs on a nationwide basis and provides guidance and direction for community programs through two divisions, Community Programs Loan Processing Division and Servicing and Special Authorities Division.

(i)  Community Programs Loan Processing Division.  Headed by a director, this division is responsible for the overall administration, policy development, fund distribution, and processing of Community Facilities loans and grants and other loan and grant programs assigned to the Division.

(ii)  Servicing and Special Authorities Division.  Headed by a division director, this division is responsible for the overall administration, policy development, and servicing of the Community Facilities loan and grant programs. The division conducts program evaluations, identifies program weaknesses, makes recommendations for improvements, and identifies corrective actions. The division also administers and services Nonprofit National Corporation loans and grants."
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.13,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§§ 2003.19-2003.21 [Reserved],RHS,,,,
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.14,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§ 2003.22 Functional organization of RUS.,RHS,,,"[62 FR 67259, Dec. 24, 1997, as amended at 84 FR 59923, Nov. 7, 2019]","(a)  General.  The Secretary established RUS pursuant to § 232 of the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 (7 U.S.C. 6942).

(b)  Office of the Administrator.  According to 7 CFR 2.47, the Administrator has responsibility for managing and administering the programs and support functions of RUS to provide financial and technical support for rural infrastructure to include electrification, clean drinking water, telecommunications, and water disposal systems, pursuant to the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1921  et. seq. ), and the Rural Electrification Act of 1936, as amended (7 U.S.C. 901  et. seq. ). The office develops and implements strategic plans concerning the Rural Electrification Act of 1936, as amended.

(1)  Borrower and Program Support Services.  Borrower and Program Support Services consist of the three following staffs which are responsible to the Administrator for planning and carrying out a variety of program and administrative services in support of all RUS programs, and providing expert advice and coordination for the Administrator:

(i)  Administrative Liaison Staff.  Headed by a staff director, this staff advises the Administrator on management issues and policies relating to human resources, EEO, labor-management partnership, administrative services, travel management, automated information systems, and administrative budgeting and funds control.

(ii)  Program Accounting Services Division.  Headed by a division director, this division develops and evaluates the accounting systems and procedures of Electric, Telecommunications, and Water and Wastewater borrowers; assures that accounting policies, systems, and procedures meet regulatory, Departmental, General Accounting Office, OMB, and Treasury Department requirements; examines borrowers' records and operations, and reviews expenditures of loans and other funds; develops audit requirements; and approves Certified Public Accountants to perform audits of borrowers.

(iii)  Program and Financial Services Staff.  Headed by a staff director, this staff evaluates the financial conditions of troubled borrowers, negotiates settlements of delinquent loans, and makes recommendations to program Assistant Administrators on ways to improve the financial health of borrowers.

(2)  Office of Assistant Administrator—Electric Program.  Headed by the Assistant Administrator—Electric Program, this office is responsible to the Administrator for directing and coordinating the Rural Electrification program of RUS nationwide. This office develops, maintains, and implements regulations and program procedures on processing and approving loans and loan-related activities for rural electric borrowers. The office directs the following three divisions:

(i)  Electric Regional Divisions.  Headed by division directors, these two divisions are responsible for administering the Rural Electrification program in specific geographic areas and serving as the single point of contact for all distribution borrowers. The divisions provide guidance to borrowers on RUS loan policies and procedures, maintain oversight of borrower rate actions, and make recommendations to the Administrator on borrower applications for RUS financing. The divisions also assure that power plant, distribution, and transmission systems and facilities are designed and constructed in accordance with the terms of the loan and proper engineering practices and specifications.

(ii)  Power Supply Division.  Headed by a division director, this division is responsible for administering the Rural Electrification program responsibilities with regard to power supply borrowers nationwide and serves as primary point of contact between RUS and all such borrowers. The division develops and maintains a loan processing program for Rural Electrification Act purposes, and develops and administers engineering and construction policies related to planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance for power supply borrowers.

(iii)  Electric Staff Division.  Headed by a division director, this division is responsible for engineering activities related to the design, construction, and technical operations and maintenance of power plants; distribution of power; and transmission systems and facilities, including load management and communications. The division develops criteria and techniques for evaluating the financing and performance of electric borrowers and forecasting borrowers' future power needs; and maintains financial expertise on the distribution and power supply loan program, and retail and wholesale rates.

(3)  Office of Assistant Administrator — Telecommunications Program.  Headed by the Assistant Administrator—Telecommunications Program, this office is responsible to the Administrator for directing and coordinating the National Rural Telecommunications, Distance Learning, and Telemedicine programs of RUS. The Assistant Administrator, Telecommunications Program, is responsible for developing, maintaining, and implementing regulations and program procedures on the processing and approval of grants, loans, and loan-related activities for all rural telecommunications borrowers and grant recipients. The office directs the following three divisions:

(i)  Telecommunications Standards Division.  Headed by a division director, this division is responsible for engineering staff activities related to the design, construction, and technical operation and maintenance of rural telecommunications systems and facilities. The office develops engineering practices, policies, and technical data related to borrowers' telecommunications systems; and evaluates the application of new communications network technology, including distance learning and telemedicine, to rural telecommunications systems.

(ii)  Advanced Telecommunications Services Staff.  Headed by a staff director, this staff primarily serves the Assistant Administrator, Telecommunications Program in the role of the Assistant Governor of the RTB. The office performs analyses and makes recommendations to the AAT on issues raised by the RTB Governor, Board of Directors, or RTB borrowers. This staff maintains official records for the RTB Board and prepares minutes of RTB Board meetings. The staff director serves as the Assistant Secretary to the RTB. The staff performs the calculations necessary to determine the cost of money rate to RTB borrowers and recommends and develops program- wide procedures for loan and grant programs. The office is responsible for the Telecommunications Program's home page on the Internet.

(iii)  Telecommunications Area Offices.  Headed by area directors, these four offices are responsible for administering the Telecommunications, Distance Learning, and Telemedicine programs for specific geographic areas, and serving as the single point of contact for all program applicants and borrowers within their respective areas. The offices provide guidance to applicants and borrowers on RUS loan policies and procedures and make recommendations to the Administrator on applications for loans, guarantees, and grants. The offices assure that borrower systems and facilities are designed and constructed in accordance with the terms of the loan, acceptable engineering practices and specifications, and acceptable loan security standards.

(4)  Office of the Assistant Administrator—Water and Environmental Programs.  Headed by the Assistant Administrator, Water and Environmental Programs, this office is responsible to the Administrator for directing and coordinating a nationwide Water and Waste Disposal Program for RUS as authorized under Section 306 of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1926). The office oversees administration of RUS policies on making and servicing loans and grants for water and waste facilities in rural America, and the development of engineering policies, and practices related to the construction and operation of community water and waste disposal systems. This office is responsible for development and coordination of environmental programs with regard to the Water and Waste Disposal Program and directs the following two divisions:

(i)  Water Programs Division.  Headed by the division director, this division is responsible for administering the Water and Waste Disposal loan and grant making and servicing and special authorities activities nationwide. This office also makes allocation of loan and grant funds to field offices and manages National Office reserves.

(ii)  Engineering and Environmental Staff.  Headed by a staff director, this staff is responsible for engineering activities at all stages of program implementation, including: review of preliminary engineering plans and specifications, procurement practices, contract awards, construction monitoring, and system operation and maintenance. The staff also develops Agency engineering practices, policies, and technical data related to the construction and operation of community water and waste disposal systems. The staff is responsible for coordinating environmental policy and providing technical support in areas such as: hazardous waste, debarment and suspension, flood insurance, drug free workplace requirements, and computer program software."
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.15,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§§ 2003.23-2003.25 [Reserved],RHS,,,,
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.16,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§ 2003.26 Functional organization of RBS.,RHS,,,,"(a)  General.  The Secretary established RBS pursuant to section 234 of the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 (7 U.S.C. 6944).

(b)  Office of the Administrator.  According to 7 CFR 2.48, the Administrator is responsible for managing and administering the programs and support functions of RBS to provide assistance to disadvantaged communities through grants and loans and technical assistance to businesses and communities for rural citizens and cooperatives, pursuant to the following authorities: the Rural Electrification Act of 1936, as amended (7 U.S.C. 940c and 950aa  et seq. ), the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1921  et seq. ), the Cooperative Marketing Act of 1926 (7 U.S.C. 451-457), the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 (7 U.S.C. 1621-1627), and the Food Security Act of 1985 (7 U.S.C. 1932). These grants, loans, and technical assistance improve community welfare by enhancing organizational and management skills, developing effective economic strategies, and expanding markets for a wide range of rural products and services.

(1)  Resources Coordination Staff.  Headed by the staff director, this staff is responsible to the Administrator for preparing legislative initiatives and modifications for program enhancement. The staff monitors legislative and regulatory proposals that potentially impact RBS functions. The staff serves as liaison on budgetary and financial management matters between RBS staff and the Office of the Controller, and assists the Administrator in presenting and supporting RBS's budget and program plans. The staff also advises the Administrator and RBS officials on management issues and policies related to: human resources, labor relations, civil rights, EEO, space, equipment, travel, Senior Executive Service and Schedule C activities, contracting, automated information systems, and accounting. The staff provides analysis and recommendations on the effectiveness of administrative and management activities, and performs liaison functions between RBS and the Office of the Deputy Under Secretary for O&M on a wide variety of administrative functions.

(2)  Office of the Deputy Administrator, Business Programs.  Headed by the Deputy Administrator, Business Programs, this office is responsible to the Administrator for overseeing and coordinating the Business and Industry Guaranteed and Direct Loan programs, Intermediary Relending Program loans, Rural Business Enterprise grants, Rural Business Opportunity grants, Rural Economic Development loan and grant programs, and the Rural Venture Capital Demonstration Program. The office participates in policy planning, and program development and evaluation. It also directs the following three divisions:

(i)  Processing Division.  Headed by the division director, this division is responsible for developing and maintaining loan processing regulations, and directs the processing and approval of guaranteed and direct business and industry loans, and the Rural Venture Capital Demonstration Program. It provides technical assistance to field employees and borrowers on loan processing and develops approval criteria and performance standards for loans. The division recommends plans, programs, and activities related to business loan programs and provides environmental guidance and support.

(ii)  Servicing Division.  Headed by the division director, this office is responsible for developing and maintaining servicing regulations. It directs and provides technical assistance to field employees and borrowers on servicing business loans and grants. The division reviews large, complex, or potentially controversial loan and grant dockets related to loan servicing and recommends servicing plans, programs, and activities related to business loan and grant programs.

(iii)  Specialty Lenders Division.  Headed by the division director, this office is responsible for directing and developing and maintaining regulations concerning the processing and approval of Intermediary Relending loans, Rural Business Enterprise grants, Rural Business Opportunity grants, and Rural Economic Development loan and grant programs. The division provides technical assistance to field employees and borrowers on loan and grant processing and other activities. It also develops approval criteria and performance standards and recommends plans, programs, and activities related to business loan and grant programs.

(3)  Office of the Deputy Administrator, Cooperative Services Programs.  Headed by the Deputy Administrator, Cooperative Services Programs, this office is responsible to the Administrator for providing service to cooperative associations by administering a program of research and analysis of economic, social, legal, financial, and other related issues concerning cooperatives. The office administers programs to assist cooperatives in the organization and management of their associations and a program for economic research and analysis of the marketing aspects of cooperatives. The division administers and monitors activities of the National Sheep Industry Improvement Center and the Appropriate Technology Transfer to Rural Areas Program, and the Rural Cooperative Development Grant Program. The office directs the following three divisions:

(i)  Cooperative Marketing Division.  Headed by the division director, this division is responsible for participating in the formulation of National policies and procedures on cooperative marketing. The division conducts research and analysis and gives technical assistance to farmer cooperatives on cooperative marketing of certain crops, livestock, aquaculture, forestry, poultry, semen, milk, and dairy products to improve their market performance and economic position.

(ii)  Cooperative Development Division.  Headed by the division director, this division is responsible for participating in the formulation of National policies and procedures on cooperative development. The office conducts evaluations and analysis of proposed new cooperatives to develop plans for implementing feasible operations, and advises and assists rural resident groups and developing cooperatives in implementing sound business plans for new cooperatives. It provides research, analysis, and technical assistance to rural residents on cooperative development initiatives and strategies to improve economic conditions through cooperative efforts.

(iii)  Cooperative Resource Management Division.  Headed by the division director, this division is responsible for participating in the formulating of National policies and procedures on cooperative resource management. The division conducts research and analysis and gives technical assistance to cooperatives on their overall structure, strategic management and planning, financial issues, and operational characteristics to improve their use of resources, financial policies, and ability to adapt to market conditions. The division conducts research and analysis of policy, taxation, Federal laws, State statutes, and common laws that apply to cooperative incorporation, structure, and operation to assist cooperatives in meeting legal requirements.

(4)  Office of the Deputy Administrator, Community Development.  Headed by the Deputy Administrator, Community Development, this office is responsible to the Under Secretary, Rural Development, for coordinating and overseeing all functions in the Community Outreach and Empowerment Program areas. The office assists in providing leadership and coordination to National and local rural economic and community development efforts. For appropriation and accounting purposes, this office is located under RBS. The office directs the following two divisions:

(i)  Empowerment Program Division.  Headed by the division director, this division is responsible for formulating policies and developing plans, standards, procedures, and schedules for accomplishing RBS activities related to “community empowerment programs”, including EZ/EC, AmeriCorps, and other initiatives. The office develops informational materials and provides technical advice and services to support States on community empowerment programs. It also generates information about rural conditions and strategies and techniques for promoting rural economic development for community empowerment programs.

(ii)  Community Outreach Division.  Headed by the division director, this division is responsible for designing and overseeing overall systems and developing resources to support State and community level implementation activities for RBS programs. The office designs program delivery systems and tools, removes impediments to effective community-level action, supports field offices with specialized skills, and establishes partnerships with National organizations with grass-roots membership to assure that programs and initiatives are designed and implemented in a way that empowers communities. It develops methods for working with rural business intermediaries to assist them in providing technical assistance to new, small business, and provides Internet-based services to 1890 Land-grant universities, EZ/EC, and AmeriCorps volunteers, linking RBS information support to communities with high levels of need.

(5)  Alternative Agricultural Research and Commercialization Corporation.  Headed by a director, this Corporation is responsible for providing and monitoring financial assistance for the development and commercialization of new nonfood and nonfeed products from agricultural and forestry commodities in accordance with 7 U.S.C. 5901  et seq.  The Corporation acts as a catalyst in forming private and public partnerships and promotes new uses of agricultural materials. It expands market opportunities for U.S. farmers through development of value-added industrial products and promotes environmentally friendly products. For budget and accounting purposes, this office is assigned to RBS. The director of the Corporation is responsible to the Office of the Secretary."
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.17,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§§ 2003.27-2003.50 [Reserved],RHS,,,,
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.2,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§ 2003.2 General.,RHS,,,,"The Rural Development mission area of the Department of Agriculture was established as a result of the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994, Title II of Pub.L. 103-354. Rural Development's basic organization consists of Headquarters in Washington, D.C. and 47 State Offices. Headquarters maintains overall planning, coordination, and control of Rural Development agency programs. Administrators head RHS, RBS, and RUS under the direction of the Under Secretary for Rural Development. State Directors head the State Offices and are directly responsible to the Under Secretary for the execution of all Rural Development agency programs within the boundaries of their states."
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.3,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§§ 2003.3-2003.4 [Reserved],RHS,,,,
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.4,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§ 2003.5 Headquarters organization.,RHS,,,,"(a) The Rural Development Headquarters is comprised of:

(1) The Office of the Under Secretary;

(2) Two Deputy Under Secretaries; and,

(3) Three Administrators and their staffs.

(b) The Rural Development Headquarters is located at 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC. 20250-0700"
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.5,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§ 2003.6 Office of the Under Secretary.,RHS,,,,"In accordance with 7 CFR § 2.17 the Secretary has delegated to the Under Secretary, Rural Development, authority to manage and administer programs and support functions of the Rural Development mission area.

(a)  Office of the Deputy Under Secretary for P&P.  This office is headed by the Deputy Under Secretary for P&P. The Under Secretary, Rural Development, has delegated to the Deputy Under Secretary for P&P, responsibility for formulation and development of short-and long-range rural development policies of the Department in accordance with 7 CFR § 2.45. The Deputy Under Secretary for P&P reports directly to the Under Secretary, Rural Development, and provides guidance and supervision for research, policy analysis and development, strategic planning, partnerships and special initiatives. For budget and accounting purposes, all of the staff offices under the Deputy Under Secretary for P&P are housed in RBS.

(1) The Budget Analysis Division assesses potential impacts of alternative policies on the mission area's programs and operations and develops recommendations for change. The units are headed by the Chief Budget Officer, who individually serves as the top policy advisor to the Under Secretary and Deputy Under Secretary on all matters relating to mission area budget policy.

(2) The Research, Analysis and Information Division analyzes information on rural conditions and the strategies and techniques for promoting rural development. The division performs, or arranges to have conducted, short-term and major research studies needed to formulate policy.

(3) The Reinvention and Capacity Building Division coordinates the mission area's strategic planning initiatives, both at the National level and in the State Offices. The division assists the Rural Development agencies in their implementation of the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) and special initiatives of the Administration, USDA, and the Office of the Under Secretary.

(4) The Rural Initiatives and Partnership Division manages the mission area's involvement and coordination with other Federal and state departments and agencies to assess rural issues and develop model partnerships and initiatives to achieve shared rural development goals. The division is responsible for managing the National Rural Development Partnership and providing support and oversight of 37 State Rural Development Councils.

(b)  Office of the Deputy Under Secretary for O&M.  In accordance with 7 CFR 2.45, the Under Secretary, Rural Development, has delegated to the Deputy Under Secretary for O&M responsibility for providing leadership in planning, developing, and administering overall administrative management program policies and operational activities of the Rural Development mission area. The Deputy Under Secretary for O&M reports directly to the Under Secretary, Rural Development.

(1)  Office of the Deputy Administrator for O&M.  Headed by the Deputy Administrator for O&M, this office reports directly to the Deputy Under Secretary for O&M, and is responsible for directing and coordinating the consolidated administrative and financial management functions for Rural Development. This office provides overall guidance and supervision for budget and financial management, human resources management and personnel services, administrative and procurement services, information resources management and automated data systems. For budget and accounting purposes, all of the staff offices under the Deputy Administrator for O&M are housed in RHS.

(i)  Office of the Controller.  Headed by the Chief Financial Officer, this office supports the Deputy Administrator for O&M in executing Rural Development requirements related to compliance with the Chief Financial Officers Act of 1990 and provides leadership, coordination, and oversight of all financial management matters and financial execution of the budget for the Rural Development agencies. This office also has full responsibility for Rural Development agencies' accounting, financial, reporting, and internal controls. The office provides direct oversight to the Headquarters Budget Division, Financial Management Division, and the Office of the Assistant Controller, located in St. Louis, Missouri.

(ii)  Office of Assistant Administrator for Procurement and Administrative Services.  Headed by the Assistant Administrator for Procurement and Administrative Services, this office is responsible to the Deputy Administrator for O&M for overseeing the Procurement Management Division, the Property and Supply Management Division, and the Support Services Division:

(A) The Procurement Management Division is responsible for developing, implementing, and interpreting procurement and contracting policies for the Rural Development mission area. Major functions include planning outreach efforts and goals for small and disadvantaged businesses, providing staff assistance reviews in State and Local Offices, administering the Contracting Officer Professionalism Warrant program for Rural Development agencies, and coordinating the development of Rural Development's acquisition plans.

(B) The Property and Supply Management Division is responsible for developing office space acquisition and utilization policies, providing training to field office leasing officers, administering the Leasing Officer Warrant program, assuring accessibility compliance in Rural Development's work sites, administering Rural Development's Physical Security program, and establishing and providing oversight to the worksite Energy Conservation program. This office operates a nationwide supply warehousing and distribution program, and oversees a nationwide Personal Property Management and Utilization Program, manages the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Excess Personal Property Program for field level activities, and provides direct support services to Rural Development's St. Louis facilities.

(C) The Support Services Division has responsibility for designing, developing, administering, and controlling Rural Development's directives management and issuance system, coordinating Rural Development's Regulatory Agenda and Regulatory Program submissions to USDA and OMB, serving as  Federal Register  liaison, and analyzing and coordinating regulatory work plans for the Under Secretary. This office submits Paperwork Reduction Act public burden clearances to OMB, administers all printing programs, manages Rural Development travel policies and programs, and manages Freedom of Information Act, Privacy Act and Tort Claims programs.

(iii)  Office of Information Resources Management (IRM).  Headed by the Chief Information Officer, this office is responsible to the Deputy Administrator for O&M for developing Rural Development's IRM policies, regulations, standards and guidelines. This office provides overall leadership and direction to activities assigned to the following four major divisions:

(A) The Customer Services Division is responsible for direct customer and technical support (hardware and software).

(B) The Management Services Division coordinates all IRM acquisition, budget, and policy and planning activities in support of Rural Development automation.

(C) The Information Technology Division provides support technical services in the areas of data administration, system integrity management, research and development, and telecommunications.

(D) The Systems Services Division is responsible for planning, directing, and controlling activities related to Rural Development's Automated Information Systems.

(iv)  Office of the Assistant Administrator for Human Resources.  Headed by the Assistant Administrator for Human Resources, this office is responsible to the Deputy Administrator for O&M for the overall development, implementation, and management, of personnel and human resources support services for Rural Development. The office provides direction to the Headquarters Personnel Services, Human Resources Training and Mission Area Personnel Services Division, and Labor Relations Staff offices. The office is also responsible for the establishment of recruitment, retention, and development policies and programs supporting workforce diversity and affirmative action.

(2)  Office of Civil Rights Staff.  Headed by a staff director, this staff has primary responsibility for providing leadership and administration of the Civil Rights Program for the Rural Development mission area. The staff conducts on-site reviews of borrowers and beneficiaries of Federal financial assistance to ensure compliance with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, as amended, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and prepares compliance reports. The staff conducts and evaluates Title VII compliance visits to insure that EEO programs are adequately implemented. In addition, the office develops, monitors, and evaluates Affirmative Employment programs for minorities, women and persons with disabilities, and coordinates and conducts community outreach activities at historically black colleges and universities. It also has oversight of special emphasis programs such as the Federal Women's Program, Hispanic Emphasis Program, and Black Emphasis Program. The staff director reports directly to the Deputy Under Secretary for O&M.

(3)  Office of Communications.  Headed by a director who reports directly to the Deputy Under Secretary for O&M, this office has primary responsibility for tracking legislation and development and institution of policies to provide public communication and information services related to the Rural Development. The office maintains a constituent data base and conducts minority outreach efforts and administers a public information and media center responsible for media inquiries, news releases, program announcements, media advisories, and information retrieval. This office also serves as a liaison with Office of Congressional Relations (OCR), Office of the General Counsel (OGC), and other Departmental units involved in Congressional relations and public information. This office drafts testimony, prepares witnesses, and provides staff for hearings and markups. In addition, the office briefs Congressional members and staff on the Rural Development matters, coordinates Rural Development's legislative activities with other USDA agencies and OMB and develops and implements legislative strategy. The staff also coordinates development and production of brochures, press releases, and other public information materials."
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.6,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§§ 2003.7-2003.9 [Reserved],RHS,,,,
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.7,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§ 2003.10 Rural Development State Offices.,RHS,,,"[62 FR 67259, Dec. 24, 1997; 63 FR 3256, Jan. 22, 1998]","(a) Headed by State Directors, State Offices report directly to the Under Secretary, Rural Development, and are responsible to the three Rural Development agency Administrators for carrying out agency program operations at the State level, ensuring adherence to program plans approved for the State by the Under Secretary, and rendering staff advisory and manpower support to Area and Local offices. The Rural Development State Directors, for budget and accounting purposes, are housed in the RHS agency.

(b) Program Directors within the State Office provide oversight and leadership on major program functions. Major program functions include: Single Family and Multi-Family Housing loans and grants, Community Facility, Water and Waste Disposal, Business and Cooperative, and the Empowerment Zones and Enterprise Communities (EZ/EC) programs.

(c) The USDA Rural Development State Office locations are as follows:"
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.8,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§§ 2003.11-2003.13 [Reserved],RHS,,,,
7:7:15.1.1.1.2.1.1.9,7,Agriculture,XVIII,I,2003,PART 2003—ORGANIZATION,A,Subpart A—Functional Organization of the Rural Development Mission Area,,§ 2003.14 Field Offices.,RHS,,,,"Rural Development field offices report to their respective State Director and State Office Program Directors. State Directors may organizationally structure their offices based on the program workloads within their respective State. Field offices generally are patterned in a three or two tier program delivery structure. In a three tier system, Local offices report to an Area office, that reports to the State Office. In a two tier system, a “Local” or “Area” office reports to the State Office. Locations and telephone numbers of Area and Local Offices may be obtained from the appropriate Rural Development State Office."