[Federal Register Volume 68, Number 124 (Friday, June 27, 2003)]
[Notices]
[Pages 38526-38556]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 03-16214]



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Part V





Office of Management and Budget





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Compliance Assistance Resources and Points of Contact Available to 
Small Businesses; Notice

  Federal Register / Vol. 68, No. 124 / Friday, June 27, 2003 / 
Notices  

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OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET


Compliance Assistance Resources and Points of Contact Available 
to Small Businesses

AGENCY: Office of Management and Budget, Executive Office of the 
President.

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: In accord with the Small Business Paperwork Relief Act of 
2002, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is publishing a ``list 
of the compliance assistance resources available to small businesses'' 
and a list of the points of contacts in agencies ``to act as a liaison 
between the agency and small business concerns'' with respect to the 
collection of information and the control of paperwork.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Jefferson B. Hill, Office of 
Information and Regulatory Affairs, OMB, Washington, DC 20503 (202/395-
3176). Inquiries may be submitted by facsimile to 202/395-7285. 
Electronic mail inquiries may be submitted to [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

A. Background

    The Small Business Paperwork Relief Act of 2002 (Public Law 107-
198) requires OMB to ``publish in the Federal Register and make 
available on the Internet (in consultation with the Small Business 
Administration) * * * a list of the compliance assistance resources 
available to small businesses * * *'' (44 U.S.C. 3504(c)(6)). In 
addition, under another provision of this Act, ``each agency shall, 
with respect to the collection of information and the control of 
paperwork, establish 1 point of contact in the agency to act as a 
liaison between the agency and small business concerns * * *'' (44 
U.S.C. 3506(i)(1)).
    Working in cooperation with the Small Business and Agriculture 
Enforcement Ombudsman (SBA Ombudsman) in the Small Business 
Administration, OMB has, with the active assistance and support of the 
SBA Ombudsman, assembled a list of the compliance assistance resources 
available to small businesses. Because it may be helpful to the public 
to have the list of agency contacts together with the list of 
compliance assistance resources, OMB is publishing these lists 
together. These lists are also available today on OMB's Web site at 
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/inforeg/infocoll.html. The SBA Ombudsman 
is also making these lists available today on the SBA Ombudsman's Web 
site at http://www.sba.gov/ombudsman.

B. Legislative Initiatives

    The publication of these lists is part of a more comprehensive 
effort to assist small businesses. The context for this initiative 
begins several years ago with enactment of the ``Small Business 
Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996'' (Public Law 104-121, 
Title II) (SBREFA). Among other provisions, SBREFA calls on agencies to 
``publish one or more guides to assist small entities in complying'' 
with certain regulations (Section 212), and ``to answer inquiries by 
small entities concerning information on, and advice about, 
compliance'' with regulatory statutes (Section 213). In other words, 
Federal regulatory agencies are to develop small entity compliance 
guides and to answer inquiries, and provide advice, about regulatory 
compliance issues.
    In addition, SBREFA created within the Small Business 
Administration the office of the ``Small Business and Agriculture 
Enforcement Ombudsman'' (Section 222). The SBA Ombudsman's 
responsibilities involve working ``with each agency with regulatory 
authority over small businesses to ensure that small business concerns 
[involving the agency's implementation and enforcement of those 
regulatory authorities] are provided with a means to comment on the 
enforcement activity'' conducted each agency. In other words, the SBA 
Ombudsman is to monitor, and report annually to Congress, on the 
enforcement practices of Federal regulatory agencies.
    SBREFA was followed by the Small Business Paperwork Relief Act of 
2002 (Public Law 107-198) (SBPRA). As described above, this law 
requires OMB to publish ``a list of the compliance assistance resources 
available to small business.'' OMB is also publishing the points of 
contacts in agencies who are ``to act as a liaison between the agency 
and small business concerns'' with respect to the collection of 
information and the control of paperwork.
    In addition, this statute directed the Director of OMB to convene 
and have a representative chair a Task Force ``to study the feasibility 
of streamlining requirements with respect to small business concerns 
regarding collection of information and strengthening dissemination of 
information'' (44 U.S.C. 3520). The Small Business Paperwork Relief 
Task Force has been developing recommendations to improve and more 
closely link the existing assistance resources through the use of 
information technology. More specifically, the Small Business Paperwork 
Relief Task Force is charged with examining five ways to reduce the 
information collection burden placed by government on small business 
concerns. They are:
    1. Examine the feasibility and desirability of requiring the 
consolidation of information collection requirements within and across 
Federal agencies and programs, and identify ways of doing so.
    2. Examine the feasibility and benefits to small businesses of 
having OMB publish a list of data collections organized in a manner by 
which they can more easily identify requirements with which they are 
expected to comply.
    3. Examine the savings and develop recommendations for implementing 
electronic submissions of information to the Federal government with 
immediate feedback to the submitter.
    4. Make recommendations to improve the electronic dissemination of 
information collected under Federal requirements.
    5. Recommend a plan to develop an interactive Government-wide 
Internet program to identify applicable collections and facilitate 
compliance.
    SBPRA requires OMB to publish a report on the first three topics by 
June 28, 2003. On May 9, 2003, OMB published in the Federal Register a 
``Draft Report of the Small Business Paperwork Relief Task Force'' (68 
FR 25166, Part III). As required, this draft report discussed the first 
three topics listed above. The final ``Report of the Small Business 
Paperwork Relief Task Force'' is available on OMB's Web site at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/inforeg/infocoll.html. By June 28, 2004, the 
Small Business Paperwork Relief Task Force will respond to Items 4 and 
5 mentioned above.
    SBREFA and SBPRA are closely related. SBREFA focuses on helping 
small businesses understand how to comply with Federal regulations. 
SBPRA focuses on helping small businesses understand how to comply with 
Federal collections of information--that is, filling out forms, 
reporting information, and keeping certain records. These two types of 
requirements are related because, as the Task Force report noted, 
agencies generally collect information, or require those regulated to 
keep records, as part of regulatory provisions. The information-related 
provisions are designed to help the agency ensure compliance with the 
rule.
    The close functional linkage between compliance with Federal 
regulations and with Federal reporting and

[[Page 38527]]

recordkeeping requirements suggests it is important to coordinate these 
legislative initiatives designed to assist small businesses. It is also 
the reason that the development, in particular, of the list of 
compliance assistance resources available to small businesses should be 
viewed in the context of the recommendations being developed by the 
Small Business Paperwork Relief Task Force. The list of compliance 
assistance resources describes what is now available at the Federal 
agencies. The Task Force is developing recommendations, for example, on 
how to develop an interactive Government-wide Internet program to 
identify applicable information collections and facilitate compliance. 
In other words, the Task Force is trying to develop recommendations to 
improve and more closely link the existing assistance resources through 
the use of information technology.

Donald R. Arbuckle,
Deputy Administrator, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs.

Compliance Assistance Summaries and Points of Contact

Agriculture

Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS)
    FSIS offers compliance assistance to small meat, poultry, and egg 
product plants. The FSIS publishes supporting documentation and 
guidance materials for federally inspected establishments to use in 
designing and implementing sanitation standard operating procedures and 
hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) food safety systems. 
FSIS provides technical guidance on many subjects of regulation, 
including requirements for plant sanitation, the use of food 
ingredients and food irradiation sources, and the control of pathogens. 
Also, to help meet the challenges our Nation has faced since September 
11, 2001, FSIS has published security guidelines for food producing 
establishments. Many FSIS publications are available in languages 
besides English. Web addresses for these publications are:
    [sbull] Sanitation Compliance Guide: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/rdad/FRPubs/SanitationCover.htm.
    [sbull] Federal Register Rule on Cooling and Chilling Requirements 
For Raw Meat and Poultry: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/oa/fr/rule2.pdf.
    [sbull] Draft of FSIS Microbiological Hazard Identification Guide 
For Meat And Poultry Components Of Products Produced By Very Small 
Plants: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OA/haccp/hidguide.htm.
    [sbull] Advice on Controlling Listeria Monocytogenes in Small and 
Very Small Meat and Poultry Plants: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/Nis/Outreach/Listeria.htm.
    [sbull] Federal Register Publications and Supporting Documents: 
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/rdad/publications.htm.
    [sbull] FSIS Security Guidelines for Food Processors: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/oa/topics/SecurityGuide.pdf.
    Besides its publications, FSIS offers a telephone service, FSIS 
HACCP Hotline (1-800-233-3935) to help establishments solve problems 
arising from HACCP plan development and implementation. Assistance on 
general matters involving meat, poultry, and egg products is available 
from the FSIS Technical Service Center (402-221-7400; Fax: 402-221-
7438; e-mail [email protected].
    FSIS also operates an extensive small establishment outreach 
program, featuring FSIS-sponsored workshops and programs, educational 
material development and distribution, HACCP and food-safety training 
and training sessions for FSIS consumer safety officers. FSIS consumer 
safety officers are a highly qualified corps of individuals with the 
special mission of helping small establishments resolve problems 
arising in their implementation of HACCP systems. FSIS operates a 
special food safety outreach program for Native American communities; 
it includes training for operators of small meat plants.
    Through the FSIS network of State cooperators, seminars and 
training classes on HACCP and food safety are held around the country 
for operators of food producing establishments. The Outreach Program 
also distributes multi-media training materials in CD-ROM and video as 
well as printed formats.
    Another useful information source on regulatory compliance is an e-
mail service by the FSIS Washington office and directly accessible on 
the FSIS Web site. This service, FSIS Regulations 
([email protected]) gives information on laws, regulations, and 
policies governing FSIS inspection programs and affecting 
establishments regulated by FSIS.
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
    APHIS has made compliance assistance resources available to small 
business entities in several formats. All work extremely well in that 
APHIS has not received complaints or negative comments regarding 
insufficient information or difficulty gaining access. The listing of 
resources we submitted included four web addresses:
    [sbull] www.aphis.usda.gov/lpa/pubs--At this site, small entities 
will find publications and other materials to help explain APHIS 
programs such as press releases, frequently asked question, 
publications, industry alerts, technical reports and stakeholder 
announcements.
    [sbull] www.aphis.usda.gov/pa/video--This web page provides access 
to videos about several APHIS programs. With proper equipment, the 
videos can be viewed from a computer. There is also contact information 
to obtain copies.
    [sbull] On-Site Evaluations/Assistance--For on-site assistance, the 
telephone number for each Regional Office is listed to request 
inspections, assistance, etc.
    [sbull] www.aphis.usda.gov/ies--This is the Web site of the SBREFA 
Contact. It contains program information and contact information. 
Comments, complaints, and/or suggestions can be sent by on line mail 
service to [email protected].
    [sbull] Toll Free Telephone--Comments, complaints, and/or 
suggestions can be made without charge by calling 1-866-5Call IES.
Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)
    Publications--Regulation, Rules, Technical and Administrative, 
Directives, Annual Reports: The Grain Inspection, Packers and 
Stockyards Administration posts current FGIS directives on the GIPSA 
Web site at: www.usda.gov/gipsa/pubs.htm. The publications are in PDF 
format, so they may be printed directly from the web.
    Seminars, classes--Technical Training (e.g., Grain Inspection): 
GIPSA's Technical Services Division (TSD) provides extensive training 
throughout the official inspection system to ensure uniform, accurate 
results are provided at all locations. TSD also offers customized 
industry education services to facilitate the commercial marketing of 
grain. Topics include the visual grading of any grain, rice, bean, pea, 
or lentil and objective, non-visual quality tests such as protein, oil, 
and mycotoxins. Contact Larry McDonald for more information at: 
[email protected].
    Telephone service--information about GIPSA: Responding to 
customers' needs is GIPSA's main priority. GIPSA designed its programs 
to concentrate on customers' needs. If customers have comments on GIPSA 
Customer Service Standards or want information on any GIPSA programs, 
contact: USDA, GIPSA, STOP 3601, 1400 Independence

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Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-3601 or telephone: (202) 720-0219.
    CD ROM's/Videos--Technical Information (e.g., Procedures for 
Inspection Grain): GIPSA offers various educational materials created 
for the U.S. grain industry. They include multimedia CD's and several 
brochures/handouts. Single copies of CDs are available free by mail and 
the brochures/handouts are available in PDF format for online viewing 
and/or download. All materials are public domain and may be freely 
duplicated and distributed in their original form.
    Online/e-mail service--Wide range of information about GIPSA and 
its programs: Information regarding GIPSA's programs and services can 
be found in the GIPSA Strategic Plan and on the Agency's Web site at: 
http://www.usda.gov/gipsa.
    Onsite Evaluations/Assistance--Process Verification Program for 
Grain Handers: GIPSA is considering proposing a new process 
verification program to meet the market's rapidly evolving needs. In 
this program, GIPSA would apply internationally recognized quality 
management standards to verify the quality process used rather than 
testing actual grain itself. The process verification designation 
verifies the process, not the final product. The process verification 
program would give industry participants independent verification of 
their quality processes and standards, and a way to capture values not 
easily identified by traditional inspection and testing.
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
    Small Business Compliance Assistance for Retailers in the Food 
Stamp Program: FNS has significantly increased compliance assistance 
efforts to retailers in the Food Stamp Program. FNS staff have attended 
conferences and held face-to-face meetings with retailers to provide 
technical assistance and listen to their concerns. FNS has developed 
several new publications, including a retailer training guide, video 
and CD-Rom that explain the basic program rules and storeowners' 
responsibilities in an easy-to-read format. They can be found on the 
FNS Web site at www.fns.usda.gov/fsp/retailers/ or obtained through 
local field offices that administer the Food Stamp Program for 
retailers. FNS is considering translating materials into other 
languages to accommodate non-English speaking retailers. Retailers can 
also find general information on the Food Stamp Program at 
www.fns.usda.gov/fsp/. Food Stamp regulations relating to retailers can 
be found in the Code of Federal Regulations at 7 CFR Parts 278 and 279 
(a link to an electronic version is also available on the general FSP 
Web site referenced above).
Small Business Compliance Assistance for Farmers' Markets/Retailers in 
the WIC/FNMP Programs
    Child Nutrition Act provisions for the WIC and FMNP Programs make 
State agencies responsible for the authorization, training, monitoring, 
and corrective action of small businesses such as retailers, farmers, 
and farmers' markets. FNS has regulations that establish guidelines and 
parameters for State administration of these activities. Although some 
uniformity is imposed by these regulations, there is considerable State 
discretion, so many of the rules will not be the same from one State to 
the next. For example, State agencies must accept applications from 
retailers for WIC authorization at least once every three years, but 
may do so much more frequently, and each State has its own application 
form. For another example, States are required to allow only certain 
types and amounts of food to be transacted for WIC food instruments, 
but the precise brand, package size, and maximum allowed price varies 
from State to State. The FNS Web site (http://fns.usda.gov/wic) 
includes the WIC/FMNP regulations (7 CFR Parts 246 and 248) and lists 
WIC and FMNP State agency addresses, telephone numbers, and Web sites.
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
    The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has a number of compliance 
assistance programs to help small entities to comply with program 
regulations. They range from publications to seminars to e-mail 
assistance to CD-ROMs and videos. The issues they discuss include 
information on the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act, marketing 
orders, the National Organic Program, grading programs, and science & 
technology programs, among others. All this assistance and contact 
information can be accessed by clicking the appropriate program's link 
on the AMS Web site http://ams.usda.gov.
Rural Utilities Service (RUS)
    The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is a financing agency, not a 
regulating authority. RUS does not have enforcement policies. Its 
policy on minimum compliance requirements as a condition for financing 
is to work with the individual applicant/borrower to ensure compliance. 
RUS does not impose penalties or engage in enforcement activities. 
Assistance with its programs can be obtained at our Web site at http://www.usda.gov/rus/. This site contains information on all of our 
programs and complete contact information by subject matter and 
geographic location. If needed, a RUS field representative can come to 
your location to provide assistance.
    Department of Agriculture Single Point of Contact: Jacquelyn 
Chandler, Office of Budget and Program Analysis, U.S. Department of 
Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Rm. 147-E, Washington, DC 
20250. Telephone: 202-720-1516. E-mail: [email protected].

Commerce

    The Department of Commerce understands a vibrant small business 
sector is critical to creating new jobs in a dynamic and growing 
economy, so it is mindful of its responsibilities under the Small 
Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA). The Commerce 
Department provides substantial regulatory enforcement compliance 
assistance through a variety of media.
    Within the Commerce Department, two agencies regulate the 
activities of small businesses. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration (NOAA) regulate small businesses under several natural 
resource protection statutes that NOAA enforces, including the Marine 
Mammal Protection Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. The Bureau of Industry 
and Security (BIS), formerly the Bureau of Export Administration (BXA), 
regulates small businesses under the Export Administration Regulations, 
which set the criteria for authorizing exports of dual-use items--
commercial items with potential military or weapons proliferation 
applications.
    NOAA has a comprehensive program providing regulatory compliance 
guidance and assistance to small entities, which comprise much of 
NOAA's regulated community. It has long been NOAA's practice to answer 
inquiries by small entities, when appropriate, in the interest of 
administering statutes and regulations. NOAA answers tens of thousands 
of inquiries from small entities annually. Inquiries are received via 
telephone, mail and electronic mail; during public hearings, town hall 
meetings and workshops held by NOAA throughout the year; and in day-to-
day interactions small entities have with NOAA. NOAA distributes 
compliance guides to all those to whom a rule will apply and to others 
who have expressed interest. It makes them available at sites where

[[Page 38529]]

affected parties are likely to see them. The guides may take different 
forms to best serve the needs of the parties affected by a particular 
rule.
    [sbull] NOAA Toll-Free Enforcement Hotline: 1-800-853-1964.
    [sbull] NOAA Office for Law Enforcement: http://www.noaa.gov/ole/.
    [sbull] NOAA Law Enforcement Contacts: http://nmfs.noaa.gov/ole/contacts.html.
    NOAA program offices often prepare ``plain English'' summaries of 
new regulations and distribute them by fax to the regulated communities 
and the press. For complex regulations, question/answer sheets of the 
most frequently asked questions are often published in the fishery 
trade journals that are most often read by the affected fishermen. 
Information about NOAA's regulations and compliance guidance is often 
posted on NOAA web pages and on electronic bulletin boards.
    Additionally, small entities may contact specific program offices 
responsible for the regulations at issue. Program offices hold 
informational workshops to explain new regulations and answer questions 
from the industry concerning compliance. Fishermen, who make up much of 
the regulated community, often speak with NOAA's individual fishery 
plan coordinators for guidance in response to specific factual 
situations described by the fishermen. In permitted fisheries, letters 
explaining regulatory changes, and providing the name of a person to 
contact for additional information and guidance, may be sent to each 
permit holder. NMFS also has public affairs positions in its regional 
offices that specialize in community outreach.
    BIS similarly provides exporters a wide range of compliance 
assistance. These include compliance guides in the forms of 
instructional brochures, fact sheets and guidance posted on the BIS Web 
site. BIS also educates small businesses through seminars, meetings, 
workshops and, when requested, one-on-one counseling.
    [sbull] BIS Web site: http://www.bxa.doc.gov/index.htm.
    [sbull] BIS Export Enforcement Hotline: 1-800-424-2980.
    [sbull] Office of Export Enforcement Intelligence: (202) 482-1208.
    [sbull] Exporter Counseling Division: (202) 482-4811.
    The Office of Antiboycott Compliance (OAC) within BIS advises small 
businesses on compliance with the antiboycott regulations through its 
telephone advice line. Callers can seek compliance advice before 
engaging in transactions. The OAC also offers counseling to small 
businesses to assist them in solving their boycott problems legally. 
Antiboycott Advice Line: (202) 482-2381.
Patent and Trademark Office
    U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Office of Procurement 
awards and administers a wide variety of contracts and simplified 
purchases for the acquisition of goods and services required throughout 
the agency. Our site includes helpful links such as current USPTO 
contracts, upcoming opportunities, office staff listing, helpful 
information for small businesses, information on our new Performance 
Based Organization (PBO) procedures and other related topics.
    The USPTO Office of Procurement continually strives to remain on 
the leading edge of procurement reform and current technology. It is 
our goal to identify and utilize new innovative techniques to develop a 
partnership with industry.
    A major goal at the United States Patent & Trademark Office, Office 
of Procurement is to promote and give consideration to small business 
concerns. Requirements over the micro purchase amount of $2,500 are 
identified early in the acquisition process to allow for consideration 
for small, small disadvantaged, woman-owned and minority-owned 
businesses. http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/ac/comp/proc/ipa/ipamain.htm
    The Office of Procurement continues to promote Electronic Commerce 
(EC) and utilize innovative technologies to streamline procurement 
processes. Our EC effort, known as the Internet-Based Purchasing 
Application (IPA), has been in use for over a year now. The IPA 
continues to grow and is a successful tool in conducting simplified 
acquisitions over the Internet.
    For more information please contact:

Susan K. Brown, Records Officer, (PRA Clearance Desk), U.S. Patent and 
Trademark Office, Office of the Chief Information Officer, Suite 310, 
2231 Crystal Drive, Washington DC 20231, Telephone: 703-308-7400. E-
Mail: [email protected].
Muriel A. Brown, Small Business Liaison, U.S. Patent and Trademark 
Office, Office of Procurement, Box 6, Washington, DC 20231. Telephone: 
703-305-8370. E-mail: [email protected].
Department of Commerce Single Point of Contact: Tom Pike, Office of the 
Chief Information Officer, U.S. Department of Commerce 14th St. & 
Constitution Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20230, (202) 482-4797.

Defense

    It is the Department of Defense (DOD) policy that a fair proportion 
of DOD total purchases, contracts, subcontracts, and other agreements 
for property and services be placed with small business concerns, 
service-disabled veteran-owned small business concerns, qualified 
historically underutilized business zone (HUBZone) small business 
concerns, small disadvantaged business concerns, women-owned small 
business concerns, and historically Black colleges and universities and 
minority institutions.
    The Director of the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business 
Utilization (SADBU) is the principal proponent within the Office of the 
Secretary of Defense for executing national and DOD policy as mandated 
by the Congress and the President. The Director acts as ombudsman and 
coordinator with the functional activity concerned in responding to 
complaints and resolving problems encountered by small business firms 
performing under DOD contracts.
    The Washington Headquarters Services, Directorate for Information 
Operations and Reports (WHS/DIOR), serves as the central repository for 
statistical information for the Department of Defense. General 
procurement data, including subcontract information, is located on the 
WHS/DIOR Web site at http://www.dior.whs.mil/peidhome/piedhome.htm. 
Specifically, SADBU utilizes the standard tabulation (ST) 28 report, 
titled ``Contract Awards by FSC and Purchasing Office,'' as a key 
document to assist small business concerns in identifying contracting 
activities with contracting potential. The ST 28 matches the dollar 
obligations and contract actions under each specific Federal Supply 
Class or Service Codes and details the contracting activities that made 
awards by name, city, and state. The ST 28 can be found at http://www.dior.whs.mil.peidhome/procstat/prostat.htm.
    The Defense Logistics Agency, on behalf of the Secretary of 
Defense, administers the DOD Procurement Technical Assistance Program 
(PTAP). PTAP Centers are a local resource that can provide assistance 
to business firms in marketing products and services to the Federal, 
state and local governments. A list of PTAP Centers can be found at 
http://www.dla.mil/db/procurem.htm.
    The DOD Regional Councils for Small Business Education and Advocacy 
are a nationwide network of small business specialists organized to 
promote the

[[Page 38530]]

National Small Business Programs of the United States. Council 
objectives include promoting the exchange of ideas and experiences, and 
general information among small business specialists and the 
contracting community; developing closer relationships and better 
communication among Government entities and the small business 
community; and staying abreast of statutes, policies, regulations, 
directives, trends, and technology affecting the Small Business 
Program. There are eight Regional Councils sponsored by the DOD Office 
of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (SADBU) governed by 
individual by-laws. Further information can be found at http://www.acq.osd.mil/sadbu/programs/regional/index.htm.
    Information on DOD's initiatives and programs is available on 
SADBU's Web site http://www.acq.osd.mil/sadbu/index.htm. Contact 
information and links to DOD Component SADBU Offices can be found at 
http://www.acq.osd.mil/sadbu/links/sadbu.htm.
    Department of Defense Single Point of Contact: Robert L. Cushing, 
Jr., U.S. Department of Defense, Washington Headquarters Services, 
Directorate for Information Operations and Reports, 1215 Jefferson 
Davis Highway, Suite 1204, Arlington, VA 22202-4302. Telephone: 703-
604-6269. E-mail: [email protected].

Education

    [sbull] Online library of information on education legislation, 
research, statistics, and programs: www.ed.gov
    [sbull] Department of Education programs and initiatives: 1-800-
USA-LEARN (1-800-872-5327)
    [sbull] Student aid: 1-800-4FED-AID (1-800-433-3243)
    [sbull] Matters affecting small businesses: U.S. Department of 
Education, Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, 400 
Maryland Ave., SW., Washington, DC 20202, Telephone: (202) 708-9820
    [sbull] Student loan issues: www.ombusman.ed.gov, U.S. Department 
of Education, FSA Ombudsman, 830 First St., NE., 4th Floor, Washington, 
DC 20202-5144; Telephone: 1-877-557-2575; Fax: (202) 275-0549
    Education Department Single Point of Contact: Angela C. Arrington, 
U.S. Department of Education, Office of the Chief Information Officer, 
400 Maryland Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20202. Telephone: (202) 260-6871. 
E-mail: [email protected]

Energy

    The Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) 
and the Office of the Ombudsman handle small business compliance at the 
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). And, each site facility and DOE 
contractor has a small business manager dedicated to small business 
compliance. (http://www.smallbusiness.energy.gov)
    The OSDBU oversees small business programs department-wide, setting 
policies and procedures to ensure small business compliance in DOE 
contract awards. The OSDBU also maintains a Web site with a 
clearinghouse of small business information, as well as small business 
policies and regulations and information on resources available to 
small businesses both at DOE and at other agencies/departments. The 
OSDBU has an extensive outreach/marketing program, including 
advertising in various publications and participation in various small 
business conferences.
    DOE maintains a number of partnerships with many federal agencies 
such as the Small Business Administration and the Office of Federal 
Contract Compliance to promote small business compliance. The OSDBU has 
a ``Small Business Council'' composed of representatives of major trade 
associations, small and minority business chambers, women and veteran 
groups to ensure information/feedback to/from the small business 
community relative to small business compliance.
    The Office of the Ombudsman provides small business access to an 
impartial review of their issues in dealing with the DOE and its 
contractors. The Office gives small business guidance and referral 
services to the correct entity within DOE and serves as a voice for the 
small business within DOE.
    Department of Energy Single Point of Contact: Theresa Speake, 
Director, Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization, U.S. 
Department of Energy, 1000 Independence Ave., SW., Washington, DC 
20585. Telephone: 202-586-8383. E-mail: [email protected].

Health and Human Services

Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization
    Located in HHS's Office of the Secretary, the Department's Office 
of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) fosters the use 
of small and disadvantaged businesses as Federal contractors. To 
accomplish this task, the OSDBU develops and implements outreach 
programs aimed at heightening the awareness of small business community 
to the contracting opportunities available across the Department.
    Outreach efforts include activities such as sponsoring small 
business fairs and procurement conferences as well as participating in 
trade group seminars, conventions, and other forums, which promote the 
utilization of small and disadvantaged businesses as contractors. The 
OSDBU Web page, www.HHS.gov/osbdu, presents important resources to aid 
contractors in doing business with the Department. OSBDU's Director is 
Ms. Debbie Ridgeley. Ms. Ridgeley may be contacted by telephone at 202-
690-7300, or by E-mail at: [email protected].
    The following small business specialists in the Department's 
Operating Divisions also foster the use of small and disadvantaged 
businesses as Federal contractors. (See below for narrative information 
on the small-business activities at the Food and Drug Administration, 
the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Health Resources 
and Services Administration, and the National Institutes for Health).

Agency for Health Care Research and Quality

Ms. Sherry Baldwin, DHHS-Executive Office Center, 2101 East Jefferson 
Street, Suite 601, Rockville, MD 20852. Telephone: 301-594-7190. Fax: 
301-443-7523. E-mail: [email protected]

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Mr. Curtis L. Bryant, 2920 Brandywine Road, Room 2606, Mail Stop E-14, 
Atlanta, GA 30341. Telephone: 770-488-2806. Fax: 770-488-2828. E-mail: 
[email protected]

Indian Health Service

Ms. Nelia K. Holder, Office of Management Support, 12300 Twinbrook 
Parkway, Rockville, MD 20852. Telephone: 301-443-1480. Fax: 301-443-
0929. E-mail: [email protected]

Program Support Center

Ms. Linda Danley, Division of Acquisition Management, Room 5C-26, 
Parklawn Building, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857. Telephone: 
301-443-1715. Fax: 301-443-7593. E-mail: [email protected]

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Ms. Vivian Kim, Room 13-99, Parklawn Building, 5600 Fishers Lane,

[[Page 38531]]

Rockville, MD 20857. Telephone: 301-443-8843. Fax: 301-594-2336. E-
mail: [email protected]
Food and Drug Association (FDA)
    FDA provides a wealth of written and electronic information to 
assist small business compliance with FDA regulatory requirements.
    FDA has published hundreds of guidelines to assist regulated 
industry, including small business, in complying with the laws and 
regulations that FDA administers. These guidelines cover virtually all 
areas that FDA regulates, from new drug and medical device premarket 
review, to product import and export issues, to issues that relate to 
the manufacture of foods, drugs, devices, and biological products.
    FDA has also published and made widely available guidelines that 
the agency has developed for its own enforcement and compliance staff. 
These guidelines describe the general standards for compliance action 
and set forth the procedures to be followed in conducting 
investigational and enforcement activities. Essentially all of these 
written materials are available through FDA's many web-sites. FDA has 
also prepared ``plain language'' versions of some of the more technical 
documents to assist small businesses and others in understanding FDA's 
expectations.
    FDA has created a number of small business and industry assistance 
``homepages'' on its web-sites that bring together an array of useful 
regulatory and compliance information.
    For example, the Center for Devices and Radiological Health has 
created a ``Device Advice'' Web page, a self-service interactive site 
for obtaining information about medical devices. The human 
pharmaceutical program has created a comparable Web page, ``Small 
Business Assistance''.
    FDA's Small Business Representatives (SBRs) are a significant 
resource for the small business community. Each of FDA's five regional 
offices is assigned an SBR to provide small business educational 
outreach and training.
    FDA regional offices represent another significant informational 
resource for the small business community. The regional offices answer 
thousands of questions, conduct scores of training programs, and 
organize many ``grassroots'' meetings to educate the regulated 
industry, especially small businesses, about emerging regulatory topics 
of interest.
    In addition, FDA's public affairs specialists (PASs), who are 
assigned to many of the agency's field offices, are able to respond to 
questions about FDA's programs, policies, and procedures.
    Finally, FDA has appointed ombudsmen in the Office of the 
Commissioner, the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, the Center 
for Biologics Evaluation and Research, the Center for Veterinary 
Medicine, and the Center for Devices and Radiological Health. These 
officials not only provide compliance assistance, but also help 
regulated companies explore available options in resolving disputes 
with the agency.
Guidelines
    Technical guides. FDA has issued hundreds of guides to assist 
manufacturers in meeting premarket approval and other regulatory 
requirements. Among these guidelines a number of guidelines expressly 
directed to the concerns and needs of small businesses.
    Inspectional guides. FDA has made publicly available the agency's 
manuals and written procedures governing the conduct of inspectional 
and investigational activities.
Policy Guides
    FDA has issued many guidelines to help regulated industry 
understand the laws, policies, and regulations that FDA administers. 
Many of these documents are issued in ``plain language'' versions to 
assist small businesses and others in understanding FDA's expectations.
    All of the above-cited guidance materials may be accessed through 
the following Web sites:
    [sbull] Center for Drug Evaluation and Research Guidance Documents: 
http://www.fda.gov/cder/guidance/index.htm
    [sbull] Center for Devices and Radiological Health Guidance 
Documents for Industry: http://www.fda.gov/cdrh.guidance.htm
    [sbull] Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Food and 
Cosmetic Guidance Documents: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/[tilde]dms/
guidance.html
    [sbull] Office of Regulatory Affairs Inspection References: http://www.fda.gov/ora/inspect_ref/default.htm
Web Assistance
    The following small business and industry-assistance homepages also 
bring together an array of useful regulatory and compliance 
information:
    [sbull] Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) Small 
Business Assistance: http://www.fda.gov/cder/about/ smallbiz/
default.htm--This site provides a listing of various programs, laws, 
regulations, and organizations that pertain to the drug development and 
approval process. This site is specifically geared to small businesses; 
however, general information relating to both small and large 
businesses is also available here (i.e., guidance documents, CDER 
calendar, etc.).
    [sbull] Information on Devices: http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/devadvice/
--This is an interactive, self-service site. It contains information on 
``How to Market Your Device'' as well as an overview of the 
regulations, guidance documents, consumer information, and more.
    [sbull] Veterinary Products: http://www.fda.gov/cvm/faqs/faqs.html--This site answers ``Frequently Asked Questions'' about 
veterinary products. It includes links to sites that provide 
information and requirements for topics such as ``New Animal Drug 
Approval'' and ``Marketing a Pet Food Product,'' as well as others.
    [sbull] Center for Biologic Evaluation and Research (CBER): http://www.fda.gov/CBER/manufacturer.htm--This Web site from the Center for 
Biologic Evaluation and Research explains the manufacturers assistance 
program, which provides assistance and training to companies, both 
large and small, regarding CBER policies and procedures. This site also 
contains links to other sites that may be of values to the small 
business owner.
    [sbull] Office of Regulatory Affairs Information on Small Business: 
http://www.fda.gov/ora/fed_state/small_business/default.htm.
    [sbull] Office of Regulatory Affairs Small Business Guide to FDA: 
http://www.fda.gov/ora/fed_state/Small_Business/sb_guide/default.htm.--This site is from the FDA's Office of Regulatory Affairs. 
It offers links to a number of useful sites such as ``What to do when 
marketing a new product,'' ``recalling a product,'' ``undergoing an FDA 
inspection,'' etc. It also provides an introduction to the Federal 
Register, information on obtaining FDA documents, frequently called 
numbers, and much more information.
    [sbull] Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Guide to 
Starting a Food Business: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/[sim]comm/
foodbiz.html--Advice on ``Starting A Food Business'' which may be of 
interest for the (potential) small business owner. This site provides 
links to federal and state regulatory agencies, import & export 
information, as well as several other helpful sites.
    Small Business and Industry Assistance Offices. Each major FDA 
component has its own industry assistance office. Staff in these 
offices provide program-specific information

[[Page 38532]]

and compliance assistance, through the contact points indicated below:
    CDER Small Business Assistance Drug Information Branch, 301-827-
4573, [email protected].
    CBER Division of Manufacturers Assistance and Training, 301-827-
2000, or [email protected].
    CDRH Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer 
Assistance, [email protected], Telephone: 1-800-638-2041.
    CVM Communications Staff, [email protected], Telephone: 301-827-
3806.
    CFSAN Industry Activities Staff, [email protected], Telephone: 
301-436-1730.
    The Small Business Representatives identified below in each of 
FDA's five regional offices provide small businesses with personalized 
educational outreach and compliance assistance.
    Northeast Region (CT, MA, ME, NH, NY, RI, VT)

Marilyn Corretto, 158-15 Liberty Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11433-1034. 
Telephone: 718-662-5618. Fax: 718-662-5434. E-mail: 
[email protected].

    Central Region (DC, DE, IL, IN, KY, MD, MI, MN, ND, NJ, OH, PA, SD, 
VA, WI, WV)

Marie T. Falcone, U.S. Customhouse, 2nd and Chestnut Sts., Room 900, 
Philadelphia, PA 19106. Telephone: (215) 597-2120 ext. 4003. Fax: (215) 
597-5798. E-mail: [email protected].

    Southeast Region (AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, PR, SC, TN, VI)

Food and Drug Administration, 60 Eighth St., NE., Atlanta, GA 30309. 
Telephone: (404) 253-1217. Fax: (404) 253-1207. E-mail: 
[email protected].

    Southwest Region (AR, CO, IA, KS, MO, NE, NM, OK, TX, UT, WY)

David Arvelo, 40 N. Central Expy., Suite 900, Dallas, TX 75204. 
Telephone: (214) 253-4952.
Assistant: Sue Thomason, Telephone: (214) 253-4951. Fax: (214) 253-
4970. E-mail: [email protected].

    Pacific Region (AK, AZ, CA, HI, ID, MT, NV, OR, WA)
Marcia Madrigal, Oakland Federal Building, 1301 Clay Street, Suite 
1180-N, Oakland, CA 94612-5217. Telephone: (510) 637-3980. Fax: (510) 
637-3977. E-mail: [email protected].

Ombudsman

    FDA's Ombudsman Offices provide compliance assistance and 
assistance in informal dispute resolution. There are also ombudsman 
offices in most of the program offices.

Office of the Commissioner

Office of the Ombudsman, Food and Drug Administration, 5600 Fishers 
Lane, Room 4B-44, HF-7, Rockville, MD 20857. Telephone: 301-827-3390. 
Fax: 301-480-8039. E-mail: [email protected].

Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research

Sherry Lard Whiteford, CBER Ombudsman (HFM-4), Center for Biologics 
Evaluation and Research, 1401 Rockville Pike, Suite 200N, Rockville, MD 
20852-1448. E-mail: [email protected]. Telephone: 301-827-0379.

Center for Drug Evaluation and Research

CDER Ombudsman (HFD-1), 5600 Fishers Lane, Room 9-74, Rockvillle, MD 
20857. Telephone: 301-594-5443 or 301-827-4312. E-mail: 
[email protected].

Center for Devices and Radiological Health

Les Weinstein, CDRH Ombudsman, Office of the Center Director, Center 
for Devices and Radiological Health, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 
9200 Corporate Blvd. (HFZ-5), Rockville, MD 20850. Telephone: 301-827-
7991. Fax: 301-827-2565. E-mail: [email protected].

Center for Veterinary Medicine

Marcia K. Larkins, D.V.M., FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, 
Ombudsman, 7519 Standish Place, HFV-7, Rockville, MD 20855. Telephone: 
(301) 827-4535. Fax: (301) 827-3957. E-Mail: [email protected].
Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

CMS's Small Business Office

    CMS has a full time Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization 
Specialist (SDBUS) located in its Acquisition and Grants Group. The 
SADBUS is the Agency's focal point for ensuring that all reasonable 
action is taken to increase awards to small, small disadvantaged, 
HUBZones, and women-owned businesses. Company profiles and capability 
statements for all types of services are maintained by this office. 
Inquiries should be directed to Mrs. Joanne Day, on 410-786-5166, or e-
mail may be sent to: [email protected].

Grant Opportunities

    While CMS's Program Offices are concerned with the scientific, 
technical and programmatic topics, the Acquisition and Grants Group/
Research Contracts and Grants Division is primarily charged with the 
business management and policy aspects of CMS's discretionary grant and 
cooperative agreement activities.
    Currently, CMS conducts a myriad of R&D programs including (but not 
limited to) the following: Fraud and Abuse Initiatives, State Health 
Insurance, Small Business Innovation Research, Dissertation Fellowship 
Grants, Nursing Home Transition Initiatives, Historically Black 
Colleges and Universities and Hispanic Health Services Research. For 
additional information, please contact Judy Norris on (410) 786-5130 or 
e-mail to: [email protected].
    In addition, CMS provides on its all-purpose Web site, 
www.CMS.HHS.gov, extensive amounts of information about the agency's 
programs, organized in terms of the kind of health-service provider 
affected, e.g. hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, or 
durable medical equipment suppliers. This information is not currently 
differentiated in terms of the size of these providers' business 
entities, but CMS is planning to take steps in the near future to 
earmark the information in terms of its applicability to small 
businesses.
Health Resources and Services Administration
    The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) exists 
primarily to expand access to health care for medically underserved 
individuals and families across the nation through community-based 
networks of primary and preventive health care services. HRSA has 
become known as ``The `Access' Agency'' for its services to Americans 
who lack health insurance; 62 million Americans in rural communities; 
78 million racial and ethnic minorities; over 800,000 Americans with 
HIV/AIDS; and about 80,000 U.S. residents awaiting organ transplants.

HRSA Contracting Office and Small Business Representative

    The HRSA contracting office, the Contracts Operations Branch, is 
currently part of the Division of Grants and Procurement Management. 
The current Small Business Representative, Ms. Debora Pitts, is 
available to assist small businesses in navigating the field of HRSA 
acquisitions. Ms. Pitts may be contacted at 301-443-3789.

[[Page 38533]]

Key Contact Persons in HRSA Contracts

    HRSA ``HCA'' (Head of Contracting Activities) is Dr. Albert F. 
Marra, who may be reached at 301-443-1433. The HRSA Chief of the 
Contracts Operations Branch is Mr. Steve Zangwill, who may be contacted 
at 301-443-5097. Mr. Zangwill is assisted by Mr. Frank Murphy, who 
leads the negotiated contract team, at 301-443-5165, and Ms. Bonnie 
Garcia, who heads the simplified acquisitions team at 301-443-5116. The 
main office number is 301-443-1433.
    All contracting opportunities at HRSA are announced publicly via 
the world wide web using the government's new FedBizOpps program at the 
following Web site: www.fedbizopps.gov.
    Contractors and vendors are urged to visit that site, as well as 
the larger HRSA Web site at www.hrsa.gov to keep abreast of contracting 
needs as well as programmatic changes and developments. Another vehicle 
open to interested potential contractors is to study the grants funding 
opportunities available to various agencies and organizations. These 
grants opportunities, which are also announced via the web, the Federal 
Register, FedBizOpps, and through ``The HRSA Preview,'' give further 
indications of potential acquisitions needs. The HRSA Preview may be 
obtained through the HRSA Web site or by calling 1-877-HRSA-123. 
Contractors may also find fertile opportunities for sub-contracting 
with HRSA grantees.
National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Small Business Office

    The NIH Small Business Office (SBO) serves as an advocate for small 
business through various program activities and outreach efforts. These 
efforts are intended to maximize prime and subcontract acquisition 
opportunities at the NIH for small businesses owned by the 
disadvantaged, women, veterans, service-disabled veterans, and 
Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) concerns.
    The Small Business Program is located in the NIH's Office of 
Acquisition Management and Policy, whose URL is: http://oa.od.nih.gov/oamp/index.html.
    Specific points of contact include:

NIH Small Business Office, Diana Mukitarian, Chief, 6100 Executive 
Boulevard, Room 6D05, Bethesda, MD 20892-7540. Phone: (301) 496-9639. 
Fax: (301) 480-2506. E-mail: [email protected].
The National Cancer Institute, Joseph Bowe, Small Business Specialist, 
6120 Executive Boulevard, Room 608, Bethesda, MD 20892-7222. Phone: 
(301) 435-3810. Fax: (301) 480-0309. E-mail: [email protected].
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Mary B. 
Workman, Small Business Specialist, Acquisitions Management Branch, 
P.O. Box 12874, MD NH-02, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709. Phone: 
(919) 541-0377. Fax: (919) 541-5117. E-mail: [email protected].

    Among other things, the Small Business Program at the NIH is 
responsible for:
    [sbull] Developing and maintaining acquisition review procedures 
and guidelines for requests for contracts, subcontracting plans and 
operations as contract activities. Such reviews result in 
recommendations to contracting officers regarding the method of 
acquisition to be pursued and the acceptability of proposed 
subcontracting plans and prime contractors' small business programs;
    [sbull] Conducting surveillance of contract, simplified acquisition 
and satellite small business program activity, and conducting studies 
of specific problem areas to ensure effective small business program 
performance and compliance with applicable laws and regulations;
    [sbull] Ensuring the development and presentation of management 
data to provide continuing visibility of program activity and to 
evaluate program accomplishments against agency socio-economic goals;
    [sbull] Representing the NIH at Federal, state, local government 
and congressional small business conferences and fairs. Serving as a 
guest and expert speaker at various Federal, state, local government 
and Congressional small business conferences and fairs;
    [sbull] Serving as a liaison between the NIH program and contract 
staff and the contractor community;
    [sbull] Delivering industry assistance by maintaining a program 
designed to locate capable small, disadvantaged, woman, veteran, 
service-disabled and HUBZone--owned small business concerns for current 
and future acquisitions;
    [sbull] Representing the NIH to industry by interfacing with CEOs 
and other principals of private companies, to include small and large 
firms, as well as nonprofits and universities;
    [sbull] Responding to inquiries and requests for advise from small, 
disadvantaged, woman, veteran, service-disabled and HUBZone--owned 
businesses; and assisting small business in their marketing and 
business development efforts and activities.
    Department of Health and Human Services Single Point of Contact: 
Robert Polson, HHS Reports Clearance Officer, ASBTF/OIRM/OITP, Room 
531H-71, Humphrey Building, Washington DC 20201. Telephone: (202) 260-
0040. E-mail: [email protected].

Homeland Security

    The Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Office of Small 
Business and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) assists, 
counsels, and advises small businesses of all types (small businesses, 
small disadvantaged business, women-owned small businesses, veteran 
owned small businesses, service disabled veteran owned small 
businesses, and small businesses located in historically underutilized 
business zones) on procedures for contracting with DHS.
Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU)
    The Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Office of Small 
Business and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) assists, 
counsels, and advises small businesses of all types (small businesses, 
small disadvantaged business, women-owned small businesses, veteran 
owned small businesses, service disabled veteran owned small 
businesses, and small businesses located in historically underutilized 
business zones) on procedures for contracting with DHS. The point of 
contact for this small business program is Kevin Boshears; he may be 
reached at (202) 772-9792 and [email protected].
Office of the Private Sector
    The Office of the Private Sector has an e-mail address where small 
business inquiries could be made, namely [email protected]. The 
Office will, pursuant to the Homeland Security Act, have the capability 
to advise the Secretary regarding the impact on the private sector, 
including small business, of proposed regulations concerning homeland 
security. For now an individual and phone number that can be used as an 
entry point to the Office would be Ms. Elizabeth Callaway at (202) 282-
8484 and [email protected].
    Department of Homeland Security Single Point of Contact: Elizabeth 
Callaway, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Attn: Private Sector 
Office, Washington, DC 20528. Telephone: (202) 282-8484. E-mail: 
[email protected].

[[Page 38534]]

Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (INS)
    The paperwork requirement imposed by the Bureau of Citizenship and 
Immigration Services is the Form I-9. Completion of this one-page form 
by employers helps to insure a legal workforce within the United States 
and does not present a significant burden for businesses. The Bureau 
has instituted electronic filing of some applications and provides 
application status on line. These improvements have been a boost to 
many businesses, providing a speedy mechanism for filling critical 
positions with foreign experts or semi-skilled workers with temporary 
and permanent foreign workers. Many employers make use of the Bureau's 
petitions and applications for approval to hire alien temporary 
workers.
    Live voice assistance, Employer Hotline (800) 357-2099 is available 
for employers and Live voice assistance for general questions (800) 
357-5283. Information for e-filing can be found at www.bcis.gov. 
Employer Assistance Resources can be found at www.bcis.gov under the 
title ``Information for Employers'', Office of Business Liaison. 
Requests for speakers and questions can be faxed to (202) 305-2523.
    DHS Point of Contact for Small Business Compliance Assistance: 
Felicia A. Colvin, Supervisory Information Specialist, Office of 
Business Liaison, Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services, 
Telephone: (202) 305-2461.
Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
    The newly formed Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have 
been working under the trade concept of ``informed compliance'' since 
the passage of the Customs Modernization Act (1993). This law mandated 
CBP to develop a proactive strategy to advise importers of their 
responsibilities under the law. To fulfill this mandate, CBP has 
implemented several measures for providing guidance on laws governing 
international trade for all importers and exporters, including small 
businesses. Small businesses can avail themselves of this information 
using the following means: CBP Web Site (downloadable); local and 
national trade meetings/seminars; weekly publications of the Customs 
Bulletin; binding rulings program; other informed compliance brochures 
and pamphlets; and direct contact with CBP personnel.
    There are over 300 ports of entry where we enforce numerous laws 
for CBP and other government agencies while serving as America's 
frontline for border security. As the agency's primary responsibility, 
CBP has twin goals of improving security and facilitating legitimate 
trade and travel, which are not mutually exclusive. In its role to 
facilitate trade, CBP has always provided compliance assistance to the 
trade community about the laws and regulations that apply to importing 
and exporting. Customs officers at the ports of entry, the Strategic 
Trade Centers, Customs Management Centers and at Headquarters daily 
receive and respond to requests for information from the public.
    [sbull] CBP Web site: http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/toolbox/ports/
    The CBP Web site lists all ports of entry with their addresses and 
telephone numbers. CBP has incorporated a Customer Service Center that 
responds to inquiries via a toll free number (1-877-Customs). The 
Office of Trade Relations (OTR) is designated as the point of contact 
within CBP for small businesses and may be reached at (202) 927-1440 or 
via e-mail at [email protected]. This office was 
revamped in 2002 to ensure effective, extensive communication between 
CBP and all facets of the trade community. Any small entity seeking 
general information about importing procedures or feeling it has 
received unfair treatment may contact OTR for assistance.

Customs and Border Protection, Office of Trade Relations, 1300 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Room 4.2A, Washington, DC 20229. Telephone: 
202-927-1440. Fax: 202-927-1696. E-mail: 
[email protected].
Coast Guard
    Marine Safety, Security and Environmental Protection G-M.
    The point of contact for SBREFA is: Jaideep Sirkar, U.S. Coast 
Guard (G-MSR), 2100 Second Street, SW., Rm. 1400. Washington, DC 20593-
0001. Telephone: (202) 267-6819.
    The SBREFA point of contact can be contacted via two different 
email addresses: [email protected] or [email protected] both 
of these email addresses are available on the Coast Guard web page.
    The Coast Guard web page is designed to provide important 
regulatory information to small entities; Encourage small entities to 
participate in the regulatory development process; and help small 
entities comply with marine safety regulations implemented by the Coast 
Guard. The following are links to our webpage:
    [sbull] Small Entity Regulatory Assistance: http://www.uscg.mil/hq/g-m/regs/sbrefa.html
    [sbull] Marine Safety, Security and Environmental Protection 
Program's Regulatory Home Page: http://www.uscg.mil/hq/g-m/regs/reghome.html
    Point of contact: Carl Perry, Telephone: (202) 267-0979. E-mail: 
[email protected].
    The Boating Safety webpage is http://www.uscgboating.org/. It is 
designed to give assistance and information to recreational boat owners 
and manufacturers on boating safety regulations.

Collection of Information

    The Coast Guard point of contact: Barbara Davis, Telephone: (202) 
267-2326. E-mail: [email protected].

Housing and Urban Development

    The Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) 
has many tools available for small businesses. Through the 
establishment of the Information Technology (IT) training HUD has 
provided a learning tool for small businesses to understand all aspects 
of HUD's IT opportunities. Introducing this training program has 
enabled HUD to form partnerships with small businesses and identify 
qualified companies to seek IT opportunities within the agency.
    HUD sponsors Marketing and Outreach business fairs and focuses both 
on direct HUD contracting opportunities and contracting opportunities 
created by HUD assisted projects including Community Development Block 
Grant recipients and Public Housing authorities. HUD outreach sessions 
include HUD program offices and prime contractors who offer sub-
contracting opportunities to small, small disadvantaged and women-owned 
businesses. HUD has attended approximately 50 outreach conferences 
including procurement fairs, trade shows, marketplace presentations 
throughout the country with a strong emphasis on the utilization of 
small businesses.
    HUD's contracting home page is linked to the OSDBU homepage in 
HUD's Web site. The contracting home page contains notices of HUD 
procurement opportunities and allows interested parties to download a 
file containing solicitations. A special OSDBU page contains Small 
Business tips, the Forecast of Contracting Opportunities, a Small 
Business Resource Guide and notification of outreach activities.
    The chart below identifies the Department's compliance assistance

[[Page 38535]]

resources for submission to OMB for the Internet.
    HUD also has the HUD Procurement System (HPS), an integrated 
commercial and customized software program that automates procurement 
operations department-wide. This system includes a rapid query of 
contracting information that enables all companies to submit bids or 
proposals for upcoming contracting opportunities and the identification 
of HUBZones for participation in contracting and sub-contracting 
opportunities. Additionally, it provides HUD with a system to monitor 
and evaluate its actual achievements in regard to participation of 
small businesses in HUD activities.
    HUD sponsors Marketing and Outreach business fairs and focuses both 
on direct HUD contracting opportunities and indirect contracting 
opportunities created by HUD assisted projects including, Community 
Development Block Grant recipients and public housing authorities. 
During these events, program offices and prime contractors who offer 
sub-contracting opportunities to small, small disadvantaged and women 
owned businesses are urged to attend. Last year, HUD attended 
approximately 50 outreach conferences including procurement fairs, 
trade shows and marketplace presentations throughout the country. The 
OSDBU Business Utilization Development Specials (BUDS), have regular 
one-on-one meetings with small businesses. The Director holds 
``Thursday Open House'' sessions for all small, small disadvantaged and 
Women Owned Small Businesses (WOSBs). These meetings give small 
businesses the opportunity to meet personally with the Director and the 
specialized BUDS advocate within the OSDBU. The aforementioned efforts 
are in addition to the daily counseling and one-on-one meetings held 
with these businesses at the HUD headquarters and field offices.
    The OSDBU has increased its staff to include a Contract Specialist, 
an Information Technology Specialist, a Small Business Policy 
Specialist and a Research Analyst. HUD has implemented innovative 
projects and tools utilizing the latest technologies that have and will 
continue to have a positive effect on the participation of WOSBs in 
departmental contracting activities. There are IT outreach sessions 
held regularly with IT small businesses to inform them of new 
procurement opportunities at HUD.
    New Methodologies that challenge conventional procedures include 
the establishment of subcontracting policies that have resulted in an 
increase in contract dollars to small businesses. The HUD Procurement 
System (HPS) effectively tracks all contracting and subcontracting 
dollars awarded to small businesses. HUD has established a 
subcontracting goal of up to 40% of the total value of each contract 
and subsequent extensions, modifications and options. Contractors that 
are unable to meet the established goal must provide the rational for 
the proposed level of subcontracting. In accordance with the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) at Part 19.702 and HUD's own federal 
acquisition regulation (HUDAR) at 2452.219-70, solicitations exceeding 
$500,000 that include HUDAR provision 2452.219-70, shall provide the 
maximum practicable subcontracting opportunities to small, small 
disadvantaged and women-owned businesses. Prior to award, each contract 
shall be evaluated on specific subcontracting goals and commitments to 
small businesses. These pioneering subcontracting policies also include 
subcontracting plans for General Services Administration schedule buys. 
There is a concentrated effort to conduct outreach with small 
businesses across the nation.
    HUD OSDBU continuously performs at a level of professional 
excellence to serve our customers. HUD consistently formulates and 
implements written policies supporting small businesses and includes 
references to small businesses in standard operating procedures. HUD 
has designated a senior executive as the Director of the OSBDU who is 
responsible for implementing small business policy initiatives. 
Furthermore, HUD maintains an effective system to provide 
acknowledgement of procurement personnel that utilize 8(a) small 
businesses. HUD places a high priority on direct communications and 
outreach efforts; we utilize newsletters, facilitate trade show and 
marketplace presentations and conduct business assistance and training 
seminars. HUD is one of the most innovative governmental agencies and 
is constantly retrofitting its employment with the latest technologies 
to enhance service to small businesses. HUD constantly employs 
proactive strategies to increase opportunities for these businesses to 
serve as prime contractors and subcontractors. HUD has achieved 
phenomenal success in requiring prime contractors to establish 
measurable programs to increase subcontracting opportunities.
Publications
    [sbull] Small Business resource Guide: www.hud.gov:80/offices/osdbu/resource/guide.cfm.
    [sbull] Small Business Tips: www.hud.gov:80/offices/osdbu/tips.cfm.
    [sbull] Forecast of Contracting Opportunities: www.hud.gov/office/cpo/4cast.cfm.
Seminars and Classes
    [sbull] Outreach Calendar/Small Business Training: www.hud.gov/groups/smallbusiness.cfm.
WEB Based Compliance
    [sbull] Brent Pick is HUD's webmaster and updates all contract 
compliance issues on the web. (303) 672-5281 ext. 1821 [email protected].
Telephone Service
    [sbull] (202) 708-1428, Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business 
Utilization HUD Headquarters, Room 3130.
Future Activities
    [sbull] CD-Roms/Video.
    [sbull] Online/E-mail Service.
On-Site Evaluation/Assistance
    [sbull] Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, A. 
Jo Baylor, Director: HUD--Headquarters 451 7th Street, SW., Room 3130, 
Washington, DC 20410; E-mail: [email protected].

Interior

Fish and Wildlife Service
    [sbull] Compliance assistance Contact: [email protected].
    [sbull] General compliance guidance: http://pdm.fws.gov/sba/sbindex.html.
    [sbull] Compliance guidance for wildlife import and export license 
holders: http://www.le.fws.gov/PublicBulletin.htm or http://www.le.fws.gov/inspectors.htm.
    [sbull] Non-retaliation policy: http://policy.fws.gov/do142.html.
    [sbull] Outreach presentations for the import/export community: 
http://www.le.fws.gov/inspectors.html or Telephone: 703-358-1949.
    [sbull] Courses on Conservation Grant Writing, Conservation 
Partnerships, Developing and Working with Friends Groups, and other 
topics: http://training.fws.gov or Telephone: 304-876-1600.
    [sbull] Assistance for importers and exporters, taxidermists, 
guides, and outfitters: http://www.le.fws.gov/inspectors.htm or 
Telephone: 703-358-1949.
    [sbull] FWS Publications online: http://library.fws.gov/pubs3.html.
    Fish and Wildlife Service contact: Sara Prigan, Policy & Directives

[[Page 38536]]

Management Division, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Mail Stop 222, 
Arlington Square, 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22203. 
Telephone: 703-358-2508. Fax: 703-358-2269. E-mail: [email protected].
Minerals Management Service
    [sbull] Information about regulations, Notices to Lessees, and Dear 
payor letters: www.mms.gov or copies available at local MMS offices.
    [sbull] Training on how to report royalty revenue and related 
information: Available at various locations around the country.
    [sbull] Workshops to explain more complex regulations: Available at 
various locations around the country.
Bureau of Land Management
    [sbull] Oil and Gas Surface Operating Standards for Oil and Gas 
Development known as ``The Gold Book'': Available at BLM State and 
Field Offices.
Office of Surface Mining
    [sbull] Information about regulations, directives, policy, agency 
reports, flyers, brochures, small operators assistance, etc.: 
www.osm.gov.
    [sbull] Printable telephone directory, electronic telephone 
directory, e-mail directory; office locations: www.osm.gov and by e-
mail from [email protected].
    [sbull] Telephone reference and referral services; answers to 
general reference questions; information on availability of OSM 
documents: www.osm.gov or by calling 303-844-1436 or by fax at 303-844-
1545.
    [sbull] Downloadable software tools that can be used for 
implementing the Surface Mining Law: www.osm.gov.
    [sbull] The Applicant Violator System contains the history of 
permits and companies in the coal mining business, generally since 1977 
Downloadable software: www.avs.osmre.gov or call 1-800-643-9748.
Bureau of Reclamation
    [sbull] Statute, regulations, Reclamation Reform Act (RRA) Fact 
Sheets, RRA forms & instructions, and Status of Irrigation Districts 
List: www.usbr.gov/rra.
    [sbull] Explanations of the most common RRA questions and issues in 
plain English: www.usbr.gov/rra and at the Reclamation District offices 
in all irrigation districts.
    Department of the Interior Single Point of Contact: John 
Strylowski, U.S. Department of the Interior, MS 7229 MIB, Washington, 
DC 20240. Telephone: 202-208-3071. Fax: 202-219-2100. E-Mail: [email protected].

Justice

Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU)
    The Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) 
strive to improve and increase the Department's performance in 
utilizing small, small disadvantage, small woman-owned and veteran-
owned businesses as contractors and subcontractors. Our various bureaus 
spend approximately two billion dollars a year in the private sector. 
Currently, more than 42 percent of those dollars go to small 
businesses, with 10 to 15 percent going to minority-owned firms and 3 
to 5 percent going to woman-owned companies.
    The OSDBU Director and the Deputy Attorney General are committed to 
encouraging and assisting well-qualified and skillful small, minority, 
and woman-owned businesses seeking contracts with the Department of 
Justice. The acquisition function in the Justice Department has been 
assigned to each of our bureaus' contracting staffs, most of which are 
located in the metropolitan Washington, DC area. We have prepared 
several avenues to assist small and disadvantaged businesses in getting 
better acquainted with the requirements and procurement practices of 
the bureaus.
    The Forecast of Contract Opportunities provides projected contract 
opportunities that may become available from the various DOJ bureaus 
during the specified fiscal year. The forecast information is divided 
by bureaus and lists opportunities that anticipated awards greater than 
or equal to $25,000.
    The forecast information also includes the product/service with the 
North American Industry Classification System codes; the anticipated 
procurement release date by fiscal year quarter; applicable or proposed 
preference program set-aside; the government estimate; and the 
incumbent contractor if any.
    Carefully review this listing and refer all questions about a 
proposed action to the listed contact. Questions about the forecast 
should be directed to the DOJ OSDBU staff on (202) 616-0521 or 1-800-
345-3712.
    Information on DOJ's initiatives and activities is available on the 
DOJ Small Business Web site: http://www.usdoj.gov/jmd/osdbu. This site 
links to the Small Business homepage, which provides extensive small 
business assistance information including registration for the monthly 
vendors outreach sessions which provides the opportunity for one-on-one 
meetings with small business specialist and contracting officers.
    Seminars/Conferences/Outreach Sessions: www.usdoj.osdbu.gov.
    OSDBU Contact: Joseph K. Bryan, Director, OSDBU, 1331 Penn Ave., 
NW., National Place Bld., Suite 1010, Washington, DC 20530. Telephone: 
202-616-0521. Fax: 202-616-1717. E-Mail: [email protected].
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
    Publications of benefit or interest to ATF industry members and the 
general public (i.e., firearms and explosives regulations, newsletters, 
rulings, press releases, statistics and State & local training courses, 
Federal law and regulations, State Laws and Published Ordinances, and 
Federal Register notices.)
    [sbull] Theft/losses of explosives materials: 1-888-ATF-2662.
    [sbull] Toll free for reports of gun related crimes and after hours 
theft/losses: 1-800-ATF-GUNS.
    [sbull] Toll free for theft/losses of firearms: 1-800-800-3855.
    [sbull] ATF Firearms and Explosives Compliance Web site: 
www.atf.gov.
    The ATF provides various publications to our industry members as 
well as the general public. Some of the publications available either 
on ATF Web site or in hard copy, include manuals which provide ATF's 
regulatory requirements in a plain language format; informational 
brochures to help raise awareness of possible criminal activity (i.e., 
Reporting theft of Explosives and Firearms, Arson incidents); and 
industry newsletters for all businesses regulated by ATF. Publications, 
brochures and forms are produced in quantities of 115,000 each for 
firearms and 12,000 for explosives, for distribution to the licensees, 
permittees, and to trade and research organizations and the press.
    ATF hosts/participates in national, international, as well as 
regional/local conferences and meetings. In addition, ATF personnel are 
often invited by associations to attend their national conferences to 
give presentations on topics of interest to association members, and/or 
set up an exhibit booth. The ATF exhibit booth provides yet another 
venue through which industry members that attend these meetings, may 
ask questions or concerns regarding ATF policy or regulations.
    ATF personnel have also been asked by industry associations as well 
as regulatory associations/agencies to participate on various panels. 
Recent topics on which the ATF has provided

[[Page 38537]]

our expertise include but are not limited to, Safe Explosives Act, Shot 
Show University, Annual Importers Conference.
    There are a number of application forms and reports required by 
ATF, some of which are now available on ATF's Web site www.aft.gov.
    ATF Contact: Mary Jo Hughes, Chief, FEA Services Division, Office 
of Firearms, Explosives and Arson, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms 
and Explosives 650 Massachusetts Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20226. 
Telephone: 202-927-8045. Fax: 202-927-7488.
Civil Rights Division (CRT)
    CRT--Disability Rights Section (DRS)
    [sbull] Home Page: www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adahom1.htm.
    [sbull] Business Page: http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/business.htm.
    The home page provides information about the toll-free ADA 
Information Line, the Department's ADA enforcement activities, the ADA 
technical assistance program, certification of State and local building 
codes, proposed changes in ADA regulations and requirements, and the 
ADA mediation program. The home page also provides direct access to ADA 
regulations and technical assistance materials, Freedom of Information 
Act materials, links to the Department's press releases, and links to 
the other Federal agencies' Internet home pages that contain ADA 
information. The most recent addition to the ADA Home Page is the ADA 
Business Connection--a site that has been established to assist 
business entities to acquire the information necessary to enable them 
to comply with the ADA.
    ADA Guide for Small Business: http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/smbudgd.pdf.
    ADA Information Line. DRS operates a toll-free ADA Information Line 
to provide information to the public about the requirements of the ADA 
and to distribute technical assistance publications to the public. 
Automated service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In 
addition, the Information Line is staffed during business hours by 
disability rights specialists who respond to questions about the ADA. 
The ADA Information Line numbers are (800) 514-0301 (voice); (800) 514-
0383 (TTY).
    ADA Fax on Demand. The ADA Information Line Fax Delivery Service 
allows the public to obtain free ADA information by fax 24 hours a day, 
seven days a week. By calling the ADA Information Line, callers can 
select from among 32 different ADA technical assistance publications 
and receive the information, usually within minutes, directly on their 
fax machines or computer fax/modems.
    ADA Information Line: 800-514-0301 (voice); 800-514-0383 (TTY)
    ADA publications. DRS produces a range of technical assistance 
documents, including an ADA Guide for Small Businesses that has been 
published jointly with the Small Business Administration. A video is 
currently under production featuring Assistant Attorney General Ralph 
Boyd and DRS staff that will dispel common misunderstandings that small 
businesses have about the ADA.
    ADA training. DRS provides ADA training at meetings nationwide; and 
conducts outreach to broad and targeted audiences that have included 
mayors, local Chambers of Commerce, and millions of businesses.
    Requests for speakers and training should be placed through the ADA 
Information Line: 800-514-0301 (voice); 800-514-0383 (TTY)
    ADA Mediation Program. The Department's ADA Mediation Program 
facilitates compliance by entities, including small businesses, using a 
voluntary alternative dispute resolution approach. Carried out through 
a partnership between the Federal government and the private sector, 
more than 450 professional mediators are available nationwide to 
mediate ADA cases.

David K. Flynn*, Chief, Appellate Section, P.O. Box 66078, Washington, 
DC 20035-6078. Telephone: 202-514-2195. Fax: 202-524-8490.
----------------

*(Please note that Mr. Flynn is not assigned either to the 
Disability Rights Section (DRS) or to the Office of Special Counsel 
(OSC). General small business inquiries for information or for 
assistance concerning compliance with matters within the areas of 
responsibility of DRS or OSC should be directed to the addresses and 
phone numbers in the respective sections.)
CRT--Office of Special Counsel for Unfair Immigration Related 
Employment Practices (OSC)
    OSC's Web site has helpful information specifically designed for 
businesses. This site describes the legal obligations of employers to 
comply with the anti-discrimination provision of the Immigration and 
Nationality Act (INA) and provides information to assist compliance. 
www.usdoj.gov/crt/osc.
    OSC has a national toll-free telephone line solely for the use of 
employers who wish to consult with OSC staff members about their 
compliance concerns. The telephone line is staffed by OSC attorneys and 
Equal Opportunity Specialists who promptly address employers' 
questions, providing them with immediate guidance. OSC staff often 
advise employers on how to avoid discrimination in the workplace, 
minimizing any future liability. Voice: 1-800-255-8155; TDD: 1-800-362-
2735.
    Based on information received from individuals calling this line, 
and OSC's prompt investigation of these cases, OSC often is able to 
bring early, efficient, cost-effective resolutions to employment 
disputes that might otherwise result in the filing of charges, the 
accumulation of potential back pay awards, or litigation expenses. 
These early interventions minimize the impact of statutory enforcement 
on small businesses. Voice: 1-800-255-7688 or (202) 616-5525; TDD: 1-
800-237-2515.
    OSC Employer Hotline. OSC also provides employers, where necessary, 
with training materials for their staff, including booklets, posters 
and educational videotapes, on how to ensure that they do not engage in 
discriminatory behavior. The employer hotline number is distributed 
with all of OSC's outreach materials for employers.
    Voice: 1-800-255-8155; TDD: 1-800-362-2735; E-mail Address: 
[email protected].
    Download Brochures and Booklets: http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/osc/htm/outreach.htm.
    OSC Job Applicant or Employee Hotline. OSC takes part in numerous 
employer training sessions throughout the country, providing employers 
guidance on how they can comply with the antidiscrimination provisions 
of the immigration laws.
    OSC Training Materials. OSC also provides employers, where 
necessary, with training materials for their staff, including booklets, 
posters and educational videotapes, on how to ensure that they do not 
engage in discriminatory behavior. The employer hotline number is 
distributed with all of OSC's outreach materials for employers.
    Voice: 1-800-255-8155; TDD: 1-800-362-2735; E-mail Address: 
[email protected].
    Download Brochures and Booklets: http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/osc/htm/outreach.htm.
    OSC Compliance Assistance Education. OSC takes part in numerous 
employer training sessions throughout the country, providing employers 
guidance on how they can comply with the antidiscrimination provisions 
of the immigration laws.
    Voice: 1-800-255-8155; TDD: 1-800-362-2735; E-mail Address: 
[email protected].

[[Page 38538]]

    OSC Media outreach. OSC staff participate in outreach engagements 
with the media, such as radio call-in shows, that afford employers an 
opportunity to bring their concerns to OSC's attention. Voice: 1-800-
255-8155; TDD: 1-800-362-2735; E-mail Address: [email protected].
    OSC Grants. OSC provides grants to employer associations (such as 
chambers of commerce) to allow those organizations to conduct further 
compliance assistance among their members. March 5, 2003 Grant 
Announcement: http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/osc/pdf/03-grants.pdf List of 
Current Grantees Operating in FY 2003: http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/osc/press/02grantpr.htm.
    OSC address and phone numbers: Office of Special Counsel for 
Immigration Related Unfair Employment Practices, Civil Rights Division, 
Department of Justice, Post Office Box 27728, Washington, DC 20038-
7728. Telephone: 202-616-5594.
    OSC Employer Hotline: Voice: 1-800-255-8155, TDD: 1-800-362-2735.
Drug Enforcement Administration
    Small Business Regulatory Fairness Advisory: 
www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov/pubs/fair_adviz.htm.
    For Field Offices if they have any questions regarding DEA's 
regulations and policies. If they are a small business, they may 
contact the SBA's Office of the Ombudsman to comment on DEA's 
enforcement actions. This Advisory is also included in all revised and 
new manuals.

Seminars/Classes

    [sbull] Chemical training for importers/exporters: 
www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov/mtgs/dea_mtgs.html
    [sbull] Pharmaceutical Training Seminars for importers/exporters 
and manufacturers: www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov/mtgs/dea_mtgs.html, 
www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov/quotas/index.html.

Web-Based Compliance

    [sbull] A wide variety of online forms: http://www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov/online_forms.html.

Onsite Evaluation/ Assistance

    [sbull] List of local field offices: www.DEAdiverison.usdoj.gov/offices_n_dirs/index.html.
    Unless otherwise listed above, requests for information or reports 
should be mailed to: Drug Enforcement Administration, Office of 
Diversion Control / ATTN: Washington, DC 20537.
    DRS address and phone number: Disability Rights Section, Civil 
Rights Division, P.O. Box 66738, Washington, DC 20035-6738. Telephone: 
202-307-0663. Fax: 202-307-1198.
    ADA Information Line: 800-514-0301, 800-514-0383 (TTY).
    Drug Enforcement Administration Contact (for regulatory and 
enforcement matters): Patricia Good, Chief, Liaison and Policy Section, 
Office of Diversion Control, Drug Enforcement Administration, 
Washington, DC 20537. Telephone: 202-307-7297. Fax: 202-307-8570.
    Justice Department contacts for Department wide matters (such as 
the Ombudsman's Reports to Congress) and other issues of general agency 
concern:

Kevin R. Jones, Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal 
Policy, Department of Justice, Main Building, Room 7238, 950 
Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20530. Telephone: 202-514-
4604. Fax: 202-514-9112. E-mail: [email protected].
Robert Hinchman, Senior Counsel, Office of Legal Policy, Department of 
Justice, Main Building, Room 7236, 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., 
Washington, DC 20530. Telephone: 202-514-8059. Fax: 202-514-9112. E-
mail: [email protected].

    Justice Department contact for general public affairs inquiries: 
Barbara Comstock, Director, Office of Public Affairs, Main Building, 
Room 1248, 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20530. 
Telephone: 202-514-2007. Fax: 202-513-5331.
    Justice Department Single Point of Contact: Joseph K. Bryan, 
Director, OSDBU, 1331 Penn Ave. NW., National Place Bld., Suite 1010, 
Washington, DC 20530. Telephone: 202-616-0521. Fax: 202-616-1717. E-
mail: [email protected].

Labor

    The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) is committed to significantly 
enhance its compliance assistance efforts. The goal of compliance 
assistance is to protect the wages, health benefits, retirement 
security, safety and health of America's workforce by preventing 
employment law violations. DOL has developed the following to ensure 
that employers and workers have access to clear and accurate 
information and assistance--when and where they need it, and in the 
format that suits them best.
Department of Labor Web Site
    DOL's principal Web site--www.dol.gov--provides America's employers 
and workers with access to a wide range of services and employment and 
regulatory information. Easy access to DOL agencies' compliance 
assistance information and resources is available through DOL's Office 
of Compliance Assistance Policy Web site, www.dol.gov/compliance.
Elaws Advisors
    The elaws Advisors (Employment Laws Assistance for Workers and 
Small Businesses) are Web-based, interactive tools that help 
individuals understand Federal employment laws. Each elaws Advisor 
mimics the interaction an individual would have with a DOL employment 
law expert by asking the appropriate questions and then providing 
answers based on the individuals responses. The newest elaws Advisor, 
the FirstStep Employment Law Advisor, helps employers simply and 
quickly determine which of the major employment laws administered by 
DOL apply to their business or organization and provides easy-to-access 
information about how to comply with each law's requirements. 
www.dol.gov/elaws
Toll-free Information Service
    This Information Services is a central access point to information 
on a range of employment rules and issues. By calling 1-866-4-USA-DOL, 
individuals can find answers to questions about job loss, business 
closures, pay and leave, workplace safety and health, pension and 
health benefits, and reemployment rights for Veterans, National Guard 
members and Reservists. 1-866-4-USA-DOL (TTY: 1-877-889-5627)
SBREFA Toll-free line
    Small businesses may contact DOL's Office of Small Business 
Programs (OSBP) directly with their compliance assistance or regulatory 
fairness questions by calling 1-888-9-SBREFA (1-888-972-7332).
E-Mail Response Service
    DOL's coordinated e-mail response service allows employers and 
employees to ask questions about employment and regulatory issues 
electronically. By choosing from a list of topics or internal DOL 
agencies under the ``Contact Us'' section of the DOL Web site, users 
are ensured that their question will go to the appropriate office and 
that they will receive an answer in a timely manner.
Small Business Compliance Assistance Information Inventory
    More than 300 publications are in this comprehensive list of DOL 
small business compliance assistance

[[Page 38539]]

publications. Copies are available by calling 1-888-9-SBREFA (1-888-
972-7332)
Employment Law Guide
    The Employment Law Guide describes DOL's main laws & regulations in 
plain language for employers needing introductory information to 
develop wage, benefit, safety & health, and nondiscrimination policies 
for their businesses. It is available online and in print, in English 
and Spanish. Copies are available free of charge by calling DOL's Toll-
Free Information Service at 1-866-4-USA-DOL.

Wage and Hour Issues

    The Employment Standards Administration, Wage & Hour Division (WHD) 
enforces the minimum wage, overtime and child labor provisions of the 
Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the Family and Medical Leave Act 
(FMLA), the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act 
(MSPA), employment standards and worker protections provided in several 
non-immigrant worker programs of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 
and the prevailing wage requirements of the Davis-Bacon Act (DBA), the 
Service Contract Act (SCA) and related statutes.
    WHD gives compliance assistance through its Web site, interactive 
elaws advisors (FLSA, FMLA), toll free phone service, email, printed 
materials, workshops and presentations.
    [sbull] WHD on the Web: www.wagehour.dol.gov.
    [sbull] WHD Contact Information: www.dol.gov/esa/contacts/whd/america2.htm.
    [sbull] Telephone Number: 1-866-4USWAGE (1-866-487-9243).
Federal Contract Compliance
    The Employment Standards Administration, Office of Federal Contract 
Compliance Programs (OFCCP) administers three equal employment 
opportunity programs that apply to Federal contractors and 
subcontractors: Executive Order 11246, as amended, Section 503 of the 
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and affirmative action provisions of the 
Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974. OFCCP also 
shares authority for regulations requiring equal employment opportunity 
and affirmative actions in apprenticeship programs, Title I of the 
Americans with Disabilities Act, the Immigration Reform and Control Act 
and the Family and Medical Leave Act.
    OFCCP gives compliance assistance through its Web site, interactive 
on-line advisors, email, toll-free telephone service, workshops and 
seminars.
    [sbull] OFCCP on the Web: www.dol.gov/esa/ofccp.
    [sbull] OFCCP Contact Information: www.dol.gov/esa/contact/ofccp/ofcpkeyp.htm.
    [sbull] Telephone Number: 1-202-693-0101.
Retirement and Health Benefits
    The Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) assists 
employers and employee benefit plan practitioners in understanding and 
complying with the requirements of the Employee Retirement Income 
Security Act (ERISA) as it applies to administering employee pension 
and health benefit plans. EBSA promotes voluntary compliance through 
the Voluntary Fiduciary Correction Program and the Delinquent Filer 
Compliance Program and through strategic alliances with professional 
organizations and Federal, state and local governments.
    EBSA gives compliance assistance through its Web site, printed 
materials, interactive on-line advisors, email, toll-free telephone 
service, workshops and seminars.
    [sbull] EBSA on the Web: http://www.dol/ebsa.
    [sbull] EBSA Contact Information for Electronic Inquiries: 
www.askebsa.dol.gov.
    [sbull] Telephone Number: 1-866-444-3272.
Occupational Safety and Health
    The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) works to 
save lives, prevent injuries and protect the health and safety of 
America's workers. Nearly every worker in the U.S. comes under OSHA's 
jurisdiction as defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 
1970 (exceptions include miners, transportation workers, many public 
employees and the self-employed).
    OSHA gives compliance assistance through its Web site, printed 
compliance guides, toll-free telephone service, e-mail and online 
interactive advisors. Free workplace consultations are available in 
every state to small businesses that need assistance in establishing 
safety and health programs and identifying and correcting workplace 
hazards. A network of OSHA Compliance Assistance Specialists in local 
offices provides tailored information and training to employers and 
employees. The Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) and other strategic 
partnerships help to recognize and build upon successful practices in 
occupational safety and health management.
    [sbull] OSHA on the Web: www.osha.gov.
    [sbull] Telephone: 1-800-321-OSHA (1-800-321-6742).
    [sbull] OSHA Contact Information: www.osha.gov/html/oshdir.html, 
(202) 693-2317.
Mine Safety and Health
    The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) works to protect 
the health and safety of workers in America's mines by working 
cooperatively with industry, labor and other Federal and state 
agencies. MSHA's responsibilities are outlined in the Federal Mine 
Safety and Health Act of 1977, commonly called the Mine Act, which 
applies to all mining and mineral processing operations in the U.S. 
regardless of size, number of employees or method of extraction.
    MSHA gives compliance assistance to mine operators and workers 
through its Web site and by direct contact of agency enforcement, 
technical support, and education and training field personnel. MSHA 
established its Small Mine Office to address safety and health needs of 
small mines specifically and to enable small mines to comply with 
safety and health laws as readily as medium- or large-sized mines. The 
Small Mine Office focuses exclusively on compliance assistance and 
conducts no enforcement activities.
    [sbull] MSHA on the Web: www.msha.gov.
    [sbull] MSHA Contact Information: www.msha.gov/contactmsha/contactmsha.htm.
    [sbull] Telephone Number: 1-202-693-9400.
Veterans' Employment and Training
    The Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) helps 
Veterans, Reservists and National Guard members effectively prepare for 
and secure employment and to protect their employment--and training 
related rights. VETS offers employment, training assistance, and 
services to eligible veterans, including homeless veterans, through 
grants to states, local governments and non-profit organizations. VETS 
also administers the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment 
Rights Act (USERRA) and provides information about veterans' rights 
under the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act (VEOA) and the Federal 
Contract Program, which requires Federal contractors to take 
affirmative action to hire and promote qualified veterans.
    VETS delivers compliance assistance through its Web site, printed 
materials, e-mail and interactive online elaws advisors.

[[Page 38540]]

    [sbull] VETS on the Web: www.dol.gov/vets.
    [sbull] VETS Contact Information: www.dol.gov/vets/aboutvets/contacts/main.htm.
    [sbull] Telephone Number: 1-202-693-4700.
Labor-Management Standards
    The Employment Standards Administration, Office of Labor-Management 
Standards (OLMS) administers and enforces most of the Labor-Management 
Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) of 1959. OLMS also administers 
provisions of the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 and the Foreign 
Service Act of 1980 relating to standards of conduct for Federal 
employee unions. OLMS also administers employee protection provisions 
in the Federal mass transit law.
    OLMS gives compliance assistance through its Web site, 
publications, e-mail, workshops and other group presentations. An OLMS 
Web site--www.union-reports.dol.gov--lets users view and print union 
annual financial reports. It features a powerful union data search 
system that can produce lists tailored to users' needs. OLMS recently 
expanded the site to let users view and print reports by employers and 
labor relations consultants.
    [sbull] OLMS on the Web: www.olms.dol.gov.
    [sbull] OLMS Contact Information: www.dol.gov/esa/contacts/olms/lmskeyp.htm.
    [sbull] Telephone: 1-202-693-0123 (union member rights); 1-202-693-
0126 (transit employee protections).
Small Business Paperwork Relief Act of 2002
    DOL point of contact for collection of information and control of 
paperwork: Barbara Bingham, Director, Office of Compliance Assistance 
Policy, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Policy, U.S. Department 
of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., Rm. S2312, Washington, DC 
20210. Telephone: 202-693-5080.
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996
    DOL ombudsman to small businesses including responding to inquiries 
or complaints: Joe Lira, Director, Office of Small Business Programs, 
U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., Rm. C-2318, 
Washington, DC 20210. Telephone: 202-693-6460

State

    [sbull] Compliance Assistance Resources: www.state.gov/m/a/sdbu.
    [sbull] Compliance assistance: http://www.state.gov/m/a/sdbu/c9124.htm.
    The Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) 
webpage links to a number of federal agencies: www.osdbu.gov.
    [sbull] Publications: A Guide to Doing Business with State 
Department. Forecast of Contract Opportunities and others are available 
electronically on the webpage.
    [sbull] Workshops: State/OSDBU presents a number of workshops 
throughout the year as part of its outreach efforts. These workshops 
include ``in reach'' to our State Department customers and cover topics 
related to the Small Business Program. State/OSDBU staff members are 
often invited to participate on workshops or panels hosted by small 
business trade associations, Chambers of Commerce or other groups 
representing the interests of small business.
    [sbull] Training Sessions: We sponsor training sessions for State 
Department employees. Examples: Small Business Program training module 
at Foreign Service Institute's GSO Course. Participation in regional 
GSO Conferences hosted by State's Office of Logistics Management. 
(e.g., New Delhi, India and Gaborone, Botswana in 2002). Also 
participate in State Department events designed for private industry 
such as Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operation's Industry Day). State 
hosts an annual Prime Contractor training session. The morning is a 
refresher for large primes on regulations and reporting requirements 
governing subcontracting. The afternoon session is for networking 
between large primes and ``hot prospect'' small businesses.
    [sbull] Small Business Fairs: State/OSDBU hosts an annual Small 
Business Fair, which features ``common usage'' items typically 
purchased using the government credit card or GSA schedule. In November 
2002, we hosted a Veteran-owned Small Business Conference. We are also 
co-hosts of quarterly Information Technology Expositions, for which the 
Bureau of Information Resource Management takes the lead. We co-sponsor 
with other federal OSDBUs an annual conference each April, at Show 
Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. This year's event, held on 
April 23rd, attracted over 1500 participants from all over the country. 
State/OSDBU also supports Small Business Fairs hosted by other federal 
agencies, by small business trade associations, or by members of 
Congress. During FY-2002 to date, we have participated in over 30 such 
events.
    State Department Single Point of Contact: Gregory K.O. Davis, 
Regulatory Coordinator, A/RPS/DIR, 1800 G Street, NW., Suite 2400, SA-
22, Washington, DC 20522-2201. Telephone: 202-312-9607. Fax: 202-312-
9603. Intranet: http://arpsdir.a.state.gov. Internet: http://foia.state.gov/famdir/fam/fam.asp.

Transportation

    Web-based Compliance: Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business 
Utilization, www.osdbuweb.dot.gov.
    Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance: www.dot.gov/ost/dapc.
    Telephone: Small Business Customer Service Center, 1-800-532-1169.
    Office of Drug Enforcement and Program Compliance (DEPC): 1-800-
225-3784 (fax on demand service).
    Seminars/Classes: Transportation Marketplace Conferences, 
www.osdbuweb.dot.gov.
    Breath Alcohol Technician Training and Screening, Test Technician 
Training Manuals, Transportation Safety Institute, Marti Bludworth, 
DTI-100, 400 Will Rogers Parkway, Suite 205, Oklahoma City, OK 73108. 
(405) 949-0336, x 323.
    Online/e-mail Service News By E-mail: www.osdbuweb.dot.gov.
    Central Docket Management System: www.dms.dot.gov.
    Office of Aviation Analysis: www.ostpxweb.dot.gov/aviation.
    Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance Program Guidance Material: 
www.dot.gov/ost/dapc/prog_guidance.html.
    Online purchases and payments: www.Diy.dot.gov.
    Publications: The Transportation Link Newsletter; Marketing 
Information Package Fax on Demand Catalog; www.osdbuweb.dot.gov/, 1-
800-532-1169.
Federal Highway Administration
    Web-based Compliance: www.fhwa.dot.gov.
    Publications: Citizens Guide to Transportation Decision-making; 
National Dialogue on Operations; An Overview of Transportation and 
Environmental Justice; Transportation Conformity, A Basic Guide for 
State and Local Officials, Revised 2000; A Guide to Metropolitan 
Planning Under ISTEA, How the Pieces Fit Together; Federal Size 
Regulations for Commercial Motor Vehicles; and Bridge Formula Weights 
(all the above are available at the Web site).
Federal Aviation Administration
    Web-based Compliance: www.faa.gov/avr/arm/sbrefa.htm.
    E-mail Service: [email protected].
    Telephone Service: 1-888-551-1594, 1-800-255-1111 (Safety Hotline).

[[Page 38541]]

    On-site Assistance: Charlene Brown, 800 Independence Ave., SW., 
Room 808, Washington, DC 20591.
Bureau of Transportation Statistics
    Web-based Compliance: www.bts.gov/mcs/desc.html; www.fmcsa.dot.gov/factsfigs/ets/index/html (See Table of Contents Financial and Operating 
Statistics); and www.bts.gov/oai.sources (Office of Airline 
Information).
    E-mail Service: [email protected].
    Telephone Service: 1-800-853-1351 (General Information), 1-202-366-
4888 (public data from air carrier reports).
    Publications: Worksheet for Calculating Carrier Classification 
(Motor Carriers of Passengers); Worksheet for Calculating Carrier 
Classification (Motor Carriers of Property); Information Sheet for Form 
QFR and many others available through the Web site.
    On-site Assistance: Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 400 7th 
Street, SW, Room 3103, Washington, DC, L'Enfant Plaza Metrorail Station 
(7th and D Street exit).
    Reports Reference Facility (public data from air carrier reports), 
400 7th Street, SW, Room 4201, Washington, DC.
Federal Railroad Administration
    Web-based Compliance: www.fra.dot.gov.
    Telephone Service: 202-493-6395 (Office of Policy & Program 
Development).
Federal Transit Administration
    Web-based Compliance: www.fta.dot.gov.
    Telephone Service: 1-800-527-8279 (National Transit Resource 
Center).
    Publications: www.fta.dot.gov/library.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
    Web-based Compliance: www.fmcsa.dot.gov and www.1-888-dot-saft.com.
    Telephone Service: 1-800-832-5660 (Information Line), 1-800-368-
7328 (Consumer complaint hotline), 202-366-9805 (Licensing 
Information), 202-385-2423 (Insurance Information).
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
    Web-based compliance: www.nhtsa.dot.gov.
    Telephone Service: 1-800-DASH-2-DOT (1-800-327-4236).
    Publications: www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/outreach/media/Publications/Indes.cfm (Online publications library).
Maritime Administration
    Web-based Compliance: www.marad.dot.gov.
    Telephone Service: 202-366-4610 (Cargo Preference Program), 202-
366-8888 (Intermodal Development), 202-366-8887 (Environmental 
Activities), 202-366-1931 (Maritech Program), 202-366-5744 (Maritime 
Loan Guarantee), 202-366-1931 (National Maritime Resource and Education 
Center), 202-366-4610 (Ocean Freight Differential), 202-366-2324 
(Operating Differential Subsidy), 202-366-2625 (Ship Operation 
Cooperative Program), 202-366-2400 (War Risk Insurance Program), 202-
366-5821 (Vessel Transfer Program).
    Publications: www.marad.dot.gov/publications (online library).
Research and Special Programs Administration
    Web-based Compliance: www.rspa.dot.gov; www.hazmat.dot.gov; and 
www.ops.dot.gov.
    Telephone Service: 202-366-4595 (Office of Pipeline Safety), 1-800-
HMR-4922 or 202-366-4488 (Hazardous Materials Information Center), 202-
366-4900 (Office of Hazardous Materials Initiatives and Training), 202-
366-4484 (Hazardous Materials Incident Reports).
    Fax Service: 1-800-467-4922 (Hazardous Materials fax on demand), 
202-366-4566 (Office of Pipeline Safety fax).
    E-mail Service [email protected], [email protected], 
[email protected], [email protected], [email protected].
    Seminars/Classes: Transportation Safety Institute (Compliance 
Inspection Comprehensive Operator Qualification, OPS); Risk Management 
Conference/Public Meeting Proceedings (Hazmat and OPS) www.tsi.dot.gov.
    Publications: Pipeline Risk Management Newsletter, Oil Pollution 
Act Newsletter, Hazmat Safety Alerts.
    Department of Transportation Single Point of Contact: Daniel P. 
Matthews, Chief Information Officer, U.S. Department of Transportation 
400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590.
    Telephone: 202-366-9201.
    Fax: 202-366-7373, http://cio.ost.dot.gov/contact/index.html

Treasury

Office of Small Business Development
www.treas.gov/sba.

    Our Office of Small Business Development has a robust small 
business program to ensure both small business prime and subcontracting 
opportunities. The following examples, initiatives, and partnerships 
demonstrate Treasury's commitment:
Outreach Efforts
    [sbull] Maintain a vigorous small business procurement Web site 
(www.treas.gov/sba).
    [sbull] Treasury's annual forecast of contract opportunities and 
small business subcontracting opportunities directory are posted on the 
small business Web site, and we make hard copies available upon request 
and at all of the small business outreach events we attend.
    [sbull] Our highly successful Treasury Monthly Vendor Outreach 
Session program allows small businesses to meet with Treasury bureau 
small business specialists. We also include special guests representing 
other federal agencies or prime contractors to discuss procurement 
opportunities on a pre-arranged 15 minute basis in one central 
location. Our schedule is published a year in advance to allow small 
business to plan their marketing efforts.
    [sbull] Treasury's outreach efforts also include two Treasury IT 
Program Manager Vendor Outreach Session events each year (this event is 
modeled after our Monthly Vendor Outreach Session).
    [sbull] In Treasury's capacity as Chair of the OSDBU Directors 
Interagency Council outreach committee, we have taken the lead on the 
government-wide Annual OSDBU Directors Procurement Conference held in 
April of each year. This event is also posted on our Web site.
    [sbull] We have also focused our efforts in targeted outreach on a 
nationwide basis, such as trade fair participation, seminar 
presentations, panel program discussions on specific topics, and one-
on-one counseling.
    [sbull] The OSBD has built a solid relationship with a variety of 
small business trade associations. On April 12, 2000, Treasury entered 
into an historic Memorandum of Understanding with 17 small, minority, 
and women-owned small business trade associations to increase the 
ability of small minority and women-owned small businesses to compete 
for Treasury procurements in industries reflecting under-representation 
while maintaining participation in industries with successful 
utilization.
    [sbull] A list of the Top 25 Treasury purchases is published, 
listed by industry classification over a five year period to provide an 
opportunity for ``targeted outreach'.
    [sbull] Treasury implemented a mentor-prot[eacute]g[eacute] pilot 
program. We are the only agency in which prot[eacute]g[eacute]s may be 
small businesses of all types--SB, SDB, WOSB, HUBZSB, SDVOSB, and VOSB.

[[Page 38542]]

    Treasury Single Point of Contact: Jody Falvey, Acting Director, 
Office of Small Business Development, U. S. Department of the Treasury, 
1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Mail Code: 1310G/400W, Washington, DC 
20220. Telephone: 202-622-2826. Fax: 202-622-4963. E-mail: 
[email protected].
Internal Revenue Service
    The IRS Compliance Assistance Resources are those that help 
taxpayers comply with Federal tax law. IRS makes every effort to 
inform, assist and educate taxpayers.
    Compliance Assistance Program Description. The Small Business/Self-
Employed (SB/SE) operating division is structured to best serve 
taxpayers whose needs are more complex than wage and investment 
taxpayers. This division serves about 7 million small businesses, 
including corporations and partnerships with assets of $10 million or 
less. While many face the same tax issues as large corporations, they 
often do not have tax professionals on staff. Tax compliance issues 
often stem from a lack of understanding of tax law requirements, 
inadequate accounting practices and resources and cash flow problems.
    The approximately 33 million self-employed and supplemental income 
earners are similar to wage and investment taxpayers, but their tax 
issues are often more complex. They have substantially higher incomes 
and file twice the number of forms and schedules, requiring more time 
to prepare taxes, a greater reliance on paid tax preparers and more IRS 
expertise.

Headquarters

    The SB/SE Taxpayer Education and Communication (TEC) educates and 
informs SB/SE taxpayers and representatives about their tax obligations 
by developing educational products and services focused on customer 
needs and by providing top quality pre-filing services to help 
taxpayers understand and comply with the tax laws.
    TEC headquarters provides leadership and direction in the design, 
development, and delivery of services for small business stakeholders. 
Activities of headquarters staff include formulating short and long-
range program policies, strategies, and objectives to educate and 
inform stakeholders. TEC headquarters also coordinates program 
activities with other top level IRS executives to prepare Service-wide 
policies, address cross-functional issues, develop strategies, and 
ensure consistency of approach. TEC collaborates with major 
stakeholders to identify, develop and maintain leveraged partnerships 
through negotiated voluntary agreements.
    Partnership Outreach develops and delivers educational products and 
services focused on customer needs, and leverages partnerships with 
major stakeholders through negotiated agreements to assist in the 
delivery of these products and services. The primary focus is on 
proactively identifying emerging trends, common errors, and common 
areas of non-compliance, and developing products, services and programs 
to address these issues and encourage compliance.
    Business Marketing Services plans and executes the promotion and 
distribution of all traditional SB/SE products and services to TEC 
employees, key stakeholders, and targeted taxpayer audiences in order 
to satisfy external customer needs and internal organizational 
objectives. Business Marketing Services is also focused on developing 
strategies for increasing usage of electronic products and implementing 
them effectively for not only the small business community but also the 
more uniquely emerging self-employed taxpayer segment.
    Office of Taxpayer Burden Reduction provides direction and 
leadership for burden reduction by focusing on six areas:
    [sbull] Simplifying forms and publications;
    [sbull] Streamlining internal policies and procedures;
    [sbull] Promoting less burdensome rulings, regulations and law;
    [sbull] Assisting in the development of a burden reduction 
measurement methodology;
    [sbull] Partnering with internal and external stakeholders to more 
effectively and efficiently identifying and address burden reduction 
initiatives; and
    [sbull] Chairing the Taxpayer Burden Reduction Council, which 
develops cross-divisional proposals for burden reduction and 
coordinates and sponsors burden reduction efforts throughout the 
Service.

Field Organization

    A geographically dispersed field force provides top quality pre-
filing service via educational products, services, agreements, and 
programs that help them understand and comply with applicable tax laws. 
The field force also supports filing activities, including walk-in 
sites and R-mail sites, during peak filing season and other times as 
needed.
    IRS Area Distribution Centers (ADCs) serve as distribution points 
for tax products. Tax products can be ordered free of charge from the 
ADCs at 1-800-829-2437.

Telephone Assistance Through Customer Account Service

    [sbull] Tax Assistance--1-800-829-1040.
    [sbull] Forms, Form Instructions and Publications--1-800-829-3676.
    [sbull] Small Business and Specialty Taxes--1-800-829-4933.
    [sbull] Compliance Assistance Products--1-800-829-2765.
    [sbull] Tax Refund Hotline--1-800-829-1954.
    [sbull] Recorded Tax Information (Tele-Tax) 24 hour service--1-800-
829-4477.
    [sbull] Assistance for the Hearing Impaired--1-800-829-4059.
    [sbull] To suggest improvements to IRS Procedures--1-888-912-1227.
    [sbull] Taxpayer Advocate Service Hotline--1-877-777-4778.
    Taxpayers who need more information than is provided by Customer 
Account Service via the toll-free number are directed to Referral mail 
at http://www.irs.gov/help/index.html. This site was created to answer 
general tax law questions.

Web Sites/Internet

    [sbull] http://www.irs.gov--IRS Web site.
    [sbull] http://www.irs.gov/smallbiz--IRS Small Business Web site.
    [sbull] http://www.irs.gov/smallbiz--Visits to the Internet on 
IRS.gov have grown from 1,470 visits in April 2001 to 694,514 visits as 
of March 2003. The SB/SE Internet site has had 4,690,252 visits from 
April 2001 to March 2003.
    [sbull] http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/index.html--News.
    [sbull] http://www.irs.gov/taxpros/content/0,,id=103728,00.html--
Plain Language Regulations.
    [sbull] Tax Centers on Partners' Web site--IRS has developed 10 
partnerships by establishing Tax Center Web sites on the partners' 
sites. Tax Centers have comprehensive links customized to the partners' 
needs and organized by topic to various parts of irs.gov. For example: 
Tax Center Web site--http://sba.gov/bi/irstaxcenter.doc.
Training/Workshops/Seminars

Practitioner Institutes

    Practitioner Institutes serve as part of an overall practitioner 
education curriculum, which includes Tax Talk Today, the Nationwide Tax 
Forum, local liaison meetings, etc. They provide a much-needed venue 
for delivering the IRS message to about 25,000 direct participants, 
which prepare countless tax returns for the public each year. The Tax 
Practitioner Institutes have been going on for nearly 60 years in some

[[Page 38543]]

parts of the U.S. Over the years the institutes have evolved into 
forums that deal with a large variety of income tax issues of interest 
to the entire tax practitioner community.

Leveraged Small Business Workshop Student/Instructor Materials

    IRS has adopted three models for fully leveraged small business 
workshops that our partners can offer as a client service to help the 
smallest and newest businesses:
    [sbull] Partner organizations organize, market and staff live 
workshops using IRS materials or their own.
    [sbull] Partnership organizations link to IRS' on-line small 
business workshop products and market them to their members.
    [sbull] Partner organizations distribute Pub. 3700, A Virtual Small 
Business workshop CD-ROM (November 2001) and Pub. 3693, Introduction to 
Federal Taxes for Small Business-Self Employed: Getting Your Business 
Off to a Successful Start CD-ROM (Sept 2001) to their members and/or 
let them know how to order it. Pub. 3700 has Spanish and Mandarin 
closed captions.
    Tax Talk Today is a monthly program about current tax issues and 
policies sponsored in part by the IRS. It provides unbiased insight and 
information about current tax and business issues critical to tax 
professionals. All of the programs feature a panel discussion, 
questions and answers from viewers, current tax news stories, and tax 
teasers. The format allows viewers to ask questions via e-mail, fax or 
telephone. Web site:  http://www.taxtalktoday.tv/
Products Developed Specifically for Small Business
    The role of the SB/SE TEC division is to address compliance through 
education and marketing to our Small Businesses and Self-Employed 
taxpayers. IRS develops educational products and services focused on 
customer needs to provide top quality pre-filing services to help 
taxpayers and stakeholders understand and comply with the tax laws. 
Products can be ordered online or by calling 1-800-829-3676. Web site: 
http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=101169,00.html
Forums
    [sbull] Payroll/Practitioner Forums are an extension of the bi-
monthly National Public Liaison (NPL) meetings. The Forums provide an 
opportunity for the subject matter experts (SMEs) and payroll/
practitioner representatives to ``work through'' the issues raised from 
suggested topics on the agenda.
    [sbull] Small Business Forums are held with external small business 
groups and associations. The primary focus of these meetings is to 
provide an avenue for an open exchange of information with external 
stakeholders. The forums also give them an opportunity to share 
feedback concerns on behalf of their small business members. Monthly 
schedule: http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=106266,00.html
    [sbull] IRS Nationwide Tax Forums are one of the IRS's largest and 
most effective outreach programs to the tax professional community. 
During July, August, and September, the IRS will present six tax forums 
nationwide, including seminars, a trade show, and an awards banquet. 
These forums are designed to give tax professionals valuable 
information to improve their business. Web site: http://www.irs.gov/taxpros/article/0,,id=97192,00.html
Tax Assistance Centers
    Your one-stop resource for face-to-face tax help. These sites 
provide assistance in the preparation of returns as well as resolution 
of less complex accounts and compliance issues for taxpayers that 
require face-to-face assistance. The locations and hours of operation 
are available at Web site: http://www.irs.gov/localcontacts/index.html.
    IRS also offers free income tax assistance for low income, 
disabled, elderly and non-English speaking taxpayers through the 
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA) and Tax Counseling for 
the Elderly program (TCE). A free tax preparation site can be located 
by calling Customer Account Services at 1-800-829-1040.
Non-retaliation Policy
    The IRS has a zero tolerance policy for retaliation and has had a 
written non-retaliation policy since 1998. On July 22, 1999, the 
President signed the landmark ``IRS Restructuring and Reform Act (RRA) 
of 1998. The IRS has taken a number of steps to prevent retaliation and 
has put policies in place to deal with it effectively, should it occur. 
Sec. 1203 of RRA'98 provides for the mandatory termination of IRS 
employees under various specific instances of misconduct and provides a 
number of key taxpayer safeguards. This serves as a strong deterrent to 
any employee who might consider taking retaliatory action. Web site: 
http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0,,id=97348,00.html.
Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS)
    TAS is an independent organization that helps taxpayers resolve 
problems with the IRS and recommend changes that will prevent tax 
problems. The Taxpayer Advocate Service Office of Systemic Advocacy 
provides oversight and direction for identifying, an analyzing 
systemic, procedural and operations problems. This office announced on 
March 13, 2003 the development of a new internet-based program for 
submitting systemic problems and suggestions to improve tax 
administration. Web site: http://www.irs.gov/advocate/index.html
Taxpayer Education and Communication (TEC) Outreach Products
    TEC Outreach Products can be ordered online or by calling 1-800-
829-3676 and viewed at: http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=101169,00.html.
    Small Business One-Stop Resource http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/index.html
Points of Contact for IRS
    Single point of contact for Compliance Assistance Resources IRS Web 
site: http://www.irs.gov/businesses/index.html.
    Single point of contact for Paperwork Relief Act of 2002: Michael 
Chesman, Director, Office of Taxpayer Burden Reduction, Telephone: 202-
283-7673. [email protected].

Veterans Affairs

    Consistent with SBREFA, compliance assistance is funneled through 
the two Web sites above to register complaints or ask for assistance. 
Most other VA offices will ensure that appropriate certifications are 
published in VA regulations that they do not affect small business 
entities. Small businesses can comment on VA regulations during the 
informal rulemaking process, after they are published as proposed rules 
in the Federal Register.
    [sbull] Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization: 
http://www.va.gov/osdbu
    [sbull] Center for Veterans Enterprise: http://www.vetbiz.gov
    Veterans Affairs Single Point of Contact: Ramsey Alexander, Jr., 
Senior Procurement Analyst, OSDBU (00SB), Department of Veterans 
Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20420, Telephone: 202-
565-8133, Toll Free: 800-949-8156. E-mail: 
[email protected].

[[Page 38544]]

Agency for International Development

    U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Single Point of 
Contact: Marilyn S. Marton, Director, Office of Small & Disadvantaged 
Business Utilization (OSDBU), U.S. Agency for International 
Development, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20523-7800, 
Telephone: 202-712-1500, Fax: 202-23165-3056. E-Mail: 
[email protected].

Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    The Commodity Exchange Act (CEA) establishes a regulatory scheme 
for the commodity futures and options industry that generally depends 
on industry self-regulation with federal oversight by the Commodity 
Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The National Futures Association 
(NFA) and other self-regulatory organizations (SROs) generally conduct 
routine compliance reviews in the futures industry. The NFA is 
responsible for most of the compliance reviews of retail sales 
practices in the industry and in this regard, it has a program for the 
voluntary review of promotional materials. NFA's Internet Web site 
includes a ``Contact NFA'' section providing telephone numbers for its 
general Information Center and specific compliance contact personnel 
(www.nfa.futures.org/contact/indexContact.asp), as well as various 
published compliance information (www.nfa.futures.org/compliance/publications.aspm).
    The CFTC provides compliance guidance to small businesses through 
several methods. The CFTC's Internet Web site includes a ``Law & 
Regulation'' section (www.cftc.gov/cftc/cftclawreg.htm) providing 
general information concerning the requirements of the CEA, CFTC 
Orders, and staff exemptive, no-action and interpretive letters. This 
section links to a specific ``Compliance'' page (www.cftc.gov/tm/tmcompliance.htm) that contains guidance to assist firms and 
individuals who conduct commodity futures and options business with 
customers in complying with the CEA provisions and CFTC Regulations 
applicable to their activities. Informal guidance also is available 
through the ``Publications'' section of the CFTC Web site 
(www.cftc.gov/cftc/cftcreports.htm), which contains ``CFTC 
Backgrounders'' and other brochures providing information of use to 
small businesses. Staff members in the CFTC's various divisions offer 
informal assistance and guidance in response to telephone inquiries and 
e-mail messages submitted through the CFTC Web site. These include:
    [sbull] The Division of Clearing and Intermediary Oversight [(202) 
418-5430]--inquiries concerning rules governing protection of customer 
funds, trading and sales practice issues, registration and disclosure 
issues, and financial requirements.
    [sbull] The Division of Market Oversight [(202) 418-5260]--
Inquiries concerning market and product design, market surveillance, 
position reporting, and trade practice issues.
    [sbull] The Office of General Counsel [(202) 418-5120]--assigns an 
``Attorney of the Day'' to answer telephone inquiries about the CEA and 
CFTC Regulations.
    [sbull] The Division of Enforcement--provides notice to small 
businesses about their right to comment on CFTC actions pursuant to the 
Small Business Regulatory and Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA) 
whenever it makes a request to provide information voluntarily or 
pursuant to subpoena or the inspection provisions of the CEA. The CFTC 
and its staff are committed to ensuring that small businesses are 
provided a non-retaliatory environment in which to exercise their right 
to comment.

The CFTC has a small business liaison located in the Office of External 
Affairs. When the agency receives inquiries related to small business, 
such as communications from the office of the National Ombudsman, they 
are forwarded to the liaison. The liaison also works with the Ombudsman 
to provide information and resolve any issues or complaints received by 
the Ombudsman's office.
    Commodity Futures Trading Commission Single Point of Contact: Terry 
S. Arbit, Associate General Counsel, (Legislative Affairs), Three 
Lafayette Centre, 1155 21st Street, NW., Washington, DC 20581, 
Telephone: 202-418-5257. E-mail: [email protected].

Consumer Product Safety Commission

    [sbull] http://www.cpsc.gov/businfo, 1-800-638-CPSC
    [sbull] CPSC offers publications, web based compliance and on-line 
/ e-mail service, including, but not limited to A Small Business Guide 
to the U.S. CPSC http://www.cpsc.gov/businfo/smbudgde.html
    Consumer Product Safety Commission Single Point of Contact: Thomas 
W. Murr, Jr., Deputy Executive Director, U.S. Consumer Product Safety 
Commission, 4330 East West Highway, Bethesda, MD 20814, Telephone: 301-
504-7907. E-mail: [email protected].

DC Court Services & Offender Supervision

    DC Court Services & Offender Supervision Single Point of Contact: 
Jim Williams, Associate Director, Management and Administration, 633 
Indiana Avenue, NW., Suite 1323, Washington, DC 20004-2902, Telephone: 
202-220-5707. E-mail: [email protected].

Environmental Protection Agency

    EPA currently has over 100 initiatives, activities, and services 
directed at small business needs. EPA efforts include a toll-free 
hotline; newsletters; Web sites; e-mail listserv; information alerts on 
emerging regulatory issues; industry sector specific guides directed at 
providing information on specific industry processes, Federal 
regulatory requirements, compliance history and pollution prevention 
information; expert systems; voluntary programs; and training programs.
    EPA's Small Business Ombudsman (SBO) provides a ``gateway'' and 
dedicated support for small businesses to reach EPA compliance 
assistance resources offered by EPA, the states and other sources. The 
SBO answers technical and regulatory questions on a toll-free hotline, 
provides more than 350 free EPA publications, develops compliance 
assistance tools, and gives direct access to regulatory assistance on a 
comprehensive Web site. It publishes the SBO newsletter twice a year to 
report important EPA activities and give timely alerts to small 
businesses and interested service providers on EPA actions. The SBO 
acts as the focal point and provides multi-level support and 
coordination for an extensive national network of small business 
assistance programs, and works with small businesses, service 
providers, and state and regional officials to address small business 
needs.
    The Small Business Gateway is a Web site that links to EPA's 
assistance programs for small business. http://www.epa.gov/smallbusiness/
    EPA also partners with industry representatives and others on 
sector-specific Compliance Assistance Centers. The centers support the 
agriculture, automotive service and repair, chemical manufacturing, 
metal finishing, paints and coatings, printed-wiring-board 
manufacturing, printing, transportation, construction, auto recycling, 
and border compliance sectors by providing tools such as checklists, 
plain language guides, and technical information to help small 
businesses understand their regulatory requirements.

[[Page 38545]]

Compliance Assistance Centers

    [sbull] Agriculture http://www.epa.gov/agriculture/
    [sbull] Auto Service Industry http://www.ccar-greenlink.org/
    [sbull] Chemicals http://www.chemalliance.org/
    [sbull] Local Government http://www.lgean.org/
    [sbull] Metal Finishing http://www.nmfrc.org/
    [sbull] Paints and Coatings http://www.paintcenter.org/
    [sbull] Printed Wiring Boards http://www.pwbrc.org/
    [sbull] Printing http://www.pneac.org/
    [sbull] Transportation http://www.transource.org/
    EPA also manages a National Compliance Assistance Clearinghouse as 
a guide to compliance information on the Internet. This site gives 
comprehensive links to EPA environmental compliance assistance 
materials, as well as materials from all 50 states and other 
organizations. The Clearinghouse contains many features allowing small 
businesses to interact directly with EPA and improve communication and 
collaboration among compliance assistance providers.
    EPA's Small Business Compliance Policy promotes environmental 
compliance among small businesses by providing incentives to discover 
and make good faith efforts to correct violations. Software is also 
available to assist in certain reporting requirements. The ``Toxics 
Release Inventory--Made Easy'' (TRI-ME) software guides users through 
the entire Toxics Release Inventory reporting process from start to 
finish.
    Information on EPA's initiatives and activities is available on the 
EPA Small Business Ombudsman Web site http://www.epa.gov/sbo. This site 
links to the Small Business Environmental Homepage http://www.smallbiz-enviroweb.org/, which provides extensive small business assistance 
information. EPA National Asbestos & Small Business hotline for 
inquiries on environmental regulations may be reached via a toll free 
number (1-800-368-5888).
    Environmental Protection Agency Single Point of Contact: Karen V. 
Brown, Director, Small Business Division, EPA Small Business Ombudsman 
(SBPRA point of contact), 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., MC1808T, 
Washington, DC 20460, Telephone: 202-566-2816, Fax: 202-566-0954. E-
mail: [email protected].

Export-Import Bank

    The Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank) is the 
official export credit agency of the United States. Ex-Im Bank's 
mission is to assist in financing the export of U.S. goods and services 
to international markets. Ex-Im Bank enables U.S. companies--large and 
small--to turn export opportunities into real sales that help to 
maintain and create U.S. jobs and contribute to a stronger national 
economy.
    Ex-Im Bank does not compete with private sector lenders but 
provides export financing products that fill gaps in trade financing. 
We assume credit and country risks that the private sector is unable or 
unwilling to accept. We also help to level the playing field for U.S. 
exporters by matching the financing that other governments provide to 
their exporters.
    Ex-Im Bank provides working capital guarantees (pre-export 
financing); export credit insurance (post-export financing); and loan 
guarantees and direct loans (buyer financing). No transaction is too 
large or too small. On average, 85% of our transactions directly 
benefit U.S. small businesses.
    With nearly 70 years of experience, Ex-Im Bank has supported more 
than $400 billion of U.S. exports, primarily to developing markets 
worldwide.
    [sbull] Export-Import Bank Mission Statement: http://www.exim.gov/about/mission.html
    [sbull] Pre-Export Financing To Help U.S. Exporters Maximize 
Borrowing Potential: http://www.exim.gov/products/work_cap.html
    [sbull] Increase Your Export Sales While Minimizing Risks: http://www.exim.gov/products/insurance/index.html
    [sbull] Special Initiatives for Underserved Small Businesses: 
http://www.exim.gov/products/special/underserved.html
    Export-Import Bank Single Point of Contact: Letitia Kress, Export-
Import Bank, 811 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20571, Telephone: 
202-565-3613. E-mail: [email protected].

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

Small Business Initiative
    EEOC has developed a Small Business Initiative (SBI) to improve 
customer service and expand outreach, education, and technical 
assistance to the small business community. The SBI aims to promote 
voluntary compliance by building a more cooperative and collaborative 
relationship with the small and mid-sized business community and to 
address EEO concerns expressed by small business owners. The main 
components of the SBI include:
    Small Business Liaisons: Every EEOC District office has a Small 
Business Liaison available to employers who have questions about the 
laws enforced by EEOC or about compliance with those laws in specific 
workplace situations. Information on contacting Small Business Liaisons 
can be found at www.eeoc.gov/small/contacteeoc.html.
    Small Business Web Page: www.eeoc.gov/small--While the information 
on this page applies to all employers, it has been specifically 
designed for small businesses which may not have a human resources 
department or a specialized EEO staff. The page is designed to make it 
easier for small businesses to comply with the anti-discrimination laws 
and help them in their dealings with the EEOC.
No-Cost Outreach and Education Programs
    EEOC's outreach and education programs provide information about 
the employment discrimination laws enforced by EEOC and the EEOC 
charge/complaint process. EEOC representatives are available at no cost 
to make presentations and participate in meetings with employers and 
their representative groups. For example, EEOC hosts regular meetings 
with employers and employer groups, such as stakeholder advisory 
councils to get feedback on legal and operational issues; provides 
speakers and trainers for conferences, seminars, workshops and 
classroom presentations and for regular scheduled meetings of 
organizations, professional associations, etc.; distributes information 
materials on EEO laws and represent the Commission at events, such as 
job fairs, conventions and conferences; and participates in media 
presentations--including radio and TV interviews, as well as cyber-
chats.
    A list of outreach coordinators and contact information can be 
found at www.eeoc.gov/outreach/coordinators.html.
Fee-Based Training and Technical Assistance
    EEOC presents a wide variety of fee-based training and technical 
assistance programs throughout the country geared to employers in the 
private sector, including small businesses, as well as federal, state 
and local government agencies. Training and technical assistance 
available includes:
    Technical Assistance Program Seminars (TAPS): Seminars emphasize 
how to prevent EEO problems from developing and how to resolve

[[Page 38546]]

discrimination complaints effectively when they do arise. Real-life 
case studies and examples often are used to show how equal employment 
requirements apply to specific employment practices. Updates on 
important legal developments, Commission policy and procedures and 
vital information about EEOC's latest initiatives and alternative 
dispute resolution program are discussed. Specialized topics will 
differ by seminar and may include in-depth sessions on issues such as: 
sexual and racial harassment; complex ADA issues, including the ADA's 
relation to other workplace laws; and religious and national origin 
discrimination. Whenever practicable, small group breakouts, question 
and answer periods, interactive formats and informal discussions are 
used in the seminars, which enable participants to receive answers to 
specific EEO questions.
    Customer Specific Training Programs: EEOC staff provide specialized 
training on various employment discrimination topics for employers at 
their work site or at an organization's meeting or training events.
    Training Products: EEOC has developed training course materials on 
Workplace Harassment Issues: How to Identify, Prevent and Eliminate 
Workplace Harassment, which are available for employers who want to 
deliver their own training. Additional training courses on the 
Americans with Disabilities Act and other topics are under development 
and will be available in the future.
    Information on Training Contacts can be found at www.eeoc.gov/outreach/coordinators.html.
Publications
    [sbull] EEOC fact sheets, information materials and brochures and 
other publications are available at no cost. They can be ordered by 
calling 1-800-669-3362 (voice) or 1-800-800-3302 (TTY) or through the 
Internet at www.eeoc.gov/publications.html
    [sbull] Training and Technical Assistance Materials available for 
direct purchase--A seven volume set of resource manuals provides a 
comprehensive and invaluable EEO library on employment discrimination 
issues. Each volume contains training exercises, practical guidance and 
copies of EEOC's most important policy interpretations, including 
information concerning recent important Supreme Court decisions 
affecting Federal EEO law. The volumes are compiled and written by 
legal experts and training professionals from the EEOC, the Federal 
agency responsible for enforcing and interpreting the country's various 
Federal employment discrimination laws. The entire series is updated 
annually to reflect changes in law, court decisions and new EEOC 
guidance. These materials are useful for employers, human resource/EEO 
professionals, attorneys, labor representatives and others interested 
in EEO matters in the private, federal and state and local government 
sectors. These manuals can be ordered through www.eeoc.gov/outreach.manuals.html
Web Page
    [sbull] EEOC's web page--www.eeoc.gov--provides easy-to-use 
information on federal laws prohibiting job discrimination, including a 
question and answer format. The site also provides copies of news/press 
releases, laws enforced by EEOC, regulations, and policy guidance 
issued by EEOC, as well as information on outreach, training and 
technical assistance and publications.
    [sbull] The site provides links to other federal labor law 
enforcement agencies and other federal agencies which may have 
information/resources useful to employers.
    [sbull] EEOC has also worked with many federal agencies, such as 
the Small Business Administration, Office of the National Ombudsman, to 
ensure EEOC's web page is available as a link.
New Freedom Initiative
    EEOC is working closely with small business organizations and 
disability groups to conduct a series of free outreach and education 
events for small businesses as part of President Bush's New Freedom 
Initiative. EEOC expects to continue putting on these events throughout 
fiscal years 2003 and 2004. EEOC has also produced The Americans with 
Disabilities Act: A Primer for Small Business, which is a practical, 
reader-friendly handbook for the small business person outlining the 
employment provisions of the ADA as they relate to both employees and 
job applicants. Information on the workshops is available at 
www.eeoc.gov/initiatives/nfi/index.html. A copy of the Primer is 
available at www.eeoc.gov/ada/adahandbook.html.
Guidance Letters
    EEOC's Office of Legal Counsel issues approximately 90 significant 
guidance letters a year explaining the employment discrimination 
statutes to employers and other stakeholders.
    Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Single Point of Contact: 
Laura Hinton, National Outreach Coordinator, Office of Field Programs, 
EEOC, 1801 L Street, NW., Washington, DC 20507, Telephone: 202-663-
4811. E-mail: [email protected].

Federal Communications Commission

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is an independent U.S. 
government agency, directly responsible to Congress. The FCC was 
established by the Communications Act of 1934 and is charged with 
regulating interstate and international communications by radio, 
television, wire, satellite and cable. The FCC's jurisdiction covers 
the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. possessions. The FCC 
is directed by five Commissioners appointed by the President and 
confirmed by the Senate for 5-year terms, except when filling an 
unexpired term. The President designates one of the Commissioners to 
serve as Chairperson. Only three Commissioners may be members of the 
same political party. None of them can have a financial interest in any 
Commission-related business.
    The Commission staff is organized by function. There are six 
operating Bureaus and ten Staff Offices. The Bureaus' responsibilities 
include: processing applications for licenses and other filings; 
analyzing complaints; conducting investigations; developing and 
implementing regulatory programs; and taking part in hearings. The 
Offices provide support services. Even though the Bureaus and Offices 
have their individual functions, they regularly join forces and share 
expertise in addressing Commission issues. The six operating Bureaus 
are: Consumer and Governmental Affairs, Enforcement, International, 
Media, Wireless Telecommunications, and Wireline Competition.
    Concerning FCC small entity enforcement and compliance issues, the 
primary sources for information are the Enforcement Bureau, which 
enforces the Communications Act as well as the Commission's rules, 
orders and authorizations, and the Office of Communications Business 
Opportunities (OCBO), which provides advice to the Commission on issues 
and policies concerning telecommunications opportunities for small, 
minority and women-owned communications businesses.
    E-Mail, Small Entity Contact Point: [email protected]
    Telephone Numbers:
    [sbull] Office of Communications Business Opportunities (OCBO): 
202-418-0990
    [sbull] FCC Consumer Center, Toll-Free Telephone Service: 1-888-
CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322)

[[Page 38547]]

    [sbull] TTY, FCC Consumer Center, Toll-Free Telephone Service: 1-
888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322)
    [sbull] Enforcement Bureau: 202-418-7450
    Web site Locations:
    [sbull] FCC Homepage and News Location: http://www.fcc.gov
    [sbull] Office of Communications Business Opportunities (OCBO): 
http://www.fcc.gov/ocbo/
    [sbull] Consumer Alerts and Factsheets--Directory: http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/information_directory.htm
    [sbull] Small Entity Compliance Guides: http://www.fcc.gov/ocbo/guides.html
    [sbull] Current Major Initiatives: http://www.fcc.gov/initiatives.html
    [sbull] Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau: http://
www.fcc.gov/cgb/
    [sbull] Enforcement Bureau: http://www.fcc.gov/eb/
    Federal Communications Commission Single Point of Contact: U.S. 
Federal Communication Commission, Office of Communications Business 
Opportunities, 445 12th Street, SW., Telephone: 202-418-0990. E-mail: 
[email protected].

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation

    Office of the Ombudsman: http://www.fdic.gov/regulations/resources/ombudsman.html.
    Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Single Point of Contact: 
Edward F. Gerber, Associate Ombudsman, 550 Seventeenth Street, NW., PA-
1730-2122, Washington, DC 20429, Telephone: 202-942-3869, Fax: 202-942-
3401, E-mail: [email protected].

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

    Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Single Point of Contact: 
Thomas Russo, Office of External Affairs, Federal Energy Regulatory 
Commission, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, DC 20426, Telephone: 
202-502-8004, E-mail: [email protected].

Federal Maritime Commission

Overview
    The purpose of this guidance is to assist drafters of Federal 
Maritime Commission (``FMC'' or ``Commission'') rules in appropriately 
implementing the requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act 
(``RFA''), as amended by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement 
Fairness Act (``SBREFA''). In general, SBREFA amended the RFA to 
establish certain formal procedural and analytical requirements 
(described below) for rules the agency may develop which have the 
potential to impose a significant economic impact on a substantial 
number of small entities. If a rule will impose significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities, a more formal 
analysis of the potential adverse economic impacts on small entities 
must be prepared. Additionally, Executive Order 13272 of August 13, 
2002 (``EO 13272''), requires agencies to issue and publish written 
procedures and policies for use in considering the potential impact of 
draft rules on small entities.
    This guidance is not a binding Commission procedural rule. In 
determining and mitigating impacts on small entities, the FMC 
anticipates that there may be some situations in which agency staff and 
management must exercise considerable judgment. Nevertheless, we intend 
this guidance to provide an analytic and sequential structure that 
should be sufficient for most rulemakings. This guidance will be 
published on the Commission's Internet Web site (http://www.fmc.gov) 
for informational purposes.
    The purpose of RFA/SBREFA is ``to fit regulatory and informational 
requirements to the scale of the businesses, organizations and 
governmental jurisdictions subject to the regulation.'' To achieve this 
objective, agencies are required to ``solicit and consider flexible 
regulatory proposals and to explain the rationale for their actions to 
assure that such proposals are given serious consideration.'' RFA/
SBREFA does not require an agency necessarily to minimize a rule's 
impact on small entities if there are legal, policy, factual or other 
reasons for not doing so. RFA/SBREFA requires only that an agency 
determine, to the extent feasible, the rule's economic impact on small 
entities, explore regulatory options for reducing any significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of such entities, and explain 
its ultimate choice of regulatory approach.
    Since its enactment, RFA has required every federal agency to 
prepare a regulatory flexibility analysis for any rule for which the 
agency is required to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking under the 
Administrative Procedure Act (``APA'') or any other statute, unless the 
agency certifies that the rule ``will not, if promulgated, have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities.'' When SBREFA became law in 1996, the FMC developed 
procedures and guidelines to implement the applicable statutory 
requirements. The guidelines are being updated below to ensure 
continuing compliance with RFA/SBREFA requirements, as well as EO 
13272.
    In general, RFA/SBREFA requirements will apply to the FMC's rules 
subject to the notice-and-comment rulemaking requirements under the APA 
or any other statute. Exempt from the RFA requirement regarding a 
regulatory flexibility analysis or certification are Commission actions 
that are not rules (e.g., orders or adjudications), and rules that the 
Commission is not required by statute to propose before promulgating.
RFA/SBREFA Preliminary Analysis: Assessing the Impact on Small Entities
    This part describes the procedures to follow for determining 
whether a regulatory flexibility analysis or certification of no 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of entities should 
be prepared for a proposed or final rule. It is a six-step process.
    1. Is the rule subject to notice-and-comment rulemaking 
requirements?
    As mentioned earlier, most, if not all, FMC proposed and final 
rules will be subject to notice-and-comment and therefore subject to 
RFA/SBREFA.
    2. What types of entities will be subject to the rule's 
requirement?
    The Commission has adopted small business standards pursuant to the 
North American Industrial Classification System (``NAICS'') published 
by the Executive Office of the President, Office of Management and 
Budget. The staff has identified the following NAICS categories and 
codes defined by the Small Business Administration (``SBA'') that fall 
within the Commission's regulatory jurisdiction:

483111 Deep Sea Foreign Transport of Freight--Vessel Operating Common 
Carriers (``VOCCs'')
483112 Deep Sea Transportation of Passengers--Passenger Vessel 
Operators (``PVOs'')
488320 Marine Cargo Handling--Marine Terminal Operators (``MTOs'')
488510 Arrangement of Transportation of Freight and Cargo--Ocean 
Transportation Intermediaries (``OTIs'')

    Categories 483111 and 483112 are evaluated by the SBA according to 
their number of employees. The SBA has determined that if such a 
business establishment has less than 500 employees, it qualifies as a 
small business for SBA purposes. Business establishments in categories 
488320 and 488510 are evaluated by their annual receipts in millions of 
dollars. In these categories, SBA determines that business 
establishments with annual

[[Page 38548]]

receipts (gross annual revenues) of less than $21.5 million are small 
businesses. The Commission will use SBA's determinations in its review 
of the impact of its regulatory undertakings on small businesses.
    3. What types of small entities, if any, are subject to the rule's 
requirements?
    VOCCs, PVOs, and MTOs generally are very large companies with far 
in excess of 500 employees, in the case of VOCCs and PVOs, and $21.5 
million in gross revenues, in the case of MTOs. These companies, as 
well as conferences or associations of such companies, generally are 
represented by retained counsel. They frequently raise informal, 
complex issues, and the Commission exerts considerable time and effort 
responding to them. Such entities are not the intended small business 
beneficiaries of SBREFA. OTIs, on the other hand, will be considered 
small businesses by the Commission.
    Therefore, the Commission makes a refutable presumption that VOCCs, 
PVOs and MTOs are not small businesses encompassed within the programs 
and policies mandated by SBREFA. Nevertheless, a VOCC, PVO, or MTO that 
falls under SBA guidelines and seeks to be treated as a small business 
for Commission regulatory purposes may submit a request for such 
treatment to the Commission, along with payroll or gross annual revenue 
evidence, as applicable, to substantiate its claim and rebut the 
presumption.
    4. What if no small entities are affected by the rule?
    If a proposed rule does not affect any small entity (based on the 
definition of small entity provided above) RFA authorizes the 
Commission's Chairman to make a negative certification with respect to 
the rulemaking. This will be published in the Federal Register and be 
accompanied by the factual basis for certification as prepared by the 
originating Bureau/Office. This certification is subject to judicial 
review.
    At the proposed rule stage, the affected parties have an 
opportunity to petition the Commission to be treated as small entities. 
If no such requests are received, the Chairman makes the negative 
certification in the final rule. If requests are received, the 
originating Bureau/Office, in conjunction with the Bureau of Trade 
Analysis (``BTA''), must determine if the petitioning entities should 
be treated as small businesses. If the originating Bureau/Office and 
BTA determine that these entities should, in fact, be treated as small 
businesses, the analysis set forth in step 5 will be conducted.
    5. If small businesses are affected, is there a significant impact 
on a substantial number?
    If a proposed rule is expected to have an effect on one or more 
small entities, a threshold analysis will be initiated by BTA with the 
assistance of the originating Bureau/Office. The threshold analysis is 
conducted to determine the extent of the impact and the number of small 
entities that would be affected by the proposed rule. It has been 
determined by the Commission that collection and maintenance of current 
financial data on every entity regulated by the FMC would cause undue 
cost and burden on the entities. Therefore, the threshold analysis is 
based on extrapolation of data and information from current economic 
trends and statistics, and the Commission's industry expertise. The 
results or findings of each threshold analysis are evaluated on a case-
by-case basis to determine whether the proposed rule will have a 
significant impact on a substantial number of small businesses. In 
addition, any comments received on the proposed rule once it has been 
published in the Federal Register would be taken into consideration.
    If it is determined that the proposed rule will not have a 
significant impact on a substantial number of small entities, a 
negative certification by the Commission's Chairman may be made. The 
certification should be published and explained in the supplementary 
information section of the proposed and final rules and supported in 
the rulemaking record as appropriate. The originating Office/Bureau, 
working with BTA as necessary, prepares a memorandum containing its 
analyses and explaining the negative certification. No further analysis 
is required to support the certification, unless the agency receives 
comments on the proposed rule's certification that raise issues about 
the basis of its analysis.
    6. What if the rule would have a significant impact on a 
substantial number of small entities?
    The primary purpose of the Initial and Final Regulatory Flexibility 
Analyses (``IRFA/FRFA'') is to identify and consider regulatory 
alternatives ``which minimize any significant economic impact of the 
proposed [or final] rule on small entities.'' (Sections 603 and 604 of 
RFA, emphasis added.) Therefore, if the threshold analysis shows that a 
proposed rule would have a significant impact on a substantial number 
of small businesses, the FMC must take the following steps:
    1. Assure that small entities have been given an opportunity to 
participate in the rulemaking through various possible techniques. The 
originating Bureau/Office will implement one of the following or 
possible additional, measures:
    a. State in an advance notice prior to issuance of the proposed 
rulemaking that the rule may have a significant economic effect on a 
substantial number of small entities;
    b. Publish a general notice of the proposed rulemaking in 
publications that small entities are likely to receive;
    c. Directly notify small entities about the rule; or
    d. Hold ``open conference or public hearings'' about the rule.
    2. Prior to publishing the proposed rule, the Commission will 
notify SBA (and the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs at the 
Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') as required by EO 12866).
    3. Complete an IRFA, and publish it with the proposed rule. The 
IRFA, prepared by the originating Bureau/Office and BTA, must contain:
    a. Reasons why the Commission is considering the action--this 
currently is in the preamble to all proposed regulations.
    b. The objectives and legal basis for the proposed rule--this 
currently is included in a proposed rule.
    c. The kind and number of small entities to which the rule will 
apply--to the extent possible, the originating Bureau/Office describes 
the industry and economic sector in total and its small and large 
entity segments, and explains any existing dynamics, such as trends in 
employment.
    d. The projected recording, record keeping, and other compliance 
requirements of the proposed rule--this description should include an 
estimate of the classes of small entities that will be subject to the 
requirements and the type of professional skills necessary for the 
preparation of the report or record. A cost analysis should describe 
each item and estimate the costs, comparing large and small entities. 
It should distinguish the initial costs from recurring or operating 
costs. This information may be available from the paperwork burden 
analysis prepared under the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction 
Act.
    e. Identify all federal rules that may duplicate, overlap, or 
conflict with the proposed rule--given the Commission's specific 
regulatory responsibility, it is extremely unlikely that any of its 
rules will duplicate, overlap, or conflict with the rules of other 
agencies. Should the situation arise, however, the

[[Page 38549]]

Commission would need to include information for regulated entities on 
other rules governing the same activities. In some instances, the 
existence of relevant rules of other agencies will be known to the 
originating Bureau/Office. When legal research is required, it will be 
done by the Bureau of Enforcement (``BOE'').
    4. The FMC then must produce an FRFA with the final rule. This 
analysis, prepared by the originating Bureau/Office and BTA, must 
contain the comments, if any, of SBA. It also must contain:
    a. A succinct statement of the need for and objectives of the rule;
    b. A summary of significant issues raised by public comments in 
response to the initial regulatory flexibility analysis, and a summary 
of the originating Bureau/Office's assessment of such comments;
    c. The Commission's written response to any written comments 
submitted by SBA, unless the Chairman certifies that the public 
interest is not served thereby.
    d. A description and an estimate of the number of small entities to 
which the rule will apply or an explanation of why no such estimate is 
available;
    e. A description of the projected reporting, record keeping, and 
other compliance requirements of the rule, including an estimate of the 
classes of small entities that will be subject to the requirements and 
the type of professional skills necessary for the preparation of the 
report record; and,
    f. A description of the steps the FMC has taken to minimize the 
significant economic impacts on small entities consistent with the 
stated objectives of applicable statutes, including a statement of the 
factual, policy, and legal reasons for selecting the alternative 
adopted in the final rule, and the reasons for rejecting each of the 
other viable alternatives.
Small Entity Compliance Guide
    If a final regulatory flexibility analysis is necessary, a 
compliance guide also must be created. Each rule promulgated by the 
Commission that significantly affects a substantial number of small 
businesses will include a ``compliance guide'' that facilitates their 
compliance with applicable requirements. This guide will be drafted by 
the originating Bureau/Office.
Periodic Review
    SBREFA requires that any promulgated rules that have or will have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities 
be reviewed periodically. There currently is one Commission rule which 
falls under this category. The agency conducted an IRFA and FRFA for 
Docket No. 98-28, Licensing, Financial Responsibility Requirements, and 
General Duties for Ocean Transportation Intermediaries. The Commission 
is revising Form FMC-18, which is used in the licensing process to 
collect information about OTI applicants, and also is planning for an 
electronically-submitted version. The Commission will review the impact 
of the involved rule in conjunction with that effort.
    [sbull] FMC Policy and Procedures Regarding Proper considerations 
of Small Entities in Rulemaking: http://www.fmc.gov / FMC%20Policy % 
20on%20Rulemakings.htm.
    Federal Maritime Commission Single Point of Contact: Joseph 
Farrell, Director, Office of Consumer Complaints, Federal Maritime 
Commission 800 N. Capitol Street NW., Washington, DC 20573, Telephone: 
202-523-5807, Fax: 202-257-0059, E-mail: [email protected].

Federal Reserve Board

    Procurement (Companies wishing to conduct business with the Board): 
Carlos Gutierrez, Small Business Procurement Liaison, 20th and C 
Streets, NW., M/S 128, Washington, DC 20551, Telephone: 202-452-2458, 
E-mail: [email protected].
    General Financial Information for Small Businesses: General 
Community Development information www.federalreserve.gov/community.htm. 
A Guide to Business Credit for Women, Minorities, and Small Businesses 
www.federalreserve.gov/community.htm.
    Federal Reserve Regulatory Reporting Forms: Current Reporting Forms 
www.federalreserve.gov/boarddocs/reportforms/default.cfm. Reporting 
Forms Under Review www.federalreserve.gov/boarddocs/reportforms/review.cfm.
    Banking and Regulatory Information: General Banking and Regulatory 
information www.federalreserve.gov/banknreg.htm. Regulations (PDF 
files) www.federalreserve.gov/regulations/default.htm. Supervision & 
Regulation Letters (SR Letters) www.federalreserve.gov/boarddocs/srletters/.
    Federal Reserve Board Publications Department: Publications 
available free-of-charge on-line www.federalreserve.gov/publications.htm. Publications available for order (on-line order form 
and information) www.federalreserve.gov/pubs/order.htm. Telephone: 202-
452-3245, Fax: 202-728-5886, 20th and C Streets, NW., Publications 
Services, M/S127, Washington, DC 20551.
    News and Events: General News and Events, including: testimonies 
and speeches; press releases; and services (e-mail notification for 
press releases and other unscheduled postings; personal digital 
assistant wireless service for press releases; and e-mail notification 
for testimony and speeches). www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents.htm.
    Federal Reserve Board Single Point of Contact: Cindy Ayouch, Chief, 
Financial Reports section, 20th and C Streets, NW., M/S 41, Washington, 
DC 20551 Telephone: 202-452-3829. Fax: 202-728-5856. E-mail: 
[email protected]. General Federal Reserve Public Web site 
www.federalreserve.gov.

Federal Trade Commission

    The FTC offers a broad array of resources to aid small businesses 
in understanding their obligations under the laws and regulations 
administered by the Commission. The FTC offers general information in a 
variety of forms to address issues and questions that small businesses 
frequently encounter. Such guidance usually will satisfy the needs of 
small businesses for guidance as to their obligations.
    For example, the FTC issues many types of publications designed to 
explain how small businesses and others can conduct their affairs in 
compliance with the laws and regulations administered by the FTC. These 
include materials specifically directed to businesses, such as (1) 
compliance guides explaining the requirements of specific FTC rules in 
a non-technical manner; (2) industry guides addressing common 
compliance issues under the Federal Trade Commission Act, as applied to 
particular industries or particular practices; (3) guidelines and 
policy statements explaining the application of antitrust laws to 
particular practices or industries. These materials frequently contain 
specific examples and illustrative fact patterns that show how the 
agency would apply the law to a particular set of facts.
    The FTC holds public workshops, conferences and other forums to 
discuss specific topics, which often include compliance concerns. Also, 
FTC staff members and Commissioners frequently give speeches and 
conduct programs geared to explaining statutory and regulatory 
requirements and to answering attendees' questions. Where the topics 
are of particular interest to small business, these speeches may

[[Page 38550]]

involve appearances before groups representing small-business 
interests.
    Other sources of information include full texts of FTC-administered 
statutes and rules, advisory opinions issued by the Commission or its 
staff, texts of speeches and testimony, and information on enforcement 
actions. The FTC also produces and disseminates numerous print and 
broadcast materials that, while directed to consumers, can benefit 
small businesses by identifying the practices that generate consumer 
protection issues between businesses and their customers and explaining 
how they should be handled.
    These materials and information are readily available to small 
businesses through a variety of sources, including:
    Through the FTC's Web site www.ftc.gov, and from links at 
www.business.gov, www.firstgov.gov, and www.sba.gov/yourgovt/federal.html.
    Directly from the FTC, Room H-130, 600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., 
Washington, DC 20580, or call (toll-free) 877-FTC-HELP.
    Additional FTC Guides:
    [sbull] How to Comply With The Children's Online Privacy Protection 
Rule, http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/buspubs/coppa.pdf, http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/buspubs/coppa.htm.
    [sbull] Frequently Asked Advertising Questions: A Guide for Small 
Business http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/buspubs/ad-faqs.htm.
    Where the sources of general information are insufficient to 
provide the needed guidance or assistance, an FTC staff member may 
provide specific, informal advice or arrange for a more formal 
response. Small businesses may make inquiries of the Commission by 
various means. Inquiries can be informal and the business need not even 
identify itself. The FTC also has procedures for providing, where 
appropriate, either a staff advisory opinion or, in specified 
circumstances, a Commission advisory opinion. It is generally most 
effective to discuss the issue with a staff person before deciding 
whether to seek a formal advisory opinion.
    Federal Trade Commission Points of Contact: Inquiries regarding 
consumer protection issues may be made to the FTC, Room H-130, 600 
Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20580; telephone (toll-free) 1-
877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357).
    Inquiries regarding competition issues may be made to the Office of 
Policy and Evaluation, Bureau of Competition, Federal Trade Commission, 
Washington, DC 20580; telephone (202) 326-3300; fax (202) 326-2884.
    Inquiries may also be directed to The Office of the Secretary, 
Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580, Telephone: 202-326-
2515, Fax: 202-326-2496; Businesses may also contact any of the FTC's 
regional offices.

Merit Systems Protection Board

    Merit Systems Protection Board Single Point of Contact: Richard A. 
Dorr, Merit Systems Protection Board, 1615 M Street NW., Suite 500, 
Washington, DC 20036, Telephone: 202-653-6772 ext. 1113, Fax: 202-653-
7821. E-mail: [email protected].

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Compliance Assistance Resources
    The Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) 
promotes the utilization of small, disadvantaged and women-owned 
businesses in compliance with Federal laws, regulations, and policies. 
We assist such firms in obtaining contracts and subcontracts with NASA 
and its prime contractors. The OSDBU also facilitates the participation 
of small businesses in NASA's technology transfer and commercialization 
activities. Our objective is not only to ensure that small businesses 
are integrated seamlessly into the aerospace industrial base of the 
country, but that they can contribute to the performance of NASA 
missions. NASA supports a non-retaliation policy against small 
businesses as stated in NASA Policy Directive 5101.32 for the Ombudsman 
program.
    Small businesses seeking work with NASA are directed to our Web 
site http://osdbu.nasa.gov. Activities in support of small businesses 
are listed with information on how to get involved in obtaining 
contracts and subcontracts. Request for Proposals open for bid can be 
reviewed on the Internet at http://procurement.nasa.gov.

Description of Program

    To get the highest return on investment, the NASA OSDBU has 
designed, implemented, and facilitated user-friendly programs and 
initiatives. This ensures the full integration of capable and high-
quality small businesses into the competitive base of contractors from 
which NASA regularly purchases products and services. In addition, the 
OSDBU has an outreach effort to communicate with its target small 
business constituents, as well as an in-reach program to educate NASA 
technical, procurement, and administrative personnel about programs and 
policies. The OSDBU also disseminates information about its programs 
through conferences, forums, training and development programs, 
counseling, promotional materials, and the Internet. A free three-day 
course called Training and Development for Small Businesses in Advanced 
Technologies (TADSBAT) acquaints companies with the NASA culture. This 
course is held four times a year at different locations nationally. In 
addition, two forums were developed to seek high-technology firms 
capable of participating in the Agency's most complex programs. The 
Aerospace Technology Small Disadvantaged Forum is conducted twice a 
year at two of the aeronautics Field Centers where three to five high-
tech SDBs are selected to give presentations to senior level technical 
managers. From the forum's inception in 1993 through FY 2001, more than 
$85 million have been awarded to some of the presenters. A similar 
format is used for the Semi-annual Science Forums for Small Businesses. 
The Science Forums create a ``high-level marketing opportunity'' for 
selected small businesses to present their capabilities to earth 
science personnel at the Goddard Space Flight Center and to space 
science personnel at The Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Since the inception 
of this program in 1997, over $47 million in contracts and subcontracts 
have been awarded to participants.
    As NASA's premier initiative, the Mentor-Protege Program is 
designed to encourage prime contractors to assist disadvantaged 
companies in expanding their technical capabilities where such firms 
are underrepresented in the market. Prime contractors receive a variety 
of incentives during the source selection process, plus award fee 
increments during the period of the contract, if performed 
successfully. To spur small businesses to actively pursue opportunities 
for commercializing NASA technology, the OSDBU, in conjunction with the 
Minority Owned Business Technology Transfer Consortium (MBTTC) puts on 
seminars throughout the year. Companies learn about the NASA 
Commercialization Technology Network, how to identify technologies and 
work with researchers and scientists, how to apply for licensing 
agreements, and how to find financing sources.
    ``Socioeconomic Procurement as a Business Imperative'' is a one-day 
course given four times a year at different NASA Centers to a cross-
section of the Agency's technical, procurement, and administrative

[[Page 38551]]

personnel. The course emphasizes the value-added benefit of utilizing 
diverse small businesses (in addition to being in compliance with laws 
and regulations that require it). On its own initiative, NASA has 
established a one percent goal as a percent of total contract value 
awarded yearly to Historically Black Colleges and Universities and 
other minority educational institutions. NASA is promoting the 
integration of this underutilized national resource.
    To enhance the competitive advantage of small businesses in the 
national and world marketplace NASA has promoted the international 
quality management standard, ISO 9000. Since 1996, NASA has conducted 
seminars at major small business conferences on how to get certified. 
The NASA OSDBU staff became the first Federal headquarters office to 
become certified. The OSDBU wants to ensure that small businesses are 
aware of the fundamentals of an effective teaming agreement with large 
prime contractors. Seminars are taught by the Assistant Administrator 
for Small Business and are designed to enable small businesses to 
understand the legal structure of written teaming agreements, as well 
as the factors to consider when choosing a potential teaming partner. 
The NASA Minority Business Resource Advisory Committee (MBRAC) was 
organized to include executive members from disadvantaged companies who 
could advise the Administrator on how to increase small business 
involvement in NASA and remove regulatory obstacles to that end. 
Recommendations have been made and implemented in the areas of 
procurement source criteria, contract fee structure, contracting goals, 
and the review of subcontracting plans. The NASA Prime Contractor 
Roundtable was designed to facilitate an exchange between NASA and its 
prime contractors, mainly on how to increase the use of small 
businesses in their respective subcontracting programs. NASA's 
Assistant Administrator for Small Business is a board member of the 
World Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, an affiliated 
organization to the United Nations. Through this association, NASA is 
able to advise American small businesses on the advantages of competing 
in the world marketplace.
    National Aeronautics and Space Administration Single Point of 
Contact: Contact the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business 
Utilization by phone at 202-358-2088 or fax at 202-358-3261, NASA 
Headquarters in Washington, DC. If the inquiry pertains to one of our 
field centers, refer to the Web site listed above, which contains a 
listing of Small Business Specialists at each of our ten procuring 
activities. The Agency Small Business Ombudsman is Ralph C. Thomas, 
III, Assistant Administrator for Small and Disadvantaged Business 
Utilization. His e-mail address is [email protected]. Mailing 
address: NASA HQ, 300 E Street, SW., Washington, DC 20546.

National Archives and Records Administration

    The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) ensures, 
for citizens and Federal officials, ready access to essential evidence 
that documents the rights of American citizens, the actions of Federal 
officials, and the national experience. It establishes policies and 
procedures for managing U.S. Government records and assists Federal 
agencies in documenting their activities, administering records 
management programs, scheduling records, and retiring noncurrent 
records. NARA accessions, arranges, describes, preserves, and provides 
access to the essential documentation of the three branches of 
Government; manages the Presidential Libraries system; and publishes 
the laws, regulations, and Presidential and other public documents. It 
also assists the Information Security Oversight Office, which manages 
Federal classification and declassification policies, and the National 
Historical Publications and Records Commission, which makes grants 
nationwide to help nonprofit organizations identify, preserve, and 
provide access to materials that document American history.
    See www.archives.gov for information on the National Archives and 
Records Administration's programs and activities. One resource for 
small businesses is NARA's Office of the Federal Register (see http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/index.html). That office provides 
ready access to the official text of Federal laws, Presidential 
documents, administrative regulations and notices, and descriptions of 
Federal organizations, programs and activities.
    National Archives and Records Administration Single Point of 
Contact: Adrienne Thomas, Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization 
and Senior Acquisition Official, National Archives and Records 
Administration, 8601 Adelphi Rd Suite 4100, College Park, MD 20470-
6001, Telephone: 301-837-3050. E-mail: [email protected].

National Commission on Libraries and Information Science

    National Commission on Libraries and Information Science Single 
Point of Contact: Robert S. Willard, Executive Director, 1110 Vermont 
Avenue, NW., Suite 820, Washington, DC 20005-3552, Telephone: 202-606-
9204, Fax: 202-606-9203. E-mail: [email protected].

National Credit Union Administration

    National Credit Union Administration Single Point of Contact: The 
single point of contact for each federal credit union is the assigned 
NCUA credit union examiner. Other points of contact are accessible 
through the NCUA Web site and by telephone: www.ncua.gov, Telephone: 
703-518-6300.

National Endowment for the Humanities

    National Endowment for the Humanities Single Point of Contact: 
Susan G. Daisey, Director, Office of Grant Management, National 
Endowment for the Humanities, 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Room 311, 
Washington, DC 20506, Telephone: 202-606-8494, Fax: 2020-606-8633. E-
mail: [email protected].

National Indian Gaming Commission

    National Indian Gaming Commission Single Point of Contact:
    The public will be directed to the suitable contact for their area 
of interest by calling our headquarters front desk at (202) 632-7003, 
and if they have a problem reaching the appropriate person they should 
speak to Renee Fox, Administrative Assistant. NIGC, 1441 L Street NW, 
Suite 9100, Washington, DC 20005, Telephone: 202-632-7003, Fax: 202-
632-7066. Web site: www.nigc.gov.

National Labor Relations Board

    The following actions have been taken to provide compliance 
assistance to all NLRB ``customers'':
    [sbull] NLRB recently issued instructions to its field offices to 
improve services to members of the public with limited English 
proficiency. These improvements would assist small businesses owned or 
managed by non-English speakers.
    [sbull] NLRB continually seeks to improve the public information 
officer program in its field offices to ensure that the public is 
assisted properly with questions about their rights under the National 
Labor Relations Act (NLRA). NLRB information officers have responded to 
over 150,000 inquires annually. Most direct individuals to other 
agencies or provide explanations about the individual's rights under 
the NLRA. The services provided under our public information officer 
program

[[Page 38552]]

assists small businesses by discouraging the filing of frivolous 
charges.
    [sbull] NLRB recently changed its Web site related to our Standards 
of Service, providing clear explanations about what parties to NLRB 
proceedings can expect after charges and petitions are filed. Our Web 
site provides for a procedure for the public to comment on how our 
services can be improved. (www.nlrb.gov)
    [sbull] NLRB is developing a policy, which will be made available 
to the public on our Web site, that will enhance the ability of parties 
to our proceedings to communicate with the Agency through e-mail, and 
submit certain documents electronically.
    [sbull] NLRB field offices are continually encouraged to expand 
their outreach programs by speaking to business groups and labor 
organizations about our procedures, and participating in labor-
management conferences where changes in the current case law are 
explained and discussed. Many small businesses take advantage of these 
conferences so that they can learn how to stay in compliance with the 
National Labor Relations Act.
    National Labor Board Single Point of Contact: Hugo Voogd, Deputy to 
the Assistant, General Counsel, NLRB, 14th Street, NW., Room 10204, 
Washington, DC 20570, Telephone: 202-273-0057, Fax: 202-273-4274 or 
1044, E-mail: [email protected]. Web site: www.nlrb.gov.

National Mediation Board

    National Mediation Board Single Point of Contact: Denise M. Vines, 
Supervisory, Finance & Administration Specialist, Washington, DC 20572, 
Telephone: 202-692-5010. E-mail: [email protected].

Nuclear Regulatory Commission

    Nuclear Regulatory Commission Single Point of Contact: Brenda 
Shelton, Chief, NRC Records Mgmt Branch, OCIO, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory 
Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001, Telephone: 301-415-7233, Fax: 
301-415-6434, E-mail: [email protected]. Web site: [email protected].

Office of Personnel Management

    Office of Personnel Management Single Point of Contact: Henry Wong, 
Office of Personnel Management, Contracting Facilities and 
Administrative Services Group; Telephone: 202-606-2240.

Peace Corps

    The Peace Corps, as a small Federal Agency, relies on and contracts 
with small businesses for a majority of our products and services. The 
Office of Contracts maintains a list of submitted contractors to match 
against our posted contracting requirements. The list is maintained for 
one year after submission. An agency database is maintained for 
overseas contractors. To enroll in this database, visit our Web site.
    Many short-term training contractors are needed for overseas 
services.
    Contracting opportunities available are posted on our Web site. 
Visit our Web site at www.peacecorps.gov under the heading About the 
Peace Corps, click on Management, and then click on Contracting 
Opportunities. On this web page, click on learn more to see overseas 
training services needed and to find information about being added to 
our database. Contracts for over $25,000 are posted on FedBizOpps.
    Any questions or for further information, contact Ms. Judy Dawes. 
Ms.Dawes will provide assistance and explanations in complying with 
Peace Corps regulatory procedures and requirements for contracting.
    Peace Corps Single Point of Contact: Judy Dawes, Peace Corps, 
Office of Contracts, Deputy Director, 1111 20th Street, NW., Room 4444, 
Washington, DC 20526, Telephone: 202-692-1624, Fax: 202-692-1621, Toll 
Free: 800-424-8580, E-mail: [email protected]. Web site: 
www.peacecorps.gov.

Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation

Customer Service Center
    A toll-free number (1-800-736-2444) dedicated to pension plan 
administrators and plan professionals.
Office of the RegFair Representative
    Functions independently of enforcement and compliance activities, 
addresses issues raised by businesses that sponsor defined benefit 
pension plans, the vast majority of which are small businesses. The 
RegFair Representative is also PBGC's Problem Resolution Officer for 
plan practitioners, and can be reached via a toll-free number (1-800-
736-2444, ext. 4163) or e-mail ([email protected]).
Ask an Attorney
    An attorney in PBGC's Office of the General Counsel is available by 
telephone or e-mail for informal advice on legal issues pertaining to 
compliance, enforcement, and other matters of concern. The General 
Inquiry Attorney can be reached via a toll-free number (1-800-736-2444, 
ext. 4020) or e-mail ([email protected]).
PBGC's Web site
    (www.pbgc.gov) includes:
    [sbull] The Small Business Guide to the PBGC. This easy-to-read 
synopsis of all of a small plan sponsor's obligations under ERISA and 
our regulations makes it much easier for the small business owner to 
understand and comply with the program requirements. The booklet also 
contains phone numbers and other information on where to go for help.
    [sbull] Frequently Asked Questions.
    [sbull] PBGC forms and instructions.
    [sbull] Fact sheets on PBGC programs.
    [sbull] Opinion Letters. The General Counsel issues formal opinions 
on legal issues under Title IV of the Employee Retirement Income 
Security Act (ERISA).
    [sbull] The Blue Book sets forth various questions of general 
interest to practitioners posed by representatives of the Enrolled 
Actuaries Program Committee, and provides answers from PBGC staff.
    [sbull] PBGC's Annual Report provides financial information and 
describes its customer service, enforcement and compliance activities.

    Note: All resources and publications available on PBGC's Web 
site can also be obtained by calling our Customer Service Center (1-
800-736-2444).

Outreach
    PBGC's outreach efforts include:
    [sbull] Meetings and conferences. PBGC representatives participate 
in meetings and conferences with pension practitioners to address 
issues of mutual concern and to get their feedback.
    [sbull] Focus groups. We conduct periodic focus groups to help 
determine ways in which we can better serve our customers; for example, 
with members of the American Society of Pension Actuaries (ASPA), a 
group which serves primarily small businesses.
    [sbull] Surveys. Surveys are conducted regularly to continuously 
receive feedback from our pension practitioners, the majority of whom 
deal with the pension plans of small businesses.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Policy
    Under PBGC's ADR policy, PBGC examines the suitability of using ADR 
to resolve issues that would otherwise be resolved by adversarial 
administrative or judicial processes. In appropriate disputes, PBGC 
uses ADR in a good faith effort to achieve consensual resolution of 
issues in controversy, including compliance and enforcement matters.
    Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation Single Point of Contact: 
Customer Service Center: 1-800-736-2444. Diane Morstein, Customer 
Service Center,

[[Page 38553]]

Practitioner Problem Resolution Officer, Toll Free: 1-800-736-2444 ext. 
4136.
    The public can fully resolve most issues by calling PBGC Customer 
Service Center staff, 1-800-736-2444, and contacting Ms. Morstein only 
if the issue is not resolved to one's satisfaction.

Railroad Retirement Board

    Railroad Retirement Board Single Point of Contact: Ronald J. 
Hodapp, Chief, Information Resources Management, Railroad Retirement 
Board, Telephone: 312-751-3366. E-mail: [email protected].

Securities and Exchange Commission

    Congress created the Securities and Exchange Commission in 1934 to 
protect investors, and to maintain fair, honest, and efficient national 
securities markets. The Commission provides extensive compliance 
assistance to the public. Small businesses subject to SEC regulation 
include
    [sbull] issuers of securities,
    [sbull] investment companies and investment advisers,
    [sbull] broker-dealers, and
    [sbull] transfer agents.
    Other businesses affected by SEC regulation include auditors of 
companies whose stocks are publicly held and subject to registration 
with the SEC. The SEC's Office of Small Business Policy, telephone 
number (202-942-2950), should generally be the first point of contact 
for any small business that seeks compliance assistance from the 
Securities and Exchange Commission. This office is the primary resource 
for small business issuers of securities. Small regulated entities may 
wish to contact the appropriate Division or other office directly 
(Market Regulation for broker-dealers and transfer agents; Investment 
Management for investment companies and investment advisers; the Office 
of Chief Accountant for accountants).
    Members of the public seeking compliance assistance for Securities 
and Exchange Commission regulation may contact SEC staff by mail, e-
mail, or telephone.
    Sources of SEC Information:
    [sbull] Organization and functions of the SEC: The Investor's 
Advocate: http://www.sec.gov/about/whatwedo.shtml
    [sbull] Brief review of governing federal regulations: The Laws 
That Govern the Securities Industry http://www.sec.gov/about/laws.shtml shtml
    [sbull] SEC regulation of small business capital formation and 
smaller public companies: Q & A: Small Business and the SEC http://www.sec.gov/info/smallbus/qasbsec.htm
    [sbull] SEC regulation of securities brokers and dealers: 
Compliance Guide to the Regulation of Brokers and Dealers http://www.sec.gov/divisions/marketreg/bdguide.htm htm
    [sbull] Regulations and Forms for Small Securities Issuers that 
issue securities subject to SEC regulation: Regulations and forms 
applicable to small businesses, http://www.sec.gov/divisions/corpfin/forms/smallbus.shtlml
    [sbull] Regulations and forms for registered investment advisers: 
Investment Adviser Regulation, http://sec.gov/divisions/investment/iaregulation.shtml
    [sbull] SEC forms and instructions for registered investment 
advisers: Investment Adviser Forms, http://www.sec.gov/divisions/investment/iard/iastuff.shtml
    [sbull] Procedures for obtaining accounting or auditing advice from 
the SEC's Chief Accountant's Office:, Guidance on Consulting with the 
Office of the Chief Accountant, http://www.sec.gov/info/accountants.shtml
    [sbull] Descriptions of most commonly used SEC forms: http://www.sec.gov/info/edgar/forms.htm
    [sbull] SEC regulations for recordkeeping and capital requirements 
for securities brokers and dealers: Broker-Dealer Net Capital and Books 
and Records Guidance, http://www.sec.gov/divisions/marketreg/bdnetcapital.html html
    [sbull] Staff analyses of securities laws and regulations as 
applied to particular legal, regulatory, or accounting issues: Staff 
Interpretations, http://www.sec.gov/interps.shtml
    Seminars, classes
    [sbull] Annual meeting to explore means to improve capital 
formation for small business: Annual Government-Business Forum on Small 
Business Capital Formation, http://www.sec.gov/info/smallbus/sbforum.shtml
    Web based compliance
    [sbull] Small Cap and Private Companies: http://www.sec.gov/info/smallbus/qasbsec.htm
    [sbull] Investment Adviser Registration: IARD, http://www.sec.gov/divisions/investment/iaregulation.shtml
    [sbull] Registration and disclosure documents required to be and 
voluntarily filed electronically: EDGAR--electronic filing of SEC 
disclosure documents, http://www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml
    Telephone service
    [sbull] Office of Small Business Policy: 202-942-2950
    [sbull] Division of Enforcement: 202-942-4530
    [sbull] Toll-Free Consumer Information: 1-800-SEC-0330
    [sbull] Small and minority business procurement: (202) 942-4990
    [sbull] Public company disclosure requirements: 202-942-2825
    [sbull] Office of Interpretations and Guidance for Market 
Regulation: 202-942-0069
    [sbull] Regulation of Investment Companies and Investment Advisers: 
202-942-0659
    Online/e-mail service
    [sbull] Inquiries about federal requirements for securities 
registration and corporate disclosure: http://[email protected]
    [sbull] Inquiries about applicability of securities laws to small 
business: http:[email protected]">//www.[email protected] (coming June 2003)
    [sbull] Inquiries about the conduct of federally-regulated 
securities markets: http://[email protected]
    [sbull] Inquiries about federal regulation of investment advisers: 
http://[email protected]
    [sbull] Inquiries about federal regulation of investment companies: 
http://[email protected]
    Contacts
    [sbull] Homepage: http://www.sec.gov
    [sbull] News: http://www.sec.gov/news.shtml
    [sbull] Regulatory: http://www.sec.gov/about/laws.shtml, http://www.sec.gov/rules.shtml
    [sbull] Small Business: http://www.sec.gov/info/smallbus.shtml
    [sbull] E-mail: [email protected]
    [sbull] Phone Number: (202) 942-2950
    Securities and Exchange Commission Single Point of Contact: Gerald 
Laporte, Chief, Office of Small Business Policy, Division of 
Corporation Finance, Securities and Exchange Commission, 450 5th Street 
NW., Room 3501, Washington, DC 20549-0310, Telephone: 202-942-2950, 
Fax: 202-942-9516. E-mail: [email protected].

Selective Service System

    Selective Service System Single Point of Contact: Calvin 
Montgomery, 1515 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22209, Telephone: 703-605-
4038. E-mail: [email protected].

Small Business Administration

    Small businesses wanting access to SBA programs should call SBA's 
Answer Desk toll-free or e-mail [email protected]. In many cases, the 
SBA information technician receiving a call will directly answer the 
question. If a matter needs attention from a particular program 
specialist in the caller's immediate area of the country, the SBA 
Answer Desk can put the caller in touch with a specific individual in 
an SBA District Office or program office.

[[Page 38554]]

SBA Answer Desk

    6302 Fairview Road, Suite 300, Charlotte, North Carolina 28210, 
Answer Desk TTY: (704) 344-6640, 1-800-UASK-SBA (1-800-827-5722), TTY 
Directory [Text] or [PDF], Send e-mails to: [email protected].
    Other good ways to access compliance information about SBA programs 
are going to the SBA Web site's frequently asked questions about SBA 
programs at http://app1.sba.gov/faqs/ or to SBA's main web page, http:/
/www.sba.gov/
    Small Business Administration Single Point of Contact: Ms. 
Jacqueline K. White, Chief, Administrative Information Branch, U.S. 
Small Business Administration, 409 3rd Street, SW., MC5101, Washington, 
DC 20416-0005, Telephone: 202-205-7044, Fax: 202-481-2916. E-mail: 
[email protected].

Social Security Administration

    The majority of the services listed below are offered as a part of 
the Social Security Administration's (SSA) overall service to the 
business community in general, not specifically to small businesses. 
These services are directed to employers, businesses or organizations 
that serve as representative payees to Social Security beneficiaries, 
businesses that seek contracts with SSA and to schools. There are four 
primary avenues of access to these services with significant overlaps 
between them.
Toll-Free Telephone Service
    [sbull] The Teleservice Center (TSC) number 800-772-1213 may be 
used by employers to verify that they have the correct Social Security 
number (SSN) for an employee. This verification saves the often 
difficult job of correcting wage reports made under an incorrect SSN. 
Up to five SSNs may be verified with one call if the employer can 
furnish their address and employer identification number (EIN). If they 
need to verify more than 5 but less than 50, the TSC will advise the 
employer to contact the nearest SSA Field Office (FO) and provide them 
with the FO's telephone number and address. There is a procedure for 
verifying more than 50, but this should not be an issue with small 
businesses.
    [sbull] New employers wishing to apply for an EIN may also request 
from the TSC that the application form SS-4, Application for Employer 
Identification Number, be sent to them along with the Internal Revenue 
Service (IRS) publication, Instructions for Form SS-4.
    [sbull] SSA maintains the SSA Employer Reporting Service Center at 
800-772-6270 or online at http://www.ssa.gov/employer/. It can also be 
reached online from the SSA home page. This center can provide very 
detailed information on the best way for a particular employer to 
report wages. An employer calling the TSC but wanting more in-depth 
information about reporting wages, etc., will be referred to this 
number or Web site.
    [sbull] Organizational Representative Payees are governmental or 
non-profit social service agencies that manage benefits for 
beneficiaries who are not able to manage benefits on their own. The TSC 
is a resource for organizational representative payees who must deal 
with the many issues that often arise with beneficiaries who cannot 
manage their own benefits. Changes in address or circumstances, non-
receipt of check, work issues and many other issues can be dealt with 
primarily by phone.
Online Services
    [sbull] The SSA Web site, http://www.ssa.gov, contains a link that 
directs businesses to the Business Services Online (BSO) Web site, 
http://www.ssa.gov/bso/bsowelcome.htm. BSO is a suite of business 
services for companies to conduct business with SSA. BSO consists of 
Registration Services, Employer Services (Submit a Wage File, W-2 
Online, View Status, View Notices, and View Errors), and the Social 
Security Number Verification Service. The employer must be a registered 
BSO user to use these services; however, registration is free. 
Businesses needing personalized assistance with wage reporting can 
follow a link, http://www.ssa.gov/employer/wage_reporting_specialists.htm, to find a current list of Employer Services Liaison 
Officers for each region who are available to discuss specific wage 
reporting issues by phone. Social Security personnel at these telephone 
numbers can help callers with all questions about how to submit W-2's 
to SSA. These are not toll-free telephone numbers, however.
    [sbull] SSA's Office of Acquisition and Grants (OAG) maintains a 
Web site, http://www.ssa.gov/oag, which contains very helpful 
acquisition information to assist small businesses interested in doing 
business with SSA. OAG's policies in general make doing business with 
SSA very easy for small businesses. All contracts are offered on an 
``open bid'' basis, meaning the bidding contractor does not have to be 
on any specific list of approved contractors. Also, they reserve some 
contracts for award to small businesses only.
    [sbull] SSA maintains an excellent Web site, http://www.ssa.gov/payee, dedicated to Representative Payee requirements and 
responsibilities. This is significant because many beneficiaries who 
need a payee have no family or friends willing to serve in this 
capacity. As a result, many small social service organizations serve as 
payees. This Web site makes it very easy for small businesses to apply 
and be approved as an organizational payee. Training materials for 
payees are available at the Web site, including a written lesson, a 
PowerPoint presentation, and a video. The written material and the 
PowerPoint program can be downloaded from the Web site and the video 
can be ordered. Also, interested parties can request the material, 
including the video, on a compact disk.
    [sbull] SSA must verify the full time attendance of certain 
students by asking school officials to complete a form certifying that 
the student/beneficiary is in full time attendance at the school. 
School officials can access a dedicated Web site, http://www.ssa.gov/schoolofficials/, which explains the verification process, why the 
information is needed, and what is expected of them. The site also has 
a ``Frequently Asked Questions'' service. School officials are also 
able to download the form if they or the student lose the form they 
received from SSA.
Publications
    [sbull] SSA publishes a quarterly newsletter in conjunction with 
the IRS called the SSA-IRS Reporter. This newsletter is mailed by IRS 
along with Form 941, Employer's Quarterly Federal Tax Return. It 
contains up-to-date wage and tax reporting information. While it is 
mailed to all employers, surveys show that it is predominately read by 
small business owners.
    [sbull] Another helpful publication is a pamphlet called W-2 Wage 
Reports for Your Employees Are Filed with the SSA. This pamphlet (SSA 
Pub. No. 16-009, ICN 361758) is sent by IRS to all new employers. It 
tells the new employer about different methods of reporting wages, how 
to avoid errors in SSN and name, and how to get more information about 
Social Security.
    [sbull] The Employer's Guide to Filing Timely and Accurate W-2 Wage 
Reports is available both in hard copy and on the SSA Web site at 
http://www.ssa.gov/employer/pub.htm. This pamphlet (SSA Pub. No. 16-
004) explains an employer's responsibilities, how to file, where to 
file, how to avoid common reporting errors, how to correct them, 
finding help, etc.

[[Page 38555]]

    [sbull] The publication, A Guide for Farmers, Growers and Crew 
Leaders (SSA Publication No. 05-10025), provides information on Social 
Security's benefit package and how to report income to SSA. This guide 
is available on SSA's Web site at http://www.ssa.gov/employer/pub.htm.
Outreach
    [sbull] SSA participates in a number of IRS-related events. Staff 
attend six tax seminars a year presented by IRS. SSA staffs a booth at 
these public seminars and also provides a 1\1/2\ hour workshop on 
employer reporting. A number of small businesses attend these 
workshops. SSA staff are also present at eight payroll reporting 
conferences each year in different parts of the country. These 
conferences are attended primarily by larger businesses, but they are 
open to any business.
    [sbull] SSA holds The National Payroll Reporting Conference on an 
annual basis at its Baltimore headquarters. This conference was 
established in 1990 as a forum for Federal agencies and the business 
community to gather, identify, discuss and resolve common wage and tax 
reporting issues. This conference has had a significant positive impact 
on the accuracy of the wage data submitted to SSA. The conference also 
provides the business community an opportunity to have a voice in 
initiatives that will ultimately affect the way it does business. The 
conference is attended by many small companies from the surrounding 
states as well as by national payroll organizations and service 
bureaus. Due to budget limitations, the 2003 conference will not be 
held; however, the Agency expects to sponsor the conference again in 
2004.
    [sbull] SSA's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business 
Utilization provides assistance to small businesses through scheduling 
one-on-one meetings and participating in various procurement trade 
shows and conferences.
    Social Security Administration Single Point of Contact: Liz 
Davidson, SSA Reports Clearance Officer, 1338 Annex Building, 6401 
Security Boulevard, Woodlawn, MD 21235, Telephone: 410-965-0454, Fax: 
410-965-6400, E-Mail: [email protected].

Surface Transportation Board

    The Surface Transportation Board (STB) is an independent 
adjudicatory body administratively housed within the Department of 
Transportation. STB is responsible for the economic regulation of 
interstate surface transportation, primarily railroads, within the 
United States. STB's mission is to ensure that competitive, efficient 
and safe transportation services are provided to meet the needs of 
shippers, receivers and consumers. In furtherance of its mission, STB 
provides a number of services that small businesses might find useful:
    [sbull] General Information: 202-565-1764
    [sbull] Procurement: 202-565-1701
    [sbull] Public Services: 202-565-1592 (how to participate in agency 
proceedings)
    [sbull] Library/publications: 202-565-1668
    [sbull] Rail Consumer Assistance (toll free): 866-254-1792
    [sbull] Home page: www.stb.dot.gov.
    [sbull] Publications: Overview-Abandonments and Alternatives to 
Abandonments
    Surface Transportation Board Single Point of Contact: Anne K. 
Quinlan, 1925 K Street, NW., Ste. 894, Washington, DC 20423-0001, 
Telephone: 202-565-1727, E-mail: [email protected].

Tennessee Valley Authority

Business Incubation Program
    Over the years, TVA has provided capital to help communities 
establish business incubators to support new and expanding enterprises. 
The TVA Business Incubation Network includes 24 operational sites 
across the Valley where tenants share services, equipment, and building 
space. TVA provides technical and financial assistance to members of 
the TVA-supported network and also maintains the Business Incubator 
Tenant Loan Fund, a revolving fund that helps tenants meet short-term 
needs for cash flow and operating capital.
Online Business Resource Center
    TVA's Web-based center serves as an information gateway to valuable 
public and private resources on entrepreneurship, financial and 
technical assistance, industrial organizations, and business services. 
Topics range from setting up a business plan to finding capital, paying 
taxes, and marketing. The site provides access to the programs and 
services offered by TVA, other Tennessee Valley organizations, and 
nationwide resources. Visit the Online Business Resource Center at 
www.tva.com/econdev/obr.
Minority Business Development Program
    TVA supports the growth and expansion of minority and socially and 
economically disadvantaged businesses with diverse packages of 
technical, capital, and managerial assistance. A key feature of the 
program is the Minority Business Development Loan Fund (MBDLF), a 
revolving fund that provides for loans ranging from $50,000 to 
$500,000. Through the MBDLF and the Valley Coalition, a partnership 
between TVA and regional banks, TVA promotes job creation and 
stimulates capital investment in the Valley.
Small and Minority Business Mentoring
    Small and minority businesses that provide services to TVA receive 
support through TVA's mentoring program, which helps these firms grow 
and enhance their business operations. Assistance includes matching 
suppliers with business opportunities, identifying key business 
contacts, encouraging joint ventures and alliances, and linking TVA 
procurement needs with manufacturers and businesses in the Tennessee 
Valley.
Partners
    TVA's economic development programs are delivered in partnership 
with public and private organizations. Some of our partners are:
    [sbull] Distributors of TVA power
    [sbull] Chambers of commerce and local economic development 
authorities
    [sbull] TVA-supported business incubators
    [sbull] State departments of economic and community development
    [sbull] The U. S. Small Business Administration
    [sbull] The U. S. Department of Commerce's Minority Business 
Development Agency
    [sbull] Small business development centers
    [sbull] U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development
    [sbull] The Valley Coalition, a public/private lending and business 
assistance partnership between TVA and participating Valley financial 
institutions.
    Small Business Assistance Web site: http://www.tva.com/econdev/smallbiz.htm
    Tennessee Valley Authority Single Point of Contact: Philip S. 
McMullan, Project Manager, Business Growth and Innovation, Telephone: 
615-232-6227, Fax: 615-232-6189, E-mail: [email protected], Web site: 
www.tva.com/econdev/obr.

U.S. Access Board

    The U.S. Access Board (Board) develops and maintains accessibility 
guidelines and standards for the built environment, transportation 
vehicles, electronic and information technology and telecommunications. 
These design requirements are used to enforce several different laws, 
including the Americans with Disabilities Act. A key part of the

[[Page 38556]]

Board's mission is providing technical assistance on the design 
requirements it develops and maintains. Information about any of the 
Board's guidelines or standards or accessible design can be obtained 
through the Board's toll free numbers at 800-872-2253 (v) and 800-993-
2822 (TTY); through fax at 202-272-0081; mail addressed to U.S. Access 
Board 1331 F St. NW Ste. 1000, Washington, DC 20004; e-mail to 
board.gov">ta@access-board.gov or from the Board's Web site http://www.access-
board.gov.
    In addition, the Board participates in a wide range of training 
programs and conferences throughout the country every year. Information 
on upcoming events is available from the Board and is posted on its Web 
site at http://www.access-board.gov/research&training/Training.htm. The 
Board also publishes a host of guidance materials on its design 
requirements and other aspects of accessible design. Board publications 
are available in a variety of accessible formats. Copies of all Board 
publications are available free from the Board, including through its 
Web site at http://www.access-board.gov/indexes/pubsindex.htm.
    U.S. Access Board Single Point of Contact: Elizabeth Stewart, 
Deputy General Counsel, U.S. Access Board, 1331 F Street NW., Suite 
1000, Washington, DC 20004, Telephone: 202-272-0042, TTY: 202-272-0082, 
Fax: 202-272-0081, E-Mail: board.gov">steward@access-board.gov.

[FR Doc. 03-16214 Filed 6-26-03; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3110-01-P