[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 191 (Monday, October 3, 2016)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 68186-68213]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-22287]



[[Page 68185]]

Vol. 81

Monday,

No. 191

October 3, 2016

Part IV





Department of Commerce





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13 CFR Parts 300, 301, 302, et al.





Revolving Loan Fund Program Changes and General Updates to PWEDA 
Regulations; Proposed Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 81 , No. 191 / Monday, October 3, 2016 / 
Proposed Rules  

[[Page 68186]]


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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Economic Development Administration

13 CFR Parts 300, 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 307, 309, and 314

[Docket No.: 160519444-6444-01]
RIN 0610-AA69


Revolving Loan Fund Program Changes and General Updates to PWEDA 
Regulations

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

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking, request for public comment.

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SUMMARY: Through this notice of proposed rulemaking (``NPRM''), the 
Economic Development Administration (``EDA''), U.S. Department of 
Commerce (``DOC''), proposes and requests comments on updates to the 
agency's regulations implementing the Public Works and Economic 
Development Act of 1965, as amended (``PWEDA''). In particular, through 
this NPRM EDA is proposing important changes to the regulations 
governing the Revolving Loan Fund (``RLF'') program that are intended 
to reflect current best practices and strengthen EDA's efforts to 
evaluate, monitor, and improve RLF performance by establishing the Risk 
Analysis System, a risk-based management framework, to evaluate and 
manage the RLF program. The proposed Risk Analysis System is modeled on 
the Uniform Financial Institutions Rating System, commonly known as the 
capital adequacy, assets, management capability, earnings, liquidity, 
and sensitivity (``CAMELS'') rating system, which has been used since 
1979 to assess financial institutions on a uniform basis and to 
identify those in need of additional attention. EDA also proposes to 
reorganize the RLF regulations to improve their readability and clarify 
the requirements that apply to the distinct phases of an RLF award. In 
addition, EDA proposes specific changes to RLF requirements to make RLF 
awards more efficient for Recipients to administer and EDA to monitor.
    In addition, through this NPRM EDA proposes important, but less 
comprehensive updates to other parts of its regulations, including 
revising definitions, replacing references to superseded regulations to 
reflect the promulgation of the Uniform Administrative Requirements, 
Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements (2 CFR part 200) (``Uniform 
Guidance''), streamlining the provisions that outline EDA's application 
process, and clarifying EDA's property management regulations.

DATES: Written comments on this NPRM must be submitted by December 2, 
2016.

ADDRESSES: Comments on the NPRM may be submitted through any of the 
following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. 
Follow the instructions for submitting comments. All comments received 
are a part of the public record and will generally be posted for public 
viewing on www.regulations.gov without change. All personal identifying 
information (e.g., name, address, etc.), confidential business 
information, or otherwise sensitive information submitted voluntarily 
by the sender will be publicly accessible. EDA will accept anonymous 
comments (enter ``N/A'' in the required fields if you wish to remain 
anonymous).
     Email: [email protected]. Include ``Comments on EDA's 
regulations'' and Docket No. 160519444-6444-01 in the subject line of 
the message.
     Fax: (202) 482-5671. Please indicate ``Attention: Office 
of Chief Counsel,'' ``Comments on EDA's regulations,'' and Docket No. 
160519444-6444-01 on the cover page.
     Mail: Office of the Chief Counsel, Economic Development 
Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue 
NW., Suite 72023, Washington, DC 20230. Please indicate ``Comments on 
EDA's regulations'' and Docket No. 160519444-6444-01 on the envelope.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:  Rachel Wallace, Attorney-Advisor, 
Office of the Chief Counsel, Economic Development Administration, U.S. 
Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue NW., Suite 72023, 
Washington, DC 20230; telephone: (202) 482-4687.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Background on EDA and the RLF Program

    EDA leads the Federal economic development agenda by promoting 
innovation and competitiveness, preparing American regions for growth 
and success in the worldwide economy. Through strategic investments 
that foster job creation and attract private investment, EDA supports 
development in economically distressed areas of the United States.
    Authorized under section 209 of the Public Works and Economic 
Development Act of 1965 (``PWEDA'') (42 U.S.C. 3149) the RLF program 
has served as an important pillar of EDA's investment programs since 
the program's establishment in 1975. The goal of the RLF program is to 
help communities and regions transform their economies and propel them 
towards economic prosperity through innovation, entrepreneurship, and 
public-private partnerships. Through the RLF program, EDA provides 
grants to eligible Recipients, which include State and local 
governments, political subdivisions, and nonprofit organizations to 
operate a lending program that offers low-interest loans and flexible 
repayment terms to businesses that cannot obtain traditional bank 
financing and to governmental entities for public infrastructure. These 
loans enable small businesses to expand and lead to new employment 
opportunities that pay competitive wages and benefits. They also help 
retain jobs that might otherwise be lost, create wealth, and support 
minority and women-owned businesses.
    Since the program's inception, EDA has funded approximately 800 
RLFs nationwide, investing $550 million in RLFs that have a combined 
capital base of about $813.5 million as of September 30, 2015. These 
funds currently have a total of $250 million available for lending. 
EDA-funded RLFs have made more than 27,000 loans to American small 
businesses and have leveraged more than $12 billion non-RLF dollars. 
RLF Recipients report that the program has contributed to creating 
340,000 jobs and retaining 307,000 jobs.
    Each RLF Recipient contributes matching funds in accordance with 
EDA's statutory requirements to capitalize an RLF. As loans made from 
this original pool of EDA and Recipient funds are repaid, the fund is 
replenished and new loans are extended to qualified businesses. They 
can also be provided to governmental entities for eligible public 
infrastructure. Each RLF Recipient must develop and maintain an RLF 
Plan to demonstrate how the fund fits specific economic development 
goals and how it will adequately administer the RLF throughout its 
lifecycle. Because RLF funds currently retain their Federal character 
in perpetuity, the RLF Recipient's obligation to manage the RLF 
continues as long as the Federal Interest in the RLF exists.
    Since February 1, 2011, EDA has taken a critical and comprehensive 
look-back at its regulations to reduce burdens by removing outmoded 
provisions and streamlining and clarifying requirements. On December 
19, 2014, EDA published a Final Rule (79 FR

[[Page 68187]]

76108) (``2014 Final Rule'') revising the agency's regulations and 
reflecting the agency's practices and policies in administering its 
economic development assistance programs.
    EDA's regulations at 13 CFR part 307 set out the requirements for 
awards under EDA's Economic Adjustment Assistance program, through 
which EDA can support a wide-range of technical assistance, planning, 
and infrastructure assistance in Regions experiencing adverse economic 
changes that may occur suddenly or over time. The types of assistance 
that EDA can provide through this program include strategy development, 
infrastructure construction, and RLF capitalization. Subpart A of part 
307 details the general requirements for Economic Adjustment Assistance 
awards; and subpart B sets out requirements specific to the RLF 
program.
    Through the 2014 Final Rule, EDA reorganized part 307 to help 
clarify award requirements and incorporate all RLF program requirements 
under subpart B to part 307. When developing those regulations, EDA 
received a number of comments on the RLF program, including several 
recommending that EDA set a time limit for releasing the Federal 
Interest in RLF awards. EDA explained that while some RLF awards have 
been operating for a considerable length of time--some for as many as 
three decades--EDA currently is not authorized to release its interest 
in RLF awards; however, EDA continues to actively work to obtain the 
necessary authorities for what is known as ``de-federalization'' or 
``local control.''
    Other comments remarked that the RLF program reporting requirements 
were too burdensome. EDA noted that the semi-annual reporting 
requirement for the RLF program is in place to address an audit report 
by the DOC's Office of Inspector General (``OIG''), which recommended 
that EDA undertake more rigorous oversight of the RLF program to ensure 
the financial integrity and sustainability of the program. Because the 
reporting requirements are designed to address past program issues and 
ensure the viability and transparency of the program, EDA declined to 
make wholesale changes at that time but expressed its intent to 
continue to improve the RLF Recipient reporting system to make it more 
user-friendly. In the current set of regulatory changes, EDA proposes 
to move from the semi-annual reporting requirement to a frequency 
(either annual or semi-annual) that will be determined by each 
Recipient's score in the Risk Analysis System. In addition, EDA is 
changing the reporting period to be based on each Recipient's fiscal 
year end.
    Six comments received from the prior set of regulatory changes 
suggested the establishment of an RLF task force to address program 
issues and improve communications between EDA and program stakeholders. 
EDA has established such a task force, which is represented by 
personnel from EDA Headquarters and all six of EDA's Regional Offices 
and has examined ways to address challenges that have been identified 
by the OIG, program stakeholders, and EDA management.

Overview of Proposed Changes to the RLF Program

    Given this greater focus on improving the RLF program and its 
operations through a risk-based management framework, EDA now looks to 
strengthen and clarify its RLF regulations. As further detailed in this 
NPRM, EDA seeks to improve the agency's ability to monitor RLF 
performance and provide targeted technical assistance through a risk-
based management framework, better organize and clarify the RLF 
regulations, and make additional changes designed to clarify and 
streamline RLF requirements. Given the important role of this program 
as a driver of small business growth, job creation, and economic 
development, EDA seeks the public's input and insight in the regulatory 
revision process.
    With these goals in mind, the Part-by-Part Analysis will describe 
the changes to the RLF program in more detail, but the following 
provides a high-level overview of these changes.
     EDA proposes important definitional revisions, including 
adding a definition for Disbursement phase to go along with the 
existing definition of Revolving phase so that it is clear which 
requirements apply during the two phases of an RLF's lifecycle. We also 
define the important term RLF Capital Base, which is the total value of 
RLF Grant assets administered by the RLF Recipient and is equal to the 
amount of Grant funds used to capitalize (and recapitalize, if 
applicable) the RLF, plus Local Share, plus RLF Income, plus 
Voluntarily Contributed Capital, less any loan losses and 
disallowances.
     EDA proposes simplifying the language explaining RLF 
disbursements to clarify that EDA will disburse funds in the amount 
needed to meet the Federal share of a new RLF loan. For example, assume 
an RLF Grant totals $500 and has a Local Share requirement of 50 
percent. If the RLF Recipient closes on a loan obligation worth $30, 
EDA will disburse $15.
     We add language to clarify how RLF Income is treated 
during the Disbursement Phase. The current regulations specify that RLF 
Income held to reimburse administrative costs does not need to be 
disbursed to draw additional Grant funds, but do not address RLF Income 
not used for administrative costs. Through this regulatory revision, 
EDA is clarifying that RLF Income earned during the Disbursement Phase 
must be placed in the RLF Capital Base and may be used to reimburse 
eligible and reasonable administrative costs and increase the RLF 
Capital Base. However, RLF Income earned during the Disbursement Phase 
need not be disbursed to support new RLF loans, unless otherwise 
specified in the terms and conditions of the RLF Grant.
     Consistent with EDA's new approach to managing RLF Grants, 
this NPRM proposes expanding the requisite period during which RLF 
Income must be earned and administrative costs must be incurred from 
the same six-month Reporting Period to the same fiscal year. We also 
specify that RLF Recipients may not use funds in excess of RLF Income 
for administrative costs during the fiscal year unless directed to do 
so by EDA and add language advising RLF Recipients to keep 
administrative expenses to a minimum to maintain the RLF Capital Base 
and to specify that the percentage of RLF Income used for 
administrative expenses will be one of the metrics used in EDA's Risk 
Analysis System. In keeping with this program management change, EDA is 
removing the requirement that RLF Recipients submit an RLF Income and 
Expense Statement (i.e., Form ED-209I). The Risk Analysis System will 
incentivize RLF Recipients to manage RLF administrative expenses and 
maintain their RLF Capital Base.
     This NPRM also proposes language to describe the process 
of adding Voluntarily Contributed Capital to the RLF Capital Base and 
to clarify that such capital becomes an irrevocable part of the RLF 
Capital Base and may not be subsequently withdrawn or separated from 
the RLF.
     In response to a request from some existing Recipients, 
this NPRM proposes broadening the types of investments that may serve 
as appropriate leveraging to allow Recipients to use funds from State 
and local lending programs to meet the RLF leveraging requirement. 
Similar to allowing Federal loans to count as leveraging, if the 
managers of State and local lending programs are willing to provide 
financing to a borrower, EDA believes such financing should count 
towards the leveraging requirement.

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     EDA proposes adopting a Risk Analysis System to evaluate 
and manage the performance of RLF Recipients, which would provide 
Recipients with a set of portfolio management and operations standards 
to evaluate their program and improve performance. Revised Sec.  307.16 
includes language on the proposed system, which will provide EDA with 
an internal tool for assessing the risk of each Recipient's loan 
operations and identifying RLF Recipients that require additional 
monitoring, technical assistance, or other action. EDA's proposed risk-
based RLF management framework is modeled on the Uniform Financial 
Institutions Rating System (the CAMELS rating system), used by 
regulators to assess financial institutions and to identify those in 
need of extra assistance or attention. Additional details on the 
proposed system are provided below under the Part-by-Part Analysis. The 
technical aspects of this system will be described in a separate notice 
that will be published in the Federal Register at a later time. This 
notice will provide additional agency guidance regarding the system and 
the underlying metrics.
     EDA proposes adopting an Allowable Cash Percentage concept 
to replace the capital utilization standard. Recognizing that different 
regions face very different economic and access to capital conditions 
and that a one-size-fits-all capital utilization standard can be 
difficult for RLF Recipients to meet and for EDA to implement, EDA 
proposes eliminating the capital utilization standard, which requires 
Recipients to provide that at all times at least 75 percent of their 
RLF Capital is loaned or committed. In place of the capital utilization 
standard, which is based on the amount of capital that is loaned out, 
EDA proposes to assess RLF Recipients on the amount of cash Recipients 
have on hand available for lending--defined as the Allowable Cash 
Percentage. Each year, each EDA Regional Office will calculate the 
average percentage of RLF Cash Available for Lending held by each RLF 
Recipient in the region's RLF portfolio and will notify Recipients by 
January 1 each year of the Allowable Cash Percentage to be used during 
the ensuing year. RLF Recipients will be required to manage their 
repayment and lending schedules to provide that at all times, their 
amount of RLF Cash Available for Lending does not exceed the Allowable 
Cash Percentage. See the part-by-part analysis below for an example of 
how the Allowable Cash Percentage concept will work and proposed 
revisions to Sec. Sec.  307.16(c) and 307.17(b).
    One feature of the move to the Allowable Cash Percentage concept is 
that EDA will no longer require automatic sequestration as a remedy for 
failure to satisfy the capital utilization standard. Given the 
replacement of the capital utilization standard with the more flexible 
Allowable Cash Percentage and the adoption of a Risk Analysis System, 
sequestration will be considered as one of a range of possible tools 
used to ensure compliance with the terms of the RLF Grant and will also 
be considered in EDA's Risk Analysis System.
     EDA proposes clarifying the use restrictions related to 
RLF Cash Available for Lending. Specifically, to address recent 
concerns EDA has encountered in administering the RLF program, EDA is 
adding language to make clear that RLF Cash Available for Lending 
cannot be used as collateral to obtain credit or any other type of 
financing without EDA's prior written approval, cannot be used to 
support operations or administration of the RLF Recipient, and cannot 
be used for any purpose that would violate EDA's property requirements 
set out in 13 CFR part 314.
     EDA is seeking to restructure the compliance regulations 
by creating a regulation that sets out actions (or failures to act) for 
which EDA may take appropriate compliance actions (Sec.  307.20) and 
another section listing remedies for noncompliance (Sec.  307.21). 
Restructuring the compliance regulations will help RLF stakeholders to 
better understand program prohibitions and the potential consequences.

Part-by-Part Analysis of Proposed Changes

General

Part 300--General Information
    Part 300 of the regulations states EDA's mission and highlights the 
policies and practices that EDA employs in order to attract private 
capital investments and new and better jobs to those Regions 
experiencing substantial and persistent economic distress. This NPRM 
proposes several clarifying revisions to the ``Definitions'' section of 
EDA's regulations at Sec.  300.3. First, in the definition of In-kind 
contribution(s), EDA replaces references to 15 CFR parts 14 and 24, 
which set out the Uniform Administrative Requirements applicable to 
grants and agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, 
Other Non-Profit, and Commercial Organizations and State and Local 
Governments, respectively, with a reference to the uniform 
administrative requirements cost principles, and audit requirements set 
out in the Uniform Guidance. In addition, EDA proposes revising the 
definition of Project by adding a reference to ``or Stevenson-Wydler'' 
between the reference to ``PWEDA'' and the word ``and'' to clarify that 
EDA may provide Investment Assistance to support a Project under 
Stevenson-Wydler. Please see the explanation of the proposed definition 
of Stevenson-Wydler below for more information on this authority.
    EDA proposes to revise the definition of Recipient by defining 
separately the concepts of Co-recipients and Subrecipients in EDA's 
programs. The term co-recipient has been used in EDA's regulations for 
some time, and adding a reference to the term in the Definitions 
section is designed to clarify that when EDA awards Investment 
Assistance to more than one recipient, they are known as co-recipients 
and are generally jointly and severally responsible for fulfilling the 
terms of the Investment Assistance. We also propose to introduce the 
term Subrecipient as the eligible recipient that receives a subgrant 
under 13 CFR part 309. The definition of Subrecipient in this NPRM is 
consistent with the definition of Subrecipient set out in the Uniform 
Guidance at 2 CFR 200.93, which is ``a non-Federal entity that receives 
a subaward from a pass-through entity to carry out part of a Federal 
program; but does not include an individual that is a beneficiary of 
such program. A subrecipient may also be a recipient of other Federal 
awards directly from a Federal awarding agency.'' Note that the Uniform 
Guidance defines ``Non-Federal entity'' as ``a state, local government, 
Indian tribe, institution of higher education (IHE), or nonprofit 
organization that carries out a Federal award as a recipient or 
subrecipient'' and ``Pass-through entity'' as ``a non-Federal entity 
that provides a subaward to a subrecipient to carry out part of a 
Federal program.'' See 2 CFR 200.69 and 200.74, respectively.
    In addition, EDA proposes adding a definition of Stevenson-Wydler, 
which is the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980, as 
amended (15 U.S.C. 3701 et seq.). The America Creating Opportunities to 
Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science 
(``COMPETES'') Act as reauthorized in 2010 (Pub. L. 111-358 (January 4, 
2011)) amended Stevenson-Wydler to add several innovation and 
entrepreneurship-focused provisions creating EDA offices

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and/or programs, including the Office of Innovation and 
Entrepreneurship (15 U.S.C. 3720), the loan guarantees for innovative 
technologies in manufacturing (``ITM'') program (15 U.S.C. 3721), and 
the Regional Innovations Strategies (``RIS'') program (15 U.S.C. 3722). 
EDA is proposing to add a definition of Stevenson-Wydler in order to 
begin incorporating these programs under its regulations and proposes 
adding references to specific regulations throughout this part to 
reflect that they apply to Stevenson-Wydler. Via a future notice, EDA 
anticipates publishing proposed regulations at 13 CFR part 312 to 
reflect requirements specific to Projects funded under Stevenson-
Wydler, including eligibility and matching share requirements.
Part 301--Eligibility, Investment Rate, and Application Requirements
    Part 301 sets forth eligibility criteria, the maximum allowable 
Investment Rates, and application requirements common to all PWEDA-
enumerated programs (and thus excludes Community Trade Adjustment 
Assistance at part 313 and Trade Adjustment Assistance for Firms 
(``TAAF'') at part 315). In general, subpart A of part 301 presents an 
overview of EDA's eligibility requirements; subpart B addresses 
applicant eligibility; subpart C addresses Regional economic distress 
level requirements; subpart D sets forth maximum allowable Investment 
Rates and Matching Share requirements; and subpart E addresses 
application requirements, as well as the evaluation criteria used by 
EDA in selecting Projects.
    EDA proposes adding the phrase ``at its sole discretion'' to the 
second sentence of Sec.  301.2(b) (``Applicant eligibility''). Sec.  
301.2(b) requires non-profit organizations that are applicants for 
investment assistance to include in their applications a resolution or 
letter from an authorized representative of a political subdivision of 
a State, acknowledging that the applicants are acting in cooperation 
with the officials of that subdivision. The second sentence of this 
paragraph allows EDA to waive this requirement for Projects of a 
significant Regional or national scope. By adding the phrase, ``at its 
sole discretion,'' to this second sentence, EDA is seeking to clarify 
that such a waiver is solely at EDA's discretion. In the second 
sentence of Sec.  301.5 (``Matching share requirements''), EDA proposes 
replacing the word ``show'' with the phrase ``provide documentation to 
EDA demonstrating'' to better explain what applicants are required to 
provide to fulfill EDA's Matching Share requirements. In addition, EDA 
proposes adding a sentence to Sec.  301.5 to clarify that EDA retains 
the discretion to determine whether Matching Share documentation 
adequately addresses the requirements of the regulation.
    This NPRM proposes to simplify Sec.  301.7(a) (``Investment 
assistance application'') to state that for all of EDA's Investment 
Assistance programs, application submission requirements and evaluation 
procedures criteria will be set out in published Federal Funding 
Opportunity (``FFO'') announcements. In 2011, EDA moved to an 
application and selection process that required a single application 
that was competitively evaluated in quarterly funding cycles under its 
Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance programs. After 
evaluating the impact of this process on applicants and staff, EDA is 
again adjusting the application and selection process under the Public 
Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance programs to return to a two-
phase process that requires the submission of a proposal followed by a 
complete application. As more fully explained in the FY 2016 Economic 
Development Assistance Programs (``EDAP'') FFO, which is available on 
www.grants.gov, there are no submission deadlines and proposals and 
applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. All submissions under 
the Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance programs must 
proceed through a two-phase review process where the first phase allows 
applicants to submit a shorter proposal through which EDA can provide 
an initial analysis on whether the applicant's project is responsive to 
the EDAP FFO and the second phase allows EDA to evaluate the 
competitiveness of a complete application against specified evaluation 
criteria. Proposals will be reviewed by EDA within 30 days of receipt; 
and following the proposal review, complete applications will be 
reviewed within 60 days of receipt.
    The application procedures for EDA's other programs, including the 
Planning, Local Technical Assistance, University Center, and Research 
and Evaluation programs, will be specified in applicable FFOs. To avoid 
engraining a particular process in a regulation, EDA simply revises 
Sec.  301.7(a) to provide that for EDA Investment Assistance programs, 
application submission requirements and evaluation procedures and 
criteria will be specified in FFOs published on the EDA Web site and at 
www.grants.gov.
    Likewise, EDA revises Sec.  301.8 (``Application evaluation 
criteria'') to remove specific evaluation criteria as currently set out 
in subsections (a) through (f) from the regulation and to specify that 
program-specific evaluation criteria will be set out in applicable 
FFOs. EDA has found that including specific evaluation criteria in the 
regulation can be confusing. Providing that EDA will set appropriate 
evaluation criteria in FFOs allows EDA additional flexibility to 
respond to changing economic conditions.
    In Sec.  301.11 (``Infrastructure''), EDA proposes adding the 
parenthetical ``(e.g., roads, sewers, and water lines)'' in the second 
sentence of Sec.  301.11(a) to provide several core examples of ``basic 
economic development assets'' referenced in the sentence.
Part 302--General Terms and Conditions for Investment Assistance
    Part 302 sets forth the general terms and conditions for EDA 
Investment Assistance, including environmental reviews of Projects; 
relocation assistance and land acquisition requirements; inter-
governmental review of Projects; and Recipients' reporting, 
recordkeeping, post-approval, and civil rights requirements.
    As noted above under the description of changes to part 300, EDA 
administers several programs authorized under Stevenson-Wydler. EDA 
proposes revising Sec.  302.5 (``Relocation assistance and land 
acquisition policies'') to add a reference to Stevenson-Wydler by 
adding the phrase ``or any other types of assistance'' between 
``Investment Assistance'' and ``under PWEDA'' and a reference to ``, 
and Stevenson-Wydler'' between ``Trade Act'' and ``(States and 
political subdivisions of States. . . .)''. EDA also corrects a typo by 
replacing the phrase ``nonprofits organizations'' with ``nonprofit 
organizations''. EDA revises Sec.  302.6 (``Additional requirements; 
Federal policies and procedures''), to replace references to 15 CFR 
parts 14 and 24 with a reference to ``2 CFR part 200, Uniform 
Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements 
for Federal Awards''. In addition, EDA proposes adjustments to Sec.  
302.20 (``Civil rights'') to clarify that nondiscrimination 
requirements apply to any type of assistance provided under Stevenson-
Wydler. Specifically, in Sec.  302.20(a), EDA adds a reference to ``or 
Stevenson-Wydler'' between the reference to ``PWEDA'' and the phrase 
``or by an entity'', as well as the phrase ``or any other type of 
assistance under Stevenson-Wydler'' between the reference to ``Trade 
Act'' and the phrase

[[Page 68190]]

``in accordance with the following authorities''. In Sec.  302.20(d) 
regarding written assurances of compliance with nondiscrimination 
requirements, EDA adds a reference to ``and Stevenson-Wydler'' between 
``PWEDA'' and ``all Other Parties'', as well as a reference to ``or any 
other type of assistance under Stevenson-Wydler'' between ``Trade Act'' 
and the phrase that begins with ``must submit to EDA''.
    In addition, in Sec.  302.20(a)(2), EDA proposes adding a reference 
to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended (20 U.S.C. 
1681 et seq.), which proscribe discrimination on the basis of sex in 
any education program or activity receiving Federal financial 
assistance, whether or not such program or activity is offered or 
sponsored by an educational institution. Practically speaking, such 
discrimination has long been prohibited under EDA's programs, because 
various other provisions prohibit discrimination on this basis, which 
have been incorporated under the regulation at Sec.  302.20(a)(2), as 
have the DOC's regulations as 15 CFR part 8a, which implement Title IX 
of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended. However, a direct 
reference to Title IX of the Education amendments of 1972, as amended 
has been missing, and we add that via this NPRM.
Part 303--Planning Investments and Comprehensive Economic Development 
Strategies
    Part 303 sets forth regulations governing EDA's Planning program, 
through which the agency provides assistance to help Eligible 
Applicants create strategies or plans to stimulate and guide the 
economic development efforts of a community or Region. EDA has three 
distinct types of Planning Investments: (1) Partnership Planning; (2) 
State Planning; and (3) Short-Term Planning. Through EDA's Partnership 
Planning Investments, the agency facilitates the development, 
implementation, revision, or replacement of Comprehensive Economic 
Development Strategies (``CEDS''). EDA provides Partnership Planning 
awards to Planning Organizations (e.g., District Organizations) serving 
as EDA-designated Economic Development Districts (``EDD'') (as defined 
in Sec.  300.3) throughout the U.S. The EDDs are recognized by the 
State(s) in which they reside as multijurisdictional councils of 
governments, regional commissions, or planning and development centers. 
The Partnership Planning awards enable Planning Organizations to manage 
and coordinate the development and implementation of CEDS to address 
the unique needs of their respective Regions. The CEDS are central to 
EDA's economic development initiatives, and a proposed Project must be 
consistent with a relevant CEDS before EDA makes a competitive award 
under the Public Works or Economic Adjustment Assistance programs under 
parts 305 or 307. Finally, part 303 sets forth the requirements for 
State and Short-Term Planning Investments, which can help distressed 
Regions strategize to create and retain new and better jobs and respond 
quickly and effectively to sudden economic dislocations.
    In this NPRM, EDA proposes minor clarifications and modifications 
to the Planning program. First, EDA proposes to modify Sec.  
303.6(b)(1) to replace ``including'' with ``which may include'' to 
clarify that the CEDS Strategy Committee has the discretion to 
determine which parties represent the main economic interests of the 
Region. Those parties may include some but not all of the listed 
entities. Second, as a result of the broad discretion conferred upon 
the CEDS Strategy Committee to determine which parties represent the 
main economic interests of the Region, the last sentence of Sec.  
303.6(b)(1) is now superfluous. As such, EDA proposes to remove the 
last sentence and to revise that section to clarify that Indian Tribes 
and State officials may be represented on the CEDS Strategy Committee, 
along with all other groups listed, when representative of the economic 
interests of the region. Third, in accordance with Sec.  303.6 
(``Partnership Planning and the EDA-funded CEDS process''), Planning 
Organizations of EDDs must submit a revised CEDS to EDA at least every 
five years as specified under Sec.  303.6(b)(3)(ii). To ensure that 
participating counties or other areas within the EDD remain engaged in 
the planning process, EDA proposes to require that Planning 
Organizations obtain renewed commitments to support the economic 
development activities of the District from such counties or areas as 
part of the five-year renewal. Therefore, we propose adding the 
sentence, ``In connection with the submission of a new or revised CEDS, 
the Planning Organization must obtain renewed commitments from 
participating counties or other areas within the District to support 
the economic development activities of the District,'' to Sec.  
303.6(b)(3)(ii).
    In addition, in accordance with sub-section (c)(1) of Sec.  303.7 
(``Requirements for Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies''), 
EDA may accept a non-EDA funded CEDS, even if such a strategy does not 
contain all elements required of an EDA-funded CEDS. The 2011 NPRM and 
the 2014 Final Rule streamlined the content requirements of CEDS from a 
laundry-list of ten detailed items to the following four essential 
planning elements in Sec.  303.7(b)(1)(i) through (iv): (a) A summary 
of economic development conditions of the Region; (b) an in-depth 
analysis of the economic and community strengths, weaknesses, 
opportunities and threats; (c) strategies and an implementation plan to 
build upon the Region's strengths and opportunities and resolve or 
mitigate the weaknesses and threats facing the Region, but should not 
be inconsistent with applicable State and local economic development or 
workforce development strategies; and (d) performance measures used to 
evaluate the Planning Organization's successful development and 
implementation of the CEDS. Because EDA has consolidated required CEDS 
elements to include those that are generally considered to be 
foundational for a successful planning process, EDA wants to emphasize 
that a non-EDA funded CEDS should include all elements of an EDA-funded 
CEDS. However, in particular circumstances, such as a natural disaster 
or sudden and severe economic dislocation, EDA will accept a non-EDA 
funded CEDS that does not include the foundational CEDS elements. With 
this in mind, EDA proposes revisions to Sec.  303.7(c)(1), specifically 
in the first sentence replacing the phrase ``without fulfilling all the 
requirements of paragraph (b) of this section'' with the phrase ``so 
long as it includes all of the elements listed in paragraph (b) of this 
section'' and adding the new sentence ``In certain circumstances, EDA 
may accept a non-EDA funded CEDS that does not contain all the elements 
listed in paragraph (b) of this section'' between the existing first 
and second sentences of this provision.
Part 304--Economic Development Districts
    Part 304 on Economic Development Districts, which also may be 
referred to as a ``District'' or an ``EDD'' as stated in Sec.  300.3, 
sets forth the Regional eligibility requirements that must be satisfied 
in order for EDA to consider a District Organization's request to 
designate a Region as an EDD, including submission of an EDA-approved 
CEDS, and the District Organization's formation and organizational 
requirements. This part also contains provisions relating to 
termination and performance evaluations of District Organizations.
    In the 2011 NPRM and 2014 Final Rule, in response to comments that

[[Page 68191]]

organizational requirements applicable to District Organizations should 
be more flexible to allow the groups to focus on effective strategy 
development and implementation rather than meeting membership 
thresholds, EDA revised subsection (c)(2) of Sec.  304.2 (``District 
Organizations: Formation, organizational requirements and 
operations''), to remove the current membership thresholds, but 
maintain the requirement that governing bodies demonstrate that they 
are broadly representative of the principal economic interests of the 
Region. However, in making this change, EDA inadvertently used language 
that can be interpreted to require that all District Organizations 
include members from certain sectors; specifically, the phrase in Sec.  
304.2(c)(2) that reads ``including the private sector, public 
officials, community leaders, representatives of workforce development 
boards, institutions of higher education, minority and labor groups, 
and private individuals'' (emphasis on the word ``including'' added). 
EDA proposes replacing the word ``including'' in this sentence with the 
phrase ``which may include'' to indicate that these groups should be 
included insofar as they represent principal economic interests of the 
Region. Each District Organization must continue to demonstrate that 
its governing body is broadly representative of the principal economic 
interest of the Region and that it has the capacity to implement the 
EDA-approved CEDS.
Part 305--Public Works and Economic Development Investments
    Part 305 provides information about EDA's Public Works and Economic 
Development Investments. Section 305.1 explains the purpose and scope 
of these Investments and Sec.  305.2 specifies the scope of activities 
eligible for consideration under a Public Works Investment and sets 
forth a list of determinations that EDA must reach in order to award a 
Public Works Investment. Specific application requirements are set 
forth in Sec.  305.3, and Sec.  305.4 provides the requirements for 
Public Works Investments awarded solely for design and engineering 
work.
    EDA proposes two minor changes to Part 305 in this NPRM to reflect 
the promulgation of the Uniform Guidance. Specifically, in sub-section 
(b) of Sec.  305.6 (``Allowable methods of procurement for construction 
services'') and sub-section (c) of Sec.  305.8 (``Recipient-furnished 
equipment and materials''), EDA replaces the references to ``15 CFR 
parts 14 or 24, as applicable'' with a reference to ``2 CFR part 200''.
Part 306--Training, Research and Technical Assistance
    Part 306 sets out the requirements for EDA's Local and National 
Technical Assistance and Research Investments. Local and National 
Technical Assistance Investments help Recipients fill the knowledge and 
information gaps that may prevent leaders in the public and non-profit 
sectors in economically distressed Regions from making optimal 
decisions on local economic development issues. Through the Research 
program, EDA invests in research and technical assistance-related 
Projects to promote competitiveness and innovation in distressed rural 
and urban Regions. EDA does not propose any changes to part 306 through 
this NPRM.
Part 307--Economic Adjustment Assistance Investments
    Part 307 sets out the requirements for awards under EDA's Economic 
Adjustment Assistance program, which can provide a wide-range of 
technical assistance, planning, and infrastructure assistance in 
Regions experiencing adverse economic changes that may occur suddenly 
or over time, including strategy development, infrastructure 
construction, and Revolving Loan Fund (``RLF'') capitalization. Subpart 
A of part 307 details the general requirements for Economic Adjustment 
Assistance awards, and subpart B sets out requirements specific to the 
RLF program. As noted above in the Overview of Proposed Changes to the 
RLF Program, a focus of this NPRM is strengthening and clarifying EDA's 
RLF regulations to improve the agency's ability to monitor RLF 
performance and provide targeted technical assistance through a risk-
based management framework and propose changes designed to clarify and 
streamline RLF requirements. Given the important role of this program 
as a driver of small business growth, job creation, and economic 
development, EDA seeks the public's input and insight in the regulatory 
revision process.
    Specifically, EDA proposes to clarify the language in Sec.  307.6 
(``Revolving Loan Funds established for business lending'') by removing 
the reference to ``business'' lending in the title to that section, as 
well as the phrase in the second sentence of the provision regarding 
subpart B's application to ``business lending activities'' and the 
phrase ``to accommodate non-business RLF awards'' regarding the 
application of special award conditions in the third sentence of the 
provision. By removing this language, we seek to clarify that both 
public infrastructure and business lending activities are subject to 
subpart B and that special award conditions may be used to provide 
appropriate modifications to either type of lending. While the current 
regulations state that RLFs may be used for business and other types of 
lending, the language we propose to remove created confusion about the 
applicability of the RLF regulations to other types of lending. In 
addition, in the second sentence of Sec.  307.6, we add the phrase 
``EDA-funded'' between the phrase ``apply to'' and the acronym ``RLFs'' 
to clarify that the RLF regulations in subpart B to part 307 apply to 
EDA-funded RLFs.
    In Sec.  307.7 (``Revolving Loan Fund award requirements''), EDA 
proposes additional language to clarify the compliance obligations for 
RLF Grants and update the reference to location of the Compliance 
Supplement, which was changed with the promulgation of the Uniform 
Guidance. Specifically, in addition to part 307, RLF Recipients must 
comply with relevant provisions of parts 300 through 303, 305, and 314 
of 13 CFR chapter III, which set forth EDA's general definitions, 
general terms and conditions for Investment Assistance, Planning 
requirements, Public Works requirements, and property management 
requirements. Therefore, in Sec.  307.7(b), EDA proposes adding the 
phrase ``, as well as relevant provisions of parts 300 through 303, 
305, and 314 of this chapter,'' between the phrases ``set forth in this 
part'' and ``and in the following publications''. In addition, in Sec.  
307.7(b)(2), we replace the reference to ``OMB Circular A-133'' as the 
location of the Compliance Supplement with ``, which is Appendix XI to 
2 CFR part 200'' and with respect to the electronic availability of the 
Compliance Supplement, we replace the general reference to the OMB Web 
site with the more specific site where all OMB circulars, including the 
Compliance Supplement, are located.
    In Sec.  307.8 (``Definitions''), EDA proposes adding several new 
definitions and revising existing definitions as we implement the 
proposed risk-based framework to manage RLF Grants. Specifically, we 
propose adding new definitions for the following terms:
     Allowable Cash Percentage as ``the average percentage of 
the RLF Capital Base maintained as RLF Cash Available for Lending by 
RLF Recipients in each EDA regional office's portfolio of RLF Grants 
over the previous year.'' This defined concept will serve as a 
replacement for the concept of the capital utilization standard, which 
is currently found in Sec.  307.16(c) and requires RLF Recipients to 
manage their

[[Page 68192]]

repayment and lending schedules to provide that at all times, at least 
75 percent of the RLF Capital is loaned or committed. The Allowable 
Cash Percentage will be defined annually by each EDA Regional Office 
for that region's RLF Grants based on the previous year's average 
percentage of unloaned and uncommitted cash held by the region's 
portfolio of RLFs. See the description of proposed changes to sub-
section (c) of Sec.  307.16(c) (``Risk Analysis System'') and sub-
section (b) of Sec.  307.17 (``Requirements for Revolving Lon Fund Cash 
Available for Lending'') below for more information on how the 
Allowable Cash Percentage concept will work.
     Disbursement Phase as ``the period of loan activity where 
Grant funds awarded have not been fully disbursed to the RLF 
Recipient.'' While EDA's regulations have indicated that particular 
requirements apply during the time period when EDA is disbursing funds 
to an RLF Recipient, the term has never been defined. EDA proposes 
defining Disbursement phase to clarify the specific requirements that 
apply during this phase of an RLF's life cycle, including that RLF 
Income earned during the Disbursement Phase is not required to be used 
for new RLF loans, unless otherwise specified in the terms and 
conditions of the RLF Grant. See the description of proposed revisions 
to Sec.  307.11 (``Pre-Disbursement Requirements and Disbursement of 
Revolving Loan Funds'') for requirements applicable to the Disbursement 
Phase.
     Risk Analysis System as ``a set of metrics defined by EDA 
to evaluate a Recipient's administration of its RLF Grant and that may 
include but is not limited to capital, assets, management, earnings, 
liquidity, strategic results, and financial controls.'' EDA is 
introducing a risk-based management framework that will be used to 
evaluate a Recipient's administration of its RLF Grant and that may 
include the following metrics: Capital, assets, management, earnings, 
liquidity, strategic results, and financial controls. This is a new 
approach based on the CAMELS rating system used to assess financial 
institutions and to identify those in need of additional attention. See 
the discussion of proposed revised Sec.  307.16 (``Risk Analysis 
System'') for more information on EDA's proposed risk-based approach to 
managing RLF Grants.
     RLF Capital Base as ``the total value of RLF Grant assets 
administered by the RLF Recipient. It is equal to the amount of Grant 
funds used to capitalize (and recapitalize, if applicable) the RLF, 
plus Local Share, plus RLF Income, plus Voluntarily Contributed 
Capital, less any loan losses and disallowances. Except as used to pay 
for eligible and reasonable administrative costs associated with the 
RLF's operations, the RLF Capital Base is maintained in two forms at 
all times: As RLF Cash Available for Lending and as outstanding loan 
principal.'' Currently, the term RLF Capital is used and defined as an 
equation of ``Grant funds plus Local Share plus RLF Income, less any 
amount used for eligible and reasonable costs necessary to administer 
the RLF and any amount of loan principal written off.'' While the 
current regulations define RLF Capital to apparently comprise all RLF 
assets, the regulations also refer to the ``capital base of an RLF'' or 
the ``RLF Capital base'', without defining that concept (see the 
current definition of Recapitalization Grants at Sec.  307.8 (defining 
Recapitalization Grants as ``additional Grant funds to increase the 
capital base of an RLF'') and the current regulations at Sec. Sec.  
307.11(a)(1) (requiring the amount of fidelity bond coverage to be at 
least ``25 percent of the RLF Capital base''), 307.12(a) (requiring RLF 
Income to ``be placed into the RLF Capital base'' and providing that 
RLF Income earned in one period cannot be ``withdrawn from the RLF 
Capital base in a subsequent Reporting Period for any purpose other 
than lending without the prior written consent of EDA''), and 307.16 
(stating that the usual lending schedule ``requires that the RLF 
Recipient lend the entire amount of the initial RLF Capital base within 
three years of Grant award'' and allowing different capital utilization 
rate based on the size of the ``RLF Capital base''). EDA proposes 
introducing a definition of RLF Capital Base so that this important 
concept is clearly defined.
     RLF Cash Available for Lending as ``the portion of the RLF 
Capital Base that is held in cash and available to make loans.'' As 
specified in the definition of RLF Capital Base, RLF assets are 
maintained in two forms at all times: Held by the RLF Recipient as cash 
available for lending and as outstanding loan principal. EDA is 
proposing this new definition to clarify requirements applicable to the 
part of the RLF Capital Base that is currently unloaned or uncommitted 
and available to make loans. See the discussion of proposed revised 
Sec.  307.17 (``Requirements for Revolving Loan Fund Cash Available for 
Lending'') for more information on the requirements applicable to RLF 
Cash Available for Lending.
     RLF Recipient as ``the Eligible Recipient that receives an 
RLF Grant to manage an RLF in accordance with an RLF Plan, Prudent 
Lending Practices, the terms and conditions of the RLF Grant, and all 
applicable policies, laws, and regulations.'' While this term is used 
throughout the existing regulations, it was not previously defined and 
EDA thinks it will be useful as a defined term.
     Voluntarily Contributed Capital as ``an RLF Recipient's 
voluntary infusion of additional non-EDA funds into the RLF Capital 
Base that is separate from and exceeds any Local Share that is required 
as a condition of the RLF Grant. Voluntarily Contributed Capital is an 
irrevocable addition to the RLF Capital Base and must be administered 
in accordance with EDA regulations and policies.'' EDA proposes adding 
this definition to clarify that, as of the effective date of these 
regulations, Voluntarily Contributed Capital is an RLF Recipient's 
voluntary infusion of additional RLF capital that is separate from and 
exceeds any Matching Share that is required as a condition of the RLF 
Grant. This definition is being added to clarify the process for 
contributing additional capital to an RLF and to explain how the 
additional capital is treated once added to the RLF Capital Base. In 
particular, once added, such capital will be considered irrevocable and 
will become part of the RLF Capital Base.
    In addition, we propose revising the definitions of the following 
existing terms:
     In the existing definition of Recapitalization Grants, we 
propose replacing the phrase ``capital base of an RLF'' within the 
proposed defined term ``RLF Capital Base'' for clarity.
     In the existing definition of Reporting Period, EDA 
proposes to change the Reporting Period to align with each RLF 
Recipient's fiscal year end in order to ensure consistency between RLF 
reports using Form ED-209 and annual audit reports by replacing the 
phrase ``means the period from April 1st to September 30th or the 
period from October 1st to March 31st'' with the phrase ``is based on 
the RLF Recipient's fiscal year end and is on an annual or semi-annual 
basis as determined by EDA.'' EDA will specify an RLF Recipient's 
reporting frequency as either on an annual or semi-annual basis, which 
will be based in part on the Recipient's score under the Risk Analysis 
System. See also Sec.  307.14(a) (``Revolving Loan Fund report'') for 
revisions regarding the frequency of reports.
     In the definition of RLF Income, we propose clarifying the 
language excluding repayments of principal and

[[Page 68193]]

interest earned on excess funds that are remitted to the U.S. Treasury 
by noting that these are excluded pursuant to Sec.  307.20(h). 
Therefore, we delete as repetitive the parenthetical ``(excluding 
interest earned on excess funds pursuant to Sec.  307.16(c)(2))'' in 
the first sentence of the definition and correct a citation in the 
final sentence of the definition by replacing the reference to ``Sec.  
307.16(c)(2)(i)'' with a reference to ``Sec.  307.20(h)''.
    In addition, EDA proposes to better organize the regulations by 
placing all pre-disbursement and Disbursement Phase requirements into 
Sec.  307.11. To accomplish this, EDA revises the title of the section 
to read ``Pre-Disbursement Requirements and Disbursement of funds to 
Revolving Loan Funds'' from ``Disbursement of funds to Revolving Loan 
Funds''. The timing language in Sec.  307.11(a) that currently reads 
``Prior to any disbursement of EDA funds, RLF Recipients are required 
to provide in a form acceptable to EDA'' is revised to read ``Within 60 
calendar days before the initial disbursement of EDA funds, the RLF 
Recipient must provide the following in a form acceptable to EDA'', and 
then we revise the regulations to list the certifications and evidence 
required before EDA will make an initial disbursement of Grant funds. 
Currently, the regulations place different and sometimes conflicting 
timing requirements on these certifications. Specifically, under 
current Sec.  307.11(a), RLF Recipients must submit evidence of 
fidelity bond coverage and the independent accountant's certification 
regarding the RLF Recipient's accounting system, respectively, before 
any disbursement of EDA funds. In contrast, current Sec.  307.15(b)(1) 
requires the Recipient to submit the independent accountant's 
certification regarding the RLF Recipient's accounting system within 60 
days prior to the initial disbursement of EDA funds, and current Sec.  
307.15(b)(2) requires the RLF Recipient's certification regarding 
standard loan documents before the disbursement of any EDA funds). In 
practice, while RLF Recipients must maintain these standards throughout 
the duration of an RLF's operations, the certifications and evidence 
are only required before the initial disbursement of EDA funds. 
Therefore, EDA is reconciling the timing of the requirements and 
clarifying that these items are required within 60 calendar days before 
the initial disbursement of EDA funds by revising the language of Sec.  
307.11(a).
    In addition, we propose moving the following two provisions from 
Sec.  307.15(b), which currently sets out pre-disbursement requirements 
regarding loan and accounting system documents, to Sec.  307.11(a) 
titled ``Pre-disbursement requirements'': (1) The requirement that a 
qualified independent accountant certify as to the adequacy of the RLF 
Recipient's accounting system to identify, safeguard, and account for 
the entire RLF Capital Base, outstanding RLF loans, and other RLF 
operations (as proposed Sec.  307.11(a)(1)); and (2) the requirement 
that the Recipient certify that the standard loan documents are in 
place and have been reviewed by legal counsel (as proposed Sec.  
307.11(a)(2)). See the proposed deletions at Sec.  307.15(b) and 
appropriate re-lettering of that provision.
    With respect to the certification regarding legal counsel review of 
standard RLF loan documents currently set out at Sec.  307.15(b)(2), in 
relocating the requirement to Sec.  307.15(a)(2), EDA proposes a 
revision to require the certification that standard loan documents are 
adequate and comply with the terms and conditions of the RLF Grant, RLF 
Plan, and applicable State and local law to come directly from the RLF 
Recipient's legal counsel rather than have the Recipient certify as to 
counsel review. This change will not only streamline this process but 
also ensure that the Recipient's legal counsel reviewed the standard 
loan documents and verified that those documents are adequate and in 
compliance with the applicable requirements. Therefore, in rewording 
this provision, we propose replacing the phrase ``the Recipient shall 
certify that standard RLF loan documents reasonably necessary or 
advisable for lending are in place and that these documents have been 
reviewed by legal counsel'' with ``The RLF Recipient's certification 
that standard RLF loan documents reasonably necessary or advisable for 
lending are in place and a certification from the RLF Recipient's legal 
counsel.''
    In the same section, we also propose removing the requirement that 
a signed bank turn-down letter be included in each loan package. We 
propose replacing the requirement that RLF Recipients obtain and 
borrowers provide a signed bank turn-down letter to demonstrate that 
credit is not otherwise available with the more general requirement for 
evidence demonstrating that credit is not otherwise available on terms 
and conditions that permit the completion or successful operation of 
the activity to be financed. This revision allows EDA to remove the 
requirement that alternative evidence to a signed bank turn-down letter 
be allowed in the RLF Plan.
    The provision regarding evidence of fidelity bond coverage will 
remain in place in Sec.  307.11(a), but will be re-lettered as Sec.  
307.11(a)(3). In addition, EDA revises the provision to establish 
minimum amount of coverage required as the maximum loan amount allowed 
for the EDA-approved RLF Plan. The existing regulation allows the 
minimum amount of coverage to be equal to the greater of the maximum 
permissible loan amount or 25 percent of the RLF Capital base. In 
practice, the alternative approach permitting coverage of at least 25 
percent of the RLF Capital Base requires Recipients to regularly change 
the amount of fidelity bond coverage to remain in compliance. Also, the 
two alternative approaches to determining the amount of required 
coverage are likely to yield approximately the same amount. EDA seeks 
to simplify this requirement and reduce the burden on Recipients by 
removing the phrases ``the greater of'' and ``, or 25 percent of the 
RLF Capital base'' from re-lettered Sec.  307.11(a)(3).
    We also add language following Sec.  307.11(a)(3) to clarify that 
the RLF Recipient must maintain the adequacy of the RLF's accounting 
system and standard RLF loan documents, as well as records and 
documentation to demonstrate that these requirements are met, 
throughout the RLF's operation. This maintenance language includes a 
cross-reference to proposed Sec.  307.13(b)(3) where we underscore that 
the RLF Recipient must maintain records to document compliance with 
these requirements. This NPRM also proposes conforming language changes 
to incorporate these requirements into a list format. Because we are 
moving the language regarding the accountant certification from Sec.  
307.15 to Sec.  307.11, this NPRM removes the language in Sec.  
307.11(a)(2) that cited to the certification required under Sec.  
307.15. Finally, we make a minor change to re-lettered Sec.  
307.11(a)(1) to reflect the promulgation of the Uniform Guidance, 
replacing the reference to ``OMB Circular A-133 requirements'' with 
``the audit requirements set out as subpart F to 2 CFR part 200''. See 
proposed revisions to Sec. Sec.  307.11(a) and 307.15.
    In Sec.  307.11(c), we simplify the language regarding the amount 
of Grant fund disbursements. EDA believes that the current language is 
overly complicated and causes undue confusion. The revised language 
clarifies that EDA will disburse funds in the amount needed to meet the 
Federal share of a new RLF loan. EDA will continue to disburse Grant 
funds as the

[[Page 68194]]

RLF Recipient closes on loan obligations. For example, assume an RLF 
Grant has a Matching Share requirement of 50 percent. If the RLF 
Recipient closes on a loan obligation worth $30, EDA will disburse $15. 
Therefore, EDA proposes replacing the phrase ``not to exceed the 
difference, if any, between the RLF Capital and the amount of a new RLF 
loan, less the amount, if any, of the Local Share required to be 
disbursed concurrent with Grant funds'' with the phrase ``be the amount 
required to meet the Federal share requirement of a new RLF loan'' in 
the first sentence of Sec.  307.11(c).
    In addition, EDA proposes new language to Sec.  307.11(c) to 
clarify how RLF Income is treated during the Disbursement Phase. The 
current regulations specify that RLF Income held to reimburse 
administrative costs does not need to be disbursed to draw additional 
Grant funds, but do not address RLF Income not used for administrative 
costs. Through this regulatory revision, EDA is clarifying that RLF 
Income earned during the Disbursement Phase must be placed in the RLF 
Capital Base and may be used to reimburse eligible and reasonable 
administrative costs and increase the RLF Capital Base; however, RLF 
Income earned during the Disbursement Phase need not be disbursed to 
support new RLF loans, unless otherwise specified in the terms and 
conditions of the RLF Grant. See proposed revisions to Sec.  307.11(c).
    In addition, EDA proposes a non-substantive revision to Sec.  
307.11(d) to capitalize the word ``Grant.''
    This NPRM locates all provisions that set out Local Share 
requirements in Sec.  307.11(f), which requires re-locating the 
substance of the provision at Sec.  307.17(d) regarding use of In-Kind 
Contributions to satisfy Local Share requirements. Accordingly, EDA 
proposes removing current Sec.  307.17(d) and re-numbering the 
regulation accordingly. In revised Sec.  307.11(f), EDA adds the phrase 
``, which must be specifically authorized in the terms and conditions 
of the RLF Grant and may be used to provide technical assistance to 
borrowers or for eligible RLF administrative costs,'' between the term 
``In-Kind Contributions'' and the phrase ``and cash Local Share'' in 
the first sentence of Sec.  307.11(f)(2). EDA notes that because the 
purpose of the RLF program is to provide capital to borrowers that 
cannot otherwise access credit, EDA rarely determines that In-Kind 
Contributions are necessary and reasonable for accomplishment of the 
RLF program and, therefore, most RLF Local Share is cash. See proposed 
revisions to Sec. Sec.  307.11(f) and 307.17(d).
    In addition, to consolidate all pre-disbursement and disbursement 
requirements into Sec.  307.11, EDA proposes relocating the provisions 
regarding loan closing and disbursement schedules, as well as time 
schedule extensions, from Sec.  307.16(a) and (b), respectively, to 
Sec.  307.11 and re-lettering them as Sec.  307.11(g) and (h), 
respectively. We also propose non-substantive conforming changes to 
reflect defined terms and correct cross-references because of this 
reorganization. Specifically, EDA replaces the phrase ``initial RLF 
Capital Base'' with ``RLF Grant'' in the final sentence of re-lettered 
Sec.  307.11(g)(1) to clarify the corpus of funds to which the lending 
schedule applies; replaces the cross-reference to ``Sec.  307.16(b)'' 
in re-lettered Sec.  307.11(g)(2)(iii) with a reference to ``paragraph 
(h) of this section'' to reflect the reorganization of these 
provisions; corrects a typo by replacing the plural ``requests'' with a 
singular ``request'' in the last sentence of re-lettered Sec.  
307.11(h)(1); and breaks re-lettered Sec.  307.11(h)(2) into two 
sentences for clarity and emphasis. See proposed revisions to 
Sec. Sec.  307.11(g), 307.11(h), and 307.16(a) and (b).
    In keeping with EDA's effort to clarify the distinct requirements 
that apply during the Disbursement and Revolving Phases of an RLF, we 
propose to rename the title of Sec.  307.12 ``Revolving Loan Fund 
Income requirements during the Revolving Phase; payments on defaulted 
and written off Revolving Loan Fund loans; Voluntarily Contributed 
Capital'' to clarify that the provision describes certain requirements 
that apply during the Revolving Phase of the RLF and addresses other 
topics, rather than solely setting out RLF Income requirements. We also 
add the introductory phrase ``During the Revolving Phase,'' to the 
first sentence of Sec.  307.12(a). In addition, EDA is providing 
additional flexibilities in using RLF Income to cover administrative 
costs. Currently, RLF Income earned during one six-month Reporting 
Period must be used to cover administrative costs accrued during that 
same six-month period. EDA is extending the time period during which 
RLF Income must be used to cover accrued administrative costs to a full 
fiscal year. Accordingly, EDA proposes revising Sec.  307.12(a) to 
clarify that RLF Income earned in one fiscal year of the RLF Recipient 
must be used to cover administrative costs accrued during the same 
fiscal year, instead of the same six-month Reporting Period. 
Accordingly, in Sec.  307.12(a)(1), we replace the word, ``incurred'' 
with ``accrued,'' and, in Sec.  307.12(a)(1) and (2), we replace the 
phrase ``six-month Reporting Period'' with the phrase ``fiscal year of 
the RLF Recipient.'' In Sec.  307.12(a)(3), we replace the phrase 
``Reporting Period'' with ``fiscal year.'' In addition, we make a non-
substantive change in Sec.  307.12(a)(1) to add the phrase ``is 
earned'' after ``Such RLF Income'' to clarify that RLF Income is earned 
by the RLF Recipient as opposed to administrative costs, which are 
incurred by the RLF Recipient. In addition, in Sec.  307.12(a)(3), we 
replace the phrase ``RLF Capital base'' with the proposed defined term 
``RLF Capital Base.''
    Furthermore, under EDA's current regulations, an RLF Recipient may 
use 100 percent of RLF Income incurred in a six-month Reporting Period 
to cover administrative expenses by submitting an RLF Income and 
Expense Statement (i.e., Form ED-209I). EDA proposes to no longer 
require the RLF Income and Expense Statement, but to clearly specify 
that RLF Recipients may not use funds in excess of RLF Income for 
administrative costs during the RLF Recipient's fiscal year unless 
directed to do so by EDA. While EDA would no longer require Recipients 
to submit the RLF Income and Expense Statement, Recipients would 
continue to account for their RLF Income and administrative expenses 
through their regular ED-209 reporting. EDA also proposes language 
advising that RLF Recipients are expected to keep administrative 
expenses to a minimum to maintain the RLF Capital Base available for 
lending and to specify that the percentage of RLF Income used for 
administrative expenses will be one of the performance metrics used in 
EDA's Risk Analysis System. Under the proposed Risk Analysis System, 
RLF Recipients will be incentivized to manage their expenses in order 
to maintain their RLF Capital Base, and EDA will work proactively with 
Recipients to help maintain their RLF Capital Base and, through the 
annual report and audit, to monitor use of RLF Income. Given EDA's 
proposal to move to a risk-based management framework and the agency's 
efforts to encourage Recipients to use RLF Income to maintain the RLF 
Capital Base, as described above, EDA will no longer require the RLF 
Income and Expense Statement, which will reduce the reporting burden on 
Recipients. Accordingly, EDA replaces current Sec.  307.12(a)(4), which 
requires the submission of an RLF Income and Expense Statement, with 
proposed language that prohibits RLF Recipients from using funds in 
excess of RLF

[[Page 68195]]

Income for administrative costs in a Recipient's fiscal year, sets the 
expectation that administrative costs should be kept to a minimum, and 
states that the percentage of RLF Income used for administrative costs 
will be a metric under the Risk Analysis System. See proposed revisions 
to Sec.  307.12(a)(4) and the deletion of the current provision at 
Sec.  307.14(c), which sets out the requirement for the RLF Income and 
Expense Statement.
    In Sec.  307.12(b), which sets out compliance guidance for charging 
costs against RLF Income, EDA proposes revisions to reflect the 
promulgation of the Uniform Guidance. Specifically, in revised Sec.  
307.12(b)(1), EDA specifies that for RLF Grants made or recapitalized 
on or after December 26, 2014, the RLF Recipient must comply with the 
administrative and cost principles set out in 2 CFR part 200. In 
revised Sec.  307.12(b)(2), EDA specifies that for RLF Grants awarded 
before December 26, 2014, unless otherwise indicated in the terms of 
the Grant, the RLF Recipient must comply with the cost principles set 
out in 2 CFR parts 225 (for State, local, and Indian tribal 
governments); 230 (for non-profit organizations other than institutions 
of higher education, hospitals, and other organizations); or 220 (for 
educational institutions), as applicable. EDA proposes a new Sec.  
307.12(b)(3) to specify that regardless of when an RLF Grant was 
awarded or recapitalized, the audit requirements set out as subpart F 
to 2 CFR part 200 apply to audits of the RLF Recipient for fiscal years 
beginning on or after December 26, 2014, as does the Compliance 
Supplement, as appropriate.
    In Sec.  307.12(c), we propose minor adjustments to clarify that 
the prioritization of payments on RLF loans includes payments on both 
defaulted RLF loans and those that have been written off, adding the 
phrase ``and written off'' to the heading of Sec.  307.12(c) and the 
first sentence of the provision between the word ``defaulted'' and the 
phrase ``RLF loan''. In addition, we propose revising the cross 
reference to ``Sec.  307.20'' in the provision to ``Sec.  307.21'' to 
reflect the proposed reorganization of the noncompliance provisions. 
See proposed revisions to Sec.  307.12(c).
    We also propose adding new Sec.  307.12(d) to introduce additional 
clarifying language regarding the treatment of the proposed defined 
term Voluntarily Contributed Capital. As noted above, in addition to 
proposing a definition to clarify the process for contributing 
additional capital to an RLF and to explain how the additional capital 
is treated once added to the RLF Capital Base, we also propose adding a 
provision within the section on pre-disbursement and disbursement 
requirements to specify that when an RLF Recipient wishes to add 
additional capital to the RLF Capital Base, the Recipient must submit a 
written request that specifies the source of the funds to be added. 
Upon approval by EDA, the Voluntarily Contributed Capital becomes an 
irrevocable part of the RLF Capital Base and may not be subsequently 
withdrawn or separated from the RLF. This should help prevent 
situations when the sources of Voluntarily Contributed Capital 
subsequently seek to retrieve the funds that were, in effect, 
commingled with the rest of the Capital Base, making it difficult--if 
not impossible--to separate out those additional funds and to determine 
the local and Federal shares. See proposed revisions to Sec. Sec.  
307.8 and 307.12(d).
    EDA proposes to revise RLF reporting requirements to specify that 
records for administrative expenses must be kept for three years from 
the submission date of the last report that covers the fiscal year in 
which the costs were recorded, rather than the last semi-annual report 
that covers the Reporting Period in which the costs were incurred. 
Therefore, in Sec.  307.13(b)(2), we propose deleting the phrase ``last 
semi-annual'' between the phrase ``date of the'' and the word 
``report'' and replace the defined term ``Reporting Period'' with 
``fiscal year''. In addition, we propose revising Sec.  307.13(a)(3) to 
specify that, consistent with the requirements of Sec.  307.11(a), for 
the duration of RLF operations, Recipients must retain records to 
demonstrate the adequacy of the RLF's accounting system, that standard 
RLF loan documents are in place, and that sufficient fidelity bond 
coverage is maintained. In addition, the existing requirement to make 
records available for inspection is re-lettered as new Sec.  
307.13(a)(4). See proposed revisions to Sec.  307.13.
    This NPRM proposes removing the stipulation that all RLF reports be 
submitted to EDA on a semi-annual basis, which will permit EDA to 
establish a reporting frequency (annual or semi-annual) based on the 
objective risk presented by a given RLF, allowing EDA to more closely 
monitor RLF program performance and engage with RLF Recipients to 
identify and address existing and potential challenges. Accordingly, 
EDA proposes revising the title of Sec.  307.14 to read ``Revolving 
Loan Fund report'' and in Sec.  307.14(a), replaces the phrase ``must 
complete and submit a semi-annual report in electronic format, unless 
EDA approves a paper submission'' with ``must complete and submit an 
RLF report, using Form ED-209 or any successor form, in a format and 
frequency as required by EDA.''
    To improve the accuracy and quality of the information provided 
during the regular reporting process, EDA proposes requiring that RLF 
Recipients certify as part of their regular reporting to EDA that the 
RLF is operating in accordance with their RLF Plan and that the 
information being provided is complete and accurate. In Sec.  
307.14(b), we remove the adjective ``semi-annual'' and add the phrase 
``and that the information provided is complete and accurate.'' In 
addition, EDA proposes deleting the second sentence of Sec.  307.14(b) 
to clarify that proposals to modify RLF Plans cannot be made through 
the reporting process. Such modifications can only be done by separate 
notification to EDA as described in Sec.  307.9(c). Finally, as noted 
previously in this NPRM, because EDA proposes to no longer required the 
submission of an RLF Income and Expense Statement, EDA removes Sec.  
307.14(c) in its entirety.
    EDA proposes clarifying the provision permitting the inclusion of a 
loan loss reserve in an RLF Recipient's financial statements, in 
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (``GAAP'') to 
show the fair market value of an RLF loan portfolio. This provision has 
created confusion on the part of some RLF Recipients, who understood it 
to mean that the inclusion of a loan loss reserve also applied to the 
Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (``SEFA''), which is the 
list of expenditures for each Federal award covered by the Recipient's 
financial statements and must be reviewed as part of the audit process. 
While GAAP permits the inclusion of a loan loss reserve in financial 
statements, subpart F to 2 CFR part 200, which sets out the 
requirements for handling audits of Federal grant programs, 
specifically prohibits the inclusion of a loan loss reserve in the 
SEFA. As a result, RLF Recipients that understood the loan loss reserve 
provision of the RLF regulations to apply to the SEFA ultimately 
provided inaccurate (and undervalued) RLF valuations in the SEFA. EDA 
hopes to resolve this confusion by adding a sentence to the end of 
Sec.  307.15(a)(2) that clearly provides that loan loss reserves are 
non-cash entries only and shall not be used to reduce the nominal value 
of the RLF in the SEFA. In addition, the current regulations allow a 
loan loss reserve to be recorded to ``show the fair market value of the 
RLF's loan portfolio''. In the first sentence of

[[Page 68196]]

Sec.  307.15(a)(2), EDA proposes replacing the phrase ``fair market'' 
with ``adjusted current'' to allow a loan loss reserve to be recorded 
as a non-cash entry to show the adjusted current value, which will more 
accurately reflect how RLF portfolios are valued. In addition, EDA 
revises Sec.  307.15(a)(1) to reflect the promulgation of the Uniform 
Guidance, replacing the reference to ``in OMB Circular A-133'' with 
``the audit requirements set out as subpart F to 2 CFR part 200'' and, 
after the reference to the Compliance Supplement, adding the phrase 
``which is Appendix XI to 2 CFR part 200,'' to help the reader locate 
the Supplement.
    Proposed Sec.  307.15(c), which was re-lettered from Sec.  
307.15(d) to reflect the relocation of loan and accounting systems 
certification requirements to Sec.  307.11(a), sets out the 
requirements for RLF leveraging and enumerates investments that qualify 
as leverage. Recipients are currently required to ensure funding from 
additional sources at a ratio of $2 of additional funding to every $1 
of RLF loans. This applies to the whole RLF portfolio, rather than for 
individual loans, and is effective for the duration of the RLF. EDA 
proposes to broaden RLF leveraging requirements to enable Recipients to 
use funds from State and local lending programs, in addition to the 
non-guaranteed portions and 90 percent of the guaranteed portions of 
Federal loan programs. Similar to allowing Federal loans to count as 
leveraging, if the managers of State and local lending programs are 
willing to provide financing to a borrower, EDA believes that such 
financing should count towards the leveraging requirement. To better 
reflect the content of this provision, EDA proposes renaming Sec.  
307.15(c) ``RLF leveraging'' and replacing the phrase ``private 
investment'' with ``additional investment'' in Sec.  307.15(c)(1). In 
addition, we propose adding new Sec.  307.15(c)(1)(iv) to read ``Loans 
from other State and local lending programs.''
    As noted throughout the NPRM, EDA proposes adopting a Risk Analysis 
System to evaluate and manage the performance of RLF Recipients to make 
the RLF program more effective and efficient. Such an approach is 
designed to provide Recipients with a set of portfolio management and 
operations standards to evaluate their RLF program and improve 
performance. It will also provide EDA with an internal tool for 
assessing the risk of each Recipient's loan operations and identifying 
RLF Recipients that require additional monitoring, technical 
assistance, or other action. This approach to risk-based analysis and 
management is modeled on the Uniform Financial Institutions Rating 
System (the ``CAMELS'' rating system), used by regulators to assess 
financial institutions and to identify those in need of extra 
assistance or attention. The CAMELS system produces a composite rating 
by examining six components: Capital adequacy, asset quality, 
management, earnings, liquidity, and sensitivity to market risk. EDA 
proposes using factors that will likely include capital, assets, 
management, earnings, liquidity, strategic results, and financial 
controls, and to use the information and data currently required to be 
submitted by RLF Recipients in regular reporting to assign risk 
analysis ratings to each RLF. Scores will be assigned for each factor 
on a numerical scale of one to three, with three being the highest 
score. The scores will be totaled to determine each RLF Recipient's 
classification as A, B, or C, with an A classification describing the 
highest performers, B identifying those who are generally managing 
their program well but who may need some assistance on one or more 
areas, and C labelling those Recipients that face serious challenges 
with their programs and require significant improvement. Recipients 
classified as B or C will generally be given a reasonable amount of 
time to become compliant with the relevant requirements and improve 
their score. However, persistent noncompliance may result in EDA 
undertaking appropriate compliance actions, including requiring a 
corrective action plan, disallowing Grant funds, or suspending or 
terminating the RLF Grant. As such, EDA proposes replacing EDA's 
current management scheme, which mainly consists of the capital 
utilization standard (see additional details on changes to this 
standard below) and monitoring loan default rates, with the Risk 
Analysis System. Accordingly, through this NPRM we propose completely 
revising Sec.  307.16 to name it ``Risk Analysis System'' and to locate 
the description of the Risk Analysis System in paragraph (a) and its 
compliance framework in paragraph (b). As noted above, this NPRM 
proposes relocating current paragraphs (a) and (b) of Sec.  307.16, 
which set out requirements for loan closing and disbursement schedules 
and time schedule extensions, respectively, as proposed paragraphs (g) 
and (h) to Sec.  307.11. We also propose removing paragraphs (c) and 
(d) of Sec.  307.16, which set out the capital utilization standard (to 
be replaced by the proposed concept of the Allowable Cash Percentage, 
as more fully explained below) and EDA's system for monitoring loan 
default rates, respectively.
    Consistent with EDA's revisions to its Definitions section, this 
NPRM revises Sec.  307.17 to incorporate proposed defined terms and 
better specify EDA's requirements related to the proposed defined term 
``RLF Cash Available for Lending.'' As such, EDA proposes revising the 
title of Sec.  307.17 to read ``Requirements for Revolving Loan Fund 
Cash Available for Lending'' and replacing the term RLF Capital with 
the proposed defined term RLF Cash Available for Lending in the first 
sentence of Sec.  307.17(a) and the heading and first sentence of 
paragraph (c) and paragraph (c)(6)(ii) of Sec.  307.17. In addition, we 
add the phrase ``shall be deposited and held in an interest-bearing 
account by the Recipient and'' following ``RLF Cash Available for 
Lending shall be'' in the first sentence of Sec.  307.17(a) to clarify 
how RLF Recipients must maintain RLF Cash Available for Lending.
    In addition, through this NPRM, EDA proposes adopting the concept 
of an Allowable Cash Percentage, which will be considered in the Risk 
Analysis System, to replace the capital utilization standard, which 
requires Recipients to manage their lending and repayment schedules so 
that at all times at least 75 percent of their RLF Capital is loaned or 
committed. Noncompliance with the capital utilization standard 
frequently triggered sequestration as a remedy. Although EDA encourages 
RLF Recipients to prudently make capital available as much as possible, 
EDA recognizes that different regions face very different economic and 
access to capital conditions and that a one-size-fits-all capital 
utilization standard can be difficult for RLF Recipients to meet and 
for EDA to implement. To help resolve this, EDA proposes to reverse the 
standard on which RLF Recipients will be assessed from the amount of 
capital that is loaned or committed to the amount of cash Recipients 
have on hand available for lending--defined as the Allowable Cash 
Percentage.
    Each year, each EDA Regional Office will calculate the average 
percentage of RLF Cash Available for Lending across their RLF portfolio 
and will notify RLF Recipients by January 1 of each year of the 
Allowable Cash Percentage to be used during the ensuing year. RLF 
Recipients will be required to manage their repayment and lending 
schedules to provide that at all times, their amount of RLF Cash 
Available for Lending does not exceed the Allowable Cash Percentage. 
For example, assume an EDA Regional Office's RLF portfolio is made up 
of five awards. Based on their

[[Page 68197]]

2015 RLF reports, the percentage of each RLF's RLF Capital Base that 
was held as RLF Cash Available for Lending was as follows:
    RLF 1--RLF Capital Base of $4,500,000, of which $1,200,000 was held 
as RLF Cash Available for Lending;
    RLF 2--RLF Capital Base of $7,600,000, of which $2,800,000 was held 
as RLF Cash Available for Lending;
    RLF 3--RLF Capital Base of $1,670,000, of which $630,000 was held 
as RLF Cash Available for Lending;
    RLF 4--RLF Capital Base of $13,872,930, of which $2,974,025 was 
held as RLF Cash Available for Lending; and
    RLF 5--RLF Capital Base of $5,423,000, of which $900,000 was held 
as RLF Cash Available for Lending.
    Based on these numbers, on January 1, 2016, the EDA Regional Office 
would inform all RLF Recipients in the region's RLF portfolio that the 
Allowable Cash Percentage is 26 percent (the sum of RLF Cash Available 
for Lending for the 5 RLFs ($8,504,025) divided by the sum of the RLF 
Capital Base for the 5 RLFs ($33,065,930) and that they must manage 
their lending and repayment schedules throughout 2016 so that at all 
times their RLF Cash Available for Lending does not exceed 26 percent. 
EDA also proposes to revise its compliance framework on this issue. As 
noted above, noncompliance with the capital utilization standard 
frequently triggered automatic sequestration. Given the replacement of 
the capital utilization standard with the more flexible Allowable Cash 
Percentage and the adoption of a Risk Analysis System, EDA proposes to 
no longer require automatic sequestration of what is currently referred 
to as ``excess funds,'' the difference between the actual percentage of 
RLF Capital loaned and the capital utilization standard. With this 
change, noncompliance with the Allowable Cash Percentage will be 
considered in EDA's Risk Analysis System and may affect the RLF 
Recipient's ranking in the system. In addition, rather than being 
applied automatically, sequestration will be considered as one of a 
range of possible tools used to ensure compliance with the terms of the 
RLF Grant.
    Accordingly, EDA revises Sec.  307.17 (b) to set out the 
requirements for the Allowable Cash Percentage and re-letters existing 
Sec.  307.17(b), which has been revised to set out restrictions on RLF 
Cash Available for Lending, as Sec.  307.17(c) and existing Sec.  
307.17(c), which provides that EDA may require an independent third 
party to conduct a compliance and loan quality review, as new Sec.  
307.17(d).
    In addition, to address recent concerns EDA has encountered in 
administering the RLF program, we propose clearly stating that RLF Cash 
Available for Lending may not be used to: (1) Serve as collateral to 
obtain credit or any other type of financing without EDA's prior 
written approval; (2) support operations or administration of the RLF 
Recipient; or (3) undertake any activity that would violate the 
requirements found in 13 CFR part 314, including Sec.  314.3 
(``Authorized Use of Property'') and Sec.  314.4 (``Unauthorized Use of 
Property''). Using RLF funds in these ways has long been prohibited by 
EDA's regulations; however, EDA proposes to clearly state these 
prohibitions and add them as new paragraphs (c)(7), (8), and (9) to 
Sec.  307.17.
    Finally, we propose minor clarifying changes to the list of 
transactions for which RLF Cash Available for Lending may not be used. 
Specifically, in re-lettered Sec.  307.17(c)(3), we replace the 
sentence ``Provide for borrowers' required equity contributions under 
other Federal Agencies' loan programs'' with ``Provide a loan to a 
borrower for the purpose of meeting the requirements of equity 
contributions under another Federal Agency's loan program''. In 
addition, in the second sentence of re-lettered Sec.  307.17(c)(6)(ii), 
we replace the phrase ``RLF Capital'' with ``RLF funds'' and the phrase 
``reasonable period of time, as determined by EDA'' with ``reasonable 
time frame approved by EDA''. As noted above, current Sec.  307.17(d) 
is being removed to locate all provisions regarding In-Kind 
Contributions within proposed Sec.  307.11(f).
    This NPRM clarifies that EDA can approve multiple New Lending Area 
requests with respect to a given RLF. Recipients may request changes to 
their original or approved Lending Areas to address changes within the 
local economy or to respond to a burgeoning need. Currently, the 
regulations state that once EDA approves a New Lending Area, it remains 
in place indefinitely. EDA is simply adding language to specify that 
the New Lending Area remains in place until EDA approves a subsequent 
request for a New Lending Area. In Sec.  307.18(a)(2), we add the 
introductory phrase ``Following EDA approval,'' and replace the 
concluding phrase ``shall remain in place indefinitely following EDA 
approval'' with ``shall remain in place until EDA approves a subsequent 
request for a New Lending Area''.
    We also propose clarifying language to distinguish between the 
addition of lending areas and mergers of RLFs. EDA proposes removing 
the word, ``merged,'' from the discussion of additional lending areas 
in the second sentence of Sec.  307.18(a)(1) to clarify that merging 
RLFs and adding lending areas are two different transactions. EDA is 
also clarifying the terminology in Sec.  307.18(b)(1) used to describe 
a consolidated RLF by replacing the word ``surviving'' with the word 
``combined''. This change is designed to make clearer the distinction 
between consolidations, which involve a single RLF Recipient, and 
mergers, which involve multiple RLF Recipients.
    For clarity, this NPRM completely reorganizes the compliance 
regulations by separating them into one section describing what actions 
are considered noncompliance (Sec.  307.20 with the proposed title 
``Noncompliance'') and another section listing remedies for 
noncompliance (Sec.  307.21 with the proposed title ``Remedies for 
noncompliance''). This reorganization is designed to help all RLF 
stakeholders understand problematic practices and appropriate remedies. 
See proposed revisions to Sec. Sec.  307.20 and 307.21. In connection 
with this, we propose revising the list of problematic practices that 
could result in disallowances of a portion of an RLF. EDA proposes to 
remove the following from this list to reflect their incorporation into 
the Risk Analysis System: (1) Having RLF loans that are more than 120 
days delinquent; and (2) having excess cash sequestered for 12 months 
or longer without an EDA-approved extension request. Procedures for 
dealing with delinquent loans are also covered in Part 2 of the RLF 
Plan. With regards to excess sequestered cash, as discussed above, the 
automatic sequestration of funds is now being addressed by the Risk 
Analysis System and the use of an Allowable Cash Percentage. However, 
EDA does reserve the right to take appropriate compliance action if an 
RLF Recipient holds RLF Cash Available for Lending so that it is 50 
percent or more of the RLF Capital Base without an EDA-approved 
extension request.
    We also clarify the provision regarding a Recipient's duty to 
compensate the Federal Government for the Federal Share of the RLF 
Grant in the event that the Recipient requests termination of the 
Grant. The current regulations state that the Recipient requesting 
termination must compensate the Federal Government for the Federal 
share of the RLF ``property, including the current value of all 
outstanding RLF loans.'' EDA seeks to make this regulation clearer and 
easier to comply with by requiring the Recipient to compensate for the 
Federal

[[Page 68198]]

share of the RLF Capital Base, including the monetary value of all 
outstanding loan principal. See proposed revisions to Sec.  307.21(d).
    We also remove the provision that required Recipients, after 
termination of an RLF Grant, to seek EDA approval to retain and use for 
other economic development activities the RLF Recipients' share of RLF 
Income generated by the RLF. By removing this provision, EDA is 
clarifying that Recipients do not need to seek EDA approval to use 
their share of funds returned to them following termination of an RLF. 
See proposed revisions to Sec.  307.21(d).
Part 308--Performance Incentives
    Part 308 sets out EDA's performance incentives for Recipients. When 
a Project is constructed under projected cost, EDA may allow the 
Recipient to use the excess funds to either increase the Investment 
Rate of the Project to the maximum percentage allowable under Sec.  
301.4 for which the Project was eligible at the time of the Investment 
award, or further improve the Project consistent with its purpose. The 
terms for performance awards under EDA's Public Works and Economic 
Adjustment Assistance programs are set out in Sec.  308.2 and the terms 
for performance awards under EDA's Planning program are set out under 
Sec.  308.3. EDA does not propose any changes to part 308.
Part 309--Redistributions of Investment Assistance
    Part 309 sets out EDA's policies regarding redistributing grant 
funds in the form of subgrants, loans, or other appropriate assistance. 
Information with respect to redistributions of Investment funds for 
Planning, Public Works, and Training, Research, and Technical 
Assistance Investments is presented in Sec.  309.1 (``Redistributions 
under parts 303, 305, and 306''). Specifically, Sec.  309.1(a) provides 
that a Recipient under any program governed by parts 303, 305, and 306 
may directly expend the Investment Assistance, or, with prior EDA 
approval, redistribute such funds in the form of a subgrant to another 
Eligible Recipient that qualifies for EDA Investment Assistance under 
the same program part as the Recipient. All subgrants must be subject 
to the same terms and conditions applicable to the Recipient under the 
original Investment award. Subsection 309.1(b) stipulates that 
Investment Assistance received under parts 303 or 305 may not be 
redistributed to a for-profit entity.
    Section 309.2 (``Redistributions under part 307'') addresses 
redistributions under part 307 for Economic Adjustment Assistance 
Investments. This section reads similarly to Sec.  309.1. However, a 
Recipient under part 307 may redistribute Investment funds to another 
Eligible Recipient in the form of a grant or to a non-profit and 
private for-profit entity in the form of a loan or other appropriate 
assistance under subpart B of part 307.
    In both Sec. Sec.  309.1 and 309.2, EDA proposes language to 
clarify EDA's practice of requiring the Eligible Recipient under the 
original award to comply with special award conditions and Subrecipient 
(in accordance with the proposed defined term at Sec.  300.3) to 
provide appropriate certifications of compliance with relevant legal 
requirements. Accordingly, EDA proposes adding the sentence ``EDA may 
require the Eligible Recipient under the original Investment award to 
agree to special award conditions and the Subrecipient to provide 
appropriate certifications to ensure the Subrecipient's compliance with 
legal requirements'' to Sec. Sec.  309.1(a) and 309.2(b). In addition, 
we propose adding language to refer to the proposed defined term 
Subrecipient in Sec.  300.3 by adding the phrase ``, generally referred 
to as a Subrecipient,'' to the first sentence of Sec.  309.1(a) and 
Sec.  309.2(a)(1).
Part 310--Special Impact Areas
    Part 310 implements section 214 of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3154), which 
authorizes the Assistant Secretary to waive the CEDS requirements of 
section 302 of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3162) for a Project that will fulfill a 
``pressing need'' of the Region or prominently address or alleviate 
Regional underemployment or unemployment. Section 310.1 outlines the 
process for designating a Region as a Special Impact Area and Sec.  
310.2 defines what may be considered a pressing need. EDA does not 
propose any changes to part 310.
Parts 311 and 312 [Reserved]
Part 313--Community Trade Adjustment Assistance
    Part 313 sets forth regulations to implement the Trade Adjustment 
Assistance for Communities program authorized under chapter 4 of title 
II of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2371 et seq.). EDA 
does not propose any revisions to part 313.
Part 314--Property
    Part 314 sets forth the rules governing Property acquired or 
improved, in whole or in part, with EDA Investment Assistance. As 
proposed in the 2011 NPRM and finalized in the 2014 Final Rule, EDA 
revised part 314 to make it easier to navigate and understand, 
including clarifying EDA's requirements on encumbrances in Sec.  314.6 
and streamlining the procedures for the release of the Federal Interest 
in connection with EDA-assisted Property in Sec.  314.10. Through this 
NPRM, EDA proposes minor revisions to further clarify terminology and 
its authority to release the Federal Interest 20 years after the date 
of the award of Investment Assistance.
    Specifically, for clarity and to conform to the proposed changes to 
the RLF program, EDA adds a phrase to clarify that Personal Property 
includes the RLF Capital Base, adding the phrase ``, including the RLF 
Capital Base as defined at Sec.  307.8'' to the definition of Personal 
Property set out at Sec.  314.1. In addition, for clarity and to avoid 
repetitive language throughout part 314, we propose adding a definition 
of Project Property. The 2011 NPRM introduced the concept of Project 
Property, but did not define it. Therefore, in the definitions section 
at Sec.  314.1, this NPRM adds a definition of Project Property to read 
as follows: ``Project Property means all Property that is acquired or 
improved, in whole or in part, with Investment Assistance and is 
required, as determined by EDA, for the successful completion and 
operation of a Project and/or serves as the economic justification of a 
Project. As appropriate to specify the type of Property to which they 
are referring, subparts B and C of this part refer to Project Property 
as `Project Real Property' or `Project Personal Property'.'' In 
addition, this NPRM proposes simplifying the definition of Real 
Property to clarify that, in the context of part 314 and for the 
purposes of EDA Investment Assistance, Real Property may include 
Property that is served by the construction of Project infrastructure, 
where such infrastructure is not located on or under the Property. 
Accordingly, we replace the word ``improved'' in the second sentence of 
the definition with the word ``served'' and remove the phrase ``that 
are not situated on or under the land''. We also propose putting the 
exemplar list of infrastructure projects ``such as roads, sewer, and 
water lines'' in parentheses and removing the phrase ``, but not 
limited to'' from the exemplar list because it is unnecessary. Removing 
``but not limited to'' is not substantive and does not make the list 
exclusive.
    In Sec.  314.2 (``Federal Interest''), we add a sentence to the 
beginning of paragraph (a) to set out the general expectation that 
title to Project Property vests upon acquisition with the Recipient. In 
addition, in the now second sentence of Sec.  314.2(a), we propose 
replacing the

[[Page 68199]]

phrase ``Property that is acquired or improved, in whole or in part, 
with Investment Assistance'' with the newly defined term Project 
Property. For clarity, we split the sentence regarding the purpose of 
the Federal Interest and how it is secured into two sentences and 
replace the word ``secures'' in the now third sentence with the word 
``ensures'' and also add the phrase ``EDA Project requirements, 
including those related to'' between ``ensures compliance with'' and 
``the purpose, scope, and use of a Project''. With respect to the 
method by which Recipients must secure the Federal Interest, we replace 
the phrase ``and is often reflected by'' with the phrase ``The 
Recipient typically must secure the Federal Interest through''.
    In Sec.  314.2(b), we replace the phrase ``Property acquired or 
improved, in whole or in part, with Investment Assistance'' with the 
newly defined term Project Property. In addition, to flag that 
nondiscrimination requirements continue to apply even if the Federal 
Government is compensated for the Federal Share, we add the phrase 
``except as provided in Sec.  314.10(e)(3) regarding nondiscrimination 
requirements'' to the end of Sec.  314.2(b).
    In Sec.  314.3 (``Authorized Use of Property''), we propose 
revising the title of the regulation to read ``Authorized Use of 
Project Property'' to reflect the newly defined term Project Property. 
We also break current paragraph (e), which addresses requirements for 
replacement Personal Property and Real Property into two separate 
paragraphs that address the requirements of the different types of 
Property. Accordingly, we move the sentence that addresses replacement 
Real Property that is currently the final sentence of Sec.  314.3(e) 
into new Sec.  314.3(f) and re-number the regulation accordingly, re-
designating current Sec.  314.3(f) as new Sec.  314.3(g). In addition, 
EDA adds helpful paragraph headings to help the reader better navigate 
the section and find information more quickly. Accordingly, we add the 
heading ``General'' to Sec.  314.3(a), ``Project Property that is no 
longer needed for Project purposes'' to Sec.  314.3(b), ``Real Property 
for sale or lease'' to Sec.  314.3(c), ``Property transfers and 
Successor Recipients'' to Sec.  314.3(d), ``Replacement Personal 
Property'' to Sec.  314.3(e), ``Replacement Real Property'' to Sec.  
314.3(f), and ``Incidental use of Project Property'' to Sec.  314.3(g).
    In both Sec.  314.3(a) and (b), we replace the phrase ``Property 
acquired or improved, in whole or in part, with Investment Assistance'' 
with the newly defined term Project Property and in the first sentence 
of both Sec.  314.3(d) and (g), we add the word ``Project'' before 
``Property'' to incorporate the newly defined term Project Property. 
Finally, in Sec.  314.3(g), which addresses under what circumstances 
EDA can approve an incidental use of Project Property, we add the 
phrase ``undermine the economic purpose for which the Investment was 
made'' between ``otherwise'' and ``or adversely'' to clarify that as 
well as not adversely affecting the economic useful life of the 
Property, an approved incidental use of Project Property must not 
undermine the purpose of the Investment.
    In Sec.  314.4 (``Unauthorized Use of Property''), we propose 
revising the title of the regulation to read ``Unauthorized Use of 
Project Property'' to reflect the newly defined term ``Project 
Property''. In addition, EDA proposes adding helpful paragraph headings 
to help the reader navigate the regulation, adding the heading 
``Compensation of Federal Share upon an Unauthorized Use of Project 
Property'' to Sec.  314.4(a), ``Additional Unauthorized Uses of Project 
Property'' to Sec.  314.4(b), and ``Recovery of the Federal Share'' to 
Sec.  314.4(c). In Sec.  314.4(a), this NPRM proposes minor clarifying 
changes, specifically replacing ``EDA's interest'' with ``the Federal 
Interest'', capitalizing the word ``Government'' as used in the term 
``Federal Government'', replacing ``Property acquired or improved in 
whole or in part with Investment Assistance'' with the newly defined 
term ``Project Property'', and replacing a reference to 15 CFR parts 14 
or 24 with 2 CFR part 200. We make similar clarifying changes to Sec.  
314.4(b), replacing ``EDA's interest'' with ``the Federal Interest'' 
and ``Real Property or tangible personal property acquired or improved 
with EDA Investment Assistance'' with the phrase ``Project Real 
Property or tangible Project Personal Property''. Finally, in Sec.  
314.4(c), in the first sentence we add the word ``Project'' before two 
instances of the word ``Property'', replace ``its interest'' with ``the 
Federal Interest'', and capitalize the word ``Government'' in ``Federal 
Government''. In the final sentence of the paragraph, EDA proposes 
capitalizing ``Government'' in ``Federal Government'' and adding a 
reference to the ongoing requirement that Project Property not be used 
in violation of nondiscrimination requirements even after the 
compensation of the Federal Share by adding the phrase ``, except for 
the nondiscrimination requirements set forth in Sec.  314.10(d)(3)'' to 
the end of the paragraph.
    Section 314.5 (``Federal Share'') addresses the portion of Project 
Property attributable to EDA's Investment Assistance. In Sec.  
314.5(a), EDA proposes adding two new sentences to explain EDA's usual 
practice of relying on a certified appraisal prepared by a licensed 
appraiser to determine the fair market value of Project Property and 
also provide that in certain extraordinary circumstances, and at the 
agency's sole discretion, EDA may rely on an alternative method to 
determine the fair market value, such as the amount of the award of 
Investment Assistance or the amount paid by a transferee. EDA 
recognizes that in certain, very unusual circumstances, such as when 
Property is located in an extremely remote location or, for whatever 
reasons, there are no buyers for similar Property, it may be impossible 
or cost prohibitive to obtain a certified appraisal and wishes to 
provide for this situation. Therefore, EDA proposes adding the 
following sentences to the paragraph: ``EDA may rely on a current 
certified appraisal of the Project Property prepared by an appraiser 
licensed in the State where the Project Property is located to 
determine the fair market value. In extraordinary circumstances and at 
EDA's sole discretion, where EDA is unable to determine the current 
fair market value, EDA may use other methods of determining the value 
of Project Property, including the amount of the award of Investment 
Assistance or the amount paid by a transferee.'' In addition, EDA adds 
the word ``Project'' before ``Property'' in the first sentence of the 
paragraph and the phrase ``or other valuation as determined by EDA'' 
between ``fair market value'' and ``of the Property'' in the final 
sentence of the paragraph.
    In Sec.  314.6 (``Encumbrances''), this NPRM proposes revising 
paragraph (a) to replace the phrase ``Recipient-owned Property acquired 
or improved in whole or improved in whole or in part with Investment 
Assistance'' with the newly proposed defined term ``Project Property''. 
In addition, in the exception provision to the requirement that there 
be no encumbrances on Project Property regarding encumbrances to secure 
a grant or loan made by a governmental body, EDA proposes adding the 
phrase ``so long as the Recipient discloses such an encumbrance in 
writing as part of its application for Investment Assistance or as soon 
as practicable after learning of the encumbrance'' to reflect the 
requirement that the Recipient expeditiously disclose any such 
encumbrance to EDA. In Sec.  314.6(b)(3) on pre-existing encumbrances, 
we add the phrase ``and disclosed to EDA'' between ``in place'' and 
``at the time'' to

[[Page 68200]]

underscore that the Recipient must disclose pre-existing encumbrances 
to EDA and add ``, in its sole discretion,'' to underscore that the 
approval of pre-existing encumbrances is at EDA's discretion. In 
addition, because pre-existing encumbrances pose the same risks to 
Project Property as other types of encumbrances, EDA revises Sec.  
314.6(b)(3) to incorporate certain requirements from the subparagraphs 
setting out requirements for encumbrances proposed both proximate to 
and after Project approval: Namely, for EDA to approve a pre-existing 
encumbrance, in addition to the requirement that EDA determine that the 
requirements of Sec.  314.7(b) are met, EDA must determine that the 
terms and conditions of the encumbrance are satisfactory and that there 
is a reasonable expectation that the Recipient will not default on its 
obligations. EDA renumbers these three requirements as Sec.  
314.6(b)(1)(i), (ii), and (iii), respectively.
    With respect to Sec.  314.6(b)(4) and (5), which set out the 
requirements for EDA's approval of encumbrances proposed proximate to 
Project approval and encumbrances proposed after Project approval, 
respectively, while EDA does not propose any changes to the regulatory 
text, in the preamble to the 2011 NPRM and the 2015 Final Rule, EDA 
repeatedly referred to revisions to Sec.  314.6 to clarify the 
requirements for EDA to subordinate its interest in Project Property. 
However, the regulatory text sets out the requirements for EDA to 
approve any type of encumbrance on Project Property, regardless of the 
priority of the Federal Interest and whether EDA agrees to subordinate 
or not, and through this preamble, EDA confirms that this read is 
correct. EDA must undertake the analyses required under Sec.  314.6(b) 
for encumbrances proposed on Project Property regardless of whether 
EDA's position in such Property changes.
    In addition, we propose minor style changes to Sec.  
314.6(b)(4)(v)(B) and (5)(v)(B) to add the phrase ``A Recipient that is 
a'' to the beginning of the subparagraph to maintain the parallel 
nature of the list. In addition, in Sec.  314.5(c), we replace the 
phrase ``Recipient-owned Property'' with ``Project Property''. As 
specified in the government-wide grant regulations set out at 2 CFR 
part 200 and noted in the proposed revisions to Sec.  314.2(a), Project 
Property generally vests upon acquisition in the Recipient, and so the 
adjective ``Recipient-owned'' is unnecessary.
    In Sec.  314.7 (``Title''), EDA proposes adding language to 
paragraph (a) to flag that certain limited exceptions apply to the 
title requirement, make the provision more readable, and refer directly 
to the definition of Real Property set out in Sec.  314.1. As such, EDA 
adds the introductory phrase ``Except in those limited circumstances 
identified in paragraph (c) of this section'' to the first sentence. In 
addition, we relocate the temporal requirement of when title must be 
obtained to the beginning of the sentence by adding ``, at the time 
Investment Assistance is awarded'' between ``in paragraph (c) of this 
section'' and ``the Recipient''. For clarity with respect to EDA's 
requirements, we include a reference to the definition of Real Property 
in Sec.  314.1 by adding the clause ``, which, as noted in Sec.  314.1 
in the definition of `Real Property' includes land that is served by 
the construction of Project infrastructure (such as roads, sewers, and 
water lines) and where the infrastructure contributes to the value of 
such land as a specific purpose of the Project'' to the first sentence 
of the paragraph. We also break the requirement that the Recipient 
maintain title at all times during the Estimated Useful Life of the 
Project into a separate sentence, which we place as the second sentence 
of the paragraph. This NPRM proposes replacing the phrase ``Real 
Property required for a project'' with the proposed defined term 
``Project Real Property'' in both the first and third sentences of 
Sec.  314.7(a).
    Throughout paragraph (c) of Sec.  314.7, which sets out the 
exceptions to EDA's title requirement, we replace the phrase ``the Real 
Property required for a Project'' with ``Project Real Property''. EDA 
proposes adding the clause ``at the time Investment Assistance is 
awarded and at all times during the Estimated Useful Life of the 
Project'' to the introductory sentence at Sec.  314.7(c), add 
``Project'' before ``Real Property'' twice in Sec.  314.7(c)(1), and 
capitalize ``Government'' in ``Federal Government'' in Sec.  
314.7(c)(1)(i). In Sec.  314.7(c)(4), which clarifies the exception for 
the title requirement when a Project includes construction on a 
government-owned roads, EDA proposes clarifying changes to replace the 
phrase ``public highway'' with the more descriptive ``State or local 
government owned roadway or highway'' in the heading, first sentence of 
Sec.  314.7(c)(4), and first clause of Sec.  314.7(c)(4)(ii)(B). To 
avoid excessive wordiness, we maintain the phrase ``public highway'' 
where it exists in the remainder of the provision, but revise it to 
read ``public roadway or highway'' and note that the exception in this 
provision is intended to apply to State or local government owned 
roadways or highways.
    In Sec.  314.7(c)(5)(i), which sets out EDA's requirements when the 
purpose of a Project is to construct facilities to serve Recipient or 
privately owned Real Property, we propose clarifying syntax changes to 
revise the phrase ``Real Property, including industrial or commercial 
parks, for sale or lease'' to read ``Project Real Property, including 
industrial or commercial parks, so that the Recipient or Owner may sell 
or lease''. In subparagraph (i)(A) of the provision, we replace the 
phrase ``required for such Project'' with the clarifying phrase 
``intended for sale or lease'' and add a cross-reference to the 
appropriate title requirements by adding the phrase ``in accordance 
with paragraphs (C), (D), and (E) of this section'' to the end of the 
subparagraph. In subparagraph (i)(B), EDA replaces ``required for such 
Project'' with ``intended for lease'', and in subparagraph (iii) we 
capitalize ``Owner''.
    Section 314.8 (``Recorded Statement for Project Real Property'') 
sets out requirements for recording the Federal Interest in Project 
Real Property. Throughout the provision we replace three instances of 
``EDA's interest'' with ``the Federal Interest'' and use the defined 
term ``Project Real Property'' as appropriate, using the term in the 
heading of the regulation and replacing ``the Property acquired or 
improved in whole or in part with the EDA Invest Assistance'' in 
paragraph (a), ``Real Property'' in paragraph (b), and ``Project 
Property'' in paragraph (d).
    In Sec.  314.9 (``Recorded statement for Personal Property''), EDA 
revises the provision to clarify that the recorded statement, which is 
generally a Uniform Commercial Code Financing Statement (``Form UCC-
1''), provides notice of the Federal Interest in Project Personal 
Property, but does not create a lien on the Property by inserting the 
phrase ``provide notice of the Federal Interest in all Project Personal 
Property by executing'' between ``the Recipient shall'' and ``a Uniform 
Commercial Code Financing Statement'' in the first sentence of the 
regulation. In addition, we use the term ``Project Personal Property'' 
appropriately throughout the provision, including in the title to the 
regulation, inserting ``Project'' before the phrase ``Personal 
Property, acceptable in form and substance to EDA'' in the first 
sentence of the regulation, and replacing ``Personal Property acquired 
or improved as part of the Project'' with

[[Page 68201]]

``all Project Personal Property'' in the second sentence of the 
regulation, and replace ``EDA's interest'' with ``the Federal 
Interest'' in the first sentence to the regulation.
    Section 314.10 (``Release of EDA's Property Interest'') sets out 
EDA's procedures for releasing the agency's interest in Project 
Property. This NPRM proposes replacing the term ``EDA's Property 
Interest'' with ``the Federal Interest'' in the titles of both subpart 
D and Sec.  314.10 and throughout Sec.  314.10 for clarity and 
consistency. This change does not implicate any substantive change to 
the Federal Government's undivided equitable reversionary interest in 
award property, but is intended for consistency throughout these 
regulations and with 2 CFR part 200. In addition, in Sec.  314.10(a), 
EDA replaces the phrase ``Property acquired or improved with Investment 
Assistance'' with ``Project Property'' for consistency with the 
proposed defined term at Sec.  314.1 and its usage throughout part 314. 
In addition, EDA proposes removing the portions of paragraph (a) that 
provide background on EDA's historical practice for establishing the 
Estimated Useful Life of specific Projects. It is accurate that since 
1999, EDA has typically established useful lives of between 15 and 20 
years, depending on the nature of the asset. As EDA noted in the 2011 
NPRM, the Economic Development Administration and Appalachian Regional 
Development Reform Act of 1998 (Pub. L. 105-393) added section 601(d) 
to PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3211(d)) to allow EDA to release its interest in 
Real or Personal Property after 20 years. This amendment was designed 
to provide EDA with additional flexibilities to release its interest in 
Project Property, particularly as some Projects implicated 40-year 
Estimated Useful Lives, not to mandate a minimum 20-year useful life 
for all Project Property. Although these regulatory provisions provided 
useful background, they were not necessary for the regulation and we 
believe maintaining this history in the preamble is sufficient. 
Accordingly, we remove the concluding clause of the second sentence and 
the third sentence of paragraph (a) and combine the first and second 
sentence of the paragraph to read ``As provided in Sec.  314.2 of this 
chapter, the Federal Interest in Project Property extends for the 
duration of the Estimated Useful Life of the Project, which is 
determined by EDA at the time of Investment award.'' We also simplify 
the final sentence in paragraph (a), replacing the phrase ``govern the 
manner of obtaining'' with the word ``obtain'' and adding the phrase 
``in Project Property'' at the end of the sentence following the phrase 
``of the Federal Interest''.
    In paragraph (b), which sets out EDA's procedures for releasing the 
Federal Interest after the expiration of the Estimated Useful Life, we 
revise the paragraph heading to read ``Release of the Federal 
Interest'' instead of ``Release of Property'' to more accurately 
reflect the content of the provision, correct a typo in the second 
sentence by adding the word ``the'' between ``in writing by'' and 
``Recipient'', and add a sentence to the end of the paragraph that 
provides a helpful cross reference to Sec.  314.10(e), which sets out 
the limitations and covenants of use that are applicable to any release 
of the Federal Interest.
    In paragraph (c), which sets out the EDA's procedures for releasing 
the Federal Interest before the expiration of the Estimated Useful 
Life, which release requires compensation of the Federal Interest, we 
correct a typo in the paragraph heading by adding the word ``the'' 
between ``prior to'' and ``expiration''. In addition, as more fully 
explained in the description of revisions to paragraph (e) below, we 
add a clause to clarify that when EDA releases the Federal Interest 
after receiving compensation for such interest, EDA has no further 
interest in the property, except for specific nondiscrimination 
requirements. Accordingly, we add a concluding clause to the final 
sentence of the paragraph to read ``and will have no further interest 
in the ownership, use, or Disposition of the Property, except for the 
nondiscrimination requirements set forth in paragraph (e)(3) of this 
section.''
    Paragraph (d) of Sec.  314.10 sets out EDA's procedures for 
releasing the Federal Interest before the expiration of the Estimated 
Useful Life, but at least 20 years after the award of Investment 
Assistance, as authorized under section 601(d)(2) of PWEDA. This 
authority is generally applicable when the Estimated Useful Life is 
long (i.e., 30 or 40 years) and when the Recipient has complied with 
all terms of the award of Investment Assistance and the economic 
development benefits of the award have been achieved. To clarify the 
intent of this paragraph, EDA revises the heading to read ``Release of 
the Federal Interest before the expiration of the Estimated Useful 
Life, but 20 years after the award of Investment Assistance''. In 
addition, we make additional clarifying changes throughout the 
paragraph. In the first sentence of the paragraph, we replace the 
phrase ``that exceeds 20 years'' with ``, but where 20 years have 
elapsed since the award of Investment Assistance''. In addition, to 
clarify the determinations that EDA will make in this situation, EDA 
adds the following concluding phrase to the paragraph ``if EDA 
determines: (1) The Recipient has made a good faith effort to fulfill 
all terms and conditions of the of the award of Investment Assistance; 
and (2) The economic development benefits as set out in the award of 
Investment Assistance have been achieved.'' As with paragraph (b), EDA 
has added a sentence to the end of this paragraph that provides a 
necessary cross reference to Sec.  314.10(e), which sets out the 
limitations and covenants of use that are applicable to any release of 
the Federal Interest.
    Finally, in paragraph (e), EDA makes needed corrections and 
clarifications to limitations of use and required covenants applicable 
to a release of the Federal Interest. When EDA releases its interest at 
the expiration of the Estimated Useful Life under Sec.  314.10(b) or 
releases its interest before the expiration of the Estimated Useful 
Life but after at least 20 years have elapsed since the award of 
Investment Assistance under Sec.  314.10(d), two use limitations on 
Project Property survive the release: (1) Such Property may not be used 
for explicitly religious purposes; and (2) such Property may not be 
used in violation of the nondiscrimination requirements set out in 
Sec.  302.20. However, in the above two scenarios, if compensation is 
made to EDA of the Federal Interest at the time of the release or 
anytime thereafter, the requirement that Project Property not be used 
for explicitly religious purposes will be extinguished. Similarly, when 
EDA releases the Federal Interest before the expiration of the 
Estimated Useful Life and upon compensation of the Federal Interest, 
the requirement that Project Property not be used for explicitly 
religious purposes no longer remains. Note that while Sec.  314.10 
currently makes references to ``inherently religious purposes,'' EDA is 
proposing changing these references to ``explicitly religious 
purposes'' to be consistent with recent rulemakings by nine other 
Federal agencies implementing Executive Order 13559. See, e.g., 28 CFR 
38.5(a) (Department of Justice); 81 FR 19358-59. The term ``explicitly 
religious activities'' clarifies that the prohibition is against 
external, observable activities, and not directed against the religious 
motivation an entity may have in providing services.
    Through this NPRM, EDA proposes revisions to subparagraphs (e)(2) 
and (3) to make the points above clear. Specifically, we add a final 
sentence to

[[Page 68202]]

paragraph (e)(2) clarifying that when requesting release of the Federal 
Interest, the Recipient must disclose the future intended use of the 
Real Property. New subparagraph (e)(2)(i) clarifies that a Recipient 
not intending to use the Real Property or tangible Personal Property 
for explicitly religious activities will be required to execute and 
record a covenant prohibiting use of the Real Property for explicitly 
religious activities. New subparagraph (e)(2)(ii) clarifies the 
requirements for a Recipient that intends or foresees the use of Real 
Property or tangible Personal Property for explicitly religious 
activities. In this case, EDA may require the Recipient to compensate 
the agency for the Federal Interest to obtain a release and resulting 
waiver of the ``explicitly religious activities'' prohibition, and 
recommends that any such Recipient contact EDA well in advance of 
requesting a release. It is important to recognize that the structure 
now proposed--payment of the Federal Interest excusing the Recipient 
from having to comply with the religious use prohibition but not 
excusing continued compliance with the non-discrimination prohibition--
was actually in place before EDA's most recent Final Rule became 
effective on January 20, 2015. As became clear in the past year when 
the agency was confronted with several situations involving the 
religious use prohibition, the January 20, 2015 Final Rule appears to 
have inadvertently amended certain language in Sec.  314.10 that 
created ambiguity and unintended consequences that necessitates the 
proposed changes. Subparagraph (e)(3) is revised so that it specifies 
the requirement that Real Property or tangible Personal Property not be 
used in violation of the nondiscrimination requirements of Sec.  
302.20. Therefore, we add the clause ``, including a release upon a 
Recipient's compensation for the Federal Share'' between ``under this 
section'' and ``a Recipient must'' in the first sentence of (e)(3). In 
addition, where (e)(3) specifies the requirements for avoiding any 
discriminatory use of Project Property, we remove two instances of the 
phrase ``for inherently religious activities prohibited by applicable 
Federal law and'' from the first and second sentences. EDA emphasizes 
that the differing treatments of the religious use covenant and non-
discrimination covenant, which has been part of EDA's regulatory 
framework for a number of years, is in our view justified by the fact 
that different legal authorities control the agency's obligations in 
each situation.
Part 315--Trade Adjustment Assistance for Firms
    Part 315 sets forth regulations to implement the Trade Adjustment 
Assistance for Firms program authorized under chapters 3 and 5 of title 
II of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2341 et seq.). EDA 
does not propose any revisions to part 315.

Classification

    Prior notice and opportunity for public comment are not required 
for rules concerning public property, loans, grants, benefits, and 
contracts (5 U.S.C. 553(a)(2)). Because prior notice and an opportunity 
for public comment are not required pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553, or any 
other law, the analytical requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility 
Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) are inapplicable. Therefore, a regulatory 
flexibility analysis has not been prepared.

Executive Order No. 12866 and No. 13563

    This proposed rule was drafted in accordance with Executive Orders 
12866 and 13563. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has 
determined that this proposed rule is significant for purposes of 
Executive Order 12866 and Executive Order 13563. Accordingly, the rule 
has undergone interagency review.

Congressional Review Act

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

Executive Order No. 13132

    Executive Order 13132 requires agencies to develop an accountable 
process to ensure ``meaningful and timely input by State and local 
officials in the development of regulatory policies that have 
federalism implications.'' ``Policies that have federalism 
implications'' is defined in Executive Order 13132 to include 
regulations that have ``substantial direct effects on the States, on 
the relationship between the national government and the States, or on 
the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels 
of government.'' It has been determined that this proposed rule does 
not contain policies that have federalism implications.

Paperwork Reduction Act

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

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Part or section of this proposed rule     Nature of request               Form/title/OMB control number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
307.14(a)............................  All RLF Recipients must  ED-209, RLF Report (0610-0095).
                                        submit reports to EDA
                                        in a format designated
                                        by EDA.
307.14(b)............................  All Recipients must      ED-209, RLF Report (0610-0095).
                                        certify as part of the
                                        report that the RLF is
                                        operating in
                                        accordance with the
                                        RLF Plan and that the
                                        information provided
                                        is complete and
                                        accurate.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

List of Subjects

13 CFR Part 300

    Distressed region, Financial assistance, Headquarters, Regional 
offices.

13 CFR Part 301

    Applicant and application requirements, Economic distress levels, 
Eligibility requirements, Grant administration, Grant programs, 
Investment rates.

13 CFR Part 302

    Civil rights, Conflicts-of-interest, Environmental review, Federal 
policy

[[Page 68203]]

and procedures, Fees, Intergovernmental review, Post-approval 
requirements, Pre-approval requirements, Project administration, 
Reporting and audit requirements.

13 CFR Part 303

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

13 CFR Part 304

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

13 CFR Part 305

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

13 CFR Part 307

    Award and application requirements, Economic adjustment assistance, 
Income, Liquidation, Merger, Revolving loan fund, Pre-loan 
requirements, Record and reporting requirements, Sales and 
securitizations, Termination.

13 CFR Part 309

    Redistributions of investment assistance, Subgrants, Subrecipients.

13 CFR Part 314

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

Regulatory Text

    For the reasons discussed above, EDA proposes to amend 13 CFR, 
chapter III as follows:

PART 300--GENERAL INFORMATION

0
1. Revise the authority citation of part 300 to read as follows:

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 3121; 42 U.S.C. 3122; 42 U.S.C. 3211; 15 
U.S.C. 3701; Department of Commerce Organization Order 10-4.

0
2. Amend Sec.  300.3 by:
0
a. Adding a definition for Co-Recipient in alphabetical order;
0
b. Revising the definitions of In-Kind Contribution(s), Project, and 
Recipient; and
0
c. Adding definitions for Stevenson-Wydler and Sub-Recipient in 
alphabetical order.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  300.3  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Co-Recipient means one of multiple Recipients awarded Investment 
Assistance under a single award. Unless otherwise provided in the terms 
and conditions of the Investment Assistance, each Co-Recipient is 
jointly and severally liable for fulfilling the terms of the Investment 
Assistance.
* * * * *
    In-Kind Contribution(s) means non-cash contributions, which may 
include contributions of space, equipment, services and assumptions of 
debt that are fairly evaluated by EDA and that satisfy applicable 
Federal Uniform Administrative Requirements and cost principles as set 
out in 2 CFR part 200.
* * * * *
    Project means the proposed or authorized activity (or activities) 
the purpose of which fulfills EDA's mission and program requirements as 
set forth in PWEDA or Stevenson-Wydler and this chapter and which may 
be funded in whole or in part by EDA Investment Assistance.
* * * * *
    Recipient means an entity receiving EDA Investment Assistance, 
including any EDA-approved successor to the entity.
* * * * *
    Stevenson-Wydler, for purposes of EDA, means the Stevenson-Wydler 
Technology Innovation Act of 1980, as amended (15 U.S.C. 3701 et seq.).
    Subrecipient means an Eligible Recipient that receives a 
redistribution of Investment Assistance in the form of a subgrant, 
under part 309 of this chapter, from another Eligible Recipient to 
carry out part of a Federal program.
* * * * *

PART 301--ELIGIBILITY, INVESTMENT RATE AND APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

0
3. The authority section for part 301 continues to read as follows:

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

0
4. Revise paragraph (b) of Sec.  301.2 to read as follows:


Sec.  301.2  Applicant eligibility.

* * * * *
    (b) An Eligible Applicant that is a non-profit organization must 
include in its application for Investment Assistance a resolution 
passed by (or a letter signed by) an authorized representative of a 
general purpose political subdivision of a State, acknowledging that it 
is acting in cooperation with officials of such political subdivision. 
EDA, at its sole discretion, may waive this cooperation requirement for 
certain Projects of a significant Regional or national scope under 
parts 306 or 307 of this chapter. See Sec. Sec.  306.3(b), 306.6(b), 
and 307.5(b) of this chapter.
0
5. Revise Sec.  301.5 to read as follows:


Sec.  301.5  Matching share requirements.

    The required Matching Share of a Project's eligible costs may 
consist of cash or In-Kind Contributions. In addition, the Eligible 
Applicant must provide documentation to EDA demonstrating that the 
Matching Share is committed to the Project, will be available as needed 
and is not or will not be conditioned or encumbered in any way that 
would preclude its use consistent with the requirements of the 
Investment Assistance. EDA shall determine at its sole discretion 
whether the Matching Share documentation adequately addresses the 
requirements of this section.
0
6. Revise paragraph (a) of Sec.  301.7 to read as follows:


Sec.  301.7  Investment Assistance application.

    (a) For all EDA Investment Assistance programs, including the 
Public Works, Economic Adjustment Assistance, Planning, Local Technical 
Assistance, Research and National Technical Assistance, and University 
Center programs, EDA will publish an FFO that specifies application 
submission requirements and evaluation procedures and criteria. Each 
FFO will be published on the EDA Web site and at http://www.grants.gov. 
All forms required for EDA Investment Assistance may be obtained 
electronically from http://www.grants.gov or from the appropriate 
regional office.
* * * * *
0
7. Revise Sec.  301.8 to read as follows:


Sec.  301.8  Application evaluation criteria.

    EDA will screen all applications for the feasibility of the budget 
presented and conformance with EDA's statutory and regulatory 
requirements. EDA will assess the economic development needs of the 
affected Region in which the proposed Project will be located (or will 
service), as well as the capability of the Eligible Applicant to 
implement the proposed Project. EDA will also review applications for 
conformance with program-specific evaluation criteria set out in the 
applicable FFO.
0
8. Revise the introductory text of paragraph (a) to Sec.  301.11 to 
read as follows:


Sec.  301.11  Infrastructure.

    (a) EDA will fund both construction and non-construction 
infrastructure necessary to meet a Region's strategic economic 
development goals and needs,

[[Page 68204]]

which in turn results in job creation. This includes infrastructure 
used to develop basic economic development assets as described in 
Sec. Sec.  305.1 and 305.2 of this chapter (e.g., roads, sewers, and 
water lines), as well as infrastructure that supports innovation and 
entrepreneurship. The following are examples of innovation and 
entrepreneurship-related infrastructure that support job creation:
* * * * *

PART 302--GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR INVESTMENT ASSISTANCE

0
9. Revise the authority citation of part 302 to read as follows:

    Authority: 19 U.S.C. 2341 et seq.; 42 U.S.C. 3150; 42 U.S.C. 
3152; 42 U.S.C. 3153; 42 U.S.C. 3192; 42 U.S.C. 3193; 42 U.S.C. 
3194; 42 U.S.C. 3211; 42 U.S.C. 3212; 42 U.S.C. 3216; 42 U.S.C. 
3218; 42 U.S.C. 3220; 42 U.S.C. 5141; 15 U.S.C. 3701; Department of 
Commerce Delegation Order 10-4.

0
10. Revise Sec.  302.5 to read as follows:


Sec.  302.5  Relocation assistance and land acquisition policies.

    Recipients of EDA Investment Assistance or any other types of 
assistance under PWEDA, the Trade Act, and Stevenson-Wydler (States and 
political subdivisions of States and non-profit organizations, as 
applicable) are subject to the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real 
Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, as amended (Pub. L. 91-646; 
42 U.S.C. 4601 et seq.). See 15 CFR part 11 and 49 CFR part 24 for 
specific compliance requirements.
0
11. Revise Sec.  302.6 to read as follows:


Sec.  302.6  Additional requirements; Federal policies and procedures.

    Recipients are subject to all Federal laws and to Federal, 
Department, and EDA policies, regulations, and procedures applicable to 
Federal financial assistance awards, including 2 CFR part 200, Uniform 
Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements 
for Federal Awards.
0
12. Revise the introductory text to paragraph (a) and paragraphs (a)(2) 
and (d) of Sec.  302.20 to read as follows:


Sec.  302.20  Civil rights.

    (a) Discrimination is prohibited by a Recipient or Other Party (as 
defined in paragraph (b) of this section) with respect to a Project 
receiving Investment Assistance under PWEDA or Stevenson-Wydler or by 
an entity receiving Adjustment Assistance (as defined in Sec.  315.2 of 
this chapter) under the Trade Act or any other type of assistance under 
Stevenson-Wydler, in accordance with the following authorities:
* * * * *
    (2) 42 U.S.C. 3123 (proscribing discrimination on the basis of sex 
in Investment Assistance provided under PWEDA), 42 U.S.C. 6709 
(proscribing discrimination on the basis of sex under the Local Public 
Works Program), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as 
amended (20 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.) (proscribing discrimination on the 
basis of sex in any education program or activity receiving Federal 
financial assistance, whether or not such program or activity is 
offered or sponsored by an educational institution), and the 
Department's implementing regulations found at 15 CFR part 8a;
* * * * *
    (d) All Recipients of Investment Assistance under PWEDA and 
Stevenson-Wydler, all Other Parties, and all entities receiving 
Adjustment Assistance under the Trade Act or any other type of 
assistance under Stevenson-Wydler must submit to EDA written assurances 
that they will comply with applicable laws, EDA regulations, Department 
regulations, and such other requirements as may be applicable, 
prohibiting discrimination.
* * * * *

PART 303--PLANNING INVESTMENTS AND COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC 
DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES

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

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

0
14. Revise paragraphs (b)(1) and (b)(3)(ii) of Sec.  303.6 to read as 
follows:


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

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (1) CEDS Strategy Committee. The Planning Organization must appoint 
a Strategy Committee. The Strategy Committee must represent the main 
economic interests of the Region, which may include Indian tribes, the 
private sector, State and other public officials, community leaders, 
private individuals, representatives of workforce development boards, 
institutions of higher education, minority and labor groups, and others 
who can contribute to and benefit from improved economic development in 
the relevant Region. In addition, the Strategy Committee must 
demonstrate the capacity to undertake a collaborative and effective 
planning process.
* * * * *
    (3) * * *
    (ii) The Planning Organization must submit a new or revised CEDS to 
EDA at least every five years, unless EDA or the Planning Organization 
determines that a new or revised CEDS is required earlier due to 
changed circumstances. In connection with the submission of a new or 
revised CEDS, the Planning Organization must obtain renewed commitments 
from participating counties or other areas within the District to 
support the economic development activities of the District.
* * * * *
0
15. Revise paragraph (c)(1) of Sec.  303.7 to read as follows:


Sec.  303.7  Requirements for Comprehensive Economic Development 
Strategies.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (1) In determining the acceptability of a CEDS prepared 
independently of EDA Investment Assistance or oversight for Projects 
under parts 305 and 307 of this chapter, EDA may in its discretion 
determine that the CEDS is acceptable so long as it includes all of the 
elements listed in paragraph (b) of this section. In certain 
circumstances, EDA may accept a non-EDA funded CEDS that does not 
contain all the elements listed in paragraph (b) of this section. In 
doing so, EDA shall consider the circumstances surrounding the 
application for Investment Assistance, including emergencies or natural 
disasters and the fulfillment of the requirements of section 302 of 
PWEDA.
* * * * *

PART 304--ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS

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

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

0
17. Revise paragraph (c)(2) of Sec.  304.2 to read as follows:


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

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (2) The District Organization must demonstrate that its governing 
body is broadly representative of the principal economic interests of 
the Region, which may include the private sector, public officials, 
community leaders, representatives of workforce development boards, 
institutions of higher education, minority and labor groups, and 
private individuals. In addition, the governing body must

[[Page 68205]]

demonstrate the capacity to implement the EDA-approved CEDS.
* * * * *

PART 305--PUBLIC WORKS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS

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

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

0
18. Revise paragraph (b) of Sec.  305.6 to read as follows:


Sec.  305.6  Allowable methods for procurement of construction 
services.

* * * * *
    (b) For all procurement methods, the Recipient must comply with the 
procedures and standards set forth in 2 CFR part 200.
0
19. Revise paragraph (c) of Sec.  305.8 to read as follows:


Sec.  305.8  Recipient-furnished equipment and materials.

* * * * *
    (c) Acquisition of Recipient-furnished equipment or materials under 
this section also is subject to the requirements of 2 CFR part 200.

PART 307--ECONOMIC ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE INVESTMENTS

0
20. The authority citation of part 307 continues to read as follows:

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

0
21. Revise Sec.  307.6 to read as follows:


Sec.  307.6  Revolving Loan Funds established for lending.

    Economic Adjustment Assistance Grants to capitalize or recapitalize 
RLFs most commonly fund business lending, but also may fund public 
infrastructure or other authorized lending activities. The requirements 
in this subpart B apply to EDA-funded RLFs. Special award conditions 
may contain appropriate modifications of these requirements.
0
22. Revise the introductory text of paragraph (b) and paragraph (b)(2) 
of Sec.  307.7 to read as follows:


Sec.  307.7  Revolving Loan Fund award requirements.

* * * * *
    (b) RLF Grants shall comply with the requirements set forth in this 
part, as well as relevant provisions of parts 300 through 303, 305, and 
314 of this chapter and in the following publications:
    (1) * * *
    (2) The Compliance Supplement, which is appendix XI to 2 CFR part 
200 and is available on the OMB Web site at https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/circulars_default.
0
23. Amend Sec.  307.8 as follows:
0
a. Add definitions for Allowable Cash Percentage and Disbursement Phase 
in alphabetical order;
0
b. Revise the definitions of Recapitalization Grants and Reporting 
Period;
0
c. Add a definition for Risk Analysis System in alphabetical order;
0
d. Remove the definition of RLF Capital;
0
e. Add definitions for RLF Capital Base and RLF Cash Available for 
Lending in alphabetical order;
0
f. Revise the definition of RLF Income; and
0
g. Add definitions for RLF Recipient and Voluntarily Contributed 
Capital in alphabetical order.
    The additions and revisions read as follows:


Sec.  307.8  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Allowable Cash Percentage means the average percentage of the RLF 
Capital Base maintained as RLF Cash Available for Lending by RLF 
Recipients in each EDA regional office's portfolio of RLF Grants over 
the previous year.
* * * * *
    Disbursement Phase means the period of loan activity where Grant 
funds awarded have not been fully disbursed to the RLF Recipient.
* * * * *
    Recapitalization Grants are Investments of additional Grant funds 
to increase the RLF Capital Base.
    Reporting Period, for purposes of this subpart B only, is based on 
the RLF Recipient's fiscal year end and is on an annual or semi-annual 
basis as determined by EDA.
* * * * *
    Risk Analysis System refers to a set of metrics defined by EDA to 
evaluate a Recipient's administration of its RLF Grant and that may 
include but is not limited to capital, assets, management, earnings, 
liquidity, strategic results, and financial controls.
    RLF Capital Base means the total value of RLF Grant assets 
administered by the RLF Recipient. It is equal to the amount of Grant 
funds used to capitalize (and recapitalize, if applicable), the RLF, 
plus Local Share, plus RLF Income, plus Voluntarily Contributed 
Capital, less any loan losses and disallowances. Except as used to pay 
for eligible and reasonable administrative costs associated with the 
RLF's operations, the RLF Capital Base is maintained in two forms at 
all times: As RLF Cash Available for Lending and as outstanding loan 
principal.
    RLF Cash Available for Lending means the portion of the RLF Capital 
Base that is held in cash and available to make loans.
    RLF Income means interest earned on outstanding loan principal and 
RLF accounts holding RLF funds, all fees and charges received by the 
RLF, and other income generated from RLF operations. An RLF Recipient 
may use RLF Income only to capitalize the RLF for financing activities 
and to cover eligible and reasonable costs necessary to administer the 
RLF, unless otherwise provided for in the Grant agreement or approved 
in writing by EDA. RLF Income excludes repayments of principal and any 
interest remitted to the U.S. Treasury pursuant to generally accepted 
accounting principles (GAAP) and Sec.  307.20(h).
    RLF Recipient means the Eligible Recipient that receives an RLF 
Grant to manage an RLF in accordance with an RLF Plan, Prudent Lending 
Practices, the terms and conditions of the RLF Grant, and all 
applicable policies, laws, and regulations.
* * * * *
    Voluntary Contributed Capital means an RLF Recipient's voluntary 
infusion of additional non-EDA funds into the RLF Capital Base that is 
separate from and exceeds any Local Share that is required as a 
condition of the RLF Grant. Voluntary Contributed Capital is an 
irrevocable addition to the RLF Capital Base and must be administered 
in accordance with EDA regulations and policies.
0
24. In Sec.  307.11, revise the section heading and paragraphs (a), 
(c), (d), and (f)(2) and add paragraphs (g) and (h) to read as follows:


Sec.  307.11  Pre-disbursement requirements and disbursement of funds 
to Revolving Loan Funds.

    (a) Pre-disbursement requirements. (1) Within 60 calendar days 
before the initial disbursement of EDA funds, the RLF Recipient must 
provide the following in a form acceptable to EDA:
    (i) A certification from a qualified independent accountant who 
preferably has audited the RLF Recipient's accounting system in 
accordance with the audit requirements set out as subpart F to 2 CFR 
part 200 that such system is adequate to identify, safeguard, and 
account for the entire RLF Capital Base, outstanding RLF loans, and 
other RLF operations.

[[Page 68206]]

    (ii) The RLF Recipient's certification that standard RLF loan 
documents reasonably necessary or advisable for lending are in place 
and a certification from the RLF Recipient's legal counsel that the 
loan documents are adequate and comply with the terms and conditions of 
the RLF Grant, RLF Plan, and applicable State and local law. The 
standard loan documents must include, at a minimum, the following:
    (A) Loan application;
    (B) Loan agreement;
    (C) Board of directors' meeting minutes approving the RLF loan;
    (D) Promissory note;
    (E) Security agreement(s);
    (F) Deed of trust or mortgage (as applicable);
    (G) Agreement of prior lien holder (as applicable); and
    (H) Evidence demonstrating that credit is not otherwise available 
on terms and conditions that permit the completion or successful 
operation of the activity to be financed.
    (iii) Evidence of fidelity bond coverage for persons authorized to 
handle funds under the RLF Grant award in an amount sufficient to 
protect the interests of EDA and the RLF. At a minimum, the amount of 
coverage shall be the maximum loan amount allowed for in the EDA-
approved RLF Plan.
    (2) The RLF Recipient is required to maintain the adequacy of the 
RLF's accounting system and maintain and update standard RLF loan 
documents at all times during the duration of the RLF's operation. In 
addition, the RLF recipient must maintain sufficient fidelity bond 
coverage as described in this subsection for the duration of the RLF's 
operation. The RLF Recipient shall maintain records and documentation 
to demonstrate the requirements set out in this paragraph (a) are 
maintained for the duration of the RLF's operation. See also Sec.  
307.13(b)(3).
* * * * *
    (c) Amount of disbursement. The amount of a disbursement of Grant 
funds shall be the amount required to meet the Federal share 
requirement of a new RLF loan. RLF Income held during the disbursement 
phase may be used to reimburse eligible administrative costs. RLF 
Income earned during the Disbursement Phase must be placed in the RLF 
Capital Base and may be used to reimburse eligible and reasonable 
administrative costs, provide the requirements of Sec.  307.12(a) and 
(b) are met, and increase the RLF Capital Base. RLF Income earned 
during the Disbursement Phase is not required to be used for new RLF 
loans, unless otherwise specified in the terms and conditions of an RLF 
Grant.
    (d) Interest-bearing account. All Grant funds disbursed by EDA to 
the RLF Recipient for loan obligations incurred but not yet disbursed 
to an eligible RLF borrower must be deposited and held in an interest-
bearing account by the Recipient until an RLF loan is made to a 
borrower.
* * * * *
    (f) * * *
    (2) When an RLF has a combination of In-Kind Contributions, which 
must be specifically authorized in the terms and conditions of the RLF 
Grant and may be used to provide technical assistance to borrowers or 
for eligible RLF administrative costs, and cash Local Share, the cash 
Local Share and the Grant funds will be disbursed proportionately as 
needed for lending activities, provided that the last 20 percent of the 
Grant funds may not be disbursed until all cash Local Share has been 
expended. The full amount of the cash Local Share shall remain for use 
in the RLF.
    (g) Loan closing and disbursement schedule. (1) RLF loan activity 
must be sufficient to draw down Grant funds in accordance with the 
schedule prescribed in the award conditions for loan closings and 
disbursements to eligible RLF borrowers. The schedule usually requires 
that the RLF Recipient lend the entire amount of the RLF Grant within 
three years of the Grant award.
    (2) If an RLF Recipient fails to meet the prescribed lending 
schedule, EDA may de-obligate the non-disbursed balance of the RLF 
Grant. EDA may allow exceptions where:
    (i) Closed Loans approved prior to the schedule deadline will 
commence and complete disbursements within 45 days of the deadline;
    (ii) Closed Loans have commenced (but not completed) disbursement 
obligations prior to the deadline; or
    (iii) EDA has approved a time schedule extension pursuant to 
paragraph (h) of this section.
    (h) Time schedule extensions. (1) RLF Recipients shall promptly 
inform EDA in writing of any condition that may adversely affect their 
ability to meet the prescribed schedule deadlines. RLF Recipients must 
submit a written request to EDA for continued use of Grant funds beyond 
a missed deadline for disbursement of RLF funds. RLF Recipients must 
provide good reason for the delay in their extension request by 
demonstrating that:
    (i) The delay was unforeseen or beyond the control of the RLF 
Recipient;
    (ii) The financial need for the RLF still exists;
    (iii) The current and planned use and the anticipated benefits of 
the RLF will remain consistent with the current CEDS and the RLF Plan; 
and
    (iv) The proposal of a revised time schedule is reasonable. An 
extension request must also provide an explanation as to why no further 
delays are anticipated.
    (2) EDA is under no obligation to grant a time extension. In the 
event an extension is denied, EDA may de-obligate all or part of the 
unused Grant funds and terminate the Grant.
0
25. In Sec.  307.12, revise the section heading, paragraphs (a) and 
(b), and the paragraph heading and introductory text of paragraph (c), 
and add paragraph (d) to read as follows:


Sec.  307.12  Revolving Loan Fund Income requirements during the 
Revolving Phase; payments on defaulted and written off Revolving Loan 
Fund loans; Voluntarily Contributed Capital.

    (a) During the Revolving Phase, RLF Income must be placed into the 
RLF Capital Base for the purpose of making loans or paying for eligible 
and reasonable administrative costs associated with the RLF's 
operations. RLF Income may fund administrative costs, provided:
    (1) Such RLF Income is earned and the administrative costs are 
accrued in the same fiscal year of the RLF Recipient;
    (2) RLF Income earned, but not used for administrative costs during 
the same fiscal year of the RLF Recipient is made available for lending 
activities;
    (3) RLF Income shall not be withdrawn from the RLF Capital Base in 
a subsequent fiscal year for any purpose other than lending without the 
prior written consent of EDA; and
    (4) An RLF Recipient shall not use funds in excess of RLF Income 
for administrative costs unless directed otherwise in writing by EDA. 
In accordance with EDA's RLF Risk Analysis System, RLF Recipients are 
expected to keep administrative costs to a minimum in order to maintain 
the RLF Capital Base. The percentage of RLF Income used for 
administrative expenses will be one of the metrics used in EDA's RLF 
Risk Analysis System to evaluate RLF Recipients. See also Sec.  307.16.
    (b) Compliance guidance. When charging costs against RLF Income, 
RLF Recipients must comply with applicable Federal Uniform 
Administrative Requirements, cost principles, and audit requirements as 
detailed in this provision and in the terms and conditions of the RLF 
Grant.
    (1) For RLF Grants made on or after December 26, 2014. For RLFs 
awarded

[[Page 68207]]

on or after December 26, 2014 or for RLFs that have received one or 
more Recapitalization Grants on or after December 26, 2014, the RLF 
Recipient must comply with the administrative and cost principles in 2 
CFR part 200 (``Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, 
and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards'').
    (2) For RLF Grants made before December 26, 2014. For RLFs awarded 
before December 26, 2014, unless otherwise indicated in the terms of 
the Grant, the RLF Recipient must comply with the following cost 
principles:
    (i) 2 CFR part 225 (OMB Circular A-87 for State, local, and Indian 
tribal governments),
    (ii) 2 CFR part 230 (OMB Circular A-122 for non-profit 
organizations other than institutions of higher education, hospitals or 
organizations named in OMB Circular A-122 as not subject to such 
Circular), and
    (iii) 2 CFR part 220 (OMB Circular A-21 for educational 
institutions).
    (3) For all RLF Grants. For all RLF Grants, regardless of when they 
were awarded, the audit requirements set out as subpart F to 2 CFR part 
200 apply to audits of the RLF Recipient fiscal years beginning on or 
after December 26, 2014. In addition, the Compliance Supplement, which 
is appendix XI to 2 CFR part 200, applies as appropriate.
    (c) Priority of payments on defaulted and written off RLF loans. 
When an RLF Recipient receives proceeds on a defaulted or written off 
RLF loan that is not subject to liquidation pursuant to Sec.  307.21, 
such proceeds shall be applied in the following order of priority:
* * * * *
    (d) Voluntarily Contributed Capital. An RLF Recipient that wishes 
to inject additional capital into the RLF Capital Base to augment the 
amount of resources available to lend must submit a written request 
that specifies the source of the funds to be added. Once an RLF 
Recipient elects to commit Voluntarily Contributed Capital and upon 
approval by EDA, the Voluntarily Contributed Capital becomes an 
irrevocable part of the RLF Capital Base and may not be subsequently 
withdrawn or separated from the RLF.
0
26. Revise Sec.  307.13 as follows:
0
a. Revise paragraph (b)(2);
0
b. Redesignate paragraph (b)(3) as paragraph (b)(4); and
0
c. Add new paragraph (b)(3).
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  307.13  Records and retention.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) Retain records of administrative expenses incurred for 
activities and equipment relating to the operation of the RLF for three 
years from the actual submission date of the report that covers the 
fiscal year in which such costs were claimed.
    (3) Consistent with Sec.  307.11(a), for the duration of RLF 
operations, maintain records to demonstrate:
    (i) The adequacy of the RLF's accounting system to identify, 
safeguard, and account for the entire RLF Capital Base, outstanding RLF 
loans, and other RLF operations;
    (ii) That standard RLF loan documents reasonably necessary or 
advisable for lending are in place; and
    (iii) Evidence of fidelity bond coverage for persons authorized to 
handle funds under the Grant award in an amount sufficient to protect 
the interests of EDA and the RLF.
* * * * *
0
27. Revise Sec.  307.14 to read as follows:


Sec.  307.14  Revolving Loan Fund report.

    (a) Frequency of reports. All RLF Recipients, including those 
receiving Recapitalization Grants for existing RLFs, must complete and 
submit an RLF report, using Form ED-209 or any successor form, in a 
format and at a frequency as required by EDA.
    (b) Report contents. RLF Recipients must certify as part of the RLF 
report to EDA that the RLF is operating in accordance with the 
applicable RLF Plan and that the information provided is complete and 
accurate.
0
28. Amend Sec.  307.15 as follows:
0
a. Revise paragraph (a);
0
b. Remove paragraph (b);
0
b. Redesignate paragraphs (c) and (d) as paragraphs (b) and (c), 
respectively; and
0
c. Revise the paragraph heading of newly redesignated paragraph (c) and 
paragraph (c)(1).
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  307.15  Prudent management of Revolving Loan Funds.

    (a) Accounting principles. (1) RLFs shall operate in accordance 
with generally accepted accounting principles (``GAAP'') as in effect 
in the United States and the provisions outlined in the audit 
requirements set out as subpart F to 2 CFR part 200 and the Compliance 
Supplement, which is appendix XI to 2 CFR part 200, as applicable.
    (2) In accordance with GAAP, a loan loss reserve may be recorded in 
the RLF Recipient's financial statements to show the adjusted current 
value of an RLF's loan portfolio, provided this loan loss reserve is 
non-funded and is represented by a non-cash entry. However, loan loss 
reserves shall not be used to reduce the value of the RLF in the 
Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (``SEFA'') required as part 
of the RLF Recipient's audit requirements under 2 CFR part 200.
* * * * *
    (c) RLF leveraging. (1) RLF loans must leverage additional 
investment of at least two dollars for every one dollar of such RLF 
loans. This leveraging requirement applies to the RLF portfolio as a 
whole rather than to individual loans and is effective for the duration 
of the RLF's operation. To be classified as leveraged, additional 
investment must be made within 12 months of approval of an RLF loan, as 
part of the same business development project, and may include:
    (i) Capital invested by the borrower or others;
    (ii) Financing from private entities;
    (iii) The non-guaranteed portions and 90 percent of the guaranteed 
portions of any Federal loan; or
    (iv) Loans from other State and local lending programs.
* * * * *
0
29. Revise Sec.  307.16 to read as follows:


Sec.  307.16  Risk Analysis System.

    (a) EDA shall evaluate and manage RLF recipients using a Risk 
Analysis System that will focus on such risk factors as: Capital, 
assets, management, earnings, liquidity, strategic results, and 
financial controls. Risk analysis ratings of each RLF Recipient's RLF 
program shall be conducted at least annually and will be based on the 
most recently submitted Form ED-209 RLF report.
    (b) An RLF Recipient generally will be allowed a reasonable period 
of time to achieve compliance with risk factors as defined by EDA. 
However, persistent noncompliance with these factors and their limits 
as identified through EDA's Risk Analysis System over multiple 
Reporting Periods may result in EDA taking appropriate remedies for 
noncompliance as detailed in Sec.  307.21.
0
30. Revise Sec.  307.17 to read as follows:


Sec.  307.17  Requirements for Revolving Loan Fund Cash Available for 
Lending.

    (a) General. RLF Cash Available for Lending shall be deposited and 
held in an interest-bearing account by the Recipient and used for the 
purpose of making RLF loans that are consistent with an RLF Plan or 
such other purposes approved by EDA. To ensure that RLF funds are used 
as intended, each loan agreement must clearly state the purpose of each 
loan.

[[Page 68208]]

    (b) Allowable Cash Percentage. EDA shall notify each RLF recipient 
by January 1 of each year of the Allowable Cash Percentage that is 
applicable to lending during the ensuing calendar year. During the 
Revolving Phase, RLF Recipients must manage their repayment and lending 
schedules so that at all times they do not exceed the Allowable Cash 
Percentage.
    (c) Restrictions on use of RLF Cash Available for Lending. RLF Cash 
Available for Lending shall not be used to:
    (1) Acquire an equity position in a private business;
    (2) Subsidize interest payments on an existing RLF loan;
    (3) Provide a loan to a borrower for the purpose of meeting the 
requirements of equity contributions under another Federal Agency's 
loan programs;
    (4) Enable borrowers to acquire an interest in a business either 
through the purchase of stock or through the acquisition of assets, 
unless sufficient justification is provided in the loan documentation. 
Sufficient justification may include acquiring a business to save it 
from imminent closure or to acquire a business to facilitate a 
significant expansion or increase in investment with a significant 
increase in jobs. The potential economic benefits must be clearly 
consistent with the strategic objectives of the RLF;
    (5) Provide RLF loans to a borrower for the purpose of investing in 
interest-bearing accounts, certificates of deposit, or any investment 
unrelated to the RLF; or
    (6) Refinance existing debt, unless:
    (i) The RLF Recipient sufficiently demonstrates in the loan 
documentation a ``sound economic justification'' for the refinancing 
(e.g., the refinancing will support additional capital investment 
intended to increase business activities). For this purpose, reducing 
the risk of loss to an existing lender(s) or lowering the cost of 
financing to a borrower shall not, without other indicia, constitute a 
sound economic justification; or
    (ii) RLF Cash Available for Lending will finance the purchase of 
the rights of a prior lien holder during a foreclosure action which is 
necessary to preclude a significant loss on an RLF loan. RLF funds may 
be used for this purpose only if there is a high probability of 
receiving compensation from the sale of assets sufficient to cover an 
RLF's costs plus a reasonable portion of the outstanding RLF loan 
within a reasonable time frame approved by EDA following the date of 
refinancing.
    (7) Serve as collateral to obtain credit or any other type of 
financing without EDA's prior written approval;
    (8) Support operations or administration of the RLF Recipient; or
    (9) Undertake any activity that would violate the requirements 
found in part 314 of this chapter, including Sec.  314.3 (``Authorized 
Use of Property'') and Sec.  314.4 (``Unauthorized Use of Property'').
    (d) Compliance and loan quality review. To ensure that the RLF 
recipient makes eligible RLF loans consistent with its RLF Plan or such 
other purposes approved by EDA, EDA may require an independent third 
party to conduct a compliance and loan quality review for the RLF Grant 
every three years. The RLF Recipient may undertake this review as an 
administrative cost associated with the RLF's operations provided the 
requirements set forth in Sec.  307.12 are satisfied.
0
31. Revise paragraphs (a)(1) introductory text, (a)(2), (b)(1), 
(b)(1)(i), and (b)(2)(i) of Sec.  307.18 to read as follows:


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

    (a)(1) An RLF Recipient shall make loans only within its EDA-
approved lending area, as set forth and defined in the RLF Grant and 
the RLF Plan. An RLF Recipient may add a lending area (an ``Additional 
Lending Area'') to its existing lending area to create a new lending 
area (the ``New Lending Area'') only with EDA's prior written approval 
and subject to the following provisions and conditions:
* * * * *
    (2) Following EDA approval, the New Lending Area designation shall 
remain in place until EDA approves a subsequent request for a New 
Lending Area.
    (b) * * *
    (1) Single RLF Recipient. An RLF Recipient with more than one EDA-
funded RLF Grant may consolidate two or more EDA-funded RLFs into one 
combined RLF with EDA's prior written approval and provided:
    (i) It is up-to-date with all reports in accordance with Sec.  
307.14;
* * * * *
    (2) * * *
    (i) The replacement RLF Recipient is up-to-date with all reports in 
accordance with Sec.  307.14;
* * * * *
0
32. Revise Sec.  307.20 to read as follows:


Sec.  307.20  Noncompliance.

    EDA will take appropriate compliance actions as detailed in Sec.  
307.21 for the RLF Recipient's failure to operate the RLF in accordance 
with the RLF Plan, the terms and conditions of the RLF Grant, or this 
subpart, including but not limited to:
    (a) Failing to obtain prior EDA approval for material changes to 
the RLF Plan, including provisions for administering the RLF;
    (b) Failing to submit an updated RLF Plan to EDA in accordance with 
Sec.  307.9(c);
    (c) Failing to submit timely progress, financial, and audit reports 
in the format required by the RLF Grant and Sec.  307.14, including the 
Form ED-209 RLF report;
    (d) Failing to manage the RLF Grant in accordance with Prudent 
Lending Practices, as defined in Sec.  307.8;
    (e) Holding RLF Cash Available for Lending so that it is 50 percent 
or more of the RLF Capital Base for 24 months without an EDA-approved 
extension request based on other EDA risk analysis factors or other 
extenuating circumstances;
    (f) Making an ineligible loan;
    (g) Failing to disburse the EDA funds in accordance with the time 
schedule prescribed in the RLF Grant;
    (h) Failing to sequester funds or remit the interest on EDA's 
portion of the sequestered funds to the U.S. Treasury, as directed by 
EDA;
    (i) Failing to comply with the audit requirements set forth in 
subpart F to 2 CFR part 200 and the related Compliance Supplement, 
including reference to the correctly valued EDA RLF Federal 
expenditures in the SEFA, timely submission of audit reports to the 
Federal Audit Clearinghouse, and the inclusion of the RLF program as an 
appropriately audited program;
    (j) Failing to implement timely resolutions to audit findings or 
questioned costs contained in the annual audit, as applicable;
    (k) Failing to comply with an EDA-approved corrective action plan 
to remedy persistent noncompliance with RLF-related findings;
    (l) Failing to comply with the conflicts of interest provisions set 
forth in Sec.  302.17; and
    (m) Making unauthorized use of RLF Cash Available for Lending in 
violation of Sec.  307.18(c).
0
33. Revise Sec.  307.21 to read as follows:


Sec.  307.21  Remedies for noncompliance.

    (a) General. If an RLF Recipient fails to operate the RLF in 
accordance with the RLF Plan, the terms and conditions of the RLF 
Grant, or this subpart, as detailed in Sec.  307.20, as appropriate in 
the circumstances, EDA may require one or more of the following 
actions, as appropriate in the circumstances:
    (1) Increased reporting requirements;
    (2) Implementation of a corrective action plan;

[[Page 68209]]

    (3) A special audit;
    (4) Sequestration of RLF funds;
    (5) Repayment of ineligible loans or other costs to the RLF;
    (6) Transfer or merger of the RLF in accordance with Sec.  307.18;
    (7) Suspension of the RLF Grant; or
    (8) Termination of the RLF Grant, in whole or in part.
    (b) Disallowance of a portion of an RLF Grant, liquidation. If the 
RLF Recipient engages in certain problematic practices, EDA may 
disallow a corresponding proportion of the Grant or direct the RLF 
Recipient to transfer loans to an RLF Third Party for liquidation. 
Problematic practices for which EDA may disallow a portion of an RLF 
Grant and recover the pro-rata Federal Share (as defined in Sec.  314.5 
of this chapter) include the RLF Recipient:
    (1) Holding RLF Cash Available for Lending so that it is 50 percent 
or more of the RLF Capital Base for 24 months without an EDA-approved 
extension request;
    (2) Failing to disburse the EDA funds in accordance with the time 
schedule prescribed in the RLF Grant; or
    (3) Determining that it does not wish to further invest in the RLF 
or cannot maintain operations at the degree originally contemplated 
upon receipt of the RLF Grant and requests that a portion of the RLF 
Grant be disallowed, and EDA agrees to the disallowance.
    (c) Termination or suspension. To maintain effective control over 
and accountability of RLF Grant funds and assets, EDA shall determine 
the manner and timing of any suspension or termination action. EDA may 
require the RLF Recipient to repay the Federal Share in a lump-sum 
payment or enter into a Sale, or EDA may agree to enter into a 
repayment agreement with the RLF Recipient for repayment of the Federal 
Share.
    (d) Termination, liquidation upon termination. When EDA approves 
the termination of an RLF Grant, EDA must make all efforts to recover 
the pro rata Federal Share (as defined in Sec.  314.5 of this chapter). 
EDA may assign or transfer assets of the RLF to an RLF Third Party for 
liquidation. The following terms will govern any liquidation:
    (1) EDA shall have sole discretion in choosing the RLF Third Party;
    (2) The RLF Third Party may be an Eligible Applicant or a for-
profit organization not otherwise eligible for Investment Assistance;
    (3) EDA may enter into an agreement with the RLF Third Party to 
liquidate the assets of one or more RLFs or RLF Recipients;
    (4) EDA may allow the RLF Third Party to retain a portion of the 
RLF assets, consistent with the agreement referenced in paragraph 
(d)(3) of this section, as reasonable compensation for services 
rendered in the liquidation; and
    (5) EDA may require additional reasonable terms and conditions.
    (e) Distribution of proceeds. The proceeds resulting from any 
liquidation upon termination shall be distributed in the following 
order of priority:
    (i) First, for any third party liquidation costs;
    (ii) Second, for the payment of EDA's Federal Share; and
    (iii) Third, if any proceeds remain, to the RLF Recipient.
    (f) RLF Recipient's request to terminate. EDA may approve a request 
from an RLF Recipient to terminate an RLF Grant. The RLF Recipient must 
compensate the Federal Government for the pro rata Federal Share of the 
RLF Capital Base.
    (g) Upon termination, distribution of proceeds shall occur in 
accordance with Sec.  307.21(e).

PART 309--REDISTRIBUTIONS OF INVESTMENT ASSISTANCE

0
34. The authority citation of part 309 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 3154c; 42 U.S.C. 3211; Department of 
Commerce Delegation Order 10-4.

0
35. Revise Sec.  309.1(a) to read as follows:


Sec.  309.1  Redistributions under parts 303, 305 and 306.

    (a) General. Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, a 
Recipient of Investment Assistance under parts 303, 305 or 306 of this 
chapter may directly expend such Investment Assistance or, with prior 
EDA approval, may redistribute such Investment Assistance in the form 
of a subgrant to another Eligible Recipient, generally referred to as a 
Subrecipient, that qualifies for Investment Assistance under the same 
part of this chapter as the Recipient, to fund required components of 
the scope of work approved for the Project. All subgrants made pursuant 
to this section shall be subject to the same terms and conditions 
applicable to the Recipient under the original Investment Assistance 
award and must satisfy the requirements of PWEDA and of this chapter. 
EDA may require the Eligible Recipient under the original Investment 
award to agree to special award conditions and the Subrecipient to 
provide appropriate certifications to ensure the Subrecipient's 
compliance with legal requirements.
* * * * *
0
36. Revise paragraphs (a)(1) and (b) of Sec.  309.2 to read as follows:


Sec.  309.2  Redistributions under part 307.

    (a) * * *
    (1) A subgrant to another Eligible Recipient, generally referred to 
a Subrecipient, that qualifies for Investment Assistance under part 307 
of this chapter; or
* * * * *
    (b) All redistributions of Investment Assistance made pursuant to 
this section shall be subject to the same terms and conditions 
applicable to the Recipient under the original Investment Assistance 
award and must satisfy the requirements of PWEDA and of this chapter. 
EDA may require the Eligible Recipient under the original Investment 
Award to agree to special award conditions and the Subrecipient to 
provide appropriate certifications to ensure the Subrecipient's 
compliance with legal requirements.

PART 314--PROPERTY

0
37. The authority citation for part 314 continues to read as follows:

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

0
38. Amend Sec.  314.1 by:
0
a. Revising the definition of Personal Property;
0
b. Adding the definition of Project Property in alphabetical order; and
0
c. Revising the definition of Real Property.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  314.1  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Personal Property means all tangible and intangible property other 
than Real Property, including the RLF Capital Base as defined at Sec.  
307.8.
    Project Property means all Property that is acquired or improved, 
in whole or in part, with Investment Assistance and is required, as 
determined by EDA, for the successful completion and operation of a 
Project and/or serves as the economic justification of a Project. As 
appropriate to specify the type of Property to which they are 
referring, subparts B and C of this part refer to Project Property as 
``Project Real Property'' or ``Project Personal Property''.
* * * * *
    Real Property means any land, whether raw or improved, and includes 
structures, fixtures, appurtenances and

[[Page 68210]]

other permanent improvements, excluding moveable machinery and 
equipment. Real Property includes land that is served by the 
construction of Project infrastructure (such as roads, sewers and water 
lines) where the infrastructure contributes to the value of such land 
as a specific purpose of the Project.
* * * * *
0
39. Revise Sec.  314.2 to read as follows:


Sec.  314.2  Federal Interest.

    (a) Subject to the obligations and conditions set forth in this 
part and in relevant provisions of 2 CFR part 200, Project Property 
vests upon acquisition in the recipient (or, if approved by EDA, in a 
Co-recipient or Subrecipient). Project Property shall be held in trust 
by the Recipient for the benefit of the Project for the Estimated 
Useful Life of the Project, during which period EDA retains an 
undivided equitable reversionary interest in the Property (the 
``Federal Interest''). The Federal Interest ensures compliance with EDA 
Project requirements, including those related to the purpose, scope, 
and use of a Project. The Recipient typically must secure the Federal 
Interest through a recorded lien, statement, or other recordable 
instrument setting forth EDA's Property interest in a Project (e.g., a 
mortgage, covenant, or other statement of EDA's Real Property interest 
in the case of a Project involving the acquisition, construction, or 
improvement of a building. See Sec.  314.8.).
    (b) When the Federal government is fully compensated for the 
Federal Share of Project Property, the Federal Interest is extinguished 
and the Federal Government has no further interest in the Property, 
except as provided in Sec.  314.10(e)(3) regarding nondiscrimination 
requirements.
0
40. Revise Sec.  314.3 to read as follows:


Sec.  314.3  Authorized use of Project Property.

    (a) General. During the Estimated Useful Life of the Project, the 
Recipient or Owner must use any Project Property only for authorized 
Project purposes as set out in the terms of the Investment Assistance. 
Such Property must not be Disposed of or encumbered without EDA's prior 
written authorization.
    (b) Project Property that is no longer needed for Project purposes. 
Where EDA and the Recipient determine during the Estimated Useful Life 
of the Project that Project Property is longer needed for the original 
purpose of the Investment Assistance, EDA, in its sole discretion, may 
approve the use of such Property in other Federal grant programs or in 
programs that have purposes consistent with those authorized by PWEDA 
and by this chapter.
    (c) Real Property for sale or lease. Where EDA determines that the 
authorized purpose of the Investment Assistance is to develop Real 
Property to be leased or sold, such sale or lease is permitted provided 
it is for Adequate Consideration and the sale is consistent with the 
authorized purpose of the Investment Assistance and with all applicable 
Investment Assistance requirements, including nondiscrimination and 
environmental compliance.
    (d) Property transfers and Successor Recipients. EDA, in its sole 
discretion, may approve the transfer of any Project Property from a 
Recipient to a Successor Recipient (or from one Successor Recipient to 
another Successor Recipient). The Recipient will remain responsible for 
complying with the rules of this part and the terms and conditions of 
the Investment Assistance for the period in which it is the Recipient. 
Thereafter, the Successor Recipient must comply with the rules of this 
part and with the same terms and conditions as were applicable to the 
Recipient (unless such terms and conditions are otherwise amended by 
EDA). The same rules apply to EDA-approved transfers of Property 
between Successor Recipients.
    (e) Replacement Personal Property. When acquiring replacement 
Personal Property of equal or greater value than Personal Property 
originally acquired with Investment Assistance, the Recipient may, with 
EDA's approval, trade in such Personal Property originally acquired or 
sell the original Personal Property and use the proceeds for the 
acquisition of the replacement Personal Property; provided that the 
replacement Personal Property is for use in the Project. The 
replacement Personal Property is subject to the same requirements as 
the original Personal Property.
    (f) Replacement Real Property. In extraordinary and compelling 
circumstances, the Assistant Secretary may approve the replacement of 
Real Property used in a Project.
    (g) Incidental use of Project Property. With EDA's prior written 
approval, a Recipient may undertake an incidental use of Project 
Property that does not interfere with the scope of the Project or the 
economic purpose for which the Investment was made; provided that the 
Recipient is in compliance with applicable law and the terms and 
conditions of the Investment Assistance, and the incidental use of the 
Property will not violate the terms and conditions of the Investment 
Assistance or otherwise undermine the economic purpose for which the 
Investment was made or adversely affect the economic useful life of the 
Property. Eligible Applicants and Recipients should contact the 
appropriate regional office (whose contact information is available via 
the Internet at http://www.eda.gov) for guidelines on obtaining 
approval for incidental use of Property under this section.
0
41. Revise the section heading, paragraph (a), the introductory text of 
paragraph (b) and paragraph (c) of Sec.  314.4 to read as follows:


Sec.  314.4  Unauthorized Use of Project Property.

    (a) Compensation of Federal Share upon an Unauthorized Use of 
Project Property. Except as provided in Sec. Sec.  314.3 (regarding the 
authorized use of Property) or 314.10 (regarding the release of the 
Federal Interest in certain Property), or as otherwise authorized by 
EDA, the Federal Government must be compensated by the Recipient for 
the Federal Share whenever, during the Estimated Useful Life of the 
Project, any Project Property is Disposed of, encumbered, or no longer 
used for the purpose of the Project; provided that for equipment and 
supplies, the requirements of 2 CFR part 200, including any supplements 
or amendments thereto, shall apply.
    (b) Additional Unauthorized Uses of Project Property. Additionally, 
prior to the release of the Federal Interest, Project Real Property or 
tangible Project Personal Property may not be used:
* * * * *
    (c) Recovery of the Federal Share. Where the Disposition, 
encumbrance, or use of any Project Property violates paragraphs (a) or 
(b) of this section, EDA may assert the Federal Interest in the Project 
Property to recover the Federal Share for the Federal Government and 
may take such actions as authorized by PWEDA and this chapter, 
including the actions provided in Sec. Sec.  302.3, 302.16, and 307.21 
of this chapter. EDA may pursue its rights under paragraph (a) of this 
section and this paragraph (c) to recover the Federal Share, plus costs 
and interest. When the Federal Government is fully compensated for the 
Federal Share, the Federal Interest is extinguished as provided in 
Sec.  314.2(b), and EDA will have no further interest in the ownership, 
use, or Disposition of the Property, except for the nondiscrimination 
requirements set forth in Sec.  314.10(d)(3).
0
42. Revise Sec.  314.5(a) to read as follows:

[[Page 68211]]

Sec.  314.5  Federal Share.

    (a) For purposes of this part, ``Federal Share'' means that portion 
of the current fair market value of any Project Property attributable 
to EDA's participation in the Project. EDA may rely on a current 
certified appraisal of the Project Property prepared by an appraiser 
licensed in the State where the Project Property is located to 
determine the fair market value. In extraordinary circumstances and at 
EDA's sole discretion, where EDA is unable to determine the current 
fair market value, EDA may use other methods of determining the value 
of Project Property, including the amount of the award of Investment 
Assistance or the amount paid by a transferee. The Federal Share shall 
be the current fair market value or other valuation as determined by 
EDA of the Property after deducting:
* * * * *
0
43. Revise paragraphs (a), (b)(3), (b)(4)(v)(B), (b)(5)(v)(B), and (c) 
of Sec.  314.6 to read as follows:


Sec.  314.6  Encumbrances.

    (a) General. Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section or 
as otherwise authorized by EDA, Project Property must not be used to 
secure a mortgage or deed of trust or in any way otherwise encumbered, 
except to secure a grant or loan made by a Federal Agency or State 
agency or other public body participating in the same Project, so long 
as the Recipient discloses such an encumbrance in writing as part of 
its application for Investment Assistance or as soon as practicable 
after learning of the encumbrance.
    (b) * * *
    (3) Pre-existing encumbrances. Encumbrances already in place and 
disclosed to EDA at the time EDA approves the Project where EDA, in its 
sole discretion, determines that:
    (i) The requirements of Sec.  314.7(b) are met;
    (ii) Consistent with paragraphs (b)(4)(iv) and (b)(5)(iv) of this 
section, the terms and conditions of the encumbrance are satisfactory; 
and
    (iii) Consistent with paragraphs (b)(4)(v) and (b)(5)(v), there is 
a reasonable expectation that the Recipient will not default on its 
obligations.
    (4) * * *
    (v) * * *
    (B) A Recipient that is a non-profit organization is financially 
strong and is an established organization with sufficient 
organizational life to demonstrate stability over time;
* * * * *
    (5) * * *
    (v) * * *
    (B) A Recipient that is a non-profit organization is financially 
strong and is an established organization with sufficient 
organizational life to demonstrate stability over time;
* * * * *
    (c) Encumbering Project Property, other than as permitted in this 
section, is an Unauthorized Use of the Property under Sec.  314.4.
0
44. Revise paragraphs (a), (c) introductory text, (c)(1), (c)(1)(ii), 
(c)(2) introductory text, (c)(4) introductory text, (c)(4)(ii)(B), 
(c)(4)(iii), (c)(5)(i), and (c)(5)(iii) of Sec.  314.7 to read as 
follows:


Sec.  314.7  Title.

    (a) General title requirement. Except in those limited 
circumstances identified in paragraph (c) of this section, at the time 
Investment Assistance is awarded, the Recipient must hold title to 
Project Real Property, which, as noted in Sec.  314.1 in the definition 
of ``Real Property'' includes land that is served by the construction 
of Project infrastructure (such as roads, sewers, and water lines) and 
where the infrastructure contributes to the value of such land as a 
specific purpose of the Project. The Recipient must maintain title to 
Project Real Property at all times during the Estimated Useful Life of 
the Project, except in those limited circumstances as provided in 
paragraph (c) of this section. The Recipient also must furnish 
evidence, satisfactory in form and substance to EDA, that title to 
Project Real Property (other than property of the United States) is 
vested in the Recipient and that any easements, rights-of-way, State or 
local government permits, long-term leases, or other items required for 
the Project have been or will be obtained by the Recipient within an 
acceptable time, as determined by EDA.
* * * * *
    (c) Exceptions. The following are exceptions to the requirements of 
paragraph (a) of this section that the Recipient hold title to Project 
Real Property at the time Investment Assistance is awarded and at all 
times during the Estimated Useful Life of the Project.
    (1) Project Real Property acquisition. Where the acquisition of 
Project Real Property is contemplated as part of an Investment 
Assistance award, EDA may determine that an agreement for the Recipient 
to purchase the Project Real Property will be acceptable for purposes 
of paragraph (a) of this section if:
* * * * *
    (ii) EDA, in its sole discretion, determines that the terms and 
conditions of the purchase agreement adequately safeguard the Federal 
Government's interest in the Project Real Property.
    (2) Leasehold interests. EDA may determine that a long-term 
leasehold interest for a period not less than the Estimated Useful Life 
of Project Real Property will be acceptable for purposes of paragraph 
(a) of this section if:
* * * * *
    (4) State or local government owned roadway or highway 
construction. When the Project includes construction on a State or 
local government owned roadway or highway the owner of which is not the 
Recipient, EDA may allow the Project to be constructed in whole or in 
part in the right-of-way of such public roadway or highway, provided 
that:
* * * * *
    (ii) * * *
    (B) If at any time during the Estimated Useful Life of the Project 
any or all of the improvements in the Project within the State or local 
government owned roadway or highway are relocated for any reason 
pursuant to requirements of the owner of the public roadway or highway, 
the Recipient shall be responsible for accomplishing such relocation, 
including expending the Recipient's own funds as necessary, so that the 
Project continues as authorized by the Investment Assistance; and
    (iii) The Recipient obtains all written authorizations (i.e., State 
or county permit(s)) necessary for the Project to be constructed within 
the public roadway or highway, copies of which shall be submitted to 
EDA. Such authorizations shall contain no time limits that EDA 
determines substantially restrict the use of the public roadway or 
highway for the Project during the Estimated Useful Life of the 
Project.
    (5) * * *
    (i) General. At EDA's discretion, when an authorized purpose of the 
Project is to construct Recipient-owned facilities to serve Recipient 
or privately owned Project Real Property, including industrial or 
commercial parks, so that the Recipient or Owner may sell or lease 
parcels of the Project Real Property to private parties, such 
ownership, sale, or lease, as applicable, is permitted so long as:
    (A) In cases where an authorized purpose of the Project is to sell 
Project Real Property, the Recipient or Owner, as applicable, provides 
evidence sufficient to EDA that it holds title to the Project Real 
Property intended for sale or lease prior to the disbursement of any 
portion of the Investment Assistance and will retain title until the 
sale of the Property in accordance with

[[Page 68212]]

paragraphs (c)(5)(i)(C) through (E) of this section;
    (B) In cases where an authorized purpose of the Project is to lease 
Project Real Property, the Recipient or Owner, as applicable, provides 
evidence sufficient to EDA that it holds title to the Project Real 
Property intended for lease prior to the disbursement of any portion of 
the Investment Assistance and will retain title for the entire 
Estimated Useful Life of the Project;
    (C) The Recipient provides adequate assurances that the Project and 
the development of land and improvements on the Recipient or privately 
owned Project Real Property to be served by or that provides the 
economic justification for the Project will be completed according to 
the terms of the Investment Assistance;
    (D) The sale or lease of any portion of the Project or of Project 
Real Property served by the Project or that provides the economic 
justification for the Project during the Project's Estimated Useful 
Life must be for Adequate Consideration and the terms and conditions of 
the Investment Assistance and the purpose(s) of the Project must 
continue to be fulfilled after such sale or lease; and
* * * * *
    (iii) Agreement between Recipient and Owner. In addition to 
paragraphs (c)(5)(i) and (ii) of this section, when an authorized 
purpose of the Project is to construct facilities to serve privately 
owned Real Property, the Recipient and the Owner must agree to use the 
Real Property improved or benefitted by the EDA Investment Assistance 
only for the authorized purposes of the Project and in a manner 
consistent with the terms and conditions of the EDA Investment 
Assistance for the Estimated Useful Life of the Project.
* * * * *
0
45. Revise paragraphs (a), (b), and (d) of Sec.  314.8 to read as 
follows:


Sec.  314.8  Recorded statement for Real Property.

    (a) For all Projects involving the acquisition, construction, or 
improvement of a building, as determined by EDA, the Recipient shall 
execute a lien, covenant, or other statement of the Federal Interest in 
such Project Real Property. The statement shall specify the Estimated 
Useful Life of the Project and shall include, but not be limited to, 
the Disposition, encumbrance and Federal Share requirements. The 
statement shall be satisfactory in form and substance to EDA.
    (b) The statement of the Federal Interest must be perfected and 
placed of record in the Real Property records of the jurisdiction in 
which the Project Real Property is located, all in accordance with 
applicable law.
* * * * *
    (d) In extraordinary circumstances and at EDA's sole discretion, 
EDA may choose to accept another instrument to protect the Federal 
Interest in Project Real Property, such as an escrow agreement or 
letter of credit, provided that EDA determines such instrument is 
adequate and a recorded statement in accord with paragraph (a) of this 
section is not reasonably available. The terms and provisions of the 
relevant instrument shall be satisfactory to EDA in EDA's sole 
judgment. The costs and fees for escrow services and letters of credit 
shall be paid by the Recipient.
0
46. Revise Sec.  314.9 to read as follows:


Sec.  314.9  Recorded statement for Project Personal Property.

    For all Projects which EDA determines involve the acquisition or 
improvement of significant items of Personal Property, including ships, 
machinery, equipment, removable fixtures, or structural components of 
buildings, the Recipient shall provide notice of the Federal Interest 
all Project Personal Property by executing a Uniform Commercial Code 
Financing Statement (Form UCC-1, as provided by State law) or other 
statement of the Federal Interest in the Project Personal Property, 
acceptable in form and substance to EDA, which statement must be 
perfected and placed of record in accordance with applicable law, with 
continuances re-filed as appropriate. Whether or not a statement is 
required by EDA to be recorded, the Recipient must hold title to all 
Project Personal Property, except as otherwise provided in this part.
0
47. Revise the section heading and paragraphs (a) through (d), (e)(2), 
and the introductory text to paragraph (e)(3) to read as follows:


Sec.  314.10  Procedures for release of the Federal Interest.

    (a) General. As provided in Sec.  314.2 of this chapter, the 
Federal Interest in Project Property extends for the duration of the 
Estimated Useful Life of the Project, which is determined by EDA at the 
time of Investment award. Upon request of the Recipient, EDA will 
release the Federal Interest in Project Property upon expiration of the 
Estimated Useful Life as established in the terms and conditions of the 
Investment Assistance and in accord with the requirements of this 
section and part. This section provides procedures to obtain a release 
of the Federal Interest in Project Property.
    (b) Release of the Federal Interest after the expiration of the 
Estimated Useful Life. At the expiration of a Project's Estimated 
Useful Life and upon the written request of a recipient, the Assistant 
Secretary may release the Federal Interest in Project Property if EDA 
determines that the Recipient has made a good faith effort to fulfill 
all terms and conditions of the Investment Assistance. The 
determination provided for in this paragraph shall be established at 
the time of Recipient's written request and shall be based, at least in 
part, on the facts and circumstances provided in writing by the 
Recipient. For a Project in which a Recorded Statement as provided for 
in Sec. Sec.  314.8 and 314.9 of this chapter has been recorded, EDA 
will provide for the release by executing an instrument in recordable 
form. The release will terminate the Investment as of the date of its 
execution and satisfy the Recorded Statement. See paragraph (e) of this 
section for limitations and covenants of use that are applicable to any 
release of the Federal Interest.
    (c) Release prior to the expiration of the Estimated Useful Life. 
If the Recipient will no longer use the Project Property in accord with 
the requirements of the terms and conditions of the Investment within 
the time period of the Estimated Useful Life, EDA will determine if 
such use by the Recipient constitutes an Unauthorized Use of Property 
and require compensation for the Federal Interest as provided in Sec.  
314.4 and this section. EDA may release the Federal Interest in 
connection with such Property only upon receipt of full payment in 
compensation of the Federal Interest and thereafter will have no 
further interest in the ownership, use, or Disposition of the Property, 
except for the nondiscrimination requirements set forth in paragraph 
(e)(3) of this section.
    (d) Release of the Federal Interest before the expiration of the 
Estimated Useful Life, but 20 years after the award of Investment 
Assistance. In accord with section 601(d)(2) of PWEDA, upon the request 
of a Recipient and before the expiration of the Estimated Useful Life 
of a Project, but where 20 years have elapsed since the award of 
Investment Assistance, EDA may release any Real Property or tangible 
Personal Property interest held by EDA, if EDA determines:
    (1) The Recipient has made a good faith effort to fulfill all terms 
and conditions of the award of Investment Assistance; and
    (2) The economic development benefits as set out in the award of

[[Page 68213]]

Investment Assistance have been achieved.
    (3) See paragraph (e) of this section for limitations and covenants 
of use that are applicable to any release of the Federal Interest.
    (e) * * *
    (2) In determining whether to release the Federal Interest, EDA 
will review EDA's legal authority to release its interest, including 
the Recipient's performance under and conformance with the terms and 
conditions of the Investment Assistance; any use of Project Property in 
violation of Sec.  314.3 or Sec.  314.4; and other such factors as EDA 
deems appropriate. When requesting a release of the Federal Interest 
pursuant to this section, the Recipient will be required to disclose to 
EDA the intended future use of the Real Property or the tangible 
Personal Property for which the release is requested.
    (i) A Recipient not intending to use the Real Property or tangible 
Personal Property for explicitly religious activities following EDA's 
release will be required to execute a covenant of use. A covenant of 
use with respect to Real Property shall be recorded in the jurisdiction 
where the Real Property is located in accordance with Sec.  314.8. A 
covenant of use with respect to items of tangible Personal Property 
shall be perfected and recorded in accordance with applicable law, with 
continuances re-filed as appropriate. See Sec.  314.9. A covenant of 
use shall (at a minimum) prohibit the use of the Real Property or the 
tangible Personal Property for explicitly religious activities in 
violation of applicable Federal law.
    (ii) EDA may require a Recipient (or its successors in interest) 
that intends or foresees the use of Real Property or tangible Personal 
Property for explicitly religious activities following the release of 
the Federal Interest to compensate EDA for the Federal Share of such 
Property. If such compensation is made, no covenant with respect to 
explicitly religious activities will be required as a condition of the 
release. EDA recommends that any Recipient who intends or foresees the 
use of Real Property or tangible Personal Property (including by 
successors of the Recipient) for explicitly religious activities to 
contact EDA well in advance of requesting a release pursuant to this 
section.
    (3) Notwithstanding any release of the Federal Interest under this 
section, including a release upon a Recipient's compensation for the 
Federal Share, a Recipient must ensure that Project Property is not 
used in violation of nondiscrimination requirements set forth in Sec.  
302.20 of this chapter. Accordingly, upon the release of the Federal 
Interest, the Recipient must execute a covenant of use that prohibits 
use of Real Property or tangible Personal Property for any purpose that 
would violate the nondiscrimination requirements set forth in Sec.  
302.20 of this chapter.
* * * * *

    Dated: September 12, 2016.
Roy K.J. Williams,
Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development.
[FR Doc. 2016-22287 Filed 9-30-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-24-P